Mention the name Lionel Simeon, and you may receive puzzled looks, but say “Chez YonYon” in the Washington, DC area, and smiles will follow. For over a decade, Lionel Simeon, affectionately known as “YonYon,” has been a pillar of the Haitian community through his culinary talents. In the DC region, YonYon has achieved what Emeril Lagasse did for American cuisine: he has made Haitian food a beloved cultural staple. More than just a restaurant, Chez YonYon is a hub for Haitian entertainment, news, culture, and community pride. This summer, YonYon will further cement his place in the culinary world by representing Haitian cooking at the prestigious Smithsonian Folklife Festival in Washington, DC.
From DP Express to Chef Extraordinaire
Lionel’s journey to becoming YonYon began in an entirely different arena. A former trumpet player with the famed Haitian band DP Express, Lionel came to the DC area in the early 1980s. His passion for music kept him in the spotlight, and he still occasionally performs on stage when a band is in town. Reflecting on his early days, Lionel shared, “I used to cook for the guys in the band after we finished playing, and they would encourage me to keep doing it.” Though cooking began as a side passion, it wasn’t until after DP Express disbanded that Lionel seriously considered it as a profession. After hosting a few post-concert meals for friends, word spread quickly about his culinary prowess, and what started as a hobby blossomed into Chez YonYon Catering.
Building a Community Hub
What began with small catering jobs and takeout orders from his condominium quickly grew into something much larger. As Chez YonYon’s reputation spread, it became more than just a place for food. The restaurant became the de facto meeting place for the Haitian community in DC, a spot to gather for everything from casual conversations to serious discussions about politics and culture. It was where people came to impress out-of-town family, gossip about the latest news, and leave flyers for upcoming Haitian bals and events. Over the years, Chez YonYon became synonymous with the heart of the Haitian community.
A Family Affair
Throughout his journey, Lionel has had the unwavering support of his wife, Yanick. Together, they’ve built a business that not only serves food but also fosters community connections. Their daughter, Phabiene, has grown up alongside the business, with many longtime customers watching her mature into a young adult. Eventually, Chez YonYon outgrew its initial location, and the time came for a larger, more ambitious vision.
A New Chapter for Chez YonYon
Today, Lionel is working to bring the first true Haitian dining experience to the DC area since “Villa Lakaye,” a beloved Haitian restaurant in Hyattsville, Maryland. Located on the corner of Chillum and Riggs Road, the new Chez YonYon promises to be more than just a restaurant. Lionel has spent years quietly saving and planning to bring this dream to life, a restaurant that offers not only exceptional food but also an authentic cultural experience.
This summer, YonYon will have the distinct honor of representing Haitian cuisine at the Smithsonian Folklife Festival. This year’s festival celebrates 200 years of Haitian culture and history on the National Mall in Washington, DC. Chez YonYon earned its spot after a taste test by the festival’s planning committee. “Oh, man, we did a job on them,” Lionel proudly recalls. “We gave them a legume, a griot out of this world. We came out well-dressed and presentable… professional. A few days later, we got the call.”
Looking Ahead
With the festival approaching and the new Chez YonYon restaurant set to open soon, Lionel is on the cusp of realizing his vision. The restaurant will not only showcase the rich flavors of Haitian cuisine but also celebrate the pride and culture of Haiti. Dishes perfected for the Smithsonian event will soon find their way onto the new menu, offering patrons an authentic taste of Haiti.
For more than ten years, Lionel “YonYon” Simeon has been a cornerstone of the Haitian community in DC. Through his passion for food and his commitment to his culture, YonYon has created more than just a restaurant; he’s built a legacy. As he prepares to share his culinary talents with a broader audience this summer, it’s clear that YonYon’s contributions to Haitian cuisine and culture will continue to inspire and nourish for years to come.
