Today we’d like to introduce you to Russell Smith.
Russell, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I’ve been working in restaurants since I was old enough to get a job, starting as a dishwasher at a Ponderosa Steakhouse in Erie, PA. I began cooking seriously about 20 years ago when I moved to DC and got my first job in fine dining. A few years later, I started working for Wolfgang Puck, where I continued to grow as a chef for the next 10 years.
I began baking with sourdough when I took a job as a private chef during the pandemic. Almost immediately, I was making pizza every day, mainly because I just wanted to eat it myself. I think I always wanted to open a restaurant of my own, but I never really knew what the identity of that restaurant would be. When I started making pizza, everything just fell into place.
I opened Alfreda, named after my grandmother, in March of 2024.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has definitely not been a smooth road lol. The main challenges we face are rising labor costs, rent, and the everyday realities of running a restaurant. But we have an amazing team that helps us navigate those challenges and incredible guests who make it all worth it.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Alfreda is a full-service pizzeria. We serve pizza, salads, and wine in a relaxed atmosphere where everyone is welcome. We specialize in food we believe in — simple, fresh, and made with intention.
Our goal is to show how special pizza can be when it’s treated with the same respect as any great restaurant dish. I’m most proud that Alfreda has become part of our community and that we’ve been able to connect with people through food and hospitality.
We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
Our goal is to show how special pizza can be when it’s treated with the same respect as any great restaurant dish. I’m most proud that Alfreda has become part of our community and that we’ve been able to connect with people through food and hospitality.
Pricing:
- Happy hour Monday- Friday 4pm-6pm buy one pizza and get a free plain pizza
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.alfredadc.com
- Instagram: Alfreda_dc
Image Credits
Star Chefs for personal photo
Mack Ordaya for all food photos
