Washington, D.C., (Aug. 14, 2023) – Hotel Washington, 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 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. To engage with us socially, follow us on Instagram at @hotelwashingtondc.
