All lanes have reopened on Southbound Old Georgetown Rd (MD187) at Rock Spring Drive after a traffic collision with entrapment closed the road Tuesday evening around 5:30pm. According to Chief Spokesperson for MCFRS Pete Piringer, the collision involved two vehicles, including an SUV that flipped over. One adult was transported to the hospital with Priority 2 injuries.

Per @mcfrsPIO on Twitter: “Update – OGT Rd near I270, 2 vehicles involved, SUV flipped over, 1 patient extricated, @MCFRS_EMIHS transporting 1 adult Pri2, some lanes blocked”

Update – OGT Rd near I270, 2 vehicles involved, SUV flipped over, 1 patient extricated, @MCFRS_EMIHS transporting 1 adult Pri2, some lanes blocked https://t.co/W9U6JujAUv pic.twitter.com/fS24vtQiJE

— Pete Piringer (@mcfrsPIO) February 14, 2023

Over 100 new restaurants opened in Montgomery County in 2022 and below you’ll find a list of restaurants that are scheduled to open in 2023.
Aloha Poke Co. – Gaithersburg
Chicago based Aloha Poke Co. has announced that it will be opening a Gaithersburg location sometime in 2023.  Aloha is a fast-casual style restaurant that serves “fresh-packed and tasty bowls filled with sushi-grade fish and Hawaiian-inspired raw ingredients.” Franchise operator Mary Grace Barnebey is currently considering several options for the location, according to a report by WTOP.  Aloha has area locations at 1333 19th St and 50 Massachusetts Ave in NW, Washington, DC.
“Delicious and healthy are two things I aim to provide my family in every meal,” said Barnebey in a press release. “When I decided to bring Aloha Poke Co. to our community, I knew that the menu needed to be aligned with the way I think about taste and nutrition. I also like the franchise support system and the brand’s cornerstone belief of in fast, beautiful, sustainable foods. I am proud to that Aloha Poke Co. will dramatically expand our community’s access to health-minded food options.”

Andy’s Pizza – Bethesda
Andy’s Pizza, the 2021 winner of the International Pizza Challenge™, is coming to Montgomery County with an upcoming location at 4600 East West Highway– the former site of sandwich shop Booeymonger in Bethesda, according to a report by Biz Journals. Andy’s Pizza currently has locations in Adams Morgan, NoMa, Navy Yard, and Shaw in DC, with an additional NoVa location at Tysons. Another upcoming location is planned for Old Town Alexandria. Owner Andy Brown, who grew up in Bethesda, stated that he had been looking in the area since his restaurant began expanding. Per the article, “The Bethesda location will also have more space than average — its other locations run roughly 1,800 square feet — to accommodate larger parties.”

The pizza dough undergoes a 72-hour cold ferment and is cooked in a New York deck oven. The process creates a crispier crust with a chewy interior, and a hint of a sour flavor. Andy’s Pizza will also offers salads, wings, fries, and more. Last year Andy’s got 1st place in the International Pizza Challenge™, which has evolved and grown in stature and prize money to become one of the most prestigious pizza-making competition in North America.

Baskin Robbins- Montgomery Village
We first reported in January that Baskin Robbins would be coming to the Montgomery Village Shopping Center. The ice cream shop will be coming to the vacant space next to Suburban Hair and Linda’s Nails. Baskin Robbins joins a growing list of restaurants that are all expected to open in the redeveloped MV shopping center in the first quarter of 2023.

Black Lion Cafe – Silver Spring
Over a year ago we let you know that Black Lion Café, which has a location in Rockville, will be opening a new location in the Fenton Silver Spring apartments at 8240 Fenton St in Silver Spring. After a previously planned November 1st opening that was pushed back, a new opening date has been set– Monday, January 2nd.  The cafe opened its first location at the Traville Gateway shopping center in late 2016. Black Lion Café sources its coffee from three regions of Ethiopia known for producing some of the best tasting coffee beans in the world. Keffa, the region of Ethiopia that gave the name ‘coffee’ to the bean, Yergacheffe, and Harrar. The news was previously reported by Source of the Spring.

BooBoo Pho – Montgomery Village
Permanent signage is up at BooBoo Pho at 19230 Montgomery Village Ave. The restaurant, which specializes in Vietnamese cuisine, is expected to open in January.

Buffalo Wild Wings GO – Kensington
Buffalo Wild Wings opened its first ‘Buffalo Wild Wings GO’ location– a scaled-down version of the restaurant that focuses on the to-go and delivery format in Georgia back in 2020. Now, the company will open its first MoCo ‘Go’ location in the upcoming Kensington Crossing– a new retail development that will be located at 10619 Connecticut Avenue (at Plyers Mill Road) in Kensington.

Charley Prime Foods – Gaithersburg 
Coming soon signage is now up around the exterior of Charley Prime Foods, the new restaurant from Jackie Greenbaum & Gordon Banks (Little Coco’s, El Chucho, Bar Charley, Quarry House Tavern) that will be replacing Tara Thai on the Rio boardwalk at 9811 Washington Blvd in Gaithersburg. The restaurant is also scheduled to have its Class B: Beer, Wine, & Liquor license hearing on August 4. The restaurant scheduled to open “early 2023”.

According to a press release, the team envisions the restaurant as a mature version of their popular DC restaurant Bar Charley, with an expanded menu, but keeping its lively cocktail forward energy. The broader menu will remain steak focused, but will also feature house made pastas (a la Little Coco’s) as well as other items unique to just this location. The group has tapped Editlab@Streetsense to design the space. Explains Greenbaum, “We can’t wait to do our first suburban project and think the timing is perfect. We’ve always done restaurants that are near and dear to our hearts and that we feel are right or needed in the particular neighborhood. My partners both have young families and Rio has been a frequent destination for them for years, as it is for tons of people in north Montgomery county. This is especially true for our chef and partner in this project, Adam Harvey, who lives nearby. We’re really thrilled to bring something unique to the mix out there.”

Chip City – Bethesda 
Five years ago, cookies were a side hustle for Theodore Gailas and Peter Phillips. Since then, they’ve opened over a dozen Chip City cookie shops in and around New York with its first Maryland location opening at the Shoppes of Bethesda, replacing Fancy Cakes By Leslie at 4939 Elm St. Fancy Cakes by Leslie closed in October and the space has since been cleared out. The new cookie shop rotates through 18 flavors, allowing customers to choose from those that make it on to the weekly menu. The weekly roster can include “core cookies” like chocolate chip or dairy free chocolate chip, other flavors like blueberry cheesecake, peanut butter and jelly, Nutella sea salt, and more. Currently, location are offering seasonal Thanksgiving cookies with flavors like Pecan Pie, Sweet Potato S’mores, Pumpkin Spice Latte, and White Chocolate Cranberry Oatmeal. Chip City is expected to rapidly expand, with over 20 stores expected to open in 2023. According to Forbes, The rollout plan will be supported by the founder of fast casual restaurant Shake Shack, Danny Meyer, who recently invested $10 million in the cookies. While no opening date is currently available, we expect Chip City to open in early 2023.

Chopt- Potomac
Chopt is opening a new location in Cabin John Village (Potomac), in the space next to Boulangerie Christophe, according to the Edens website. We stopped by this morning and there is plenty left to go, so we expect an early to mid 2023 opening for the salad chain. This will be Montgomery County’s fifth Chopt restaurant, with locations currently open in Gaithersburg, Rockville, and two in Bethesda.

Cinnabon/Auntie Anne – Gaithersburg
A new permit is up confirming the impending arrival of an Auntie Anne’s/Cinnabon combination restaurant at 220 Boardwalk Place in Rio, set to take over the location that was recently home to Lilly Magilly’s– the cupcakery is preparing for a move to a new location. The two brands, popular for their presence in malls, are co-branding to open locations across the country. I’m recent years, Cinnabon left then returned to Montgomery Mall. There’s also an existing Cinnabon location in Wheaton Mall. Auntie Anne’s has locations at the outlets in Clarksburg, Ellsworth Place Mall, Montgomery Mall, and Wheaton Mall in MoCo. An opening date has not yet been provided, but we would expect a mid-2023 opening for the co-branded restaurant.

Dickey’s BBQ – Montgomery Village
In May we reported that Dickey’s Barbecue Pit will be opening a new location in the Montgomery Village Center, next to the upcoming Kobe Japan (which is next to the Moe’s). Dickey’s Barbecue Pit previously opened a Montgomery County location in Germantown back in February 2013. The restaurant closed the following year and reopened under new management in July 2014 before closing permanently in early 2016. The first Maryland location was in Gambrills, but has since closed. Currently there are nearby locations in Pasadena, MD, two in Fairfax VA, and one in Alexandria VA. There is currently no opening date announced.

Dunkin’- Montgomery Village, Rockville, and Silver Spring 
Since Inspire Brands acquired Dunkin’ and Baskin Robbins in late 2020 for $11.3 billion, the company has been opening in former bank locations that allow for easy installation of a drive-thru window. Dunkin’ has also aimed for non-traditional development that includes opening in airports and on college campuses, including the University of Maryland, but the three newest Dunkin’ coffee/donut shops that are coming to MoCo will all be in locations that were formally banks. One of the latest upcoming Dunkin’ locations is currently under construction at the Layhill Center (14328 Layhill Rd) in Silver Spring. The new location, which will have a drive-thru, will be located next to Sole D’Italia, in the space that was formerly home to Truist and BB&T Bank. Dunkin’ also has an upcoming location coming to the Traville Village Center in Rockville. It will be taking over the former Capital One Bank building at 9761 Traville Gateway Dr. We expect more news coming out of the shopping center regarding the former Nantucket’s Reef location very soon. Dunkin’ is also working on an upcoming location coming to the Goshen Crossing Shopping Center in Gaithersburg/Montgomery Village. It will be taking over the former Capital One Bank building at 20000 Goshen Rd.

EggMania – Gaithersburg
EggMania is coming to 385 Muddy Branch Road in Gaithersburg, taking over the space formerly occupied by Curry Place, next to Indian Bazaar. Representatives from the restaurant tell us they plan on opening this spring. The menu consists of egg-centric Indian street food, including a masala omelet, egg curry, and Goti Fry (sliced boiled eggs cooked with ginger, garlic and chili. Topped with American cheese and onion-tomato based gravy). EggMania currently has franchises in several states and is currently opening new locations throughout the U.S.

The restaurant tells us, “There’s lots of misconception when it comes to “EggMania”. In American culture eggs based dishes are primarily used during breakfast whereas in popular Indian street food culture, eggs based dishes are made for entrees and served during lunch / dinner and full menu items, not just breakfast. EggMania is not breakfast place. Hope to serve the community and bring this delicious food options for our MoCo residents and surrounding very soon…!!”

Grandma’s Ice Cream and Waffles – Rockville 
Grandma’s Ice Cream and Waffles is coming to 389 E. Gude Dr. in Rockville, which is located next to the former Branded 72/O’Brien’s restaurant space. Grandma’s is being opened by the same owners as the “Grandma Kona’s” Kona Ice franchise in Gaithersburg/Germantown. Permanent signage was recently installed and the new ice cream shop is expected to open soon.

HalfSmoke – Rockville
Will 2023 be the year that HalfSmoke finally opens in Rockville? Back in August of 2020 we let you know that HalfSmoke would be opening a location in Rockville Town Square, taking over the spot that was previously  home to Pandora, American Tap Room, and Austin Grill.  The latest update we received is that the restaurant is now scheduled to open in 2023. Back in May we were told that construction and supply chain issues have been the cause for the delay. In July, HalfSmoke opened a kiosk in the Montgomery Mall food terrace. The kiosk menu consists of the best selling sausages and sides from their DC location, as well as boozy milkshakes and a funnel cake bar. HalfSmokes sister restaurant Butter Me Up opened its Montgomery Mall location in May.

Hangry Joe’s – Montgomery Village
In August we reported that Hangry Joe’s Hot Chicken is coming to the Montgomery Village Shopping Center and will be located in the brand new space next to the recently opened Starbucks. In 2022 Hangry Joe’s opened locations at 2533 Ennals Ave in Wheaton, 10050 Darnestown Road in the Travilah Square shopping center, and 718-B Rockville Pike.

Isaac’s Poultry Market – Gaithersburg
Coming soon signage is up at Isaac’s Poultry Market at 12167 Darnestown Rd in Gaithersburg, the former site of Pizza Hut. The restaurant is being opened by Rob Gresham, a lifelong MoCo resident and the former Director of Operations at CAVA. The restaurant will feature American roasted chicken, wings, sandwiches, and salads. Issac’s is currently targeting a February opening. Gresham tells us that everything they sell will be made from scratch and that the menu will feature plenty of healthy options. Isaac’s will also feature frozen custards and a variety of baked goods and desserts. Featured photo by Todd Apna.

Jersey Mike’s – Aspen Hill
Jersey Mike’s will be opening a new restaurant in the Northgate Plaza in Aspen Hill. The restaurant, which is currently hiring, will be taking over the  location that was formerly home to Body & Brain Tai Chi– between Dunkin’ and Roy Rogers. Jersey Mike’s was founded as Mike’s Submarines in Point Pleasant, New Jersey in 1956. Peter Cancro started working at the restaurant in 1968 when he was 14 and the shop was on its third hour. Three years later the shop went up for sale again and with the help of a local high school football coach who was also a banker, Cancro was able to pull together $125,000 to buy it at age 17. He began to franchise the restaurant in 1987 and now has over 2,000 locations with various locations across Montgomery County.

