After six years, a Montgomery County landmark is officially back. The Olney Ale House, which has stood in some form since 1924, has reopened its doors following a full rebuild and renovation after the devastating 2019 fire that shuttered the beloved restaurant. A “first look” video is available below by Taste MoCo.
Our very own Mr. MoCo, Alex Tsironis, stopped by on Wednesday night, the Ale House’s second night open, and shared that it was a packed house and “definitely felt like the Olney Ale House.”
Owner Selim Kantar, who purchased the property in 2023, says the process took roughly two and a half years of construction to bring the space back to life. “The Olney Ale House has been around in some form since 1924, it’s been through a few owners in that time,” the new restaurant website shares. “The building had a major fire in 2019 that closed it down and it sat vacant until I bought it in 2023 and started to do a major rebuild. We are now opening after 2.5 years of construction ready to serve the community again. We specialize in classic American fare like burgers, pizza, steaks, oysters.”
The newly rebuilt restaurant blends historic charm with a warm, modern atmosphere. “Our newly rebuilt space blends the charm of our 1924 roots with a fresh, inviting atmosphere,” Selim said. On the menu, diners will find a mix of hearty Maryland classics and updated pub favorites.
What we tried: The Trio of Dips appetizer offers a sampler of crab, buffalo chicken, and spinach dips served with fresh tortilla chips, a shareable starter that captures the Ale House’s comfort-food roots. The Ale House Burger, an 8-ounce patty topped with Cooper Sharp American cheese, thick-cut bacon, and the restaurant’s special sauce, and the Signature Crab Cakes, made with jumbo and colossal lump blue crab meat, “a few spices and little to almost no filler,” served with shoestring fries.
The beverage menu features Maryland-friendly drafts and house cocktails, including the Harvest Glow (made with Aperol, prosecco, pumpkin spice, and seltzer) and the Dr. Bird’s Elixir (a rum-based drink with berry and lemon notes).
Olney Ale House’s return marks the revival of one of Montgomery County’s most recognizable dining institutions. a spot that has welcomed generations of locals and travelers at the corner of Dr. Bird Rd. and Route 108. After years of anticipation, the Ale House is ready to once again serve up comfort food, community, and a touch of local history.
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