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Retail & Restaurant news for Rockville, Potomac & North Bethesda. We know it all. And we like to share.

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Zohra exits Cabin John, Goldberg’s reopens — plus the return of food halls, farmers markets & patio dining

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Zohra cuts out of Cabin John

Many hair salons began reopening this week, but Zohra at Cabin John Village was not among them. Owner Ofeer Marwani, who’s been with the salon since 1994, says he opted not to renew his lease after a decade inside the mini-mall. “We just couldn’t come to terms” over a new rental agreement, Marwani says. “I would’ve had to raise my prices for customers in order to stay at Cabin John, so I finally had to walk away.” What’s next for Zohra? Marwani says he’s already scouting locations and expects to reopen nearby with the same team of stylists. “This community has supported me for 26 years,” he says. “I’m not going anywhere.” Neither is jeweler Susan Koehn, who operates a store inside the salon and says she she’ll reopen wherever Marwani signs a new lease.

4&Co Salon
Lisa Nasar
Partyscapes

On the comeback trail

Goldberg’s New York Bagels, closed since the end of March, reopened this week in Potomac, Rockville and Silver Spring. Most of the local farmers markets are also back in business – some with the option to pre-order your food, instead of strolling from vendor to vendor. Bubble tea and ice cream shops are beginning to return as well, and Asian food halls The Spot, The Block and Pike Kitchen have partially reopened for takeout, delivery and curbside pickup. If you’re looking to support black-owned businesses, York Castle Caribbean Ice Cream is now scooping on Rockville Pike and the Black Lion coffee shop is in the process of reopening on Traville Gateway Drive.

Wintergreen Plaza
Normandie Farm

Taking it outside

Outdoor dining slowly returned to Montgomery County this week, as our local restaurants and shopping centers started opening their patios and sidewalk seating. For customers who don’t feel comfortable — and for restaurants that don’t have the option — contact-free ordering, delivery and curbside pickup will continue to be the norm. Check out this week’s Store Reporter Guide for the latest info on patio dining, summer menu updates and local shopping. And don’t miss our new section, “Celebrations,” for creative ideas to honor dads, grads, mitzvahs and more in this era of social distancing.

 

FOOD & DRINKS

 

  • BROOKLYN’S DELI, homemade meats, soups & sandwiches at Potomac Woods Plaza,  1089 Seven Locks Road. Phone: (301) 340-3354. Brooklyn’s Deli would like to thank Eagle Bank for getting us through this extremely rough time. Open daily for carry-out, catering & patio dining. Menu: brooklynsdelimd.com.

 

  • CAVA MEZZE, five locations across the DMV, now offering outdoor dining featuring our Cava lamb chops, scallops risotto & spanakopita. Reservations through our website or OpenTable. Seating is limited, so reservations are strongly recommended but not required. We also offer contactless takeout & delivery featuring family meals, individual platters & (2) for Tuesdays: $40 for two adult booze pouches. More info: cavamezze.com.

 

  • GREGORIO’S TRATTORIA, Italian favorites at Cabin John Village, 7745 Tuckerman Lane. Outdoor seating now open for lunch & dinner, 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. We also offer curbside pickup, pay by phone & contact-free delivery. Full menu, weekly specials plus 1/2 off all wine, beer & cocktails. Phone: (301) 296-6168. Menu: gregoriostrattoria.com.

 

  • GYROLAND casual Greek food, cooked fresh seven days a week. 1701 Rockville Pike in the Shops at Congressional Village, right under the Verizon store. Pork, chicken, beef and lamb gyros, plus mixed grill and vegetarian options. Free delivery in a five-mile radius with $30 minimum. 1/2 off all wine with your order. Call us: (301) 816-7829. Menu: gyroland.com.

 

  • HUNTER’S BAR AND GRILL, the “Cheers” of Potomac. 10123 River Road. Phone: (301) 299-9300. Open for lunch, dinner and gift card sales. Half-priced bottles of wine with food purchase. Delivery through DoorDash and GrubHub, choose no-contact curbside carryout, or enjoy our patio for outdoor dining. Check Facebook for daily specials. Menu: huntersbarandgrill.com.

 

  • JULII RESTAURANT, located in the heart of Pike & Rose, offering Chef D’s take on timeless French classics. Outside dining now available, featuring signature dishes like foie torchon, crispy trout and salmon crudo. Seating is limited, so reservations are strongly recommended but not required. We also offer contactless takeout & delivery services, plus (2) for Tuesdays: $40 for two adult booze pouches. Call (301) 517-9090 or visit us at julii.com.

 

  • LAHINCH TAVERN AND GRILL, regional American cuisine at Cabin John Village. New menu featuring split grilled bangers, Guinness-battered fish & chips, corned beef & cabbage, shepherd’s pie, chops, steaks & sandwiches. Discounted beer and wine to go. Delivery, carry-out, curbside pickup or enjoy outdoor dining in our new socially distanced patio seating. Call: (240) 499-8922. Menu: lahinchtavernandgrill.com.

 

 

  • MIRCH MASALA GRILL, Indian cuisine at Westfield Montgomery mall. Now open for curbside pickup 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, with popular dishes like butter chicken, chicken tikka, lamb curry, rice bowls with chicken, vegan dishes & samosas. We also cater for larger groups. Use delivery apps, call (301) 365-0677, or text your order to (240) 432-8077.

 

  • MOBY DICK KABOBS, Persian cooking on the go. Multiple locations in Maryland and the DMV. Potomac location: (240) 660-2626. Rockville location: (301) 738-0005. Open for carry-out, delivery and curbside pickup. Menu: mobyskabob.com.

 

  • MOSAIC CUISINE, modern French cooking in Rockville. Freshly reopened for curbside pickup at 186 Halpine Road or delivery with Grubhub. Offering your favorite waffles, Beef Bourguignon, two-course family meals for four starting at $58, and much more. Order online or by phone: (301) 468-0682. Menu: mosaiccuisine.com.

 

  • MYKONOS GRILL, fine Greek dining in Rockville. 121 Congressional Lane. Our outdoor patio is now open! Carry-out & free delivery in a five-mile radius with $50 minimum. We also work with the major delivery apps. Try our branzino, octopus, lamb chops & vegetarian platters. 1/2 off wine bottles with carry-out. Call (301) 770-5999. Menu: mykonosgrill.com.

 

  • NORMANDIE FARM, pop on over for fine cooking in the heart of Potomac, 10710 Falls Road. Outdoor patio now open! Full menu service, fine wines & spirits, live music Thursday-Sunday evenings, and of course our famous popovers. Also open for carry-out service. Phone: (301) 983-8838. Menu: popovers.com.

 

  • POTOMAC PIZZA, a delicious favorite since 1978. Multiple locations in Maryland and the DMV. Potomac location: (301) 299-7700. Traville location: (301) 279-2234. Chevy Chase location: (301) 951-1127. Offering contact-free delivery, curbside pickup & takeout. Menu: potomacpizza.com.

 

  • QUARTERMAINE COFFEE ROASTERS, locally roasted fresh coffee. Bethesda store open 6 a.m.-3 p.m. daily with drinks, beans & pastries. Use the Quartermaine app or call (301) 718-2853. Also: $5 flat-rate shipping with $30 minimum for beans shipped to your door. Click on the person next to the shopping cart at www.quartermaine.com.

 

  • RSVP CATERING, fine catering & groceries delivered right to your home. Gourmet foods for date night, family meals & everything in between. Store in your fridge, re-heat when ready. Also offering grocery items, essentials & margaritas by the gallon. Call (703) 573-8700 or shop rsvpcatering.com/store.

 

 

  • SUGO at Park Potomac, dinner takeout featuring pastas, pizzas & family meals. Feed 4 to 5 people with our hanger steaks, chicken & eggplant parmesan, spicy rigatoni, risotto fritters & more. Try our two-for-$20 pizzas, plus bottled sangria & Sugo Punch. Order via the major delivery apps, email info@eatsugo.com or call (240) 386-8080 and pick up curbside. Our patio is now open with happy hour from 4 p.m. daily! Menu: eatsugo.com.

 

 

  • YEKTA Persian restaurant & market. 1488 Rockville Pike. Restaurant open Tuesday-Sunday for curbside pickup, carry-out & delivery apps; call (301) 984-0005. Market open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday with curbside pickup. Email info@yekta.com or call (301) 984-1190. Menu: yekta.com.