Kabob N Karahi – Gaithersburg
Kabob N Karahi, a Pakistani restaurant that also serves some Indian cuisine, is aiming to open in spring /summer 2023 (currently in permitting stage) at 18232 Flower Hill Way (Previously Aaron’s location). The menu also consists of a variety of kabobs, curries, stews, and tandoori naan The owners have a current location in the Cloverly Village Center located at 15521 New Hampshire Ave, Silver Spring., where it has operated since 2008 and has become a staple in Cloverly. Per Kabob N Karahi: “Welcome to Kabob N Karahi, Maryland’s best family restaurant to find fresh, casual, authentic Pakistani-Indian kabob and curry cuisine. KNK is completely a Halal restaurant. We use only Halal meat, house sauces and salads are made fresh daily. We specialize in delicious chicken, beef, lamb, kofta kabobs and tikkas as well as Karahi. We provide catering for all the occasions (Birthday,Wedding and Engagement etc).”

Kobe Japan- Montgomery Village
Construction is ongoing at the site of Kobe Japan Hibachi And Sushi . The restaurant has additional locations at 1163 University Blvd E in Takoma Park and 13623 Georgia Ave. Suit A in Aspen Hill. According to their website, the menu features, sushi and sashimi, bento boxes and hibachi.

Laperaux, the Journemanchef’s Bistro- Germantown

Back in April we let you know of the impending arrival of Laperaux, the Journeymanchef’s Bistro,  the new restaurant coming to 18056 Mateny Rd in Germantown- the former home of Gumbo Ya Ya, Dickie’s BBQ Pit, and Cafe Mileto (located in the Cloppers Mill shopping center, in the same strip as Shoppers). The French bistro has made a lot of progress, adding an illuminated sign and awning covered patio, with plans to open in January.  Chef and owner Gregory Webb, who has earned such accolades and awards as “Chef of the Year 1998” in Houston, Texas, “Winner all Categories” at the Texas Open Wild Game Cookoff, “Top Chefs of Mexico City” and many others, will be bringing a French bistro to the location (menu available below).

Le Macaron
French pastry shop Le Macaron is coming to 7 Grand Corner Ave (next to BurgerFi) in Gaithersburg’s Rio.  Menu items will include macarons (available in 20 flavors), gourmet chocolates, French gelato, specialty European style coffees, classic French pastries, and homemade candies.  The store is scheduled to open in spring 2023.  La Macaron joins Miss Toya’s Southern Kitchen and  Charley Prime Foods on the list of restaurants coming to Rio. According to its website, “Founders, Rosalie Guillem, who was living in Florida and her daughter, Audrey Guillem-Saba, living in France, had a dream to share delectable French macarons with the world and to reunite their family. The family, originally hailing from France, were surprised to find that the American take on the “macaron” was often simply sugar spun into a cookie shape or confused with the familiar coconut cookie “macaroon”. They knew that with a little consumer education, and by treating the American palate to true French macarons, they could bring a taste and texture sensation to the marketplace.

Miss Toya’s Southern Kitchen
Coming soon signage is up at Miss Toya’s Southern Kitchen at 229 Boardwalk Pl. in Rio. The restaurant will be located in the 2,741SF space previously occupied by BGR, which closed back in June. Miss Toya’s Southern Kitchen in Rio will be a fast-casual restaurant, while the recently opened Miss Toya’s Creole Kitchen at 923 Ellsworth Dr in Downtown Silver Spring is full-service (wait staff, etc.) The restaurant is part of Jeffeary Miskiri’s Miskiri Hospitality Group, which describes itself as a unique collective of Black, family and woman-owned products and restaurants in the DC area. Miss Toya’s will serve southern-influenced dishes such as red beans and rice, macaroni and cheese and a southern fried chicken sandwich.

Mezeh Mediterranean Grill – Kensington
Mezah will be opening a new location in upcoming development Kensington Crossing. The restaurant has signed on to take over a new 2,350SF space with plenty of outdoor seating. Mezeh is a fast-casual eatery with a buffet-style of offerings that include rice and salad bowls, wraps and a variety of sauces and toppings. Mezeh currently has locations in Gaithersburg and Germantown. A Wheaton Mall location closed and was supposed to relocate to Aspen Hill, but that upcoming location has been removed from the Mezeh website.

Mochinut- Rockville
Mochinut, a restaurant that serves mochi donuts, Korean rice flour hotdogs, soft serve, and bubble tea drinks (menu available below), is coming to 838 Rockville Pike– the current location of Tea-Do. Mochinut offers mochi donuts, which is described as “a donut that originated from Hawaii which is a combination of American doughnuts and Japanese mochi.” Up to 25 different flavors are available, but flavors will vary by location. The Mochinut menu also consists savory treats in the form of Korean hotdogs and offers other sweet menu items like soft serve ice cream and bubble tea drinks. An opening date is not yet available.

Pho28 & Grill- Gaithersburg
Pho28 & Grill, a Vietnamese and Pho style restaurant will be opening in spring/summer 2023 (currently in permitting stage) at 18222 Flower Hill Way (previously Kick’s Karate location).  The owner has a sister fast food carry out place called Li’s BBQ located inside of Great Wall Supermarket in Rockville and will expand his Pho concept to a full service sit down restaurant in Gaithersburg.

RASA- Rockville
RASA, a fast-casual Indian restaurant with four locations in DC and Virginia, is coming to 12033 Rockville Pike in the Montrose Crossing shopping center, the former site of Slapfish. The restaurant, founded by Rahul Vinod and Sahil Rahman (combined to create the name, RASA), opened its first location in Navy Yard in 2017 before opening a location in Mt. Vernon Triangle in 2020, Crystal City in 2021, and Fairfax this past summer. The menu offers seven chef-curated bowls under the “We Got You” portion of the menu, that includes their signature bowls like the “Tikka Chance on Me”, “Open Sesame”, “Eat Your Veggies”, “Home Cooking”, “Goa Your Own Way”, “Aloo Need is Love”, and “Caul on Me” or the “You Got It” portion of their menu that allows customers to “DIY” and design their own bowl using the assembly line format of a base, main, sauce, veggies, toppings, and chutneys/dressings. The full menu can be seen here.

Red Ribbon Bakeshop – Wheaton
Red Ribbon Bakeshop, a Filipino bakery chain, is coming to Wheaton. The bakery will be located at 2501 University Blvd W right next to the Anchor Inn sign that still stands. Currently, Red Ribbon Bakeshop has over 200 locations across the Philippines and 39 in the United States. In 2005 it was acquired by Jollibee Foods Corporation, which opened its first D.C. area Jollibee location at Wheaton Mall in 2021. Red Ribbon Bakeshop announced on its social media last month that it is hiring a General Manager for the location, “Come Join Our Team! We are hiring an experienced Bakeshop General Manager for our beautiful UPCOMING Wheaton, MD location! If you or anyone you know are interested in discussing this opportunity, contact me to set up an interview. [email protected] Or, apply here: https://harri.com/…/job/1748005-bakeshop-general-manager“

Rise Southern Biscuits & Righteous Chicken – Gaithersburg 
Permanent signage is up at Rise Southern Biscuits & Righteous Chicken (16248 Frederick Rd) on the border of Gaithersburg/Rockville, in the recently renovated Rock Grove Center on the corner of 355 and Shady Grove Rd. The center is also home to Minerva Indian Cuisine, Qdoba, and the recently relocated Dunkin Donuts. The North Carolina-based biscuit chain is known for their buttermilk-brined chicken and currently has Maryland locations in Columbia and Towson.  Menu items include biscuit sandwiches, biscuits & gravy,  fried chicken strips, and donuts. Originally scheduled to open this fall, Rise is now targeting an early 2023 opening.

Sweetgreen- Gaithersburg
Last October we let you know that Sweetgreen would be moving in to the former Verizon Wireless space, located next to Downtown Crown Beer & Wine, in Gaithersburg. Verizon has since moved within Crown, and construction on the upcoming Sweetgreen restaurant began a couple months back. Permanent signage is now up at the restaurant and while we don’t have an expected opening date, we anticipate an early 2023 opening. Sweetgreen currently has three MoCo locations, in Bethesda, Downtown Silver Spring, and Pike & Rose. Crown has been without a salad fast-casual restaurant since Chopt closed in early 2020 and has since moved that location to the Kentlands neighborhood. Sweetgreen is joining Lovesac and Bath and Body Works, which are both also planning to open new locations in Downtown Crown.

Two suspects were arrested in Howard County after an incident occurred in Pike & Rose involving an off-duty police officer on Friday evening.  According to MCPD, “At approximately 7:58 p.m., an attempted vehicular assault on an off-duty officer occurred in the area of Pike & Rose in North Bethesda for reasons that are still under investigation. MCP Officers attempted to stop the vehicle, but the driver of the vehicle refused to stop. Officers followed the vehicle to I-95 in Howard County, where both suspects were taken into custody. No injuries have been reported.  

This is an active and ongoing investigation. More information will be released as it becomes available.”

 

MoCo POLICE CHASE: ~7:55PM Friday, Attempted Vehicular Assault of an Off-Duty Police Officer at Pike & Rose in North Bethesda, Maryland. Suspect vehicle stopped on Northbound I-95 between MD-198 and MD-216. Suspect in custody; no injuries.

— Cordell (@CordellTraffic) December 24, 2022

Below is a list of ten of our favorite things to do in Montgomery County during the holiday season. Did we leave any of your favorites out? Let us know in the comment section!

10. Holiday Street Fest & Fireworks at Rio

Date: Saturday, December 10
Time: 1-7pm
Location:  Grand Corner Avenue in Gaithersburg
“1-5 PM: Join us on Grand Corner Ave (from Dick’s Sporting Goods to Barnes & Noble) for a Holiday Street Fest presented by Novavax!

• Festive Music, Artisan Market, Pop Up Bar, S’mores Lounge, Wreath Making Workshop, Family Activities & More!

5-7 PM: The festivities continue on the Boardwalk Stage (By Guapo’s) with a DJ, Games/Prizes and a Pop Up Bar!
6:45 PM: Enjoy a Dazzling Fireworks show over the lake!*  Perfect viewing all along the Boardwalk and Fire Lounge.

HOLIDAY POP UP BARS
Adults ages 21+ can indulge in a festive and boozy holiday beverage and light bites at the following pop-up bars:

• True Food Kitchen: Grand Corner Ave,1-5 pm
• Dave & Busters: Boardwalk Stage, 5-7 pm
• Nando’s ‘Deck the Bar’ (on their patio), 5-7 pm
  * Please note: The playground and portion of the lake path will close prior to the fireworks display.

Pro Tip! Parking is free and plentiful at rio – beat the crowds and park in the garages near Kohl’s and Target!

9. The Garden of Lights at Brookside Gardens

Date: Now through January 1, 2023 (Closed December 24-25)
Time: 5:30pm to 9:30pm nightly
Location: 1800 Glenallan Avenue, Wheaton
Tickets: https://montgomeryparks.org/parks-and-trails/brookside-gardens/garden-of-lights/

The Garden of Lights display transforms Brookside Gardens into a magical winter wonderland. Stroll through the one-half mile, outdoor, walk-through exhibit and enjoy the twinkling lights and glimmering one-of-a-kind displays adorning the flowerbeds and grounds throughout the 50-acre horticultural gem in Wheaton.
Event information:

• Tickets are $10 per person(opens in a new tab), age five and older, and are only available to purchase online at Eventbrite.com.
• Every person five and older must have a ticket.
• Tickets are timed entry with a specific day and entrance time for your arrival.
• Please print a hard copy of your digital tickets to bring with you to the event.
• You must arrive within thirty minutes of your ticketed time slot to redeem your ticket.
• Tickets are non-refundable.
• Garden of Lights is an outdoor, rain or shine event. Please dress accordingly.

8. Ice Skating at Rockville Town Square

Date: Now through March
Time: Sun 10am-10pm, Mon through Thurs 12pm-10pm, Fri 12pm-11pm, Sat 10am-11pm
Location: 131 Gibbs St, Rockville
Tickets: https://www.rockvilleiceskating.com/
The ice-skating rink at Rockville Town Square opens to the general public every year in November. Reservations are required and are available two weeks in advance. You will need to reserve your arrival time. Non-skaters who wish to enter the fenced rink area are also required to pay admission and need to make reservations as well. Click here for more information on pricing, holiday hours, group rates, events and lessons.
“At 7,200 square feet and 120 feet long, the rink is the largest outdoor rink in Montgomery County and has been an annual winter attraction for more than a decade.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/CkjDPwlt_U6/

7. Holiday Lights in the Town of Poolesville

Location:  19721 Beall St, Poolesville
Make the trek to Poolesville this December and see the fantastic light display in front of Town Hall. The official tree lighting event took place on December 2 and the lights will be displayed nightly throughout the month. While in Pooleville, grab dinner at one of the great local restaurants like Basset’s or Cugini’s. Visit www.poolesvillemd.gov/439/Holiday-Lighting-Ceremony for more information.

6. ‘The Nutcracker’ Presented by the Rockville Civic Ballet
Date: Saturdays, Dec. 3 and 10; Sundays, Dec. 4 and 11.
Time: 2pm & 7pm
Location:  603 Edmonston Dr, Rockville
Tickets:  www.rockvillemd.gov/theatre
Tickets cost $17; $13, children 12 and younger and seniors 60 and older.
“Join Clara on her magical journey. Directed by Eleanor Simpson and Erin Kwong. The Rockville Civic Ballet consists of 85 adult and children dancers. Since 1974, the company has annually performed the Nutcracker. The company also annually performs spring and summer production. Learn more about the Rockville Civic Ballet at friendsrcb.org.”

❄️ Get into the holiday spirit this weekend with Rockville Civic Ballet's presentation of The Nutcracker at the F. Scott Fitzgerald Theatre! 🩰 Tickets can be purchased online at https://t.co/Lms1WsmCny or in person at the F Scott Fitzgerald Theatre Box Office. pic.twitter.com/lUzm9BLlqE

— City of Rockville (@Rockville411) December 1, 2022

 

 

Montgomery County is home to several great craft breweries, many of which offer heated tents, patios, and yurts during the winter. Lone Oak Farm Brewing Company at 5000 Olney Laytonsville Rd in Olney offers comfy tents that include a private server will that deliver anything you order off the Lone Oak menu – right to your tent! Visit  www.loneoakbrewingco.com for more information and pricing.

