This Is TASTE 712: Building Bridges with Sam Lawrence
Jan 7, 2026
Fatima Popal, COO of the Popal Group, shares her family's journey from refugees to running successful restaurants in D.C., discussing team dynamics and diverse culinary concepts. Chef Sam Lawrence talks about the Michelin-starred Bridges, celebrating its success and revealing plans for year two, including guest chefs and a focus on whole-animal butchery. They touch on community connections in Chinatown and balancing tradition with modern influences, crafting a unique dining experience.
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From Immigrant Roots To A Parisian Cafe
- Fatima Popal's family opened Café Bonaparte in 2003 after immigrant parents hesitated but gave blessing.
- The brothers drew on European cafe memories and loans to launch a Parisian-style neighborhood spot in DC.
Defined Family Roles Power The Group
- Fatima describes family roles: Omar as creative visionary, she handles finance and ops, parents provide hospitality backbone.
- Working together produces passion, disagreements, late-night restaurant conversations, and closer family bonds.
Lapis: Home Cooking From Afghanistan
- Lapis showcases the family's Afghan heritage with kebabs, dumplings, and Qabli Palau.
- Fatima highlights a shrimp mantu and Qabli Palau as meaningful, standout dishes tied to their upbringing.
