The passing of Tanios Abi-Najm marks the loss of a figure whose story became deeply intertwined with the growth of Lebanese cuisine across the Washington, D.C. region and here in Montgomery County.
Lebanese Taverna announced the news in a heartfelt message, writing, “Today we lost a legend. Our father, Tanios Abi-Najm, the man who started it all. He brought us to America for a better life. His passion for food, his love for his family and for Lebanon is the driving force behind Lebanese Taverna. Rest in peace. We love you, Baba.”
Tanios Abi-Najm’s journey to the United States began under extraordinary circumstances. In 1976, he and his wife Marie, along with their five young children, fled the Lebanese Civil War, boarding a cargo ship in the middle of the night in search of safety and opportunity. The family made their way to Arlington, Virginia, where relatives had already settled, beginning a new chapter built on resilience and determination.
After several years working in local restaurants, the family saved enough to purchase a small corner restaurant in Arlington’s Westover neighborhood in 1979. Rather than starting from scratch, they kept much of what was already there, including the sign, simply changing one word. “Athenian Taverna” became “Lebanese Taverna,” and a legacy was born.
What started as a modest neighborhood spot grew into one of the most recognizable Mediterranean restaurant groups in the region. For decades, the Abi-Najm family built a reputation not just for food, but for hospitality rooted in culture and connection. Today, Lebanese Taverna operates 12 locations across the D.C. area and is widely regarded as a staple of the local dining scene.
Montgomery County has been part of that story, with a Lebanese Taverna location at The Square in Rockville, along with two quick-service LebTav spots in Rockville’s Congressional Plaza and in Downtown Silver Spring. For many residents, those locations became familiar gathering places that reflected the warmth and vision Tanios brought with him from Lebanon.
His philosophy was simple but enduring. “Each night my children still greet old friends and welcome new ones into the restaurants where they grew up. Lebanese Taverna has come to symbolize the realization of dreams. Where good food is enjoyed in good company. Thank you and welcome to my home.”