 

CELEBRATIONS

 

  • CREATIVE INVITATIONS BALLOONS AND MORE, planning local weddings & mitzvahs for more than three decades. Owner Shelley Poulos can help with everything: choosing your venue, caterer & DJ, selecting favors, decorating & staffing your event. We’ll also decorate the outside of your house with balloons & signs for any occasion. Mention Store Reporter for a discount. Call 301-279-0560 or click here.

 

  • FLASHBACK FILMS, photo & video montages for your special occasion — whether in-person or virtual. Professional montages at affordable prices for all your important milestones: birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, mitzvahs & more. We’re a locally based, student-run company and will work within your budget. Send us your photos and we’ll do the rest. Visit us on Instagram. For video samples & pricing, email flashbackfilms123@gmail.com.

 

  • PALACE FLORISTS, family-owned since 1943. Farm-fresh, gorgeous flower arrangements and beautiful wrapped bouquets, plus festive & fun balloon bouquets, stunning orchid plants and lush green plants. Curbside pickup in Rockville at 4980 Wyaconda Rd., or no-contact delivery throughout the DMV. Call (301) 945-0253 or shop www.palaceflorists.com.

 

  • PARTYSCAPES, custom yard signs for any occasion. Let us set the perfect scene for any celebration: graduations, birthdays, anniversaries, bar/bat mitzvahs & more. 100% contact-less service. Stunning, personalized, larger-than-life designs that will make your celebration POP! Social: @partyscapesdc. Email us: info@partyscapes.net. Call us: (855) 369-5904. Website: partyscapes.net.

 

FASHION

 

  • AUSTYN PARKER, fun jewelry for kids & cute clothes for moms. For kids: Make-your-own jewelry kits & online parties where everyone works on a project together. For moms: We’ve got your favorite brands like LNA, Monrow, Perfect White Tee, Generation Love, Chrldr & Comune. Shop Facebook or Shop Instagram. For gift ideas, party planning & what’s in stock, call us: (301) 706-8122 or email us: randi@austynparker.com.

 

  • GYM & TONIC, luxury athleisure apparel, now in the comfort of your own home. 20% off all clothes right now. DM us for virtual shopping appointments and delivery in the DMV. Don’t forget to ask about our cute masks with filters. Shop @lovegymandtonic on Instagram. Email us: wendyamy18@gmail.com. Call us: (301) 340-8800. Text us: (202) 744-0169.

 

  • HANNA’S CONNECTION clothing boutique. Refresh your closet. Refresh your mood. Soon to reopen at the Cabin John mini-mall, now offering virtual shopping and online orders with free delivery. We carry designer face masks, free with purchase. Call us: (301) 704-0264. Shop Facebook or Shop Instagram.

 

  • KAREN’S ROCKS AND RAGS, new & gently used women’s boutique. On-trend, affordable clothing & accessories. Great selection of face masks $8-$12. Facetime shopping, free shipping on orders over $100, local delivery & curbside pickup at 212 Main Street, Gaithersburg. Almost everything is 20% off right now. Shop Facebook. Shop Instagram. Phone: (240) 476-9800. eBay store: ebay.com/str/karensrocksandrags.

 

 

  • R BOUTIQUE, a sophisticated & cute clothing store, soon to reopen inside Art & Chemistry by Diego at Downtown Crown. Fully stocked with clothing, jewelry & stylish masks. Tons of casual wear, tie-dye sets, shorts, tank tops, sandals & sneakers. Now offering curbside pickup & free delivery within a 10-mile radius. Shop Facebook. Shop Instagram. Or call Rayna Badwey Matz for a Facebook shopping appointment, (301) 943-2000. To purchase masks, visit rboutique.shop.

 

  • SCOUT & MOLLY’S BOUTIQUE, your North Bethesda fashion destination at Pike & Rose. Shop online or contact us for a virtual shopping experience. Click here for tons of new facemask colors & styles. Free shipping, local delivery or curbside pickup from noon to 6 p.m. 30% off using code SEEYOUSOON. Check our Instagram for weekly giveaways. Call us: (301) 348-5047. Shop: northbethesda.scoutandmollys.com.

 

GIFTS

 

  • JOYFUL BATH CO., natural handmade bath and body care products for spa & wellness at home. 5534 Wilkins Ct., North Bethesda. Soaps, shower steamers, bath bombs, hemp ultra therapy, soy candles, Turkish towels & gift sets plus our own citric acid surface cleaner. Open 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday-Friday. Call (301) 986-5320 or order online for shipping or curbside pickup: joyfulbathco.com.

 

 

 

KIDS & FAMILY FUN

 

  • BOWS ETC., now making face masks with personality for men, women & kids. Our website has been updated! Your smile may be hidden, but you can still rock fun designs & show off your favorite sports teams & colleges. Our masks are reversible & washable, with three layers of 100% cotton fabric & filter pockets. $14 plus $5 shipping, or porch pickup in the Shady Grove area. Email arlen.groban@yahoo.com or shop bowsetc.com.

 

 

  • INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF MUSIC, now offering online music lessons. All ages and levels, multiple platforms including Skype, FaceTime and Zoom. Take the next step on your musical journey. Call (301) 365-5888 or visit our website: ismw.org.

 

  • MY GYM LIVE! age-appropriate fun for all the kids. Live interactive 30-minute kids’ fitness classes filled with song, dance, gymnastics, sports and more. Our gyms may be closed, but we’re bringing all the fun you expect from My Gym directly into your house. Now offering My Gym Live! birthday parties and new outdoor classes. More info: mygym.com/potomac.

 

HOME SERVICES

 

  • ISOLDIT, the easy way to turn your stuff into cash. We do the work, you cash the check. Get top dollar for your unwanted electronics, music equipment, jewelry, collectibles & furniture. Looking to reduce equipment or inventory for your business? We can help. Call us: (301) 990-2040. Email us: info@isolditmd.com. Safety is our priority — no contact, no worries. More info: www.isolditmd.com.

 

  • JIMMY GUSKY HEATING & AIR, one-stop shop for heating, air conditioning, plumbing and ductwork, serving Rockville & the D.C. area. We always give you an honest opinion and transparent pricing, making repairs when we can and helping you decide when replacement is the better option. Have an emergency? We’re available 24/7. Call (301) 327-7306 or click here.

 

  • MIKE’S LOCKSMITH & SECURITY, offering lock repair and replacement, keyless & touchpad systems plus door hardware, high-security keys and mailbox lockdown. All work guaranteed as long as you own your home. For after-hour emergencies or regular appointments, call (240) 506-7500. For more information, email mike@mikes-locksmith.com or click here.

 

  • NORMANDY CARPET, excellence in carpet, rug & upholstery cleaning & installation. We’re essential & here to serve you. Spilled wine on your carpet? Dog peed in the house? Flooding from the rain? We follow CDC safety guidelines, and our cleaning method removes dangerous viruses & bacteria. Call (301) 741-2005 or email info@normandycarpet.com. More info: www.normandycarpet.com.
International School of Music
mailto:publisher@storereporter.com

Latest on Lord & Taylor, New Haven pizza, French pastries and a holiday boutique

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The Lord & Taylor lowdown

Lord & Taylor, under new ownership this fall, is closing its stores at Tysons Corner and Dulles Town Center just months after exiting Gaithersburg’s Lakeforest Mall. So what about the North Bethesda store, which stands alone at the site of the former White Flint Mall? Not to worry. A company spokesman assures us that the White Flint store will remain open, along with the one in Chevy Chase. If you happen to stop by, don’t miss the newly expanded second-floor clearance section with a smattering of designer bargains directly from Manhattan. Next year, we’re told, all Lord & Taylor stores will begin integrating merchandise from new owner Le Tote. More on the acquisition in our Aug. 29th edition.

