There's perhaps no restaurant in D.C. that I love more than Lapis, the elegant and cozy Afghan eatery on the corner of Columbia Rd NW in Adams Morgan. Whenever I'm asked to recommend restaurants for visiting family or friends, I always send them here. Lapis has been the setting of many conversations, solo dinners, post breakup vents, and celebrations for the five years I've lived in the neighborhood. It's a resteraunt suited for every occasion and season; the big windows and airy interior (which is lit by candles and globelights in the evening) give the space a warm, homey vibe that makes it feel impossible to think about the worries you left at the door. This feeling is only heightened when you pick up the menu, which is chock-full of deeply flavorful Afghan dishes that are the culinary equivalent of a warm hug.
Run by the Popal family (the same group responsible hotspots like Pascual, Lutèce, and Lapop), Lapis serves generations-old family recipes, including bolani (Afghan flat bread) stuffed with fillings like pumpkin and beef and served with yogurt and chutney, and spiced rice studded with raisins and carrots. Be sure to explore the cocktail menu, which is full of surprises that pair well with all the meat, vegetables, and sweets on offer, and save room for plenty of plump Afghan dumplings. The vegetarians in your life will appreciate the deep vegetarian section on the menu—which also includes a few vegan options.