Restaurateur Paolo Dungca plans to open a Filipino restaurant called Hiraya in a two-story building along H Street NE in the fall of 2023.
Hiraya will feature a two-part concept that includes Hiraya Cafe, which will open by the end of September, and dining room Hiraya Restaurant & Bar, which will open in November.
The new restaurant spans 4,700 square feet and features a vibe that reminds Dungca of home. The cafe is expected to seat up to 48 people, while the restaurant can accommodate 58 guests.
The restaurant will be operated by Dungca and Juan and Jeremy Canlas — the father-son duo who also run Supreme Barbeque and Auntea Boba, according to Eater DC.
“This restaurant tells Chef Paolo’s story of growing up in the Philippines—the food he ate, the family and friends that influenced his journey, and the recipes he learned from his mom, aunts, and grandparents,” Hiraya’s press release reads.
Dungca told What Now DC that Hiraya Cafe be serving coffee made of coffee beans coming straight out of the Philippines and that will be roasted by Kimberly Lizardo of Sun & Stars Filipina Coffee Roasters.
“We wanted to create something that is special and become part of the very diverse restaurant [scene] on H Street,” Dungca told What Now DC, referring to the team’s choice of location for Hiraya.
Hiraya will be incorporating many elements from Filipino culture, giving customers a unique experience and vibe stemming from where Dungca grew up.
The menu will feature a Filipino breakfast that includes butter bread, fried eggs, garlic rice, and sausage or pork as protein options, according to Dungca. Bubble tea, Filipino pastries, and sweets will also be served as well as main dishes that include Longganisa, Bistek and frites, and the duck dish Adobo.
“At its essence, Hiraya will be Paolo’s personal reflection and celebration of the beauty, history, and flavors of the Philippines,” according to the restaurant’s press release.