Shin Orthodontics
Moda Optic
Lisa Nasar

New Haven pizza on the way

New Englanders were cheering this week when WTOP reported that Connecticut pizzeria Frank Pepe is heading to Westfield Montgomery mall. This will be the first Maryland location for the family-owned business, which was founded almost a century ago in New Haven. On the menu: Neapolitan-style pizzas with thin crusts and charred edges, including a signature pie featuring littleneck clams, garlic and olive oil. The mall won’t say when or where Frank Pepe will be opening. (We’re betting on the former Crave space, which has been empty since last April.) Hopefully this new arrival will help fill the void left by the upcoming closure of Rockville’s Pizza CS. More on that in our Nov. 14th edition. (Editor’s update: We now know that Frank Pepe will be replacing Bobby’s Burger Palace. Details in our Jan. 30th edition.)

Chocolate Moonshine
Washington Hebrew Congregation Holiday Boutique & Silent Auction

Shopping, fun and a free Store Reporter raffle

Head to Potomac this weekend for the annual Holiday Boutique & Silent Auction sponsored by the Women of Washington Hebrew Congregation. The show will be held Sunday and Monday inside the Julia Bindeman Suburban Center, at the corner of Falls Road and Tuckerman Lane. Stop by the Store Reporter table, say hello and enter to win one of our fabulous raffle prizes from show vendors: gift cards for clothes from Lavaloka and Trio Jr., design services from Elana Designs, home accessories from Crystal Luxe Lighting Plus, fun kitchen tools from Q.D. Foodie, photos from Photos by Freddie and jewelry from Austyn Parker and Sweet Charma. There’s no charge to enter our raffle; just visit the show and drop your name in the Store Reporter jar.

Wintergreen Plaza

French bakery debuts this weekend

Saturday (Dec. 7th) is opening day for French bakery Patisserie Manuel, the newest addition to the Dining Terrace at Westfield Montgomery mall.  Owner Claudia Olea, a Chilean-born chef with classical French training, will be serving croissants, soups, sandwiches and crepes as well as cookies, pastries, macarons, specialty cakes, Illy coffee and a bit of Chilean cuisine. Look for it in the former Wicked Waffle space next to McDonald’s.

Wink Eyecare Boutique

The Block is open

Asian food hall The Block opened its doors Thanksgiving weekend at Pike & Rose. Some of the eateries aren’t up and running yet, but the options so far include a poke bar, Korean barbecue, bubble tea, ice cream and snocream desserts. Also: Peruvian-style chicken. For more photos, check out Store Reporter on Facebook and Instagram.

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Dawson’s returns, bye bye bike stores, vintage market for Potomac and a music school for Cabin John

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The ride is over for Performance Bicycle

Sad news for local cyclists: The Performance Bicycle retail chain is riding off into the sunset. The company is in Chapter 11 and plans to close all stores — including the popular Rockville location at Congressional Plaza. Looking to score some deals? You’d better roll quickly; closing sales are going on now.

Eyeland/Luxoptics
The Grilled Oyster

Vintage vibes on River Road

New place to shop on River Road: The Potomac French Market is open Thursdays through Sundays in the weathered barn that once was home to Flora’s Feathered Nest. With a similar mix of new and vintage gifts, home decor, antique furniture and upcycled goods, the store will please those who have missed Flora’s since it closed in 2016. “We were huge fans,” says co-owner Teri Troxell, who notes that she and partner Rene Redfield Shaw were also inspired by vintage markets in Paris and New Orleans as well as Chartreuse & Co. in Frederick. The pair took over the space from the Sonoran Rose boutique, which moved out last summer. (More on that in our July 19th edition.) You’ll find the Potomac French Market at 12211 River Road. Hours vary, so it’s best to call ahead: 301-807-9945.

Wintergreen Plaza
Wink Eyecare Boutique

Dawson's is back

Dawson’s Market, closed since late October, makes a triumphant return this weekend with a new owner and a new commitment to serving as a “one-stop shop” for Rockville Town Square. Longtime manager Bart Yablonsky has purchased the store from its out-of-town owners and is making changes that he says the community has asked for. “We’re expanding the product mix with more national brands that people will recognize and more convenience items like flashlights and batteries,” he says. “We’ll have freshly sliced meats and cheeses at the deli, and a new selection of conventional produce along with the organics.” Yablonsky says the wider range of products will allow for lower prices on some items — but he promises the store will continue to specialize in local and organic foods.

Realtor Lisa Nasar of Long & Foster
The Game Gym

Music school moves to Cabin John

The International School of Music, offering voice and instrument classes for kids and teens, is leaving its longtime location near Bethesda’s Home Depot for a new home at Cabin John Village. Classes will begin Jan. 2nd on the second floor of the mini-mall, where students can learn to play everything from piano, guitar and violin to drums, ukulele and harp. The school also trains ensembles that perform at local venues as well as the Kennedy Center and Carnegie Hall. Click here for more.

Breakthrough Test Prep
OneTest

Gifts for the kitchen

As much as we love writing about restaurants, at this time of year we’re spending lots of time in the kitchen with friends and family. So once again, we’re partnering with our favorite cooking stores to bring you some gift inspiration. Up this week: three great picks from Sur La Table.

  • Chilewich Lace Table Runner: These lace textiles from designer Sandy Chilewich add metallic sparkle to any table, but they’re actually made of high-tech plastics. That means they’re easy to wipe clean and can be used indoors or out. Available in gold or silver for $115; click here for more.
  • Moscow Mule Mugs: For the friend who loves a good cocktail, these copper mugs come in a hammered or plain finish for $19.95 apiece. Click here for more.
  • Dual-Action Potato Masher: This clever tool works as both a masher and a ricer, coming in handy for egg salad and guacamole as well as potatoes. $19.95, click here for more.

For more gift picks from Sur La Table, visit the Pike & Rose store or shop online at surlatable.com.

Explore Kensington
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Westfield is sold, Potomac restaurant closes, Hot Pot on the Pike & holiday discounts

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Westfield changes hands

Westfield Corp., the Australian company that owns Westfield Montgomery Mall, announced this week that it’s being sold for $15.8 billion to the French firm Unibail-Rodamco. What does that mean for our local mall and its sister property, Westfield Wheaton? No one knows yet. For now, mall staff tells us that everything is status quo and the bustling holiday season is proceeding as usual. Meanwhile, the mall has lost a few more tenants in the past few weeks: The 3-D Manaco photo store is gone, as is the Boardwalk burger-and-fry restaurant (previously known as Kraze Burger and then Burger Venue). Also on the way out is Vitamin World, whose parent company has filed Chapter 11.

Wintergreen Plaza
Occasions

Hot Pot on the Pike

Urban Hot Pot made its debut this week in the Galvan complex on Rockville Pike, next door to the recently opened Akira ramen restaurant. There’s an all-you-can-eat menu for $24.99, with heating stations at the tables and a conveyor belt that sends out fresh ingredients for the broth bowls. This is the second hot pot restaurant to open in the area this year, following Little Dipper at Rockville Town Square. And a whole new wave of Asian eateries is headed to Rockville in 2018; we’ll have more after the holidays.

Realtor Lisa Nasar of Long & Foster
Norman's Farm Market winter vegetables

Free week of winter produce from Norman’s

Norman’s Farm Market has launched its first winter home delivery program, offering seasonal fruits and vegetables direct to your door. Partnering with sustainable local farms a few hours south of the D.C. area, Norman’s is offering fresh-picked baskets of squash, potatoes, avocados, cauliflower, brussels sprouts, greens, apples and whatever else looks good on a given week. A small share, which feeds one to three people, costs $29 per week. A large share feeds four to six people for $39. Sign up now and take advantage of one free week for Store Reporter readers; make sure to use the code STORE18. Click here for details.

Ibhana
Fortune Garden at Potomac Promenade

Potomac Village restaurant closes

Fortune Garden, a longtime fixture in Potomac Village, has closed its doors at the Potomac Promenade shopping center on Falls Road. Landlords tell us the search is on for a new tenant — and clearly there’s room for some fresh restaurant options in the Village. Stay tuned.

Spotluck

Spin to win with Spotluck

Have you heard about Spotluck? It’s a homegrown company (launched in Rockville, now based in Bethesda) that offers dining discounts at 1,400 restaurants all over the East Coast. Download the app for everyday savings at favorites like Black’s, Barrel & Crow, Bombay Bistro, Passage to India, Mamma Lucia, Gusto, Mussel Bar & Grille, the Grilled Oyster Co., Trapezeria and Lebanese Taverna among others. From Dec. 15th to the 22nd, Spotluck is giving away free gift cards for everyone who downloads the app. And Store Reporter readers can get an extra discount by using the code REPORTER. To claim yours, click here.

