Restaurant
Albi; Arabic for ‘my heart’ is the acclaimed debut restaurant from chef/owner Michael Rafidi. Opened in February 2020, Albi has received continued local and national attention, earning mentions on Best New Restaurant lists by Eater, Robb Report, and Esquire, Eater DC Restaurant of the Year in 2021, and earning a Michelin star in 2022.
Chef Rafidi takes inspiration from his family’s roots in Ramallah, Palestine, bringing to the table an experience that melds the ancient tradition of the region’s coal-fired cuisine with local, seasonal ingredients and a refined culinary acumen.
The heart of the restaurant is Albi's wood-burning hearth, and the Hearth Table which guests can reserve for Chef Rafidi's Sofra - a semi-improvisational tasting menu - and an intimate view of the open kitchen.
Wine Director William Simons curates an eclectic, international wine program with extensive offerings from throughout the eastern Mediterranean. Constantly evolving, the wine list features categories such as Savory Whites, #UnapologeticallyClassicWhiteWines, Donnie Darko, and Smoky Reds - all selected to complement Chef Rafidi’s menus.
