In 1979, the Popal family left Afghanistan, leaving behind everything they knew, in response to the Soviet Union’s invasion. Prior to that, Afghanistan had undergone a period of reform and progressive policies, marked by efforts to advance education, women’s rights, and infrastructure development. During this time, women gained more rights and freedoms, including the ability to pursue careers and education. However, the Soviet Union’s intervention led to decades of conflict and civil war, detailing these positive changes. Upon settling in the United States, the Popal family embarked on a dream to open a cafe in Georgetown, inspired by their love of Paris’s famous cafes. After opening two successful cafes, they opened Lapis, a Michelin-award winning restaurant in the Adams-Morgan neighborhood, which is a love letter to the Afghanistan they had to flee. #tastethenation #washington #washingtondc #afghanistan #afghanfood #afghanistan🇦🇫 #foodtok #palow #adamsmorgan #foodtiktok #lapisdc #lapis #dcfood #eeeeeats #michelinstarrestaurant