Updated with information about the upcoming event
The cheesesteak that drew hundreds of people last November is making its return to Z&Z Manoushe Bakery in Rockville on Tuesday, April 7 from 4pm-8pm.
Hundreds previously lined up outside the bakery for the viral steak and cheese pop-up, a limited-time event that has consistently attracted large crowds each time it’s offered. Preorders for the upcoming pop-up have already sold out, with only a limited number of sandwiches, around 100 or fewer, expected to be available for walk-ins.
The sandwich features a house-made sesame seed hoagie roll stuffed with ribeye steak, caramelized onions, Cooper Sharp cheese, and sweet red hots. It pays homage to the Dubbaneh family’s long history in Montgomery County’s restaurant scene.
Issa Dubbaneh, father of Z&Z founders Danny and Johnny Dubbaneh, shared the roots behind the sandwich. The family spent decades serving steak and cheese at their Chicken Basket restaurants, which first opened in Gaithersburg in 1981. Over time, they expanded to multiple locations across the county, including Layhill, Wheaton, and Rockville, eventually operating six in total. The family also previously ran Muna’s Café in Germantown.
Today, the next generation continues that legacy at Z&Z Manoushe Bakery, located at 1111 Nelson Street in Rockville. The bakery is known for its manoushe, a traditional Lebanese flatbread made from simple yeasted dough with a variety of toppings. Given the turnout at past pop-ups and the limited availability, those planning to attend should expect a line and arrive early.