VIP
Store Reporter Holiday Gift Picks

Store Reporter holiday gift picks

Are you looking for some quick and easy holiday gifts? We’ve been testing some products that were sent to us for review, and we’d like to share some of our favorites. For the travelers on your gift list, we’re impressed with the Eva NYC Almighty Pro-Power Mini Hair Dryer, which comes with a cute case and packs a surprising amount of power for such a tiny device ($48 at Urban Outfitters). We always count on The Container Store for great stocking stuffers, and this year is no exception. Our favorites are the whimsical Toasty S’more Skewers ($14.99, click here ) and the 3-in-1 clip lens for creating fun effects with your phone camera ($4.99, click here). And with winter movie-and-popcorn nights on the horizon, you can’t go wrong with this red collapsible Lékué microwave popcorn popper from Sur La Table ($20, click here for info). For more of our recommendations for great kitchen gifts, scroll down or click here.

French Bakery, Bowling & Bocce — plus Anthropologie and a CalTort giveaway

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French bakery says bonjour to Rockville

Fresh Baguette, the Bethesda bakery known for its authentic French breads and pastries, opens its second location next week at 804 Hungerford Drive in Rockville. The new space is much bigger than the one in downtown Bethesda, with a large factory in the back preparing wholesale orders for clients like Ritz-Carlton, the Watergate Hotel and Potomac’s new Filicori Zecchini coffee house. (Check out our Facebook page for a look behind the scenes, featuring the biggest mixers you’ve ever seen.) Breads, pastries, coffee and custom-made sandwiches will be available from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily starting July 25th. For a closer look at Fresh Baguette, click here.

 

 

Wintergreen Plaza: http://www.wintergreenplaza.com

 

 

 

Anthropologie showroom

 

Anthropologie heading to downtown Bethesda

This week Store Reporter readers were buzzing about the news that Anthropologie is heading to downtown Bethesda, replacing the 20-year-old Barnes & Noble store that’s closing in December. This will be a new department store-style format for Anthropologie, with three floors of clothing, shoes, accessories, home and garden goods, a beauty boutique, a bridal salon and indoor/outdoor dining on the ground floor. For a peek at what Anthropologie has to offer, click here.

 

 

Potomac Village Farmers Market: https://www.facebook.com/PVFM20854/

 

 

 

Quesadillas from California Tortilla

 

Win a meal for two at California Tortilla

This month we’re giving away a pair of California Tortilla certificates — each good for two fresh entrees with drinks and sides — to be used at the Cabin John location or anywhere else in the D.C. Metro area. Through the end of August, you can still catch Cal Tort’s spicy-sweet Bangkok Shrimp bowls, burritos and quesadillas. Or try some of the restaurant’s other popular dishes like the California Sunset Bowl, Korean BBQ Tacos or California Screamin’ Burrito. Want to put your name in our hat? Click here to send us an email (subject line: California Tortilla), or click here to enter via our Facebook page.

 

Sponsored Content

 

 

JT Interiors in Potomac Village: https://www.facebook.com/jtinteriorspotomac/

 

 

 

Pinstripes

 

Pinstripes ready to open at Pike & Rose

Five months after the debut of Lucky Strike at Westfield Montgomery Mall, Pike & Rose is ready to roll out a bowling alley of its own. August 5th is opening day for Pinstripes, featuring bowling and bocce plus food, drinks and plenty of space for private parties. Bowling fees will vary with days and times, ranging from $8 to $15 an hour per person (plus shoes), while bocce costs $5 to $10 an hour. This will be the second D.C.-area location for Pinstripes, which opened three years ago in Georgetown. Be sure to follow our Facebook page for an upcoming sneak peek.

 

 

Email news and advertising questions to publisher@storereporter.com

 

 

Coffee house opens at Park Potomac — plus Smashburger, True Religion, Ann Taylor and Walgreens

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Filicori Zecchini at Park Potomac

 

Coffee house opens at Park Potomac

Opening in mid-July after more than a year of construction at Park Potomac: Filicori Zecchini, the European-style coffee house on the ground floor of The Perry. Owner Elhussien Ahmed, an Egyptian native with a passion for Italian coffee, has been laboring over details from the imported mosaic wall tiles to the sleek Italian chairs to the stunning copper coffee bar. The menu will include pastries, sandwiches and grab-and-go items from the French bakery Fresh Baguette, plus Italian specialty drinks like bicerìn and marrocchino (espresso and milk froth mixed with hot chocolate or cocoa powder). For opening hours and other info, call 301-444-4417.

 

 

Potomac Village Farmers Market: https://www.facebook.com/PVFM20854/

 

 

 Smashburger at The Galvan

 

What’s the story with Smashburger?

Fast-casual chain Smashburger has been closing restaurants all over Montgomery County, including one in downtown Bethesda last winter and two more in Gaithersburg and Germantown over the past few weeks. Julian Goodman, the company’s local franchisee, says all three restaurants were company-owned and their locations were not the right fit. Goodman, who opened his first Smashburger at The Galvan on Rockville Pike last year, says he’s actively looking for more locations in this area.

 

 

JT Interiors in Potomac Village: https://www.facebook.com/PVFM20854/

 

 

 

True Religion jeans

 

Tough times for True Religion

True Religion, the Los Angeles-based manufacturer of designer denim, is the latest retailer to file Chapter 11. The brand came to prominence in the early 2000s, when high-end denim bars were all the rage and no one used the term “athleisure.” Now True Religion is looking to reduce its $500 million debt load with hopes of emerging from bankruptcy later this year. At least 27 of the company’s 130-plus stores are expected to close. No word yet on the fate of the Westfield Montgomery Mall location, which opened in 2014.

 

 

Norman's Farm Market: http://normansfarmmarket.com

 

 

 

Bangkok Shrimp at California Tortilla

 

Back for the summer: Bangkok Shrimp at CalTort

Bangkok Shrimp, a summertime specialty at California Tortilla, is back on the menu through the end of August. Lightly breaded with a mild red chili sauce, the spicy-sweet delicacy is the star of Bangkok Shrimp Tacos, Bangkok Shrimp Bowls and (our favorite) Bangkok Shrimp Quesadillas. Like all the food at CalTort, it’s made fresh in small batches all day long. “Many people don’t realize how serious we are about serving only the freshest ingredients,” says CalTort exec Keith Goldman. “We actually do not have freezers in any of our restaurants. So every day we’re getting something delivered, be it produce or proteins… and for the next few months, shrimp. That’s why some of our menu items are only offered seasonally, even though they’re guest favorites.” Want to see what’s cooking at the Cabin John CalTort this summer? Click here. 

 

Sponsored Content

 

 

Realtor Lisa Nasar of Long & Foster: http://www.lisanasarhomes.com

 

 

 

Ann Taylor at Westfield Montgomery Mall

 

New look for Ann Taylor

The Ann Taylor store at Westfield Montgomery Mall is temporarily closed for renovation. The retailer has announced plans to shutter some of its locations this year, along with those of sister chains including Loft and Lane Bryant. But the Montgomery Mall store is expected to reopen by fall.

 

 

Walgreens at Potomac Woods Plaza

 

Walgreens & Rite Aid break up

After two years of protracted negotiations with U.S. regulators, Walgreens and Rite Aid have called off their plans for a merger. Instead, Walgreens has agreed to buy 2,350 Rite Aid stores in the Northeast, the Southeast and the Mid-Atlantic. The company hasn’t disclosed which stores are part of this new deal, but a spokesman tells us that all will eventually be absorbed into the Walgreens brand. That likely means one less drug store for Potomac Village, where Walgreens and Rite Aid are neighbors on opposite sides of River Road.

 

 

Email news and advertising questions to publisher@storereporter.com

 

 

 

New French bakery, New York-style pizza, flowers & fun at the mall, bye bye Bebe

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Croissants from Fresh Baguette

 

New French bakery for Rockville

Fresh Baguette, a Bethesda bakery with a stellar reputation, is heading to Rockville this summer with a new location at 804 Hungerford Drive. What to expect? Scratch-baked French bread, croissants, tarts, macarons, Viennese pastries, custom-made sandwiches and a dozen other reasons to leave your skinny jeans at home. The Rockville location, featuring a picture window where you can watch the bakers at work, will fulfill orders for wholesale clients like Ritz-Carlton and the Watergate Hotel. “Most of our bakers were trained in France,” says wholesale director Vincent Mathieu. “We do things the traditional way, exactly the same as it’s done there.” To see what’s in the oven, click here.

