A treat for the Senses and Social Graces, Neyla’s food melds the best of all Mediterranean cultures. Inspired by Romanesque Mediterranean villas, and influenced by the myriad peoples who settled in that wondrous part of the world, Neyla is a delightful mix of exotic cultures, inspired in the homes, hearths and taverns of the rugged land known first as Phoenicia, then the Ottoman Empire, and later the Republic of Lebanon. From nomadic Arab tribes, Ottoman Turks, Egyptians, Greek and French rulers, Neyla's food melds the best of all the Mediterranean cultures.

Renowned Lebanese mezzas tell the tongue a story of four thousand years of culinary history. Vegetables, salads, grilled meats and fish are set off by light, and subtly spiced sauces. Coriander, cinnamon, basil, thyme, Turkish pastries, coffee with cardamom enrich the cuisine and speak to its heritage.

Her hospitality is bred from rich ancient traditions. Knowledgeable servers will guide you through her many offerings and take satisfaction in making your experience an event and a pleasure.

You’re invited to savor, not just eat.

Your Hosts :

Chef Abdul Hash Housh
Chef de Cuisine

Abdul Hash Housh was born and raised in Lebanon and grew up with a love for cooking as he watched his father, a chef, in the kitchen. He first went to work at the age of 18 for Albert Abela, owner of the first and largest catering company in the Middle East. His love for cooking grew and he developed a passion for cooking Mediterranean cuisine.

Upon coming to the United States 10 years ago, he settled in Washington DC and quickly delved into cooking. He began working with Jose Andres shortly thereafter, and quickly made DC home. Abdul came to Capital Restaurant Concepts in 2007, serving as Chef de Cuisine.

His favorite dishes to cook are those with lamb and beef, and his favorite ingredients to cook with are olive oil and lemon juice. For Chef Hash Housh, "Cooking is not a job, it is his life!"

Souheil Moussadik
General Manager

Restaurants are Souhei's passion; they are in his blood. He strives to enhance guest satisfaction and elevate standards of service, keeping the guest in the forefront of all he does. Souheil exemplifies the charm and class that defines hospitality.

Born in Morocco, Souheil spent a majority of his childhood and high school years working in kitchens and dining rooms during which time he developed a strong acumen for restaurants and hospitality. Fluent in English, French and Arabic, Souheil brings a culmination of international experience to the table, making him well suited for the melding of cultures in the DC area.

Souheil’s career has taken him on a journey, from Woodley Café and Gepetto’s, to Luigi’s and RT’s Seafood Kitchen. He came to Neyla originally in 2001 where his passion for hospitality helped make Neyla one of DC’s most recognized Mediterranean restaurants. His desire for creating an experience for guests like none other lured him away in 2008 to become part of the opening team for Co Co Sala in Washington, DC. There he served as General Manager and was an integral part of developing the concept and making it successful in its first two years. While at Co Co Sala, his leadership and passion for excellence earned him a 2010 RAMMY nomination for Manager of the Year.

With a Bachelor's Degree in Law from Hassan II University in Casablanca, Morocco, Souheil has made DC home, where he returned to Neyla in 2010 as General Manager, and the "heart" behind what makes Neyla the special place that it is.

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