4. The Olney Farmers & Artist Market

Date: Every Sunday
Time: 9am-1pm
Location:  2801 Olney Sandy Spring Rd, Olney
The Olney Farmers & Artist Market is one of the only markets in Montgomery County that is open year round. Here you will find traditional market staples like produce, baked goods, flowers, as well as dozens of local artists selling everything from hand-carved cutting boards, scarves, mittens, hats, face masks to stained glass and bird-themed wallets. During the holiday season there are vendors selling fresh cut Christmas trees and wreaths.

“The Market runs year-round, rain or shine, from 9 am to 1 pm. We’re located on the Medstar Hospital Thrift Shop site, at 108 and Prince Philip Drive. There’s plenty of parking, both in the lot adjacent to the Market along 108 and opposite the Thrift Shop on Prince Philip. Special provisions for disabled customers. Anyone elderly or disabled will be able to park closer in. If you’d like to make arrangements in advance, call 202 257 5326.”

3. The Jingle Lounge at Montgomery Mall

The festive Jingle Lounge, located on the lower level next to Lego, opened on November 21st. “Westfield Montgomery invites guests for a full lineup of festive activities including live holiday music, complimentary cocktails with purchase popups prepared by Cocktail Curations, and holiday arts and crafts by the center’s new non-profit arts center, Creative Outlets and Lego.” Schedule of events below:
Sunday, December 4th from 11 am to 1 pm | Holiday Craft and build with Lego and Creative Outlets Arts Center
Friday, December 9th from 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM | Holiday Music with the 42nd Street Carolers
Sunday, December 11th from 11 am to 1 pm | Holiday Craft and build with Lego and Creative Outlets Arts Center
Friday, December 16th from 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM | Holiday Music with Keyboardist Jordan Mills
Saturday, December 17th from 4:30 PM to 7:30 PM
Sip with Purchase event! Spend $75 at any Westfield Montgomery store and redeem for a complimentary holiday cocktail or mocktail.
Sunday, December 18th from 11 am to 1 pm | Holiday Craft and build with Lego and Creative Outlets Arts Center
Friday, December 23rd from 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM | Holiday Music with the 42nd Street Carolers

https://www.instagram.com/reel/ClIAmRfDcQv/?utm_source=ig_embed&ig_rid=02f919ea-8063-4c02-9798-a72918195a6c

2. ‘Festival of Lights’ at the Washington D.C. Temple

Date: Now through January 2, 2023
Time: Dusk to 9pm
Location: 9900 Stoneybrook Dr, Kensington

The annual Festival of Lights at the Washington D.C. Temple returned this year after the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints cancelled the display in 2021 due to COVID-19 concerns and to focus on the temple’s open house and rededication, which took place this past spring.
“It’s that time of the year again! Mark your calendars because the Festival of Lights is coming back this Christmas! Bring your friends and family and make some memories!

1. Winter Lights Festival in Gaithersburg

Date: Now through December 31(Closed December 25)
Time: Sun-Thurs 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., Fri & Sat 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Location: 11950 Clopper Road, Gaithersburg
Tickets: https://www.gaithersburgmd.gov/recreation/special-events/winter-lights-festival

“The City of Gaithersburg’s Winter Lights Festival is getting ready to welcome visitors for another spectacular season. The wondrous display of lights at Seneca Creek State Park will be open nightly November 25 through December 31. The festival is closed on December 25 and last entry for December 24 & 31 is 8:30 p.m. The 3.5 mile drive through the enchanted setting of Seneca Creek State Park takes you past more than 450 illuminated displays and beautifully lit trees that light up the night. The park is located at 11950 Clopper Road, conveniently accessible from I-270.  Advanced purchase of tickets is required and one ticket is required per vehicle and pricing/additional information can be seen below:

In a move to consolidate members, staff, resources, etc. SoldierFit has permanently closed its Bethesda location (7920 Norfolk Ave Bethesda, MD 20814) with plans of combining it with its North Bethesda/Rockville location (12241 Nebel St, North Bethesda, MD 20852). SoldierFit Bethesda opened approximately three years ago in Bethesda, while the North Bethesda/Rockville location opened in 2016.

Soldierfit, founded by Army veteran Danny Farrar and Rockville native/Wootton High School alumnus Dave Posin, offers memberships for group classes, access to exercise equipment, personal training and kids’ classes. In 2007, the company started with boot camps in area parks until it leased brick-and-mortar space in 2010 in Gaithersburg. The gym has additional Montgomery County locations in Clarksburg, Gaithersburg, and Silver Spring. Featured photo courtesy of Google Maps.

Below is a list of restaurants that will be open and serving Thanksgiving dinner on November 24. Most restaurants are requiring reservations so please call the location or check availability online before visiting:

The Capital Grille – 5310 Western Ave, Chevy Chase
The Capital Grille will be offering Roasted Turkey with Brioche Stuffing, French Green Beans with Marcona Almonds, and Cranberry-Pear Chutney, and Pumpkin Cheesecake on Thanksgiving. The cost is $47 for adults and $17 for children. The restaurant will also have their regular dinner menu available.
For more information visit: https://www.thecapitalgrille.com/events/thanksgiving-dinner-menu

Clyde’s– 5441 Wisconsin Ave, Chevy Chase & 2 Preserve Pkwy, Rockville
“All of our locations are open on Thanksgiving Day. Enjoy a traditional turkey or spiral glazed ham dinner, served with sausage-sage stuffing, mashed potatoes, glazed sweet potatoes, green beans, turkey gravy, cranberry sauce and a slice of pie.”
For more information visit https://www.clydes.com/reservations/

Cooper’s Hawk Winery and Restaurant –1403 Research Blvd, Rockville
“Thanksgiving Menu – Adult $33.99 & Kids (12 & Under) $14.99 Feat. Butternut Squash Soup with Spiced Pumpkin Seeds and Sour Cream, Slow-Roasted Turkey with Pan Gravy, Traditional Stuffing, Roasted Green Beans & Carrots. Mary’s Potatoes, Cranberry Sauce, Pumpkin Praline Cheesecake, a collaboration with Eli’s Cheesecake of Chicago, with Vanilla Whipped Cream and Vanilla Sauce. Add-ons: Pair your meal with a glass of our November Wine of the Month, Grateful Red or Grateful White, or try our Cranberry Sangria made with Cranberry Wine, Fresh-Squeezed Juices and Spiced Cranberry Syrup!”
For more information visit https://chwinery.com/thanksgiving

Copper Canyon Grill- 928 Ellsworth Dr, Silver Spring 
Copper Canyon’s Silver Spring location will be open from 12-8pm on Thanksgiving.  All other CC locations will be closed. Copper Canyon’s turkey dinner consists of Turkey, Mashed potatoes & gravy, Green Beans, Cranberry sauce, and Cornbread stuffing for $25. Copper Canyon is also offering their holiday meal for pre-order to take home. Details and menu can be found at https://ccgrill.com/product/ccgrill/ 

Founding Farmers – 12505 Park Potomac Ave, Potomac
“Please join us at any of our Founding Farmers restaurants on Thursday, November 24 for our special Thanksgiving prix fixe dinner menu. Our prix fixe menu is the only menu available when dining in our restaurants on Thanksgiving Day (our lunch/dinner menus will not be available on Thanksgiving Day). Our Thanksgiving prix fixe menu will be available 11am – 8pm on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 24 at all locations. ”
For more information visit  https://www.wearefoundingfarmers.com/celebrate-thanksgiving-at-the-farm/

The Irish Inn – 6119 Tulane Ave, Glen Echo
The Irish Inn in Glen Echo will be offering a special Thanksgiving Menu ($60 adult/$30). Options include a classic Thanksgiving dinner, salmon, and beef stroganoff.  Reservations can only be made by calling the restaurant at (301) 229-6600. For more information visit www.irishinnglenecho.com

Ruth’s Chris Steak House – 106 Crown Park Ave, Gaithersburg
” It’s the holiday season and time to focus on family togetherness, and time well-spent. Gather around our table for a three-course Thanksgiving Feast with all of the trimmings and none of the work. We’ll be open early to serve you, and the regular dinner menu is available all day long. We welcome you to join us at our table for a traditional Thanksgiving meal. Adults: $44* Children: $17*”
For more information visit https://www.ruthschris.com/promotions/thanksgiving-at-ruths/

Per MDOT:
The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA) has started a project to significantly improve safety for bicyclists and motorists on nearly two miles of MD 187 (Old Georgetown Road) in North Bethesda. The improvements on MD 187, between south of I-495 (Capital Beltway) and Nicholson Lane, will convert one travel lane in each direction in order to add buffered bicycle lanes and the installation of flex posts to outline the new bicycle lanes. The new buffered bike lane will include green pavement markings as well. 

We spoke with a representative from a Montgomery County Sport & Health location on Friday who confirmed that all Sport & Health locations will be rebranding to Onelife Fitness gyms. Currently, Montgomery County is home to two Sport & Health locations- Bethesda and North Bethesda. We were told that notice will go out to existing members on October 1st announcing the change and providing additional information to members.

Back in 2014 US Fitness added Sport & Health to its portfolio of clubs, creating one of the largest health club companies in the country.  US Fitness, a partnership between industry veterans Kirk and John Galiani and New Evolution Ventures, operates Onelife Fitness and Crunch Fitness clubs throughout Virginia and Washington, DC under the leadership of the Galianis. Sport & Health operates health and fitness clubs in and around the Washington, DC.

There are existing OneLife Fitness locations in Germantown, Olney, and Rockville.

 

Updated: November 6, 2022
Below you’ll find a list of restaurants that have opened in Montgomery County in 2022:

&pizza- Gaithersburg

&pizza is now open in the Gaithersburg Square shopping center at 570 N Frederick Ave, next to Quickway Japanese Hibachi & Chipotle. &pizza is known for its unique, oblong-shaped pizzas which are made with high-quality ingredients and bake in under 2 minutes. &pizza was founded by Michael Lastoria and Steve Salis (Ted’s Bulletin, Federalist Pig, and Ensemble) in 2012 with their first location on H Street in D.C. The growing company now has over 60 locations including MoCo locations in Bethesda, Gaithersburg (Crown), Germantown, Pike & Rose, and Silver Spring. The pizza chain will also be opening a location in the Fair Hill shopping center in Olney later this year.

Bassett’s (Reopened)- Poolesville

Bassett’s Fine Food & Spirits at 19950 Fisher Avenue in Poolesville, which is under new ownership, held its soft opening on Thursday, May 12. The restaurant, which opened in 1993, closed its doors on December 31 of last year. The restaurant is now owned by Erica Myers, who worked at Bassett’s for over 15 years before leaving to open Rio Grande Grille in Germantown in 2020. Bassett’s previous owners, who owned the restaurant the past three years, cited the pandemic and the closing of White’s Ferry as the reason it went out of business. Myers has spent the past several months remodeling and deep cleaning the restaurant. She said that she is keeping a lot of the former menu, as well as adding new items and weekly specials. The restaurant will be open Monday and Tuesday 11am-9pm, Wednesday-Friday 11am-10pm, Saturday 9am-10pm, and Sunday 9am-9pm.

BB.Q Chicken and Beer – Silver Spring

BB.Q Chicken is now open at 2235 Bel Pre Rd in Plaza Del Mercado (Silver Spring).  It has been over a year and a half since we announced that it would replace Fu Lin Restaurant, which closed on February 21st, 2021. BB.Q Chicken, a global chain of restaurants offering Korean fried chicken and more, has another Montgomery County location at 9712 Traville Gateway Dr in Rockville. The “BB.Q” stands for “Best of the Best Quality”. The restaurant’s menu offers a wide variety of starters, including waffle fries with nacho cheese, kimchi chicken sliders, and many different flavors of their olive chicken strips. Entrees include half/whole chicken, boneless chicken, garlic chicken, and many different flavors of wings. They also have sandwiches, soups, salads, and plenty of homemade sides.

Bethesda Bagels -Rockville

Bethesda Bagels opened its Rockville location at 14929-D Shady Grove Rd (formerly GameStop) back in January. The family-owned business started in 1982 and is known for their New York style bagels. Bethesda Bagels closed its Dupont Circle location in Washington DC  on April 24 after failing to come to a lease agreement with the landlord of the property.  Bethesda Bagels currently has two MoCo locations, 4819 Bethesda Ave. and 10241 Old Georgetown Road in Bethesda, as well as locations in DC and Virginia.

BoBaPoP Tea Bar- Rockville

BoBaPop Tea Bar has opened up inside the Kyoto Matcha location at 33 Maryland Ave Unit A in Rockville Town Center.  According to a post on Kyoto’s Instagram page, “We’re so excited to announce that we have Bobapop-Teabar joining our Rockville location! Come and try our refreshing drinks and pair it with a delicious dessert from Kyo Matcha.” BoBaPoP opened its location at 312 Main Street in the Kentlands in 2018 and was the first of the Vietnamese based company’s stores to open in the United States. BoBaPop opened their second MoCo location at 19847 Century Blvd, Unit J in Germantown, the former site of August 32, back in November.  The company has over 150 stores worldwide.

Kyoto Matcha opened its Rockville location in 2019. Their menu features ice cream, cakes, soba, mochi, and more flavored with matcha, purple sweet potato (ube), rose, maple, and other Japanese delicacies.  According to their website, Kyoto Matcha, is an international chain of Matcha desserts that is “dedicated to creating top-quality raw materials. Due to the influence of the Japanese-style matcha culture, the Kyoto Matcha is based on the brand mission of “Let the Tea Return to the Forest”, rooted in the traditional Japanese tea culture and dedicated to the promotion of Matcha culture.”  Kyoto has an additional MoCo location at 967 Rose Ave in North Bethesda.

