What an honor to be part of Padma Lakshmi’s journey through the flavors that shaped her. Thank you, @cntraveler and @padmalakshmi , for sitting down at our table and sharing Afghanistan’s story with the world. 🇦🇫
Every dish we serve is a love letter to home; to the spices, the hands, and the generations that made them. Seeing that recognized on this stage means everything to our team.
Link in bio to watch the full episode. ✨
Our Executive Chef Shamim Popal, the heart of Lapis was featured on season 2 of Taste the Nation. Shamim is an inspiration to all those who left everything behind in Afghanistan. Watch @padmalakshmi and Shamim talk about her journey as an immigrant and what Afghanistan was like before war while cooking her families recipe of Qabuli Pallow (long grained rice cooked with aromatic spiced boneless lamb, topped with carrots and raisins). Qabuli Pallow is an Afghan staple dish that tastes like home to many and is usually served for guests on special occasions.
Check out the new season of Taste the Nation on @hulu and be sure to watch the episode With Love From Kabul to hear more about Shamim’s heartfelt journey, as well as the newly arrived refugees and the Afghan American Diaspora.
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#tastethenation #tastedc #immigrantstories #refugeeswelcome
In 1979, the Popal family left Afghanistan, leaving behind everything they knew, in response to the Soviet Union’s invasion. Prior to that, Afghanistan had undergone a period of reform and progressive policies, marked by efforts to advance education, women’s rights, and infrastructure development. During this time, women gained more rights and freedoms, including the ability to pursue careers and education. However, the Soviet Union’s intervention led to decades of conflict and civil war, derailing these positive changes.
Upon settling in the U.S., the Popal Family embarked on a dream to open a cafe in Georgetown, inspired by their love of Paris’s famous cafes. Chef Shamim’s culinary talent and nurturing demeanor played a pivotal role in turning this aspiration into reality. Following the success of their beloved Cafe Bonaparte and Napoleon Bistro in DC, they established Lapis- a place where family and friends could savor the exquisite flavors of Afghanistan, passed down through generations. Beyond preserving ancestral recipes, they also extended their support to refugees, immigrants, and united the D.C. community through the comforting embrace of Afghan cuisine.
Gratitude goes out to @padmalakshmi for sharing a part of our story and for shining a light on the challenges Afghanistan has confronted. We’re thankful for every individual who has been a part of this transformative journey and hope to continue to grow our family ❤️
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#tastethenation #refugeeswelcome #womenempowerment #letherlearn #freeafghanistan
New cocktails are now pouring at @lapisdc & @lapopdc . 👀
Saffron, dill, rose, barberry, mezcal, yuzu, raisin; familiar flavors showing up in entirely new ways behind the bar. 🍸
This Mother’s Day, we’re celebrating the women who make our restaurants, homes, and communities feel warm, welcoming, and full of love. 💙
To all the mothers, grandmothers, caretakers, and strong women who pass down traditions, bring people together around the table, and care for others so deeply; today is for you. 🌷
From all of us at @thepopalgroup , Happy Mother’s Day.
We’re incredibly honored to be nominated for @cntraveler ’s Readers’ Choice Awards 2026. 💛
From our family’s recipes to your table, every meal shared at @lapisdc means the world to us. Thank you for continuing to celebrate Afghan food, culture, and hospitality alongside us.
Vote for Lapis at the link in our bio ✨
Thank you to Taryn White (@taryntraveler ) and Forbes (@forbes ) for taking the time to sit down with our very own Fatima Popal (@fatipopal ) and share her story with such care.
From the earliest days around our family table to the restaurants we operate today, that same spirit of connection continues to guide everything we do. It was truly special to host you across our spaces and offer a glimpse into the people, traditions, and values behind @thepopalgroup .
We are tremendously grateful for the thoughtful storytelling and for the opportunity to share a piece of our world. 🙏💚
Rosewater, cardamom, and a little love from our kitchen 🥞🌹
Fluffy pancakes infused with rosewater and cardamom, finished with warm rosewater syrup and pistachios.
Brunch is calling, come hungry. Reservations encouraged. 📲
“Lovers don’t finally meet somewhere. They are in each other all along.” — Rumi
Honored to celebrate love in all its forms.
Host your event with us, tucked in next door at 1819: an intimate space for weddings, dinners, and everything in between.
Inquire for 1819. Link in bio.
📸 @adambarnesphoto
💝: @thearrangementcompany
