1100 New York Avenue, NW (12th and H Street, NW)
From a press release:
“Ashok Bajaj of Knightsbridge Restaurant Group is pleased to announce the Monday, April 6, 2026, official opening of Rosselli, at 1100 New York Ave, NW, (entrance on 12th and H Streets), in the heart of downtown Washington. Bajaj tapped Martin Vahtra of Project Design Associates to transform the former restaurant, Modena, into an exciting new space for enjoying Italian fare. Michelin-starred chef Carlos Cardona has been named the executive chef. The Italian name Rosselli literally means “rose,” the flower.
According to the designer, Martin Vahtra, “Rosselli’s decor is inspired by the grand historic apartments of Milan and Rome. Often housed in old palazzi, these residences are known for their soaring ceilings and distinctive architectural details, which served as the primary inspiration for the restaurant’s ceiling features. Traditionally passed down through generations, these apartments evolve into layered, eclectic spaces where old and new coexist. Artwork reflects that history, spanning centuries—from Renaissance works to modern abstraction. Contemporary furnishings sit in deliberate contrast to ornate moldings, gilded frames, and velvet drapery, creating a space that feels both timeless and current.”
Diners will find a comfortable atmosphere, like dining in a private home or apartment. The dramatic décor incorporates rich, earthy colors, prominently found throughout Italy, including caramel, gold, burgundy, and cinnamon, with accents of blue. Upon entering the restaurant, guests will be greeted by an inviting U-shaped bar. Dining rooms flank both sides of the entry with intimate alcove seating options in the mix. The restaurant will have three private dining areas: two that seat 12 and one larger area that accommodates up to 35 guests. Expansive windows bring ample light into the design scheme throughout the restaurant. The artwork collection for Rosselli has been purchased from important artists in major cities and from lesser-known talent in more rural areas, to give the restaurant the layered, eclectic look that Bajaj and Vahtra wished to achieve for the dining ambiance.
Carlos Cardona has served as a food & beverage director and a professional chef. Born in Bogotá, Colombia, his career spans over 15 years, working in celebrated kitchens internationally and most recently in the USA. From cooking in one of “The World’s 50 Best Restaurants” to Relais & Châteaux hotels, and luxury resorts across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Central and South America, and the Caribbean, Cardona has an excellent reputation for his creativity. He is also a master of operations and is driven by a lifelong passion for Italian cuisine.
“Rosselli’s opening menu will reflect a focus on classic Italian cuisine, presented in a refined, modern fine-dining style,” explains Carlos Cardona. “My goal is to create a menu that is authentic, combining dishes that I know work well in practice with flavors and presentations that elevate the dining experience.”
Cardona has worked in multiple Michelin-star kitchens, contributing to projects recognized by the Michelin Guide, including most recently the Michelin two-star restaurant, NOI, in Hong Kong. In Bogotá, he was instrumental in launching Ánima, a flagship fine-dining restaurant that blends local Colombian ingredients with world-class techniques and Italian culinary traditions. He was formally trained at Le Cordon Bleu in London as a Master Chef and at Maussi Sebes, a highly awarded international culinary arts institute based in Argentina, as a Sushi Master. Cardona has a degree in Gastronomy from Universidad de La Sabana.
Appetizer selections at Rosselli include Arancini al Limone e Parmigiano – lemon and creamy Parmesan; Burrata Pugliese – burrata with heirloom tomatoes and olive oil; Crudo di pesce – sea bass with Meyer lemon and olive oil, and Fennel, Orange & Sicilian Pistachio Salad. Pasta choices planned for the opening menu are Pappardelle al Ragù di Maiale – wide noodles with pork ragù and fresh herbs; Linguine ai Frutti di Mare – linguine with clams, shrimp, garlic, and white wine; Tortellini al Burro e Salvia – taleggio cheese tortellini with thyme butter; Risotto agli Asparagi e Limone – asparagus and lemon zest, and Tagliatelle al Limone e Erbe – tagliatelle with fresh herbs, lemon, and olive oil. Fish choices include Salmon al Forno – oven-baked salmon with lemon and fresh herbs; Branzino al Cartoccio – sea bass baked with cherry tomatoes and olives. Meat selections include Pollo alla Milanese – breaded chicken with arugula, Parmesan, and lemon; Maiale Brasato al Vino Bianco –braised pork with white wine and herbs, and Grilled Ribeye with Rosemary and Garlic – ribeye grilled, served with roasted seasonal vegetables and herb jus. Dessert choices planned are Tiramisù Classico – mascarpone, espresso, and cocoa; Panna Cotta ai Frutti Rossi – creamy panna cotta with fresh berries; Cannoli Siciliani – sweet ricotta, chocolate, and pistachio; and Torta di Mele – apple cake with cinnamon.
Located in Washington, D.C.’s City Center neighborhood, Rosselli will open for lunch service Monday through Friday, and for dinner, Monday through Saturday. Happy hour will be offered Monday through Friday. The restaurant is located close to Metro Center at 1100 New York Avenue, NW, 20005, at the corner of 12th and H Streets.“