In September, we reported that Hard Times Cafe at 1117 Nelson St in Rockville had temporarily closed due to plumbing issues.
A representative from Hard Times tells us that the restaurant is still working with the landlord on a resolution. Once an agreement is reached and approved, work on the building is expected to take 4-6 weeks to complete. We will provide an updated timeframe for reopening if it becomes available.
Hard Times is known best for its chili, and variations include Texas, Cincinnati, Terlingua, and vegetarian. Menu items include the Chili Bubba (chili over corn bread), Chili Mac (over spaghetti), Frito Chili Mac, chili dogs, chili burgers, and chili fries. The restaurant also serves non-chili dishes, such as salads, wraps, and chicken tenders.
According to its website, “The Hard Times Cafes are designed to recall a southern depression era chili parlor. Its design is simple and honest, making use of polished red oak and terra-cotta tile. Photographs of day-to-day western life, circa 1930, are featured on the sand textured walls.” The first Hard Times Cafe opened in Alexandria, VA in 1980 and the Rockville location opened in 1984. There was previously a Hard Times Cafe at 13032 Middlebrook Rd in Germantown, which closed in 2014. There are currently additional Hard Times locations in Alexandria, Fredericksburg, and Springfield, VA.
Recent Stories
Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich released his weekly update to the community. It’s available via video above or written below:
A site plan was submitted earlier this month by Rosenfeld Investments for the redevelopment of Loehmann’s Plaza at 5200 Randolph Rd. in Rockville. Renderings available below, courtesy of Montgomery Planning.
Catherine Ladd, a 1st grade teacher at Wood Acres Elementary in Bethesda (MCPS), is a semi-finalist for “America’s Favorite Teacher.”
The Montgomery County Council has announced it will commemorate Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month on Tuesday, May 21 at 1 pm.
FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival
Get ready to experience the vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and infectious rhythms of the Caribbean at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival! Hosted by RHU LLC, this exciting festival is set to take place on May 18, 2024, at the picturesque 16700 Barnesville Rd in Boyds, MD.
Step into a world where the Caribbean spirit comes alive! From 12:00 PM onwards, immerse yourself in a sensory journey that celebrates the unique culture, cuisine, and music of the Caribbean. Whether you’re an African American, a Reggae or Soca music enthusiast, a wine lover, or part of the vibrant Caribbean diaspora, this festival promises to delight and captivate you in every way.
