Brothers Philippe and Alexander Massoud say that Ilili, their new Lebanese restaurant opening at the Wharf this week, is not a business… it’s a home.
“There is heart and passion and soul that have gone into… giving the DC market a beautiful space, where hopefully it will take you on a journey, if even for a moment,” Philippe said at a pre-opening event.
Ilili, which is much acclaimed in New York, is opening in the former Requin space, the jewel of the Wharf — tucked away, yet in the middle of all of its action. This location is a dreamy escape for diners, but for the Massouds, it’s a return to childhood memories of Beirut.
“This place really spoke to me when I saw it; I grew up near the water in Lebanon,” said Philippe, appreciating Ilili DC’s waterfront location all the more, and adding to it with an enclosed patio that opens under a retractable roof.
To further evoke Lebanese memories, the space is designed as a lush courtyard garden, filled with trees, fountains, and birdcages as well as items from Middle Eastern artisans, like the floor tiles and embroidered seatbacks.
But if the decor tempts, the menu tantalizes. Ilili DC is set to feature select items that its NYC location diners rave about, such as the duck shawarma, Phoenician fries, and fried brussels sprouts. But DC’s waterfront location insisted upon more seafood, as well as other unique offerings like a lamb burger and a Lebanese paella.
DC foodies have been awaiting Ilili DC since it was rumored to be coming to the space prior to the pandemic, and will finally be able to enjoy the menu of mezze (and more!) upon its official opening on October 7. Reservations are available on the restaurant’s website.