 

 

Taff & Levine D.D.S.: http://www.taffandlevine.com

 

 

 

Pike Central Farm Market: http://www.centralfarmmarkets.com

 

 

 

CSNY Pizza

 

New York pizza on the Pike

CSNY Pizza, the long-awaited spinoff to Rockville favorite Pizza CS, quietly opened for lunch this week at 1020 Rockville Pike. Hours will be expanded in the next week or two, says co-owner Ankur Rajpara, who runs the six-year-old business with partner Jonathan Allen. The pair have a reputation for perfectionism, having traveled to Italy and deeply researched Neapolitan cooking techniques before they launched their first restaurant at Twinbrook Metro Center. The new place, in tighter quarters at Edmonston Crossing, offers New York-style pizza with a focus on takeout and delivery. Click here for more in our Jan 5 edition — and click here if you missed last week’s story on the closings of two nearby Italian restaurants, Pie 360 and Brio Tuscan Grille.

 

 

Home delivery fro Norman's Farm Market: http://normansfarmmarket.com/home-delivery/

 

 

 

Bagel City: https://www.facebook.com/Bagel-City-1449523538616738/

 

 

 

Flowers

 

Flowers and fun at the mall

If you’ve ever been to the Macy’s Flower Show in New York City, you’ll like what’s about to happen at Westfield Montgomery Mall. May 16th marks the kickoff of Montgomery in Bloom, a six-week flower party with floral-themed food and tea tastings, perfume samplings, fashion shows, yoga classes, hand massages, makeup tutorials and some dazzling flower displays. It’s all happening on the lower level of the Nordstrom wing, where you can also join Wednesday night paint-and-pour events to benefit Children’s National Medical Center. Click here for dates and details.

 

 

Silver Moon Jewelry & Accessories: https://www.silvermoonstyle.com

 

 

 

Sonoran Rose boutique: http://www.sonoran-rose.com

 

 

 

Bebe store at Westfield Montgomery Mall

 

Bye bye Bebe

Things are looking pretty bare at the Bebe store at Westfield Montgomery Mall, which will close its doors at the end of this month. Bebe, a retail darling of the ’90s, is shuttering all of its 160-plus locations after years of declining sales. The company initially said it would stay in business as an online retailer, but it’s now unclear whether that will actually happen.

 

 

Lavaloka activewear: https://lavaloka.com

 

 

 

URBNmarket at Park Potomac: http://www.urbnmarket.com/home.html

 

 

Goggles at Cassel's

 

News splash

Aardvark Swim & Sport, a fixture at Wintergreen Plaza for more than two decades, is heading into pool season with a new name and a new owner. The store was purchased by Virginia businessman Lee Cassel, a longtime sporting goods retailer who operates a similar store in Herndon as well as a sports complex just down the road. “I’ve known Aardvark owner Bob York for years, as he and I had competing stores in Virginia,” Cassel says. “When I got wind that he was going to retire, we worked out a deal for me to take over this location.” The Wintergreen store, which will now be called Cassel’s Swim & Awards, will also offer custom plaques, trophies and personalized signs. For more on Cassel’s, click here.

 

 

For a membership discount at Regency Estates Swim Club, email publisher@storereporter.com

 

 

 

For news tips and advertising questions, email publisher@storereporter.com

 

 

 

New seafood market may be on the way; White Flint Mall update; Costco and Konplott

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Seafood

 

New seafood market may be on the way

Good news for fans of fresh seafood: We hear that a new gourmet fish market will soon be setting up shop near the border of Potomac and Rockville. The owner, who has many years of experience in the seafood industry, has his eye on a location that’s convenient to both areas — but not too close to Potomac Village, which already has two gourmet markets of its own. Stay tuned to Store Reporter for more details when the deal is done.

 

 

Lord & Taylor 

White Flint Mall — finally ready to come down?

The owners of White Flint Mall won a victory in federal appeals court this week when a judge ruled against Lord & Taylor’s attempt to stop the property from being redeveloped. The department store, which owns its own building and has no plans to leave, is the only tenant left at the once-luxurious mall after owner Lerner Enterprises allowed all the other leases to expire. Lerner plans to demolish the property and replace it with an open-air mix of retail, restaurants, offices and living space. Lord & Taylor took Lerner to court in an effort to force the company to repopulate White Flint Mall instead of tearing it down. But an appeals court judge said that plan wasn’t realistic. The redevelopment project still has some governmental hurdles to clear, but this week’s decision means it’s now just a matter of time before the wrecking ball arrives.

 

 

Stella Barra PizzeriaCongrats to our Stella Barra gift card winner

Congratulations to Store Reporter readers Tammi Cortez, Helaine Shabrin Groeger and Scott Reilly, who each won $25 gift cards to the new Stella Barra Pizzeria at Pike & Rose. Keep reading Store Reporter for a chance to win more great giveaways. And scroll down to our Sales & Events section to find out what restaurant is opening at Pike & Rose this weekend.

Sponsored Content

 

 

 

Costco-Logo

 

Costco says goodbye Amex, hello Visa

Just weeks after announcing its impending breakup with American Express, Costco has moved on to a new credit card partner. Starting in April 2016, Visa will be the only credit card that Costco accepts. Also on the way out is the the Costco American Express TrueEarnings card, which will be replaced next year by a co-branded Costco Visa. Still to be determined: whether that new Visa card will offer the same level of generous cash-back rewards.

 

 

Konplott

 

Goodbye — again — to Konplott

Speaking of goodbyes, this week we bid adieu for the second time to Konplott at Westfield Montgomery Mall. The four-year-old store had been the first U.S. location for the European retailer, which sells an eye-catching line of colorful crystal pieces by designer Miranda Konstantindou. This was the second exit in less than a year for Konplott, which vacated its store near Macy’s last spring but later resurfaced in the form of a kiosk outside Nordstrom. This time the departure appears to be permanent: Konplott’s phone number is no longer in service.

 

 

Sheila Weiss

 

Reader Favorite: French baguettes at Breadsmith

Our Reader Favorite section is the perfect place to tell us about that dish you dream about, that dessert you crave, or that go-to gift from your favorite little shop. Click here to share your favorite — and read on for a recommendation from one of your neighbors. Sheila Weiss of Potomac can’t get enough of the crusty French loaves at Breadsmith in the Cabin John Shopping Center (not to mention the store’s delicious fresh-out-of-the-oven aroma). “They stock
authentic French baguettes ($2.50), soft and chewy inside with a wonderful crust,” says Weiss, who works as chief science officer for DrugLogic in Reston. “I always skip the soggy supermarket version and head over to Breadsmith for the real thing.”

 

Breadsmith baguette

 

New grocer in Potomac Village, Legal Sea Foods closes, steaks in downtown Rockville

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Potomac Grocer

 

New grocer in the Village

Potomac Grocer, an upscale market specializing in local, natural and organic foods, is finally making its long-awaited debut in Potomac Village. “We’re kind of like a Whole Foods or Balducci’s, but much smaller,” says owner Tom Spencer, noting that he’s put a lot of time into hiring the right staff. That includes two chefs — one dedicated to pastries, and the other focused on preparing meals to go. Potomac Grocer is on River Road next to Walgreens, in the space that spent decades serving horseback riders as The Surrey.

 

 

Legal Sea Foods logo

 

Legal no longer

Speaking of seafood: Boston-based Legal Sea Foods has closed its restaurant at Westfield Montgomery Mall. No comment from the company, which also shuttered locations in Florida and New York. As we told you last week, the mall plans to open several new restaurants and a movie theater later this year. But it’s still deciding what to do with Legal’s leftover space.

 

82 Steak Out, Rockville Town Square

 

Steaking a claim on Rockville

There’s a new place to eat in Rockville Town Square: 82 Steak Out has opened on Gibbs Street next to Noodles & Company. The concept is based on the French tradition of steak-and-fry eateries, says co-owner Anna Don, “but with an American twist” of a slightly broader menu — including sides like creamed spinach, cauliflower and sautéed mushrooms. Not to mention Philly cheesesteak sandwiches, which you definitely won’t find in Paris.

