Last updated on October 6, 2013 by Liza Hawkins
Earlier this week I had the opportunity to visit Sophie’s Cuban Cuisine in Washington DC, three days before its grand opening.
Restaurant previews can vary widely from one space to the next. I’ve attended big soirees with naked sushi girls and hundreds of people, to intimate settings that include a Chamber ribbon cutting and individual menu orders.
The Space
At Sophie’s the atmosphere erred on the side of intimate – a group of about 25 people, made up largely of local bloggers. The building reminded me of a row house or a Brownstone, and we had to walk up a short flight of stairs to reach the stoop and entry.
The first floor holds a Chipotle-style bar, perfectly placed for those that want a quick grab and go meal over lunch, or after work before heading to the Metro.
On the second floor, the owners have created a warm, inviting space that’s filled with dark wood tables and bright yellow walls. Natural light illuminates the room from large windows lining two walls – perfect for a food blogger looking to snap photos with an iPhone and no flash (ha!).
The Food
Sophie’s served us mountains of food {family style} at the preview event. We had plate after plate of succulent meats, tender plantains, and flavorful rice – plus lots of wonderful condiments to go with them.
Not gonna lie though, my absolute favorite thing that night were the empanadas – both chicken and beef!
About Sophie’s
The Operating Philosophy
Sophie’s Cuban Cuisine offers guests the invigorating experience of a bustling, fast-paced Cuban neighborhood restaurant with authentic tasty food made fresh all day from the highest quality ingredients.
James Lambert is elated to bring Sophie’s Cuban Cuisine back to his home – the Washington, DC area! Together with the Sophie’s Cuban Cuisine General Manager, Carlos DiLaudo of Bethesda, MD and Head Chef Ed Reynoso of Beltsville, MD, James welcomes you to the new standard in DC fast-casual dining.
Whether a guest visits Sophie’s for dine in, take out, pick up, delivery, or catering they will work to make your experience a rewarding one. The Sophie’s DC team is accountable to the guests and welcomes comments on how well they are doing upholding these values each and every day.
A Passion for Hospitality
A native of Reston, Virginia, James Lambert first arrived in the District in 1997 to attend Georgetown University. He earned his undergraduate and graduate degrees in international policy. James grew up in and around the hospitality business and his recent participation in the development of a new venture in the Atlas District rekindled his passion for this industry. In discovering Sophie’s Cuban Cuisine, James feels he has found the ideal concept: a unique and exciting new dining option that places high quality, tasty food at the center of its offering.”
A Business Must Serve Its Community
James believes strongly that a business must operate as a fully engaged member of the community and in a fashion where the business’ goals add to the community. This begins with respect for every associate. Sophie’s associates should expect to feel valued as part of a team, to be able to express themselves through their work, and to be able to share emotionally and financially in the success of the enterprise.
Let’s Make it about Fun
Sophie’s Cuban Cuisine is an institution in New York. It is fun to visit a Sophie’s. Now it’s time to share this fun with Washington! Sophie’s goal is to provide the guests with an enjoyable, and consistent experience with each and every meal.
Come join the Sophie’s Cuban Cuisine Washington team for a little taste of the flavors of Havana!
1134 19th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20036 | 202-833-1005 | fax: 202-833-1055
www.sophiescuban.com/dc | Hashtag #HavanaHeat | @sophiescubandc | Instagram: sophiescubandc
Disclosure: I was invited to dine at Sophie’s Cuban Cuisine free of charge, but all opinions are my own. And those empanadas really are killer!