Boulangerie Christophe – Potomac

Founded by Christophe Roux, a third-generation baker who grew up near Saint-Tropez on the French Riviera, and his son Benjamin, Boulangerie Chritophe has opened its first Montgomery County. The bakery is located in a new building in Cabin John Village. The first location, in Georgetown, opened in February of 2017. The first floor of that location is a casual cafe, serving light lunch fare and a wide selection of pastries. The second floor of Boulangerie Christophe is more upscale — and offers can enjoy a sit-down meal in a relaxed atmosphere. The menu consists of  a variety of coffee (including cappuccino, lates, and more), egg dishes, baked goods, Southern French delicacies, and more.

BurgerFi- Gaithersburg

BurgerFi, an American fast casual restaurant chain focused on hormone-free and antibiotic-free angus hamburgers, french fries, hot dogs, custard, opened its Rio Lakefront in Gaithersburg in March. The restaurant is located at 5 Grand Corner Ave, across from Dick’s Sporting Goods and next to Lanzhou Hand Pull Noodles. Since its founding in Florida back in 2011, BurgerFi has been among the nation’s fastest-growing better burger concepts with over 100 restaurants in the United States. Currently, there are BurgerFi locations in Downtown Silver Spring and Pike & Rose.

Burtons- Gaithersburg

Nearly three years after it was first announced, Burtons Grill & Bar, at 109 Commerce Square Pl in Gaithersburg’s Kentlands neighborhood is now officially open. The restaurant’s opening was delayed several years by the COVID-19 pandemic and later supply chain issues.  The 5,000 square foot restaurant will serve lunch and dinner and has seating capacity for 196 patrons, including a 106 seat dining room, 44-seat bar, and an outdoor patio that seats 46.  Menu items will include braised short ribs, filet mignon, chicken risotto, and market fresh seafood.

In a press release,  President and Chief Operating Officer of Burtons Grill & Bar John Haggai said, “Following all of the success we’ve had in the past year with the Burton’s Grill & Bar brand, we are thrilled to be opening another restaurant, even more so because of its location in Kentlands Market Square. We’re excited to be opening a second location for our loyal customers in the state of Maryland.”  The restaurant will be open Sunday and Monday from 11:30am-9pm, Tuesday through Thursday from 11:30am-10pm, and Friday and Saturday from 11:30am-11pm.

Butter Me Up- Montgomery Mall (Bethesda)

Butter Me Up has taken over the old Aroma Espresso Bar location in Montgomery Mall, which is downstairs near the Old Navy entrance. The breakfast spot, which features “instagrammable” decor, will offer a menu that consists of a variety of breakfast sandwiches, toasts, sides, bowls, smoothies, and juices. A Yelp article named Butter Me Up DC’s best breakfast sandwich, as the restaurant’s first location can be found within HalfSmoke in Florida Ave NW. Butter Me Up’s sister restaurant HalfSmoke will be opening a location in the mall’s food court later this spring. HalfSmoke will be located in a kiosk in the food terrace that was the former home of Coldstone Creamery and more recently Gelato Galaxy.  This will be the first restaurant/bar in the food court to serve alcohol.

Centrado Cafe Shop- Burtonsville 

Centrado Cafe Shop is now open at 15530 Old Columbia Pike in Burtonsville (formerly Chapala), in the front portion of the building that also houses Luchador Bar & Eats, it’s sister restaurant. The coffee shop will focus on Central American coffee, pastries and food.
“Hello Burtonsville! We’re officially open! Thank you for your patience, now offering all our specialty coffee drinks, goods, bites, snacks, and local artisanal items!
Hours: Mon-Fri 7am-3pm Sat-Sun 8am-5pm”

Chadol Korean BBQ- Rockville

Korean BBQ restaurant Chadol is now open at 1403 Research Blvd, Suite A-8 in Rockville. It is located next to Robek’s, across from One Life Fitness and the recently opened Grill Kabob. Meat options include brisket, pork bulgogi, LA Galbi, pork jowel, boneless ribeye and boneless prime short rib. Side dishes include dumplings, corn cheese, and white pancakes.  “A never seen before Premium Korean BBQ. Meat the new standard.”

Charleys Cheesesteaks & Wings – Gaithersburg

Charleys Cheesesteaks & Wings is now open at 405 N Frederick Ave, in the location that was recently home to Teriyaki Express. The new Charleys restaurant is located in the shopping center anchored by Megamart and FedEx Office. We’re told there are no plans at this time to close the nearby Lakeforest location. Charley’s now has over 600 stores nationwide. Newer locations have adopted a new menu concept, offering chicken wings and ice cream in addition to its Philly cheesesteaks. “Tossed-to-order, the wings are made with 10 chef-inspired flavors ranging from Angry Ghost and Nashville Hot to milder options like Zesty Lemon-Lime Rub and Sweet Teriyaki.”

Chopt-Gaithersburg

Fast-casual salad chain Chopt opened its Kentlands location at 141 Commerce Square Pl in Gaithersburg in January. The new restaurant is located next to MOD pizza on Commerce Square.

Corner Pizza- Gaithersburg

Corner Pizza & Subs at 18503 N Frederick Ave. held its soft opening on Saturday, May 14, with the official grand opening scheduled for June 3. The restaurant is located in the former Jasmine Bakery Café location (that was previously home to Classic Bakery) in the Gaithersburg shopping center that is also home to Brewster’s Ice Cream. The restaurant specializes in what’s sometimes referred to as “Maryland Style Pizza“, the rectangular pizza you find at local restaurants like Stained Glass Pub, Continental, Gentleman Jim’s, and 4 Corners Pub. The restaurant makes its dough fresh daily and menu items in addition to pizza include subs, meatballs, and wings, as well as a breakfast menu.

Creek Lodge Bar & Grill – Rockville

The Creek Lodge Bar & Grill at 5566 Norbeck Rd in the Rock Creek Village Center (former Urban BBQ spot) opened on October 17. “The Creek Lodge specializes in serving comfort food with a twist. They offer everything from their signature ribs to cajun pasta. If you’re looking for a cozy, rustic spot to eat, with local live music, then head on over to The Creek Lodge!”

Crown Fried Chicken- Silver Spring

Crown Fried Chicken is now open at 1909 Seminary Rd in Silver Spring, taking over the former location of Krazy Steve’s (and Armand’s Pizza before that.) The restaurant is open 10am-9pm daily.
Crown Fried Chicken opened its first Montgomery County location at 9120 Rothbury Dr. in Montgomery Village (next to Athens Grill) in March of 2021 and closed the location in February of this year. The menufeatures various chicken and waffle combinations, omelets, wings, cheesesteaks, and gyros. The chain is known for using Halal chicken and has locations across the east coast. The closest franchise locations are in Hyattsville, Waldorf, and Washington, DC.

Crumbl Cookies- Gaithersburg & Germantown

Crumbl Cookies opened locations at 277 Kentlands Blvd in Gaithersburg and at 20650 Seneca Meadows Pkwy in Germantown. Crumbl Cookies is a bakery with locations nationwide that sells chocolate chip and sugar cookies every day, but the rest of their offerings rotate. Their flavors range from experimental (watermelon chilled sugar cookie), to cookie twists on classic desserts (peach cobbler cookie), to more traditional cookies (peanut butter brownie cookie.)

Cubasi Bistro- Bethesda 

Cubasi Bistro, a Cuban restaurant with an existing location in Sterling, VA, is now open at 4710 Bethesda Ave. The restaurant is located on the ground level of The Seasons Apartments in the location that was formerly home to Jimmy John’s. Jimmy John’s closed that location in late 2018.

The menu consists of starters like ham croquettes, empanadas, bacalitos, and more. A variety of sandwiches and sides are on the menu, as well as pork. beef, chicken, and seafood entrees. Diners can also create their own bowls that consist of chicken/beef and salad, rice, beans, plantains, and more. The full menu and photos of a few dishes can be seen below.

District Falafel – Bethesda

District Falafel opened on November 1, taking over the spot that was most recently home to The Wok Chinese Kitchen and previously home to longtime favorite Fu Shing Cafe at 10315 Westlake Drive in the Westlake Crossing shopping center, located next to Montgomery Mall in Bethesda. District Falafel started in 2015 as a food truck serving the D.C. area. Many customers may remember District Falafel from its appearances at Windridge Vineyard, Doc Waters Cidery, and more in Montgomery County. Per the restaurant, “We believe Falafel should contain fresh ingredients and bold flavor worth celebrating. So we set out thinking outside ‘the jar’ to find a way to bring this to the people of DC. In 2015, we started a falafel truck serving only freshly made falafel, crisp on the outside and tender from within, served with warm pita and fresh vegetables to offer our customers a completely
authentic experience.”

Donutchew- Gaithersburg

Donutchew, a mochi donut shop, is now open in the Rio Lakefront, taking over the location that was formerly home to Starbucks next to Fantasticks at 213 Boardwalk Place. The menu features donuts, coffee, fruit and milk teas, and croffles, a hybrid crossaint/waffle. The store is open from 10:3am-10pm during the soft opening.

Dunkin’ – Cloverly, Gaithersburg (Shady Grove Rd), & Silver Spring (Four Corners)

Dunkin’ Donuts is now open at 15509 New Hampshire Ave in Cloverly, located in the spot that was formerly home to BB&T Bank. This new location includes a drive-thru, which has seemed to be the aim for a lot of the new Dunkin’ locations in the area that are taking over former bank locations. Dunkin’ also opened a new Dunkin/Baskin Robbins store in the recently renovated Rock Grove Center on the corner of 355 and Shady Grove in Gaithersburg and at 115 University Blvd W, in the Four Corners area of Silver Spring.

Edith’s Pizza- Bethesda

Edith’s Pizza at 6910 Arlington Rd in Bethesda held its grand opening on February 16. Edith’s is the new pizza restaurant from Breads Unlimited, located just a few doors down at 6914 Arlington Rd. Roberto, whose family opened Breads Unlimited, tells us, “growing up, Saturday nights for me was renting a movie, and eating my dad’s homemade pizza that he made from scratch in his mini bakery he had in our basement. My father had commercial kitchen equipment downstairs, so he was always working on creations down there when he was home. He would always make sure to get the best quality ingredients to make each pizza, so we were used to eating a good slice. Over the years his pizza’s got better and better and my family and neighbors couldn’t have enough”

When the opportunity came of the old Pilates studio going out of business in the shopping center, my father wanted to use that space to expand the bakery operations by adding a space that would be dedicated to the production of cakes! It was an item that the bakery was missing. Literally the icing on top of the cake haha. With this opportunity to expand the business, it also gave him the chance to establish his other passion that he began working on so many years ago, pizza! Now with Edith’s Pizza, my father can continue to build on the success of Breads Unlimited by offering more to our community.” In addition to standards like pepperoni and cheese, other options will include the Garden Pizza with with artichoke, olives, peppers, onions, spinach, and arugula and Edith’s Paradise with red onion, pineapple, and capicola. You can view the full menu at www.edithspizzas.com.

Effoi Restaurant- Silver Spring

Effoi Restaurant held a grand opening this past July in the building that was previously home to the iconic Addis Ababa restaurant at 8233 Fenton Street in Downtown Silver Spring. The new restaurant primarily serves Ethiopian cuisine and boasts of “spacious downstairs and upstairs seating areas, parking for guests, and high-quality delicious food prepared by our experienced chef.” The restaurant is open seven days a week, from 11am until 2am. The menu consists of breakfast, lunch, and dinner items, including popular Ethiopian dishes, vegetarian offerings, some traditional breakfast items, a kids menu, and more. The restaurant transforms into Effoi Lounge in the later hours and offers music, food, drink, and hookah.

Èkó House – Rockville

Èkó House, named after the local southwestern Nigerian dialect, Yoruba, is a Pan-African restaurant now open in the space formerly occupied by Bar Louie at 150 Gibbs St.  The restaurant offers authentic and delicious fusions of well known and loved Nigerian food. The restaurant seats 250 people and includes a private room for special events and celebrations. Featured photo of catfish pepper soup courtesy of @EkoHouseDMV on Instagram.

Ela Mesa Taste of Greece- Gaithersburg

Ela Mesa Taste of Greece held their grand opening on May 2nd. The new Greek restaurant is located at 109 Paramount Park Drive in the Spectrum Town Center in Gaithersburg, which is currently home to restaurants like Barking Mad Cafe, California Tortilla, Hot Pot Hero, and Firebirds.  The restaurant offers traditional Greek fare and also has a full bar that seats 10 people. Menu items include Pastitsio, Thalassina (seafood pasta), Kanelonia (veggie cannelloni), Kebabs, Lamb Chops, and Seafood Risotto.

El Catrachito- Olney 

El Catrachito has opened its fourth MoCo location in Olney, taking over the location that was formerly home to Milk & Cheese at 18050 Georgia Avenue. Back in November, we were able to confirmed that Milk & Cheese closed permanently after operating for approximately 6 months in the location that was also the former site of Thai Cuisine. The restaurant opened its most recent location at 211. N Frederick Ave in Gaithersburg just over a year ago. The menu features popular Honduran dishes such as baleadas and pollo can tajadas, as well as Salvadoran dishes like Pupusas and Mexican cuisine like fajitas, and a lot more. El Catrachito has additional locations in Wheaton (2408 University Blvd.) and Takoma Park (940 East-West Highway).

El Mercat Bar De Tapas – Rockville

El Mercat Bar De Tapas is now open in the spot that was most recently home to Gumbo Ya Ya at 101 Gibbs Street Unit C in Rockville Town Square. El Mercat Bar de Tapas is owned by Brazilian chef George Rodrigues, the former chef de cuisine at revered tapas chain Boqueria in Penn Quarter. Rodrigues is a Rockville resident who started cooking in Brazil and has since spent time under various celebrity chefs across the country. Rodrigues even “beat Bobby Flay” on the chef’s television series. The restaurant features traditional Spanish tapas that will include escalivada, papas bravas, calamares, pulpo con patatas, and pollo rostizado. Four different paellas, Tortilla Española as well as sangria, wines and beer. The 2,307-square-foot El Mercat will have dining for 60 people and planning on opening its patio this spring.