 

 

Pottery Barn Kids logo

 

Kids’ Stores R Gone

Toys R Us and Pottery Barn Kids both exited Rockville Pike in recent weeks as their former homes — Mid-Pike Plaza and White Flint Mall — draw closer to dates with the wrecking ball. PB Kids bounced back right away, opening a new location at Mazza Gallerie in D.C. But Toys R Us, which has struggled for market share in recent years, says it has no plans to reopen in this area. The next-closest store is in Gaithersburg.

 

Who’s open & who’s out at Westfield Montgomery mall, sneak peek of Rockville’s new Barnes & Noble

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The mall's back – but not everyone's returning

Westfield Montgomery mall is back in business, and its stores are ready to welcome you with masks, alcohol wipes, hand sanitizing stations and social distancing floor markers. About half the mall reopened this week, with more returns expected by early July. Some restaurants in the Dining Terrace are open for carryout and curbside pickup, but all of the seating areas have been roped off. Here’s a quick look at what else has changed since you last stepped into the mall — and which stores won’t be back.

  • Steve Madden, Everything But Water and Bose are all gone for good.
  • Wentworth Gallery has been emptied out, but it’s not clear if this is permanent.
  • Forever 21, which faced an uncertain future a few months ago, has reopened after all.
  • Amazon 4-Star and 7-Eleven are expected to open in the next few weeks.
  • ArcLight and Lucky Strike remain closed for now.
  • Mirch Masala is the first confirmed casualty in the Dining Terrace. Owner Poonam Chopra, who opened the Indian restaurant 10 years ago, says she’s decided not to renew her lease. June 28th will be her last day.
Game Gym

New chapter for Barnes & Noble

Rockville’s new Barnes & Noble store is just weeks away from opening at Congressional Plaza, with rows of blonde wood bookshelves and a new Starbucks cafe just inside the entrance. When the bookstore opens — tentatively mid-August — the older Barnes & Noble at Montrose Crossing will close its doors. Still unclear: whether Starbucks will keep its other location at Congressional Plaza. For a sneak peek of the new store, check out Store Reporter on Facebook and Instagram.

Celebrations to You

Busy summer for the auction biz

The local auction market is hotter than ever this summer. With some people sorting through decades of belongings while others bid furiously from their iPads, unprecedented time at home is leading to unprecedented levels of art, jewelry and collectibles changing hands. The most popular items include 19th century Impressionist paintings, mid-century modern furniture, fine jewelry and luxury watches from brands like Cartier, Bulgari, Rolex and Tiffany & Co. Debrah Dunner, a Potomac-based rep for the auction house Freeman’s, has been selling everything from diamonds and Tiffany lamps to Andy Warhol screenprints and Picasso ceramics. In the D.C. area, she says buyers have been especially interested in furniture by Pennsylvania artisan George Nakashima and abstract expressionist works by D.C. painter Sam Gilliam. (Idylls 1, the unstretched canvas shown here, sold for $370,000.) “A lot of people around here have bought directly from Gilliam or know him personally,” Dunner says. “His auction prices have gone through the roof.” Dunner offers free auction estimates via virtual appointments, with easy no-contact pickup of your goods. Email ddunner@freemansauction.com or call (301) 738-0347.

Taff & Levine

The Store Reporter Guide

A weekly guide sponsored by some of our favorite locally owned stores, restaurants and service businesses.

 

FOOD, DRINKS & MEAL DEALS

 

  • BROOKLYN’S DELI, homemade meats, soups & sandwiches at Potomac Woods Plaza, 1089 Seven Locks Road. Try our corned beef, hand-carved pastrami, brisket, nova, chopped liver, pancakes from scratch, cheese blintzes & more — plus artisan bagels from Bethesda Bagels. Phone: (301) 340-3354. Open daily for carry-out, catering & patio dining. Menu: brooklynsdelimd.com.

 

  • GREGORIO’S TRATTORIA, Italian favorites at Cabin John Village, 7745 Tuckerman Lane. Outdoor seating & limited indoor seating now open for lunch & dinner, 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. We also offer curbside pickup, pay by phone & contact-free delivery. Full menu and weekly specials, plus 1/2 off all wine, beer & cocktails. Phone: (301) 296-6168. Menu: gregoriostrattoria.com.

 

  • GYROLAND casual Greek food, cooked fresh seven days a week. 1701 Rockville Pike in the Shops at Congressional Village, right under the Verizon store. Dine-in service, cashless transactions only. Open 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Friday & Saturday, 11 to 9 p.m. Sunday. Pork, chicken, beef and lamb gyros, plus mixed grill and vegetarian options. Free delivery in a five-mile radius with $30 minimum. 1/2 off all wine with your order. Call us: (301) 816-7829. Menu: gyroland.com.

 

  • HUNTER’S BAR AND GRILL, the “Cheers” of Potomac. 10123 River Road. Phone: (301) 299-9300. Open for lunch, dinner and gift card sales. Half-priced bottles of wine with food purchase. Delivery through DoorDash and GrubHub, choose no-contact curbside carryout, or enjoy our patio for outdoor dining plus limited seating indoors. Reservations recommended. Check Facebook for daily specials. Menu: huntersbarandgrill.com

 

  • LAHINCH TAVERN AND GRILL, regional American cuisine at Cabin John Village. New menu featuring split grilled bangers, Guinness-battered fish & chips, corned beef & cabbage, shepherd’s pie, chops, steaks & sandwiches. Discounted beer and wine to go. Delivery, carry-out, curbside pickup or enjoy outdoor dining in our new socially distanced patio & have a cocktail at our new outdoor bar. Call: (240) 499-8922. Menu: lahinchtavernandgrill.com.

 

 

  • MOBY DICK KABOBS, Persian cooking on the go. Multiple locations in Maryland & the DMV. Our family platters feed 3-4 people starting at $36.99 or 5-6 people starting at $63. Check out daily specials like khoresht gheymeh (yellow split-pea soup with beef) on Wednesdays & ghormeh sabzi (herb stew) on Fridays. All locations open for carry-out, delivery, curbside pickup & limited indoor seating, plus outdoor dining at Fallsgrove. Potomac phone: (240) 660-2626. Rockville phone: (301) 738-0005. Menu: mobyskabob.com.

 

  • MOSAIC CUISINE, modern French cooking in Rockville. Freshly reopened for curbside pickup at 186 Halpine Road or delivery with Grubhub. Also offering outdoor dining plus limited seating in our newly redesigned dining room. Offering your favorite waffles, beef bourguignon, two-course family meals for four starting at $58, and much more. Order online or by phone: (301) 468-0682. Menu: mosaiccuisine.com.

 

  • MYKONOS GRILL, fine Greek dining in Rockville. 121 Congressional Lane. Outdoor patio, plus limited indoor dining & carry-out from 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 11:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Friday & Saturday, noon-9 p.m. Sunday. Reservations strongly recommended. Cashless transactions only. Free delivery in a five-mile radius with $50 minimum, or use the major delivery apps. Try our branzino, octopus, lamb chops & vegetarian platters. Ask about our daily specials. 1/2 off wine bottles with carry-out. Call (301) 770-5999. Menu: mykonosgrill.com.

 

  • NORMANDIE FARM, pop on over for fine cooking in the heart of Potomac, 10710 Falls Road. Outdoor patio now open, plus limited indoor seating. Full menu service, fine wines & spirits, live music Thursday-Sunday evenings, and of course our famous popovers. Also open for carry-out service. Phone: (301) 983-8838. Menu: popovers.com.

 

  • POTOMAC PIZZA, a delicious favorite since 1978. Multiple locations in Maryland and the DMV. Potomac location: (301) 299-7700. Traville location: (301) 279-2234. Chevy Chase location: (301) 951-1127. Offering contact-free delivery, curbside pickup & takeout. Sister company Bagels & Grinds also offering bagels, lox & cream cheese pickup in Potomac on Saturday mornings. Menu: potomacpizza.com.

