Albi

Albi is an outstanding modern Levantine restaurant located in the bustling Navy Yard (Capitol Riverfront) district, on the banks of the river separating the city center and the Anacostia neighborhood. The Michelin-starred establishment is the brainchild of Chef Michael Rafidi, who masterfully combines ancient Middle Eastern culinary traditions with modern techniques.

The heart of the restaurant is a massive wood-burning hearth, where fragrant flatbreads, vegetables, and meats are cooked over an open fire. The interior is designed in warm tones using traditional tiles and soft lighting, creating an atmosphere of Middle Eastern hospitality amidst the urban landscape of the US capital.

This place attracts gourmets not only with exquisite dishes but also with unique energy. Albi offers a new take on familiar flavors, turning dinner into a true cultural exploration where every ingredient tells its own story.

To reserve a table and check current information, it is recommended to contact the restaurant directly. This is a popular spot, so it is worth planning your visit in advance.

The main thing to do at Albi is to embark on a gastronomic journey through the tasting menu or a la carte selection. Be sure to try the signature charcoal-grilled items: from the tenderest lamb to smoked vegetables. Special attention should be paid to the freshly baked pita and various mezze (appetizers), such as hummus with unique toppings.

Visitors can book a seat at the Sofra, a special area at the chef's counter. This allows you to watch the mesmerizing work of the chefs by the open fire, see culinary masterpieces being born, and sometimes even interact with the kitchen team.

Don't miss the opportunity to explore the wine list. The restaurant's sommeliers select unique wines from Lebanon, Palestine, and other Mediterranean regions that perfectly complement the spicy and smoky notes of the dishes. Cocktail lovers will also find signature mixes here using Middle Eastern spices and herbs.

The restaurant is located in the Navy Yard district, which is conveniently accessible by public transport. The nearest metro station is Navy Yard-Ballpark (Green Line). It is just a few minutes' walk from the metro exit to the establishment along the bustling streets of the neighborhood.

If you prefer the bus, several routes run in this area, including the Circulator, which connects the Capitol Riverfront with other parts of the city. Stops are within walking distance of 4th Street.

For those taking a taxi or using rideshare services (Uber, Lyft), simply providing the exact address is sufficient. Drivers can easily find this location near Yards Park. Note that street parking may be limited, especially on baseball game days.

The restaurant's name, "Albi," translates from Arabic as "My Heart", which fully reflects the philosophy of Chef Michael Rafidi. The establishment opened in early 2020 and, despite difficult times for the industry, instantly garnered critical acclaim and won the hearts of the public. At the core of the concept lies the chef's personal story and his Palestinian roots.

The culinary style of Albi is inspired by Rafidi's family recipes and Levantine traditions but reimagined using modern techniques and local farm products from the Shenandoah Valley. This combination of nostalgia and innovation has become the hallmark of the place.

Soon after opening, the restaurant was awarded a prestigious Michelin star, cementing its status as one of the capital's main gastronomic hotspots. The interior also plays an important role in the place's history: the open kitchen with a wood-burning hearth symbolizes the home comfort and hospitality common in the Middle East.

It is recommended to set aside 1.5 to 2.5 hours to visit Albi. This place is not meant for rushing: the concept involves thoughtful enjoyment of every dish, especially if you order the tasting menu.

Time may vary depending on the format of your dinner. A quick bite at the bar will take less time, but a full gastronomic experience at a table or at the Sofra (hearthside seating) will require a free evening to fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere.

Albi restaurant operates primarily in the evening. Guests are welcomed for dinner from Tuesday to Sunday. The restaurant is closed on Mondays.

It is recommended to check opening hours on the official website in advance, as the schedule may change on holidays or for private events. Table reservations open several weeks in advance and fill up quickly.

A visit to the restaurant can be combined with a walk through the picturesque surroundings. The Capitol Riverfront district and the neighboring embankment offer excellent views of the Anacostia River, as well as many historical and cultural monuments located on both banks.