Eternal Love and Pizza- Darnestown

After a successful soft opening, Eternal Love and Pizza is rolling full steam ahead at its location at Windridge Vineyards in Darnestown (15700 Darnestown Rd). “I finally opened. After 2 years and 15 different dough recipes!” wrote owner Neil Dundee on Reddit. While some of us have experienced a garlic dip for our crusts, Eternal Love and Pizza provided you with a garlic whip to help you finish your crusts. MoCo native Tod Fishman shared his love for the new pizza place via social media. “This place is good and they give you this garlic whip to dip your crust that’s insane!” Fishman wrote to us in his message. Currently, Eternal Love and Pizza will be at Windridge Wednesday through Sunday. Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday, the hours are Noon-6pm, and Friday/Saturday will have Noon-8pm hours.  Follow Eternal Love and Pizza on Instagram for changes to that schedule. Pies, which include “Get That Cheese”, “Pep Pep Hooray”, and more, go for $15-$20.

Frank Pepe’s – Bethesda

After much anticipation, Frank Pepe’s opened its Montgomery Mall location on March 28. The restaurant is located in the old Bobby’s Burger Palace location on the lower level across from Cheesecake Factory. The Daily Meal has referred to Frank Pepe’s as “America’s finest pizzeria” and many publications have tabbed the pizza joints as a must-try in the New England area. Per its website, Frank Pepe originated the New Haven-style thin crust pizza which he baked in bread ovens fired by coke. Coke is a byproduct of coal and it was used extensively until the late 1960’s when it became unavailable and hence coal was then put into use to fire the oven.
Photo courtesy of TasteMoCo.

Feasty Crab – Derwood

Feasty Crab opened at 16811 Crabbs Branch Way (the former location of Red, Hot, & Blue) in Derwood on June 1. Red, Hot, & Blue closed permanently back in July of 2019 after serving the Derwood area for 30 years. After almost two years of inactivity, Feasty Crab signage was put up in April 2021. The menu features oysters, snow crabs, scallops, crawfish, mussels, and various Cajun sides and desserts. The restaurant is open Sunday-Thursday 11am-9pm and Friday & Saturday 11am-10pm and is currently hiring.

Fidel’s Peruvian Chicken- Colesville

Fidel’s Peruvian Chicken has opened in Colesville at 13439 New Hampshire Ave in the same shopping center as Quench Craft Beer & Wine. In addition to Peruvian chicken, the restaurant offers a variety of dishes off the grill (pork chops, shrimp, carne asada, etc.) and a Tex-Mex portion of the menu.

Filo Cafe-

Filo Cafe, a self-described “mom and pop restaurant” that offers Filipino cuisine, is now open at 4836 Boiling Brook Pkwy, taking over the storefront that was previously home to NYC Pizza and Subs. The restaurant offers all-day breakfast, noodles, “Filo Faves”, combos, and more. New tentative hours are 10am-4:30pm Tuesday through Sunday, and closed on Mondays. The full menu can be seen here.

Flip’d by IHOP

Flip’d by IHOP opened on September 20 at the old Asian Bistro Cafe spot at 8537 Georgia Avenue in Downtown Silver Spring) between Panera and Red Lobster. The restaurant features a “Build Your Own Pancake Bar” with a choice of made-in-house pancakes or oatmeal as a base and a variety of mix-ins and toppings from the Top It Off bar, such as fresh blueberries, strawberries, and pineapple; fruit compotes; chocolate chips; caramel sauce and more

Galito’s Flame-Grilled Chicken- Gaithersburg

Galito’s Flame-Grilled Chicken is now open in the spot that was formerly home to Nirvana Reflexology Spa at 15918 Shady Grove Road in the Shady Grove Center (shopping center that is home to The Melting Pot). The restaurant offers chicken with “bold African flavors” and has been compared to international fast-casual restaurant Nando’s Peri Peri.

Greek Aroma Mediterranean Grill

Greek Aroma Grill is now open in the Montgomery Mall food terrace. Menu items include dolma, gyros, kababs, salads, souvlaki, and baklava. Greek Aroma has an additional location at 177 D Thomas Johnson Dr. in Frederick, MD. For a full list of recent openings at Montgomery Mall, see: What’s New and What’s Coming Soon to Montgomery Mall (November 2022 Edition) According to Greek Aroma, “every dish is created using only the freshest and finest ingredients. We serve only the finest meats, freshest vegetables, and desserts that are baked fresh daily. Our authentic menu and atmosphere create a truly enjoyable dining experience. Every dish is made to order.”

The Green Rooster- Takoma Park

According to Main Street Takoma, “The Green Rooster is now open in Takoma Park. The mostly plant-based food truck sits permanently in the parking lot of The Still Point Spa and complements both the spa and other Takoma Junction offerings. The truck provides tasty and nutritious options for both clients and the community. Working with local purveyors, The Green Rooster Truck offers froths, fizzes, salads, soups and toasts on their evolving healthy menu. Online ordering is coming soon.

Grace Street Coffee- Bethesda 

Georgetown based Grace Street Coffee will held the soft opening for its new location at 5021 Wilson Lane in Bethesdain July. Grace Street Coffee offers a variety of coffees, matcha based products, lemonades, and more.
In a message on their Instagram page, the company wrote, “Grace Street Coffee Roasters enters Maryland! We’re so excited to offer our specialty coffee to the Bethesda area and be a part of this new community. Our window location on Wilson Lane aims to deliver specialty coffee beverages in a bite-sized location! Be sure to also check out our tea selection from our partners @mem_tea!” You can view the shop’s menu here. 

Guavaberry- Silver Spring

Guavaberry Dominican Restaurant is now open at 8417 Georgia Ave, the former site of The Greek Place. The Greek Place closed this past December. The restaurant is open everyday of the week from from 8am-11pm and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The menu features fish, stews, and mofongo, a dish made with mashed fried green plantains. Dominican cuisine is influenced by Spanish, indigenous Taíno, Middle-Eastern and African dishes. Feature photo courtesy of @guavaberryrestaurantdmv

HalfSmoke- Montgomery Mall

HalfSmoke is now open in Montgomery Mall. The restaurant is located in a kiosk in the food terrace that was the former home of Coldstone Creamery and more recently Gelato Galaxy. Though there have been separate restaurants off of the food court that served alcohol (ex: Slade’s), this is the first restaurant/bar that’s actually located in the food court to serve alcohol.

The menu consists of the best selling sausages and sides from their DC location, as well as boozy milkshakes and a funnel cake bar. HalfSmokes sister restaurant Butter Me Up opened its Montgomery Mall location in May.

Hangry Joe’s Hot Chicken- Rockville & Wheaton 

Hangry Joe’s Hot Chicken is now open at 2533 Ennals Ave in Wheaton, in the spot that was formerly home to El Pollo Kiki Riki, and at 10050 Darnestown Rd in the Travilah Square shopping center. The restaurant offers crispy chicken sandwiches where you’re able to choose the spice level (Plain<Mild<Medium<Hot<Angry Hot).  In addition to the hot chicken sandwiches, known as “Chicken Sando”, the small menu consists of chicken fingers, chicken & waffles, Korean Chicken Nuggets, loaded fries, and salad with chicken breast. Sides include cider slaw, waffle fries, and fried okra.

Hello Betty-North Bethesda

Hello Betty at 940 Rose Ave (inside of Canopy by Hilton) at Pike & Rose is seafood-focused restaurant that aims to bring California beach, surf, and skate ambiance to their establishment. The menu features a variety of seafood including, “sustainably sourced Peel and Eat Shrimp and a bucket of crabs fire-roasted in our open flame oven and tossed in Old Bay vinegar”, Fish and Chips, as well as beer from 7 Locks Brewing.

Hip Flask Rooftop Bar- Bethesda

Hip Flask, the rooftop bar that’s inside of The Marriott Bethesda Downtown at Marriott HQ, is now open. Hip Flask serves small plates and craft cocktails and is located at 7707 Woodmont Ave in Bethesda. The new hotel also features a 360 degree lobby bar. Seventh State, the hotel’s restaurant, which includes a built-in Italian wood oven and indoor/outdoor seating opened earlier this year. The rooftop bar is open Tuesday through Thursday from 5pm until 11pm and Friday/Saturday from 5pm until Midnight. It’s closed on Sundays and Mondays.

Hook & Reel- Wheaton

Hook & Reel is open at 11160 Veirs Mill Road in Wheaton, located between Party City and the old Bar Louie.  The menu consists of clams, crawfish, black/New Zealand mussels, shrimp, snow crab legs, Dungeness crab, lobster, King crab legs, blue crabs, scallops, calamari, and more. This is Hook & Reel’s second Montgomery County location, the other being in Gaithersburg. The first Hook & Reel Restaurant was opened in Lanham, Maryland in 2013. The restaurant chain has seen a massive expansion with over 20 current locations and 30 new locations on the way across the country. Feature photo courtesy of the Hook & Reel Wheaton Facebook.

Ikura Asian Sushi- Gaithersburg

Ikura Asian Sushi at 18212 Flower Hill Way (Flower Hill Shopping Center) in Gaithersburg held its grand opening on March 25. It replaces Hunan Best, which was in that location for the last 30 years. Ikura Asian Sushi features Japanese themed cuisine and is owned by Micky Zheng, who is also the owner of Micky’s Chinese Restaurant at 18204 Contour Rd in Gaithersburg. The menu includes sushi, bobba tea, hibachi, noodle soup, and more.

Jongro BBQ- Wheaton

Jangro opened its long-awaited Wheaton mall location in February. The restaurant is known for its wide variety of cuts that are not  found in most other Korean restaurants. According to their website, their “beef and pork are produced with only natural feeds.” Jongro took over the location that was going to be home to Tilted Kilt a few years back, near DSW and the UPS store.

Josephine Gluten Free Bakery – Bethesda

Josephine Gluten Free Bakery officially opened on October 22 at 4927A Saint Elmo Ave in Bethesda. The bakery specialize in gluten-free, savory, and sweet waffles and pastries. Josephine also offers a wide range of gluten-free dishes, snacks, drinks, and coffee. The treats at Josephine are made with exclusive gluten-free recipes, using ancient grains and flours, organic ingredients, and robust flavors and textures, according to its website. The product mix is strictly made in a 100% gluten-and allergen-free facilities for the safety of our customer highly sensitive customers.

Junction Bakery & Bistro- Chevy Chase 

Junction Bakery & Bistro, an American bistro boasting fresh-baked breads and pastries, unique and flavorful breakfast, lunch, brunch and dinner offerings, is now open at 5471 Wisconsin Ave Suite 206B in Chevy Chase. The restaurant opened its first location in the Del Ray neighborhood of Alexandria, VA and has since opened another location in Capitol Hill. Per the Junction Bakery website: “Our simple food paired with homemade breads and baked goods makes our kitchen an extension of your kitchen. Whether you are grabbing Commonwealth Joe espresso and a pastry to go on your way to work or stopping in for lunch or dinner with friends, you will find a warm, comfortable and beautiful environment to welcome you.” Featured photo courtesy of Junction Bakery on Instagram.

Kong Dog Korean Corn Dogs- Glenmont

The Korean corn dog restaurant has been opening up shop across the country and the location at 12335 Georgia Ave in Glenmont is the chain’s first Maryland MoCo location. It is located at the storefront that was previously home to El Encanto, next to Subway. The menu offers unique corn dog combinations that include churro kong dogs, rainbow kong dogs (made with what looks to be Fruity Pebbles), ramen kong dogs, and a lot more.

Kumbia- Rockville

Kumbia, a South American restaurant focusing on cuisine from Argentina, Bolivia, Colombia, Brazil, and Ecuador, is open at 100 B Gibbs Street in Rockville Town Square, the former location of Spice Xing.  “We are excited to bring a unique Latin offering, to include exciting cocktails, beloved dishes and live music inspired by the variety of cuisines that represent South American food culture,” said Steven Tobar, co-owner of Kumbia. “We look forward to joining the diverse collection of restaurants that make the neighborhood a great community dining destination.”
Photo courtesy of Kumbia’s Facebook page.

Kung Fu Tea- Gaithersburg

The former Tutti Frutti at 200 Kentlands Boulevard in Gaithersburg transitioned into Kung Fu Tea in March. The store is connected to neighboring restaurant, Bonchon. It has been offering both Tutti Frutti and Kung Fu Tea products, but in January we were told that it will be transitioning to be only a Kung Fu Tea in the coming weeks. Kung Fu Tea is a bubble tea beverage franchise headquartered in New York. It was founder in 2010 and the company has over 250 locations across the U.S., including one less than 3 miles away in Rio. Kung Fu Tea is also opening a new location in Olney.

Kusshi- Silver Spring

Kusshi, a popular sushi restaurant in Pike & Rose, opened a new location called Kusshi.ko in Downtown Silver Spring, taking over the location that was formerly occupied by Gusto in Downtown Silver Spring (8512 Fenton Street). Originally going to be called Kusshi Ko., the restaurant dropped the “ko” from its name due to approval issues with the signage. This location will have a similar, but slightly more limited, menu as Kusshi in Pike & Rose. Kusshi’s Arlington location opened this summer at 1201 S Joyce St. A Vienna location is also planned for later this year.