 

  • QUARTERMAINE COFFEE ROASTERS, locally roasted fresh coffee. Bethesda store open 6 a.m.-3 p.m. daily with drinks, beans & pastries. Use the Quartermaine app or call (301) 718-2853. Also: $5 flat-rate shipping with $30 minimum for beans shipped to your door. Click on the person next to the shopping cart at www.quartermaine.com.

 

  • SISTERS THAI POTOMAC, Asian & Thai cuisine + desserts. Pickup at Cabin John Village, 7995 Tuckerman Lane. Specialties like chicken satay, larb gai, pad thai, drunken noodles, curry dishes & more. Phone: (301)299-4157. Free no-contact delivery with $30 to $40 minimum order. Menu: sistersthaicabinjohn.com.

 

 

SHOP LOCAL

 

  • AUSTYN PARKER, fun jewelry for kids & cute clothes for moms. For kids: Make-your-own jewelry kits & online parties where everyone works on a project together. For moms: We’ve got your favorite brands like LNA, Monrow, Perfect White Tee, Generation Love, Chrldr & Comune. Shop Facebook or Shop Instagram. For gift ideas, party planning & what’s in stock, call us: (301) 706-8122 or email us: randi@austynparker.com.

 

  • GYM & TONIC, luxury athleisure apparel, now in the comfort of your own home. DM us for virtual shopping appointments and delivery in the DMV. Don’t forget to ask about our cute masks with filters. Shop @lovegymandtonic on Instagram. Email us: wendyamy18@gmail.com. Call us: (301) 340-8800. Text us: (202) 744-0169.

 

  • HANNA’S CONNECTION clothing boutique, now open at the Cabin John mini-mall. Fully stocked with new styles to fit your lifestyle, free designer face masks with your purchase. Call for a safe, sanitized one-on-one shopping appointment. We still offer virtual shopping and online orders with free limited delivery. Curbside pickup & shipping on orders over $50. Call us: (301) 704-0264. Shop Facebook or Shop Instagram.

 

  • JOYFUL BATH CO., natural handmade bath and body care products for spa & wellness at home. 5534 Wilkins Ct., North Bethesda. Soaps, shower steamers, bath bombs, hemp ultra therapy, soy candles, Turkish towels & gift sets plus our own citric acid surface cleaner. Open 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday-Friday. Call (301) 986-5320 or order online for shipping or curbside pickup: joyfulbathco.com.

 

  • KAREN’S ROCKS AND RAGS, new & gently used women’s boutique with on-trend, affordable clothing & accessories. 212 Main Street, Gaithersburg. We’re only accepting gently used Lululemon, Golden Goose & luxury designer bags on consignment for a 50/50 split. Check out our $10 face masks, $10 racks & 20% off racks. Open 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday, 11 a.m.- 5 p.m. Tuesday-Friday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday. Shop Facebook. Shop Instagram. Phone: (240) 631-2565. eBay store: ebay.com/str/karensrocksandrags.

 

  • ON CLOUD 9, trendy boutique for babies, girls and adults. Now open at Potomac Woods Plaza, 1085 Seven Locks Road. We have your favorite brands like Hard Tail, Katie J NYC, Vintage Havana, Ocean Drive, Suzette & Dori, plus masks in stock for ages 3 to adult. We’re still offering virtual shopping, online orders & curbside pickup, plus private shopping appointments. Call (301) 251-1331 or email oncloud9potomac@gmail.com. Shop Facebook or Shop Instagram.

 

  • R BOUTIQUE, a sophisticated & cute clothing store, soon to reopen inside Art & Chemistry by Diego at Downtown Crown. Fully stocked with clothing, jewelry & stylish masks. Tons of casual wear, tie-dye sets, shorts, tank tops, sandals & sneakers. Now offering curbside pickup and free delivery within a 10-mile radius. Shop Facebook. Shop Instagram. Or call Rayna Badwey Matz for a Facebook shopping appointment, (301) 943-2000. To purchase masks, visit rboutique.shop.

 

 

 

 

FOR THE KIDS

 

 

  • INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF MUSIC, now offering online music lessons. All ages and levels, multiple platforms including Skype, FaceTime and Zoom. Take the next step on your musical journey. Call (301) 365-5888 or visit our website: ismw.org.

 

  • MY GYM POTOMAC & MY GYM BETHESDA, now offering our awesome fitness & fun classes outdoors in Potomac. Small groups and age-appropriate classes allow us to run around with our friends and still social distance. Also introducing our new dance and yoga classes outside! We are still offering interactive live Zoom classes and Zoom birthday parties. More info: mygym.com/potomac.

 

  • SUNNYDYES AT HOME, mobile tie-dye parties for kids & adults. Let us host an event in your backyard or other open space. You pick the project, we’ll bring the tie-dye and all the supplies. Great for kids’ birthdays, adult happy hours & all kinds of special events. Instagram: @sunnydyesathome. For info, call (301) 461-6400 or email sunnydyesinfo@gmail.com.

 

CELEBRATIONS

 

  • CARD MY YARD POTOMAC is the premier yard greeting sign rental service, specializing in making your BIG day even BIGGER. Birthdays, anniversaries, babies or just because, Card My Yard will make it special! Locally owned and family-operated. Check us out on Facebook and Instagram. Email us: potomac@cardmyyard.com. Call us: (301) 908-3616. Book your greeting at cardmyyard.com.

 

  • CELEBRATIONSTOYOU, a comprehensive suite of services to enhance your next virtual or live event. Great for weddings, b’nai mitzvahs, birthdays & more. We offer everything from graphic design, video production and video call support to milestone keepsakes and larger-than-life yard signs by our Partyscapes division. 100% contact-less service. Instagram: geoffchesmanvisuals/ and partyscapesdc/ Email us: info@geoffchesman.com. Call us: (855) 369-5904. Website: celebrationstoyou.com.

 

  • FLASHBACK FILMS, photo & video montages for your special occasion — whether in-person or virtual. Professional montages at affordable prices for all your important milestones: birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, mitzvahs & more. We’re a locally based, student-run company and will work within your budget. Send us your photos and we’ll do the rest. Visit us on Instagram. For video samples & pricing, email flashbackfilms123@gmail.com.

 

  • LILAC, special occasion wear for girls, tweens & teens. We have the perfect outfits for graduations, cotillion, bar & bat mitzvahs (both service & party) and other special occasions. Plan for your fall events now; private shopping appointments are available throughout the summer. We also have fashionable face masks for kids & adults! Find us on Instagram (@lilacgirlshop) and Facebook (@shoplilacgirl). For more info, email sales@shoplilacgirl.com.

 

FURNITURE, ART & COLLECTIBLES

 

  • FREEMAN’S AUCTION, America’s oldest auction house, established in 1805. Potomac-based rep Debrah Dunner will help you consign fine art including modern & contemporary art, jewelry, 20th Century design & more. Virtual appointments, free auction estimates, easy no-contact pickup of your goods. For more info, call (301) 738-0347 or email ddunner@freemansauction.com.

 

  • ISI FURNISH, lightly used furnishings & decor at a fraction of the cost. Our white-glove service makes it easy to sell your fine furniture discreetly & professionally. If you’re looking to buy, we offer a wide range of affordable luxury furnishings to match your design and budget.  Call us: (971) 337-4403. Shop with us for new items every week: isifurnish.com.

 

HOME SERVICES

 

  • ISOLDIT, the easy way to turn your stuff into cash. We do the work, you cash the check. Get top dollar for your unwanted electronics, music equipment, jewelry, collectibles & furniture. Looking to reduce equipment or inventory for your business? We can help. Call us: (301) 990-2040. Email us: info@isolditmd.com. Safety is our priority — no contact, no worries. More info: www.isolditmd.com.

 

  • JIMMY GUSKY HEATING & AIR, one-stop shop for heating, air conditioning, plumbing and ductwork, serving Rockville & the D.C. area. We always give you an honest opinion and transparent pricing, making repairs when we can and helping you decide when replacement is the better option. Have an emergency? We’re available 24/7. Call (301) 327-7306 or click here.

 

  • MIKE’S LOCKSMITH & SECURITY, offering lock repair and replacement, keyless & touchpad systems plus door hardware, high-security keys and mailbox lockdown. All work guaranteed as long as you own your home. For after-hour emergencies or regular appointments, call (240) 506-7500. For more information, email mike@mikes-locksmith.com or click here.

