New Culinary Direction Ahead at Iconic Washington, D.C. Hotel
Washington, D.C., (Aug. 9, 2023) – Hotel Washington [1], an iconic
destination, steeped in the culture and history of the nation’s capital,
announces the appointment of Israel Lopez-Albarracin as Executive Chef.
Bringing a wealth of local industry experience to the role,
Lopez-Albarracin will oversee the historic property’s brand new
culinary outlet Fireclay, an open-fire kitchen concept that will serve
simple and flavorful New American classics, which is slated to open late
summer 2023.
As Executive Chef, Lopez-Albarracin will lead a team of passionate food
and beverage professionals at Fireclay. He will also be responsible for
the ideation and execution of new, innovative menu offerings and artful
culinary experiences.
“Chef Israel has a deep understanding of the Washington, D.C. culinary
scene and has evolved with the industry,” said Stephane Vogel, General
Manager of Hotel Washington. “We are excited to have him at the helm
of Fireclay as his extensive experience with kitchen operations will be
crucial in launching a new dining outlet. We cannot wait to see the
creativity and passion he will bring not only to Fireclay but to the
culinary team as a whole.”
Chef Israel joins the ranks at Hotel Washington after spending time at
Ben’s Next Door Restaurant where he served as the Executive Chef and
Assistant General Manager. He was passionate about building the brand
for future franchises of this Black- and American-owned restaurant.
Prior to this role, Chef Israel spent four years at iPic Theater
Experience working under three-time James Beard Winner and former
Wolfgang Puck Chef, Sherry Yard. In this role, he served as the
Executive Chef and Corporate Culinary Trainer and managed two distinct
culinary concepts. Past roles also include General Manager and Corporate
Chef of Carluccio’s Market, Cafe, and Shop as well as a stint in
Burbank, California where he served as the Area Director of Food and
Beverage at Porto’s Bakery and Cafe. Chef Israel began his career in
Washington, D.C. as the Executive Chef, and eventually Corporate
Executive Chef, of La Tasca Restaurant Group, a Spanish tapas concept
paying homage to old Spain.
Fireclay is poised to be the newest hotspot in Washington, D.C., and is
embracing a “kissed by fire” mentality. Chef Israel has extensive
experience cooking with fire and will be instrumental in developing the
new menus for the restaurant. Fireclay will serve small plates such as
seasonal fire-roasted vegetables and larger plates of slow charred
Spanish octopus tentacles paired with scallop potatoes with paprika
aioli and fire-grilled locally raised long bone pork chop with a mashed
potato and apple slaw duo. Adjacent to Hotel Washington’s stunning
lobby, the restaurant offers bright and open seating options providing a
friendly and welcoming environment with service tailored to each
individual guest. With Fireclay just beginning its journey in the
Washington, D.C. culinary scene, Chef Israel will be pivotal in growing
the brand and introducing the city to the restaurant through fresh,
seasonal menus, dedicated culinary programming, and epicurean events.
For more information about Hotel Washington or to book a stay, please
call 202-661-2400 or visit www.thehotelwashington.com [6]. To engage
with us socially, follow us on Instagram at @hotelwashingtondc.
Media Assets
Headshots can be downloaded here [2] and hotel images here [7].
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About Hotel Washington
Hotel Washington is an iconic destination, steeped in the culture and
history of the nation’s capital. Centrally located near the city’s
most significant sites, Hotel Washington is the ideal place to begin
one’s journey alongside where the world’s most important decisions
are being made. Long-standing as a central place for world leaders and
distinguished tastemakers, the landmarked property infuses original art,
contemporary design, and sophisticated aesthetics — inspiring guests
to share their unique perspectives with both eloquence and wit, making
their mark on society. Touting 326 guest rooms and top-of-the-line
suites, experience luxe living in residential-style rooms with on-trend
furnishings and thoughtful amenities. Hotel Washington features three
distinctive culinary concepts, including VUE, the iconic rooftop lounge,
and The Patio, offering al fresco dining.