Lapu Lapu – Gaithersburg

Lapu Lapu at 216 Market St W. in Gaithersburg held their soft opening on June 5.  The new restaurant is taking over the 325 square foot storefront that was formerly home to Tex-Mex restaurant Peppers, located next to Vasili’s in the Kentlands. It will specialize in breakfast sandwiches and will have a few tables available for outdoor seating. Lapu Lapu is the sister restaurant of popular Rockville restaurant Kuya Ja’s Lechon Belly. According to their social media accounts, “No better day to announce this than #nationaleggday  The day has come! (Almost!) Come join us for our soft opening this Sunday from 7am-3pm! We can’t wait to see you.” Lapu Lapu has been holding “pop ups” at Kuya Ja’s Lechon Belly on weekends over the past few months.

About:
“Chef Ja’s dream has always been to bring the Philippines to you, one dish at a time. He kicked off his first concept, Kuya Ja’s Lechon Belly, in Rockville, Maryland which spotlights the famous Cebu-style Lechon belly. After receiving recognition and many accolades, he now wishes to help start your day off right with Filipino breakfast to go!

The question you should really be asking is WHO is Lapu Lapu? The name Lapu Lapu takes reference from a national hero of the Philippines. Lapu Lapu and his warriors famously defied and defeated the foreign invaders (such as Ferdinand Magellan) who were seeking to colonize the Philippines back in April of 1521. This was called the Battle of Mactan, which occured in the Visayas where our Chef/Owner Javier was born. Inspired by Lapu Lapu’s great feat, Chef Javier set his heart on a mission to help everyone win their own battles each and every day – starting with breakfast, the most important meal of the day!”

Ladurée Paris – Bethesda

Ladurée Paris, located at 4808 Bethesda Ave, is now open. Ladurée Paris has U.S. locations in New York City, Los Angeles, Miami, and currently has a pop-up/kiosk location inside of Montgomery Mall. Ladurée Paris is located in the space that was formerly home to Sugarfina. Sugarfina, the “luxury candy boutique for grown-ups” closed its location in Bethesda Row permanently at the end of September 2019 after a three and a half year run. Dating back to 1862, Ladurée has been known worldwide for their macarons.  The Bethesda menu also features chocolates, pastries, teas and more.

La Pizza- Derwood

La Pizza recently opened at 17609 Redland Rd in Derwood. The location was recently home to California Bistro and previously home to Hungry Howie’s, a popular pizza chain that operated one of its MoCo restaurants in Derwood for many years. La Pizza is owned and operated by MoCo resident Ali Zaidi, who has over 30 years experience in the restaurant industry primarily in the Baltimore area. He was recently the mind behind BITES food court in Langley Park, bringing together multiple restaurants like Charley’s Cheesesteaks, Halal the Rice Bowl, Mini’s Pizza, Smoothie Fresh, and La Cantina Bites Bar to form a food hall just across the MoCo border in Prince George’s County.
Zaidi tells us he’s excited to have the opportunity to do good things in MoCo. The menu remains large (seen below) and offers pizza, wings, sandwiches, salads, dinner entrees and more. He plans to add tables to offer the option of dining in, something that hasn’t previously been available at the location. A brand new computer system has also been installed to ensure order accuracy, something Zaidi tells us is very important to him.

Lazzaro’s Authentic Italian Deli- Montgomery Mall (Bethesda)|

Update: Lazzaro’s has permanently closed.
Lazzaro’s Authentic Italian Deli is now open in the Montgomery Mall Food Court, located in the space recently occupied by Big Al’s Sub Shop. The restaurant features imported cold cuts that are cut fresh daily, homemade meatballs, cannolis, and more. Owner Larry tells us his family owned Lucia’s Deli on University Blvd in Wheaton back in the 80’s. The business was eventually sold and the company became what is now Mama Lucia’s. He’s wanted to open a deli for as long as he can remember and felt the food court location was a good fit. He plans to bring the same work ethic and authenticity that has mother brought to Lucia’s when he was growing up. enu items have pop culture inspired names like the Donnie Brasko, Frank Sinatra, and the Joe Pesci Pizza Steak.

Luchador Bar & Eats- Burtonsville

Luchador Bar & Eats is now open in the former bar space of Chapala Tex-Mex Grill at 15530 Old Columbia Pike in Burtonsville. The lucha libre themed cantina, a new concept by the owners of Chapala, is now open for fast casual dine in and carryout, according to social media posts. Chapala permanently closed on February 15. Photo courtesy Luchador’s Facebook page.

MacGuffins Bar- Bethesda (Montgomery Mall)

MacGuffins Bar opened earlier this summer inside of AMC Theaters at Montgomery Mall (7101 Democracy Blvd, Bethesda). MacGuffins is AMC’s in-house bar that offers beer, wine, and mixed drinks to moviegoers. According to AMC, “the term “macguffin,” coined by Alfred Hitchcock, refers to a plot device that propels a movie forward. Our specialty cocktails, craft beers and premium wines will be just the thing to turn this movie experience into a story worth remembering.” AMC theater opened in Montgomery Mall on March 2nd, 2022, replacing ArcLight, but MacGuffins Bar had remained dark. ArcLight announced back in April of 2021 that due to losses during the pandemic, it would not be reopening any of its locations, including the one at Montgomery Mall.
Featured photo is a stock photo of MacGuffins Bar

Macondo Food Express – Gaithersburg 

Macondo Food Express opened in September at 811 Russell Ave in Gaithersburg. The Colombian restaurant has taken the space that was formerly home to Perroloco (also Colombian), which closed in the spring of 2020. The menu offers items such as empanadas, pastel de yuca, a variety of arepas, twice-fried smashed green plantains, meat skewers, many different types of perros calientes (hotdogs), burgers, and a lot more. The restaurant is currently offering 10% off of your first order if you order online.

Malia’s Kitchen- Bethesda (Montgomery Mall)

Malia’s Kitchen held the grand opening of its new Montgomery Mall food court location on Thursday, September 1. Malia’s is taking over the space that was previously occupied by Lazzaro’s Authentic Italian Deli and Big Al’s Sub Shop. Malia’s Kitchen serves soul food and seafood, which they describe as the best “homemade” down home cooking in the DMV. Items on their menu includes crab cakes, fried chicken, fried fish, and BBQ.

Mandalay- Silver Spring (Reopened)

Popular Burmese restaurant Mandalay reopened at 930 Bonifant Street in Silver Springon July 15.

Mandalay Customers

We did it! We’re ready to REopen and serve your favorite meals. You’ve been waiting too long for this, so here it is. We’ll be REopening our doors on July 15th YEAH, with our Grand Opening scheduled for August 13 and 14. Please call us at

301-250-4078 for reservation. ( only for the Grand Opening )

We can’t wait to see all of you again and thank you SO very much for all your support.

Mandalay 
930 Bonifant Street
Silver Spring MD 20910

Mandalay first announced in 2019 that it would be moving to a new location in Washington, DC., but and closed the restaurant in Silver Spring on October 31 of 2021.

Mexicue- Bethesda

Last July we let you know that New York based Mexicue, which has a nearby location at 1720 14th St NW in DC, would be coming to 4733 Elm St. in Bethesda, the former site of Gusto Farm to Street. The Mexican restaurant opened its MoCo location on Tuesday, June 7th. The menu features tacos, bowls, shareable platters, margaritas and weekend brunch.
Per Mexicue:
“It all started with a passion for real, made-from-scratch cooking in a food truck that traversed Manhattan and Brooklyn, embracing the vibrant culture of the city. Today, Mexicue has evolved into a restaurant — and lively bar scene — that does things a little differently than the other guys. A little more boldly, and with a lot more flavor and fun.

Miss Toya’s Creole House- Silver Spring

Miss Toya’s Creole House is now open at 923 Ellsworth Dr in Silver Spring. Menu items include Catfish & Grits, Garlic Butter Clams, Gumbo, Jambalaya, Oysters, Rib Eye, and Seafood Po Boy. According to a post on the restaurant’s Instagram page, “Downtown Silver Spring, are you ready for the heat? Miss Toyas Creole House is finally open. It’s time for some great southern creole food, incredible drinks, friendly vibes, and a good time. Who’s ready? Miss Toyas is finally here. Let’s eat.” Back in July we reported that Miss Toya’s Southern Kitchen will be taking over the space recently occupied by BGR at 229 Boardwalk in Rio. We’re told the Rio location will be a fast-casual restaurant, while Miss Toya’s Creole Kitchen in Downtown Silver Spring is full-service (wait staff, etc.).
Miskiri is the founder and owner of Miskiri Hospitality Group, which describes itself as a unique collective of Black, family and woman-owned products and restaurants in the DC area. The group’s restaurants include Creole on 14th and Po Boy Jim’s in DC, as well as Suga & Spice, listed as coming soon to Hyattsville. Miskiri told Source of the Spring last year that “Miss Toya’s is the sister restaurant to my full-service restaurant, Creole on 14^th, the reason behind it being to expand on Creole and Cajun food” and  “The diversity and the body of language that that cuisine presents is so large that I knew that I could something similar, but totally different at the same time,” and that he’s “just really excited to bring that Cajun-Creole flair and twist to the neighborhood.”

MiyaJi Kebab & Rumali Rolls- Gaithersburg

MiyaJi Kebab & Rumali Rolls is now open at 674 Quince Orchard Road, the location that was home to Pho Eatery in Gaithersburg’s Quince Orchard Plaza. MiyaJi is being opened by the same owners as Commonwealth Indian at 11610 Old Georgetown Rd in Pike & Rose. Pho Eatery and neighboring/sister restaurant Urban Crawfish closed permanently in September of 2021. Taco Bamba is expected to open in the Urban Crawfish space this summer.

Moe’s Southwest Grill – Montgomery Village

Moe’s Southwest Grill is now open at 19222 Montgomery Village Ave in the Montgomery Village Center. Back in March the restaurant gave away free burritos for a year to 25 customers as part of its grand opening celebration. Currently the only other Moe’s in Montgomery County is located in the Westfield Wheaton Food Court.

My Cup Runneth Over Southern Cuisine – Gaithersburg 

My Cup Runneth Over Southern Cuisine is now open at 8405 Snouffer School Rd in Gaithersburg. The restaurant is located at the former site of Jazzy Seafood. My Cup Runneth Over had previously been running a food truck at 9801 Centerway Rd in Montgomery Village. The restaurant is currently open Tuesday-Thursday 11am to 7pm, Friday-Saturday 11am-8pm, and Sunday 11am-6pm. According to their website, “Established in 2010, we started out in Jackson, MS where​ we owned a coffee shop/bakery & our Downtown location was full scale. We relocated back to Maryland in 2016 where we now cater & operate a mobile food truck. We specialize in southern Soul Food; Smoked BBQ ribs, Fried catfish, pulled pork, shrimp po-boy, buffalo wings, fried chicken, mac n cheese, collard greens, candied yams, bbq baked beans, potato salad, coleslaw a variety of cakes & desserts.”

Naz’s Halal- Germantown & Rockville

Naz’s Halal is now open at 13025 Wisteria Drive in Germantown and at 1040 Rockville Pike in Edmonston Crossing in Rockville. Naz’s menu includes rice platters, sandwiches, gyros, wings, salads, and more. The New York based chain is also planning to open in Takoma Park (7653 New Hampshire Ave) and White Oak (11209 New Hampshire Ave). We will post opening information for those locations as soon as it becomes available.

Olney Crab House- Olney

Approximately 2.5 years after we first reported that Olney Crab House was coming to Olney, the restaurant finally opened earlier this month. It’s located at 18200 Georgia Avenue, the former site of the Olney Tavern in the Hillcrest Center in Olney. We are told the menu will consist of “steamed crab, steamed shrimp, crab soup, and a lot more.” For a little background, renovations on the building began in the summer of 2020. The previous owners ended up backing out at some point in 2021, and the building remained dormant until the new tenants took over. In February, we were informed by the property management of the center that new owners had recently taken over the lease. It didn’t take long for them to get everything ready, as the restaurant is now open.

On Top – Rockville

On Top, a new restaurant offering Korean and Japanese fusion cuisine, opened its stall in October at Pike Kitchen food hall in Rockville (1066 Rockville Pike). The restaurant has shared photographs of yubu, which is a fried tofu pocket filled with rice and various toppings “On Top.” Our featured photo, courtesy of @ontop_pike on Instagram, shows Masago, Spicy Crab, Spicy Pork, Spicy Chicken, Unagi (Eel), and Mentaiko Mayo yubu. Donburi, a Japanese rice bowl dish consisting of fish, meat, vegetables or other ingredients served together over rice, is also on the menu. We do not have a website for the restaurant at this moment.

OTC Bar & Grille (formerly Olde Towne Cafe)- Gaithersburg

OTC Bar & Grille is now open in the former Olde Towne Cafe restaurant space at 226 E Diamond Ave in Gaithersburg, as well as the adjacent space that was previously home to Diamond Drugs. Last year the owners of the Olde Towne Cafe knocked down the wall that separates the two locations to create the new restaurant/bar space. Olde Towne Cafe has been a staple in Olde Towne Gaithersburg for decades, serving pancakes, waffles, and breakfast platters, as well as lunch sandwiches. The new restaurant features many favorites from the Old Towne Cafe’s menu, and will also be open for dinner and serve alcohol once the restaurant is open for dine-in customers.

Pama Thai – Potomac

Pama Thai is now open at the former Wine Harvest location at 12525 Park Potomac Ave B. The new Thai restaurant comes from the owners of Kruba Thai, which has a location at 301 Water St. near Nationals Park in Washington, DC. Their menu offers traditional Thai dishes, but we are told will not offer sushi like DC”s Kruba Thai (aside from one appetizer roll). The menu offers a variety of appetizers ranging from $7-$13, that includes chicken satay, chive dumplings, curry puffs, and more. Pama signature dishes range from $18-$20, and include pineapple fried rice (featured photo), clay pot shrimp, crispy eggplant, and more. Entrees, curries, noodles, and fried rice dishes all come in at $15 a piece, and four different desserts are available, ranging from $5.95-$9.95.

