Ashish Alfred

Duck Duck Goose in Bethesda was recently named one of the top ten “Favorite New Restaurants” by Bethesda Magazine and “Best Restaurant in Maryland” by Southern Living Magazine. In a glowing review, The Washington Post says about Duck Duck Goose, “the delights are in the details,” adding the restaurant is “a solid neighborhood attraction whose appeal lies in the amalgam of many fine points.” In addition to Duck Duck Goose Bethesda, Alfred owns George’s Chophouse, also in Bethesda, and the recently opened Duck Duck Goose in Baltimore, which Baltimore Magazine proclaims a “fabulous new Fells Point brasserie.”

Chef Al, as he’s often called, is just off of a command performance at the prestigious James Beard House, where he prepared a multi-course dinner for a sold-out audience. The exclusive invitation to host a Beard House dinner meant a return to New York City, where Chef Al began his culinary journey. He was classically trained at the French Culinary Institute in Manhattan and honed his skills in some of Manhattan’s best kitchens.

Al’s technique is grounded by his classical French discipline, but he isn’t afraid to go beyond tradition, take risks and experiment with his offerings. He delivers contemporary dining concepts that are rooted in soulful cooking.

With his quick wit and easy banter, Chef Al is a popular guest with the media, whether he’s sharing a cooking demo and insights on local TV, or battling it out as a contender on Food Network’s Cutthroat Kitchen and Chopped.

Ashish Alfred graduated from the International Culinary Center (ICC), founded as The French Culinary Institute (FCI). In 2020, ICE and ICC came together on one strong and dynamic national platform at ICE's campuses in New York City and Los Angeles. ICC’s culinary education legacy lives on at ICE, where you can explore your own future in food.