Last week we reported that Charley Prime in Gaithersburg’s Rio would be rebranding. The restaurant has now released additional information about the new concept.
Charley Prime Foods at 9811 Washington Blvd will be closed this week and will reopen as Charley: A Chesapeake Chophouse & Bar on Monday, October 13, 2025.
The refreshed concept will put a greater emphasis on coastal Maryland dining, where the crab cake takes center stage. Guests can expect a 9-ounce, all lump, no filler Maryland-style crab cake, a rotating raw bar, peel ’n’ eat shrimp, cornmeal-crusted catfish, creamy crab dip, and fluffy cheddar Old Bay biscuits. New comfort classics like brined and twice-dipped hot honey chicken tenders, a double smash burger, and supersized sundaes will also be featured. A takeaway Crab Cake Box and other family-style to-go kits will debut as well.
“People started to see us as a fancy destination, which was never our intention,” said co-owner Gordon Banks. “This shift is about leaning into what we know and love: celebrating the bay’s influence on regional cuisine and waterfront dining. We’re going all in on channeling Dockside energy—laid-back, lively, with a nod to the beach, all designed to bring people together.”
The restaurant’s redesign will reflect this coastal theme, with white shiplap walls, vintage signage, and nautical décor. Drinks will highlight local beer, wine, and Maryland’s signature orange crush cocktails.
Charley Prime first opened in May 2023 in the former Tara Thai space as an upscale steakhouse. Many favorites will remain on the menu, including the five-spice pork shoulder with crispy rice, rigatoni mac’n’cheese, and a selection of JW Treuth steaks.
Charley is owned by Jackie Greenbaum, Gordon Banks, and Adam Harvey, the team also behind Little Coco’s, El Chucho, and Quarry House Tavern.