Paris in Town- Bethesda

Paris in Town, a French bakery and Cafe based in Florida is located at 4903 Cordell Avenue in the spot that was formerly home to Smashburger, Fuse Taco, and more.  According to its website they offer, “Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Homemade soups, Crepes and Pastries, Cafe au Lait, Espresso, Organic Teas. Imported Wine and Cheese, Escargots, Salads and Sandwiches, Smoked Salmon, European beers, Cappuccino, and a lot more.” Paris in Town has its only other location in N. Palm Beach, Florida.

PizzaTBD (Ensemble)- Bethesda

Pizza TBD, a new pizza concept from Steve Salis and Catalog restaurants (Ted’s Bulletin, Federalist Pig), is now available from Ensemble Digital Kitchen at 4856 Cordell Ave in Bethesda. Pizza TBD serves a hybrid style pizza that combines the light and airy texture of Roman-style pizza with the pan cooking technique synonymous with Detroit Style pizza. Ensemble is a digital food hall that serves top selling menu items from several Catalogue restaurants, including the Michelin Bib Gourmand winning concepts Honeymoon Chicken and Federalist Pig, that can be mixed and matched, and are all made in one kitchen.  Food from Ensemble is only available for pickup or delivery and can be ordered through their mobile app and at www.ensemble.co.  Ensemble opened in March 2021. 

“We look forward to the launch of Pizza TBD, expanding the already wide range of options that our guests have to choose from when they order at Ensemble,” said Steve Salis, founder & CEO of the Catalogue house of consumer brands. “One of our values is the spirit of discovery, we never want to stop experimenting, creating and elevating our items to make them better. We wanted to tap into our roots and provide an authentic pizza product using unique methods and natural ingredients to bring a premium experience at an approachable price point. This isn’t your average slice.”

Pizza Rosa – Gaithersburg

Pizza Rosa, a pop-up pizza shop located inside of Open Hand Pasta & Provisions (220 Girard St. Suite B) in Gaithersburg, opened in October. Open Hand, who are a staple at local farmers markets, specialize in handmade Italian foods like pasta, cheeses, bread, sauces, and desserts.  The new store eventually plans to sell beer and wine and has a hearing with the Montgomery County ABS scheduled for next month. Open Hand’s hours are 12-9pm Tuesday through Sunday, and Pizza Rosa is available each day after 4pm.

According to their website, “Our pizza is built for what we do – carryout and delivery.  It has a thicker crust than what you might find in most pizza shops, but not as thick as a pan pie.  We mix our dough by hand and use a slow fermentation at room temperature to make a light and airy crust.  Of course we only use the best ingredients available – spring water, artisan flours, organic san marzanos, mediterranean sea salt, and the mozz that we make daily.  Our not so secret ingredient is the nixtamal we make from local corn. We add a little nixtamal to the dough for flavor, nutrition, and to help it hold up better in a box. Please don’t ask silly questions like what style pizza this is (Neopolitan, Roman, Detroit, NY, NJ, Chicago, Sicilian, etc). Imitation is is best left to chains and hacks. This is pizza OUR style – you won’t find it anywhere else.”

Planta (vegan) – Bethesda

Upscale plant-based restaurant Planta, which features a menu by Chef David Lee, is open at 4910 Elm St at Bethesda Row, in the location formerly occupied by Cafe Deluxe (Cafe Deluxe closed permanently back in March of last year). Planta was founded in 2016 and currently has several locations in Florida, New York, and Toronto. The Bethesda Row location seats approximately 140 people inside, as well as an additional 50 people on an outdoor patio, per the restaurant’s January press release. Menu items include various ceviche dishes, plant-based sushi, Baja Mushroom Tacos, Poke Bowls, dumplings, pizzas, a selection of burgers, wraps and pastas, and more.

The Pretzel Bakery- Potomac

Back in November we let you know that The Pretzel Bakery, which opened it’s DC location at 257 15th Street SE in DC back in 2012, was coming to Cabin John Village in Potomac. The bakery opened in April and is located in the space formerly occupied by the Hair Cuttery at 7961 Tuckerman Ln. According to its website, the Pretzel Bakery serves small batch, hand-rolled, Philadelphia-style soft pretzels fresh-out-of-the-oven all day.  In addition to traditional pretzels, they also sell pretzel dogs, pretzel calzones, stuffed pretzel “bombs”, and pretzel sliders.

Pollo Campero – Gaithersburg

Pollo Campero at 426 N Frederick Rd (former site of of KFC) held its grand opening on September 15. This location replaced the one previously located inside Lakeforest Mall. The company has additional Montgomery County locations in Takoma Park and Wheaton. The Downtown Silver Spring location closed in December, 2021.

Pupuseria Mama Emilia- Rockville

Pupuseria Mama Emilia at 785-H Rockville Pike in the Ritchie Center is now open at the location that was formerly home to Dokiya Ramen and Pho 95. Pupuseria Mama Emilia comes to you from the owners of Pupuseria La Familiar, which has locations in Beltsville, College Park, Falls Church (Virginia), and Wheaton in MoCo and boast of Mama Emilia’s family recipe. The menu at the existing restaurants consists of a variety of beverages, Pupusas, soups, and a multitude of Salvadoran dishes.

Qdoba- Gaithersburg

The fast-casual burrito chain opened its newest location at 16260 Frederick Road in the location that was formerly home to Jerry’s Subs and Pizza  this past February. Qdoba has two other Montgomery County locations– one on Rollins Ave in Rockville and another on Tech Road in Silver Spring.

Q’Padre Cantina- Wheaton

Q’Padre Cantina is now open at 2312 Price Avenue in Wheaton. The location was formerly home to El Equetzal and Hollywood East Cafe prior to its move to Wheaton Mall. The restaurant offers Mexican cuisine and has received a already review stating the following, “Gorgeous interior, generous margaritas and really delicious food.” on a Montgomery County restaurant support group.

Quickway Japanese Hibachi – Olney

Located at 3116 Olney Sandy Spring Rd, the space formerly home to Fashion Cleaners in the Shoppes of Olney shopping center, between CVS and Bubbles Hair Salon, Quickway describes itself as bringing the Teppanyaki cooking technique to a quick service restaurant setting with cooked to order hibachi dishes. This is the regional chain’s sixth MoCo location, with over 30 restaurants across the DMV. The latest MoCo location opened just under a year ago in Stone Mill Square (Korean Korner shopping center).

Restaurant 198- Burtonsville

Restaurant 198 at 15540 Old Columbia Pike in Burtonsville, the former location of Seibel’s, opened on March 27. The restaurant offers “Nuevo American” food and will serve breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as cocktails. Some of the menu items include Texas French Toast, Beef Picadillo Breakfast Tacos, Oysters, and Honey Marinated Buttermilk Fried Chicken.  “198 is the intersection of food & community. Our Nuevo American Menu is fun, relaxed and a fresh perspective on American-ish cuisine. We are not just a restaurant, 198 is a neighborhood connector and lively familiar spot served with a spoonful of nostalgia. Think: All-Day Nuevo-American flavors, unique cocktails, and Burtonsville energy. 198 is brought to you by Centrado Food Group as a family-owned company focused on providing quality customer service every day to become our customers favorite place to eat and drink.  We will provide support for our team and encourage them to be self-starters.  We will always work to source ingredients from local suppliers and work with vendors, musicians, and artists from our community.”

Roaming Rooster- Pike & Rose

The grand opening for Roaming Rooster at 11586 Old Georgetown Road in North Bethesda was held on June 21. The Pike & Rose location is Roaming Rooster’s first restaurant in Maryland and Montgomery County, and 9th overall. The company has also announced plans to open a Gaithersburg location later this year. We’re told an official announcement on the exact location will be made once the previous tenant has completely vacated. In addition to its famous buttermilk fried chicken sandwiches, the 1,843 square-foot restaurant also serves homemade frozen custard scoops and hand-spun milkshakes and says it anticipates employing up to 30 people there.
About:
The Black-owned, Washington-based business started in 2015 as a food truck operating in the District and opened its first brick-and-mortar in 2018. Having won a RAMMY for the “Hottest New Sandwich Shop” in 2021, an award presented by The Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington (RAMW) to honor the exceptional
accomplishments of the region’s restaurants and food service community, Roaming Roosters’ recipes are sure to
spark an appetite in every lover of fried chicken.

Sabor Express Grill – Silver Spring

The Sabor Express Grill food truck is now open at 9336 Georgia Avenue (Exxon parking lot) in Silver Spring. The truck is open Tuesday through Sunday from 11am-7pm. Menu items include tacos, pupusas, and carne asada,  cheesesteaks, and a variety of different styles of fries. “We are two Honduran families with four beautiful daughters and have lived in Wheaton for many years. Through hard work and passion to cook we were able to start our business with authentic Latin flavor.

Saints Row Brewing/Hallowed Grounds Coffee- Gaithersburg

Saints Row Brewing is now open at 15 Fulks Corner Ave, Suite 101, the former site of Brawling Bear Brewery. Saints Row was previously located on Taft St. in Rockville.  The new location gives Saints Row twice the brewing capacity than at their previous location, as well as a “more robust customer experience with enhanced and improved taproom functionality.” The breweries expansion will include wholesale distribution throughout Montgomery County.  Like their previous location, they will have a rotating schedule of food trucks and special events.
The brewery also purchased additional space in the new building to launch Hallowed Grounds Coffee Co, a boutique coffee roaster and cafe. They tell us, “our production team will be focused on small batch artisanally roasted coffee. We will be providing a range of regions and roast profiles, as well as experimenting with new and unique processes such as barrel aging green and roasted coffee. Working together with the brewery, we have high hopes for packaging cold brew to stock our shelves. Our small scale flexibility will also allow us to offer custom blends and roasts for customers.”

Scratch Kitchen- Olney

Scratch Kitchen is now open at 18062 Georgia Ave in Olney.  At the start of 2022, owner Bernie Rousseau decided she would lease the space formerly occupied by CB Acai for her daughter, who shared Bernie’s passion of cooking, to operate starting April– when the restaurant initially hoped to open. Tragedy struck, as Bernie’s daughter passed away on February 1st– the same day Bernie got the keys to the new location. The decision was made to push forward and continue with the plans to open the the restaurant to create a legacy for her daughter and two younger children. Bernie was planning a funeral and putting a restaurant together. She continued to forge ahead while grieving– ordering signage and restaurant equipment. “It was like so arrived at my destination and lost my why.”,  she told us. She decided she was going to make the most of this tragic situation– creating jobs, bringing healthier food to the community, using local products, and opening a place the community is proud of.

The Scoop- Potomac

The Scoop at 7909 Tuckerman Ln in Potomac (the former Baskin-Robbins location in Cabin John Village), held its grand opening on August 24. The creamery is being opened by Timothy and Mitch Ryoo, Potomac natives and Winston Churchill High School Graduates (2010 and 2006). The Scoop is open 11am-9pm Sunday through Thursday and 11am-10pm Friday and Saturdays. The Scoop will feature 24-30 permanent flavors and 8-10 seasonal options (photo of their current selections below). All of the ice cream is made in house with natural ingredients, staying away from products like simple syrup. The owners tell us they are working with local distributors and are in talks with local farms to purchase ingredients from.

Seventh State- Bethesda

Located in the Bethesda Marriot, Seventh State offers a locally curated menu with items such as the Panuozzo, a wood-fired folded sandwich handmade with pizza dough and locally sourced ingredients. Floor-to-ceiling retractable glass walls open seasonally to outdoor seating, while a custom Italian wood-fire oven clad in bronze is a focal point of the open kitchen indoors. Per Marriot, “Seventh State features indoor and outdoor seating and approachable cuisine with Mediterranean influences. With a custom designed Italian open hearth oven, crisp and delicious pizzas are our specialty. Open for breakfast and dinner only.”

Sharetea- Germantown

Sharetea, a bubble tea cafe located at 13012 Middlebrook Road in Germantown Commons opened on March 6. The international bubble tea brand was established in Taiwan in 1992 and has since grown to over 300 stores worldwide. The Germantown location is the chain’s first Montgomery County location and first in Maryland.

Shouk – Bethesda 

Back in April 2021, Shouk announced that it would be opening two new locations this fall– one in Westwood Shopping Center in Bethesda, and another in Rockville’s Montrose Shopping Center. The Rockville location opened in November and the newest location at 5436 Westbard Avenue in the Westwood shopping center is now open and you can view the menu or place an order here. Shouk’s offerings include stuffed pitas, homemade veggie burgers (known as “Shouk Burgers”), eggplant burgers, mushroom shawarma, different flavors of hummus, salads with mediterranean ingredients, plant based side dishes (shouk’n nuggets, red lentil soup, cashew labneh), desserts, and more.

Shouk is best known for its plant-based, Kosher street food. Per their website, their menu is “Inspired by the bold flavors of the world’s liveliest street markets, we craft our food from real ingredients you can pronounce. Fresh vegetables, beans, grains, and lots of spices.”

Sides BBQ & Catering- Derwood

Sides BBQ & Catering will be holding its soft opening this weekend from 11am-6pm on Saturday and Sunday.  Sides is a “ghost kitchen” operating inside of Sam’s Pizza at 15855 Redland Rd in Derwood.  The restaurant tells us, “Chef Jackson loves BBQ, loves to cook, and was frustrated with good entrees that came with lackluster sides. It’s as if restaurants put all their focus on the meat and the sides get whatever time is left. We treat everyone equally! Our SIDES are part of the main cast and not just understudies!”
Sides will be available for pick up, curbside, and delivery. The menu features fried fish, fried chicken, pork chops, ribs and pulled pork. Side dishes include candied yams, garlic mashed potatoes, baked beans, mac & cheese, and green beans & cabbage.

South Block- Pike & Rose

South Block, a smoothie and juice bar best known for their acai bowls, has opened in the space that was formerly occupied by the Residences At Pike & Rose leasing office, right next to the recently opened Call Your Mother Deli (The leasing office has moved to the spot formerly occupied by Nava Health.)

