One of the new Mexican-cuisine inspired pizzas by Chef Soli’s at Anafre (photo: Anafre)

by Maya Gold

The COVID-19 pandemic has forced restaurants across the country to adapt, and Anafre by Chef Alfredo Solis is no exception.

Chef Solis, whose other restaurants include Mezcalero and El Sol, had to get inventive when it came to Anafre. The Mexican restaurant is seafood-heavy, which doesn’t work as well when it comes to takeout and is generally not what people are looking for in pandemic times.

“I love our concept at Anafre and we had so much great momentum before the pandemic, but it just isn’t as sustainable as our other restaurant concepts,” says Solis.

Instead, Solis is pivoting to a portable, pandemic-friendly comfort food: pizza.

Chef Alfredo Solis at work preparing an Anafre pop-up pizza. (Courtesy Anafre Restaurant)

Anafre’s Pizza Pop Up will serve pies, with a twist. Options include dishes like the Chile Relleno, with poblano peppers, oaxaca cheese; China Poblana, with grilled chicken and mole poblano; and El Gallego, with octopus and chipotle aioli. The pop-up will keep many Anafre favorites, like seafood nachos, and signature cocktails are available for dine-in or bottled to go.

“In trying to see the brighter side of things, I’ve been wanting to spread my wings more and showcase some of the skills I’ve picked up along my chef journey,” says Solis. “I’m proud to be a Mexican chef but that doesn’t mean I can only make Mexican food.”

Anafre’s Pizza Pop-Up will be open Friday — Saturday from 11am-midnight, and Sunday — Thursday 11am-10pm.

Indoor and outdoor seating are available first come, first serve.

Order takeout online at AnafreDC.com

Anafre’s Pizza Pop-Up
3704 14th Street NW
Washington DC 20010