Why Washington, DC?

Nestled near iconic sites like the National Mall and Capitol Hill, Washington, DC offers a rich fusion of diplomacy, history, and global cuisine.

Work at Albi, a Michelin-starred, hearth‑focused restaurant led by Chef Michael Rafidi - recent James Beard Outstanding Chef nominee - where contemporary Levantine dishes meet coal-fired techniques

Join a vibrant hospitality community that includes acclaimed wine programs, fine‑dining peers, and guests with international profiles.

With three major airports (DCA, IAD, BWI) and Metro access, it's easy to explore the East Coast during your stay.

About Albi

Albi (Arabic for “my heart”) is a celebrated Eastern Mediterranean restaurant in Navy Yard, Washington, DC. Opening in 2020, it earned local and national accolades, including a Michelin star in 2022

The restaurant's signature wood-fired hearth at the center of the open kitchen serves as both culinary and cultural focal point - producing everything from smoky lamb kebabs and charred baba ghanoush to refined desserts like brown-butter knafeh with yogurt ice cream. This immersive environment allows interns to work side-by-side with top-chefs and sommeliers.

Albi’s kitchen crew roasts, grills, and bakes nearly everything over live fire - including desserts! Their signature brown-butter knafeh gets its golden crust from the same hearth used for slow-roasting lamb.

Available Positions

Position Start Date Pay Rate Responsibilities
Pastry August $19/hr Prepare and decorate desserts, breads, bake confections, support pastry team.
Culinary August $19/hr Assist in food prep, cooking, plating, and maintaining kitchen cleanliness.
Food & Beverage August $19/hr Support front‑of‑house operations, beverage prep, guest service, POS usage

Housing & Benefits

Housing

Albi provides guidance for interns to find affordable shared apartments or private lodging options near Navy Yard.

Meals

Enjoy staff meals and tasting portions during work shifts.

Professional Experience

Learn directly from seasoned pastry chefs, culinary leaders, and front-of-house experts in a Michelin‑rated setting.

Career Growth

Gain valuable U.S. hospitality experience; refine your skills in a prestigious restaurant that’s recognized by Michelin and James Beard.

Testimonials from Past Interns at Albi DC

“Being part of the pastry team at Albi was intense and inspiring. I learned to plate desserts with real precision - and even contributed a recipe from home!”

- Sofia, Argentina

“In the open kitchen at Albi, I worked shoulder-to-shoulder with chefs I used to read about in magazines. The fire, the teamwork, the adrenaline - it was unforgettable.”

- Karim, Morocco

“I started in the dining room nervous about my English, but the team helped me build confidence fast. Serving guests in a Michelin-starred restaurant changed everything.”

- Mei-Ling, Taiwan

How to Apply for This Opportunity

Submit your application online.

Attend an interview with the employer

Complete the J-1 visa application process with our support.

Travel to the U.S. and begin your internship!