Along with their acai bowls, South Block offers other fruit and vegetable-based bowls, a range of smoothies, and cold pressed juices. They currently have eleven locations throughout DC and Virginia– their Pike & Rose spot will be their first location in Maryland. In addition to their brick and mortar locations, South Block has an online storefront where they sell pre-blended smoothie bowl kits that they deliver throughout the continental United States. South Block places an emphasis on giving back and doing good– they donate a portion of all juice sales to Fruitful Planet, an organization created by South Block’s founder that brings fruits and vegetables to underserved communities. Per their website, they also use organic, fair trade acai in order to help fight deforestation in the Amazon Rainforest.

Starbucks- Montgomery Village

The brand new Starbucks in the Montgomery Village Shopping Center opened for business on Thursday, August 25. The Starbucks is located at the former site of the Montgomery Village Denny’s at 19290 Montgomery Village Ave.

Suki Hana- Montgomery Mall & Wheaton Mall

Suki Hana has opened up locations in both the Montgomery and Wheaton mall food courts, although the two locations appear to have completely different menus. The Montgomery Mall kiosk menu features sushi, rolls, salads, and bowls. Selections include Spicy Tuna Roll, Shrimp Tempura Roll, Black Dragon Roll, Seaweed Salad, and Green Poke Bowl. The Wheaton Mall location features chicken, beef, and shrimp Teryaki platters, as well as fried dumplings and tempura.

The signage at the Montgomery Mall location originally referred to the restaurant as “Sarku Hana,” but was quickly updated to ‘Suki Hana’, since there is no connection between the restaurant and Sarku Japan, which is also located in the Montgomery Mall food court.

Sweet Block- Colesville

Sweet Block at 24 Vital Way in Silver Spring (Colesville) held its grand opening on Monday, October 17.  Sweet Block offers tropical desserts along with traditional treats only found in the streets of various Latin countries. The “one stop dessert shop” will feature Latin food, art, and culture from countries such as Mexico, Colombia, El Salvador, Brazil, Puerto Rico, and Peru. Some of the menu items include Mangonadas, Esquites (corn in a cup), in-house ice cream, carved/prepared fruits, and juices/smoothies. Sweet Block originally planned planned to open in the fall of 2021, according to the initial opening announcement in June of 2021, but had to deal with a few delays in the last year. The dessert spot posted the following on social media regarding the opening: “We are finally excited to announce our grand opening date. It was a long journey but we know one thing for sure; Gods timing is always perfect. Thank you for patiently waiting! Grand opening date: Monday, October 17th!  Hello Tropical State of Mind ”

Tacombi- Bethesda

Tacombi is now open at 4749 Bethesda Ave. in downtown Bethesda. Tacombi got its start in 2006 selling tacos in Playa Del Carmen, Mexico after they purchased a 1963 Volkswagen bus and converted it into a food stand. The restaurant made its move to New York in 2010. The menu features tacos, quesadillas, and burritas (their take on burritos). The website states, “prepared from scratch everyday, Tacombi takes the diversity of home-style Mexican cuisine from its distinct culinary regions and serves it up in the simplicity of a taco.”

Terra Mare- Wheaton

Angel Mendoza, who was the chef behind the recently closed Baronessa in Rockville and Angel’s Pizza and Pasta in Wheaton Mall, is back with a new restaurant. His newest venture, an Italian restaurant named Terra Mare, is located at 2504 Ennals Ave in Wheaton– the former location of Intipuqueño Restaurant.  Terra Mare features pasta, pizza, “a la parilla” which means “on the grill” and features various steaks as well as fajitas, seafood, chicken dishes, soups, and salads. The restaurant will be open Sunday-Thursday from 11am until midnight, and Friday/Saturday from 11am until 1am.

Trippy Tacos- Glenmont

Popular food truck Trippy Tacos has opened its first restaurant at 12134 Georgia Avenue in Silver Spring/Glenmont.  Trippy Tacos specializes in tacos with freshly made corn tortillas, quesadillas, burritos, nachos and mulitas. The restaurant also plans to offers an expanded menu that includes breakfast (breakfast tacos, burritos and other breakfast plates), loaded nacho fries, pupusa pizza, and more.

According to Trippy Tacos, the grand opening of the restaurant coincides with the 3-year anniversary of the food truck. “It’s all come full circle. This is the first-ever restaurant location of Trippy Tacos, and we have plans to expand in the DMV,” said Chris Robles, the 26-year old Founder and Executive Chef. Chris perfected his technique for making tacos in South Central Los Angeles. His unique spin on al pastor combines family recipes with LA inspiration.

Tropical Smoothie Café – Colesville & Rockville

Tropical Smoothie Cafe is now open at 10141 Colesville Rd in Silver Spring, at the Woodmoor Shopping Center, in the space formerly occupied by Hoover-Fisher Florists., as well as at 11620 Rockville Pike, next to Pho Eatery and two stores down from Ize’s Deli and Bagelry. Tropical Smoothie’s has additional locations in Aspen Hill , Bethesda, 2 in Gaithersburg, Travilah, and White Oak. The café offers more than just smoothies as the menu contains flatbreads, wraps, quesadillas, sandwiches, bowls, breakfast, and a lot more.

True Food Kitchen- Gaithersburg

True Food Kitchen, the award-winning, seasonally-inspired restaurant and scratch bar, opened April 25 at 221 Rio Blvd, Suite 221 in Gaithersburg’s Rio Lakefront. This marks the second Montgomery County location (Bethesda), third Maryland location for True Food Kitchen, and the 41st nationwide. The full-service restaurant features a spacious dining room with 171 seats, an open kitchen designed to bring guests closer to the restaurant’s culinary craft and a full-service bar joining the dining room. An outdoor covered patio overlooking rio’s lake seats an additional 124 guests. A private dining room accommodates 12 guests. Natural woods and vibrant, locally inspired artwork add a contemporary touch to the restaurant’s earthy color scheme, natural elements and greenery, including indoor and outdoor garden basins filled with fresh herbs and spices. Eco-friendly materials are utilized throughout, and dining chairs are made of recycled soda bottles.

Two Hands Seoul Fresh Corn Dogs- Wheaton Mall

We first let you know that Two Hands Seoul Fresh Corn Dogs would be coming to Westfield Wheaton Mall all the way back in November, 2020. The restaurant is now officially open in Wheaton Mall (11160 Veirs Mill Rd)- it opened on April 1st. The Korean Corn Dog restaurant is located in the former Teavana space in the mall’s upper level. Two Hands currently has locations in Arizona, California, Nevada, New York, Texas, and Virginia (Centreville). Topping you can choose from include Hot Cheetos, Sweet Ranch, Rice Puffs, and Potato Cubes, as well as traditional hot dog condiments.

Underground Pizza Co.- Silver Spring

Underground Pizza Company opened at 8235 Georgia Ave in Silver Spring, the former site of Olazzo. Owner Evan Weinstein, a concert promoter and founder of Steez Promo, started Underground Pizza Company (UPC) in 2020 after concert venues in the area closed their doors due to the pandemic. Underground Pizza started selling their Detroit-style pizzas at local “pop-up” events that were marketed through social media. Costumers would pre-order pizzas and then meet at a designated location at specific times to pick up their order. UPC opened their first brick & mortar location inside of Power Plant Live! in Downtown Baltimore in December 2020. In addition to pizza, UPC serves over-stuffed sandwiches, salads, hot honey bacon, and mozzarella sticks. You can see their full menu here.

Vine Alley- Gaithersburg

Vine Alley opened at 114 Market. St in Gaithersburg, the former home of the Kentlands Wine Harvest. Vine Alley is being opened by the restaurant group that owns Brew & Barrels (also located in Kentlands), Royal Tandoor (820 Muddy Branch Rd, Gaithersburg), and Taco Daddy (Frederick and formerly at 555 Quince Orchard Rd, Gaithersburg.) The Gaithersburg Wine Harvest closed in June of 2019 after 23 years. The Park Potomac Wine Harvest closed back in November 2020.

XO Pho & Grill

XO Pho & Grill has recently joined T-swirl Crepe at 313 N Washington St in Rockville. T-swirl Crepe has been at the location since April of 2019 with XO Pho & Grill joining a few weeks back. The XO Pho & Grill menu offers unique pho pairings such as the Pho XO Live Lobster Raptor T Rex (featured photo), a dish made to be shared that includes “Live Lobster, Shrimp Balls, and Prime Beef Ribs”. The Pho XO Snow Crab Legs Prime Beef Ribs is another dish to be shared that includes “Alaska Snow Crab Legs, Shrimp Balls, Prime Beef Ribs”.

Yirasai Sushi- Potomac

Yirasai Sushi has opened their new location at 12525 Park Potomac Ave. Building G in Potomac on Friday, April 15. The restaurant is located in the space formerly occupied by Elevation Burger. Yirasai was previously located at 5110 Ridgefield Road in the Westwood Shipping Center in Bethesda.  Per the Yirasai website, “Kim’s Yirasai Sushi and Café is owned and operated by Mr. Kim. He took over the restaurant from the previous owner in 2004 and has worked hard to make Yirasai a neighborhood gem.”

Zinnia Café- Silver Spring 

Zinnia, which opened the tavern portion of its restaurant back in October, opened Zinnia Café on July 6.  The café features full breakfast and lunch menus and serve Counter Culture Coffee.  Zinnia is located at 9201 Colesville Rd in Silver Spring, the former site of Mrs. K’s Tollhouse, which closed in March 2020 after initial COVID-19 restrictions were enacted. Per Zinnia: “The Zinnia Team is finally ready to share with you the Zinnia Cafe. Their Grand Opening is Wednesday July 6th and they will be open during the week from 8am-2pm and on the weekends from 8am-12pm. They will be serving freshly roasted Counter Culture Coffee and a full breakfast and lunch menu. Grab a cappuccino in one of their dining rooms or have a breakfast sandwich in their gardens. They have wifi throughout the entire property, and plenty of space to meet with friends or colleagues. Their full food and beverage menu is also available to go. With any questions, please reach out to [email protected]”

Federal Realty announced today that 909 Rose, located in the award-winning, transit-oriented Pike & Rose neighborhood in North Bethesda, Md., is fully leased. Per Federal Realty: Bright MLS is taking 13,455 square feet and will join Beiser Law Firm, ESAB, Industrious, Kuta Software, LLC,OneDigital, Rowe, Weinstein, Sohn PLLC, Rycon Construction, United Solutions, and Federal Realty.

Press release: “We have had incredible momentum since construction began in 2017, even during some of the most challenging times, and delivered a fully-leased office building,” said Stuart Biel, Senior Vice President of Federal. “The success of 909 Rose in a market where there is double digit office vacancy downtown, speaks to what employers and employees are looking for in office space – excellent location, transportation options and world-class amenities.”

“At the same time, we are seeing strong interest in our next office project, 915 Meeting Street, which has already secured Choice Hotels as a tenant,” added Jay Brinson, Vice President of Federal. “The building is currently under construction and is expected to be completed in the third quarter of 2023.”

Bright MLS is one of the nation’s largest multiple listing services, representing over 100,000 real estate professionals across six Mid-Atlantic states and the District of Columbia. In 2021, Bright subscribers facilitated $141B in real estate transactions through the company’s platform. It is relocating from Rockville.

“The state-of-the-art building and energetic, vibrant neighborhood offer exactly what we sought for our current and future team members. It’s a place we look forward to calling home,” said Bright MLS President & CEO Brian Donnellan. 

The deal was brokered on behalf of Federal Realty by JLL’s Bernie McCarthy and Danny Sheridan and on behalf of Bright MLS by Bob Dickman and Rusty McCabe of Avison Young.

Following the success of 909 Rose, the 16-story, state-of-the art 915 Meeting Street, featuring 9,600 square feet of ground floor retail and 700 dedicated parking spaces, is 40 percent pre-leased by Choice Hotels. More than 400 corporate employees will relocate in December 2023.

The vibrant Pike & Rose neighborhood features a wide range of amenities including:

• Owner-Developer controlled 24-acre neighborhood with increased cleaning and sanitation protocols compared to downtown environments.
• Wi-Fi enabled neighborhood, including Rose Park, outdoor cafés, and patios.
• U.S. Green Building Council LEED Gold for Neighborhood Development (LEED ND) as a sustainable, well-connected neighborhood.
• The Farm at Pike & Rose, is the largest soil-based farm in the mid-Atlantic region at 17,000 square feet, producing fruits and vegetables.
• More than 20 restaurants, including fine dining and fast casual, in addition to shops, a fitness center, a dog bar, and a weekly Farmer’s Market.

About Bright MLS  

Bright MLS was founded in 2016 as a collaboration between 43 visionary associations and two of the nation’s most prominent MLSs to transform what an MLS is and what it does, so real estate pros and the people they serve can thrive today and into our data-driven future through an open, clear and competitive housing market for all. Bright is proud to be the source of truth for comprehensive real estate data in the Mid-Atlantic, with market intelligence currently covering six states (Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia) and the District of Columbia. Bright MLS’s innovative tool library—both created and curated—provides services and award-winning support to well over 100k real estate professionals, enabling their delivery on the promise of home to over half a million home buyers and sellers monthly. In 2021, Bright subscribers facilitated $141B in real estate transactions through the company’s platform. Learn more at Bright MLS.com.

This is an active and ongoing investigation. A formal news release will be distributed as more information becomes available. The decedent’s name will be released following proper notification of next of kin.

TRAFFIC ADVISORY : Josiah Henson Pkwy. is closed between Chapman Ave. and Rockville Pike as the result of a traffic collision. Drivers are advised to seek an alternate route. Expect delays. #mcpd #mcpnews #traffic pic.twitter.com/V2T3Ri9shZ

— Montgomery County Department of Police (@mcpnews) August 14, 2022