Lapis

The story

Lapis: Modern Afghan Bistro in Washington, DC – Michelin Bib Gourmand

A Family’s Afghan Legacy on Columbia Road

Lapis is a modern Afghan bistro in Washington, DC’s Adams Morgan neighborhood, born from the Popal family’s journey as refugees. Nearly three decades after fleeing Afghanistan following the Soviet invasion, the family channeled their heritage into a restaurant that feels like an extension of their own home. The menu draws on recipes passed down through generations, cooked with local, seasonal ingredients and halal meats.

Chef Shamim: The Family’s Culinary Heart

At the stove is Executive Chef Shamim, known to the family as “Mum.” She arrived in the U.S. as an Afghan refugee in 1987, learning to cook through long-distance calls to her mother in Afghanistan and secret lessons from her uncle. Thirty-five years later, she runs the kitchen, making everything from scratch—from breads to spice blends. Her cooking focuses on dishes that are both tasteful and healthful, using only fresh ingredients. Chef Shamim’s instincts earned Lapis a Michelin Bib Gourmand every year the guide has covered DC, and she was a finalist for the 2022 RAMMY Chef of the Year award.

What to Expect

Lapis serves homestyle Afghan dishes, from lunch and dinner to weekend brunch. The cocktail bar features house-made syrups inspired by the spices of home. The decor reflects the warmth of an Afghan home, with family portraits that tell stories of a more peaceful time. The restaurant’s ethos is simple: everyone is family. As the Popal family writes, “According to Afghan lore, a guest is a divine blessing.”