Wonder, a modern food hall concept that blends dine in, takeout, and delivery, is aiming for a March opening at its upcoming Rockville location (listed as Wonder North Bethesda).
Restaurants
When was the last time barbecue surprised you? Not just the smoke ring or the tender brisket, but the flavors, the story, and the purpose behind every plate? That’s what Hal & Al’s BBQ (4238 Wilson Blvd Suite 104) delivers in nearby Arlington, VA.
A new Italian restaurant named Maurizio’s is set to open in Potomac in Spring 2026, bringing a deeply personal concept to the former Renato’s restaurant space at 10120 River Road in the Potomac Village Shopping Center.
Flavor Hive, the viral halal fusion brand co-founded by local social media star Shihan Chowdhury and business partner Amgd Gende, is opening its first Maryland restaurant in Rockville. Chowdhury, known online as “Chilipeppercooks,” is a Montgomery County native and graduate of Seneca Valley High School in Germantown, making the expansion a hometown milestone for the fast-growing concept.
Fifteen years ago this week, CAVA opened its very first restaurant in Bethesda (4832 Betheada Ave. at Bethesda Row). What started as a bold idea has since grown into several hundred locations nationwide, along with a brand that has reshaped fast casual dining through a focus on Mediterranean flavors, hospitality, and community.
Viva Mexico Bar & Grill is moving closer to opening in Gaithersburg, replacing a former Pizza Hut location along Woodfield Road.
Maryland is well represented on the 2026 Washingtonian Top 100 Restaurants list, with 12 restaurants either located in the state or operating a Maryland location. The selections span multiple counties and cuisines, highlighting the depth and diversity of Maryland’s dining scene.
Taco Bar El Güero has officially reopened in its new home and with a new name. The longtime Gaithersburg favorite is now operating as El Güero Mexicano at 200 Ellington Boulevard in Downtown Crown (first look video below).
Haraz Coffee House has officially arrived in Montgomery County, opening its newest location in Burtonsville with a soft opening now underway.
Terra Gaucha is continuing to earn recognition in the area, becoming the only Maryland restaurant to be named to Eater DC’s list of Best New Restaurants for January 2026. A video of the experience can be seen below.
Construction is set to begin on the upcoming Dunkin’ location in Rockville after the coffee and donut/coffee chain received its construction permit for the new store.