O’Donnell’s has Been Serving Seafood in the DC Area for Almost 100 Years

The story of O’Donnell’s began almost 100 years ago when Tom O’Donnell opened the first restaurant in 1922, the Sea Grill in downtown Washington, D.C. at 1207 E Street NW. Undeterred by the Great Depression that gripped the nation in the 1930’s, his business soared.

In 1941, Tom leased the Victor Wholesalers building at 1221 E Street, opening his second location. And four years later Tom’s daughter, Janice O’Donnell Edelblut, joined the family business.

With a keen perception of the future, or some luck of the Irish, the O’Donnell’s purchased the Edgemoor Motor Building on Wisconsin Avenue in Bethesda, MD to bring their high-quality standard to suburban Washington. This new restaurant in Bethesda opened its doors in 1956 and received wild popularity with the local community that was excited for fresh seafood and that welcoming O’Donnell’s atmosphere.

The Bethesda location saw incredible successes and the building was renovated, refurbished and expanded several times over the years to make the dining experience better. And through all that time and growth, the business remained in the family and Tom’s grandson, Bill Edelblut, took the helm to lead the franchise toward a new century.
The location on Wisconsin Avenue in Bethesda lasted for 45 years before closing in 2001.

In the summer of 1997, O’Donnell’s Restaurant opened in the Kentlands and the community loved the quality of food O’Donnell’s brought to the table. O’Donnell’s Restaurant was proud to have been Montgomery County’s premier choice for seafood. The Kentlands restaurant closed in July of 2013 when Bill Edelbut decided to move on to something different after 40 years in the restaurant industry.

Bill and his daughter Ashlee – the 4th generation O’Donnell – brought a fresh concept to Potomac, MD– O’Donnell’s Market. They opened their doors in December 2015 and customers have been indulging in the same quality of food and service associated with the O’Donnell’s name (and that includes the crab cakes and rum buns!).

For almost 100 years, the O’Donnell’s family has proudly brought their own, original recipes and famous Norfolk style of cooking to Montgomery County.

Grand opening of the Bethesda Restaurant in January 1956. Janice Edelblut is second from the right.

 

 

From the O’Donnell’s website:

“Stop in to the market for fresh seafood, the finest cuts of meat, and healthy prepared dishes to go with any meal.

Our pastry chef always has something fresh baking in the oven. At any given time, when you visit the Market the smell of famous rum buns, pies and pastries will greet your senses. All our baked goods are made from scratch and baked fresh every day.

And our raw bar and grill will satisfy any craving. Join us for lunch, an afternoon snack or an elegant dinner. Or celebrate a Friday afternoon with your co-workers and share some fresh shucked oysters

Not to mention we cater too! If you’re having an event or party, we’ll work with you to prepare almost any menu. As you’re planning the menu, be sure to ask us about our Norfolk Table that brings the freshest seafood and shucked oysters to your next event!”

 

Photos and information courtesy of O’Donnell’s

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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.

Let the enticing aromas of mouthwatering Caribbean dishes tantalize your taste buds. Feast on traditional delicacies prepared by expert chefs, showcasing the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the Caribbean. Indulge in flavorful jerk chicken, succulent seafood, and delectable plantain dishes that will transport you straight to the islands.

Accompanying the culinary extravaganza is a carefully curated selection of premium wines, ensuring the perfect pairing for your palate. Sip on fine wines from renowned vineyards, each sip a reflection of the Caribbean's vibrant spirit. Discover new flavors, expand your wine knowledge, and savor unforgettable moments with every glass.

As the sun sets, get ready to groove to the infectious rhythms of Caribbean music. Feel the pulsating beats of reggae, soca, dancehall, and calypso, moving your body to the lively melodies. Live performances by talented musicians and performers will keep the energy high, ensuring a night of unforgettable entertainment.

Don't miss this opportunity to embrace the Caribbean spirit and celebrate the arrival of spring in style! Tickets are available on AllEvents, so secure your spot today. Join us at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival, where cultures collide and unforgettable memories are made.

LIVE PERFORMANCES By: CULTURE Feat. Kenyatta Hill, EXCO LEVI, IMAGE BAND, RAS LIDJ REGG'GO with Special Guest SUGAR BEAR FROM E.U. & MORE! & MORE!

MUSIC By: DJ ABLAZE, DJ SMALLY & NAJ SUPREME

2 NIGHT Camping packages available: RV/CAMPER $200 | TENTS $150 Starting on Friday May 17 @ 5pm | 30 RV SPACES | 30+ TENT SPACES

KIDS 12 & UNDER FREE!!!

Bethesda Film Fest

The 2024 Bethesda Film Fest will feature five short documentary films made by filmmakers from Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. Screenings will be held Friday April 5 and Saturday April 6 at Landmark Bethesda Row Cinema.

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