 

  • NORMANDY CARPET, excellence in carpet, rug & upholstery cleaning & installation. We’re essential & here to serve you. Spilled wine on your carpet? Dog peed in the house? Flooding from the rain? We follow CDC safety guidelines, and our cleaning method removes dangerous viruses & bacteria. Call (301) 741-2005 or email info@normandycarpet.com. More info: www.normandycarpet.com.

 

  • TOWN & COUNTRY MOVERS, family-owned moving and storage company, based in Gaithersburg and serving the DMV since 1977. We handle local, long-distance and international relocations, as well as short-term and long-term storage solutions. Our staging division works with local realtors to enhance listings and improve home sales. Call (301) 670-4600 or click here.

 

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

 

  • SHIN ORTHODONTICS  — Drs. Debra and Richard Shin believe everyone should be able to afford an amazing smile. We offer Invisalign and Invisalign Teen, clear braces or traditional metal braces, and lingual braces. All PPO insurance plans accepted. Free consultations and custom financial plans with no large payments or hidden fees. Cabin John mini-mall and 4701 Randolph Road in Rockville. Call 301-770-7770 or click here.

 

  • TAFF & LEVINE D.D.S. provides state-of-the-art dental treatment in a relaxing atmosphere surrounded by caring doctors and staff. No insurance? No problem! Join our V.I.P. dental plan, pay one monthly fee for free hygiene appointments and 10% off all other dental procedures. 7811 Montrose Road in Potomac. Call 301-530-3717 or click here.
mailto:publisher@storereporter.com

Stores reopen, mall makes a comeback, Bagel City closes and a dog bar for Pike & Rose

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Stores reopen this weekend!

Friday at 5 p.m. marks the beginning of Phase II reopening in Montgomery County. Stores, gyms and nail salons that have been closed for months will be able to open their doors again to a small stream of visitors. Restaurants will be allowed to open their dining rooms at 50% capacity, but most will continue to emphasize takeout, delivery and curbside pickup. Westfield Montgomery mall will reopen on Tuesday, June 23rd, with limited hours (11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday, noon to 6 p.m. Sunday) and lots of rules. Management says it will monitor the number of visitors, enforce social distancing, remind people to wear masks and provide plenty of hand sanitizer stations. Some of the mall’s restaurants will be open, but you won’t be able to linger at the Dining Terrace. “We are not going to allow people to gather in the mall,” county executive Marc Elrich said at a press briefing this week. “People should enter the mall and go to the store they want to shop at. They are open for shopping, not for socializing.”

Normandie Farm
The Grilled Oyster

Bagel City leaves a hole

This week we say goodbye to longtime local favorite Bagel City, which appears to be permanently closed on Rockville Pike. The restaurant shut down at the beginning of the pandemic, but owners planned to reopen and they still sounded optimistic when we spoke with them last week. A few days later, the Bagel City sign came down and the restaurant was dismantled. Goldberg’s New York Bagels, which also shut its doors at the beginning of the pandemic, has reopened all three of its locations. And Attman’s Deli, which exited Cabin John Village in April, is still negotiating for a new space nearby.

Lisa Nasar
Wintergreen Plaza

Bark at the park

As if local dogs aren’t happy enough with their families quarantined at home these past few months, we just got word that a “dog bar” is on the way to Pike & Rose. Opening this fall between Julii and Jinya (in the area formerly known as “The Beach”), Bark Social will offer beer, coffee, food and WiFi — plus dog treats, pet supplies and off-leash time for your pooch. The catch: Dog owners pay for entry ($9.99 a day, $39.99 a month or $264.99 for an annual membership). If you don’t have a dog, you can visit Bark Social for free.

International School of Music

Game Gym zooms into summer

As local kids and teens face a summer’s worth of canceled plans, Rockville-based Game Gym continues to expand its array of virtual offerings. The three-year-old esports studio provides coaching for League of Legends, Rocket League, Minecraft, Overwatch, Valorant and Super Smash Bros. — but owner Josh Hafkin says there’s more going on behind the screen. “We are creating meaningful experiences, encouraging these kids to open up and form real human relationships in our camps,” he says. “We talk about mental health, self-confidence and cyber-bullying. These conversations aren’t always happening in the gaming world, but they should be.” Game Gym camps also include an exercise component, so the business has launched partnerships with the Washington Wizards, the Virginia Youth Soccer Association and Power Train Sports and Fitness. To learn more about Game Gym’s summer programs, click here or email evan@gamegym.com. To save $30 on Game Gym summer camps, click here and use code REPORTER30.

4&Co. Salon

The Store Reporter Guide

Our weekly guide to some of your favorite stores, restaurants and service businesses.

 

SHOP LOCAL

 

  • AUSTYN PARKER, fun jewelry for kids & cute clothes for moms. For kids: Make-your-own jewelry kits & online parties where everyone works on a project together. For moms: We’ve got your favorite brands like LNA, Monrow, Perfect White Tee, Generation Love, Chrldr & Comune. Shop Facebook or Shop Instagram. For gift ideas, party planning & what’s in stock, call us: (301) 706-8122 or email us: randi@austynparker.com.

 

  • GYM & TONIC at Park Potomac, luxury athleisure apparel — now in the comfort of your own home. DM us for virtual shopping appointments and delivery in the DMV. Don’t forget to ask about our cute masks with filters. Shop @lovegymandtonic on Instagram. Email us: wendyamy18@gmail.com. Call us: (301) 340-8800. Text us: (202) 744-0169.

 

  • HANNA’S CONNECTION clothing boutique at the Cabin John mini-mall, second floor. Fully stocked with new styles to fit your lifestyle, free designer face masks with your purchase. Call for a safe, sanitized one-on-one shopping appointment. We still offer virtual shopping and online orders with free limited delivery. Curbside pickup & shipping on orders over $50. Call us: (301) 704-0264. Shop Facebook or Shop Instagram.

 

  • JOYFUL BATH CO., natural handmade bath and body care products for spa & wellness at home. 5534 Wilkins Ct., North Bethesda. Soaps, shower steamers, bath bombs, hemp ultra therapy, soy candles, Turkish towels & gift sets plus our own citric acid surface cleaner. Open 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday-Friday. Call (301) 986-5320 or order online for shipping or curbside pickup: joyfulbathco.com.

 

  • KAREN’S ROCKS AND RAGS, new & gently used women’s boutique, 212 Main Street, Gaithersburg. On-trend, affordable clothing & accessories. Great selection of face masks $8-$12. Facetime shopping, free shipping on orders over $100, local delivery & curbside pickup available. Almost everything is 20% off right now. Shop Facebook. Shop Instagram. Phone: (240) 476-9800. eBay store: ebay.com/str/karensrocksandrags.

 

  • ON CLOUD 9, trendy boutique for babies, girls and adults at Potomac Woods Plaza, 1085 Seven Locks Road. We have your favorite brands like Hard Tail, Katie J NYC, Vintage Havana, Ocean Drive, Suzette & Dori, plus masks in stock for ages 3 to adult. We’re still offering virtual shopping, online orders & curbside pickup, plus private shopping appointments. Call (301) 251-1331 or email oncloud9potomac@gmail.com. Shop Facebook or Shop Instagram.

 

  • R BOUTIQUE, a sophisticated & cute clothing store, soon to reopen inside Art & Chemistry by Diego at Downtown Crown. Fully stocked with clothing, jewelry & stylish masks. Tons of casual wear, tie-dye sets, shorts, tank tops, sandals & sneakers. Now offering curbside pickup and free delivery within a 10-mile radius. Shop Facebook. Shop Instagram. Or call Rayna Badwey Matz for a Facebook shopping appointment, (301) 943-2000. To purchase masks, visit rboutique.shop.

 

 

 

FOOD, DRINKS & MEAL DEALS

 

  • BROOKLYN’S DELI, homemade meats, soups & sandwiches at Potomac Woods Plaza, 1089 Seven Locks Road. Phone: (301) 340-3354. Brooklyn’s Deli would like to thank Eagle Bank for getting us through this extremely rough time. Open daily for carry-out, catering, delivery & patio dining. Menu: brooklynsdelimd.com.

 

  • CAVA MEZZE, five locations across the DMV, now offering outdoor dining, plus limited inside dining at some locations. Featuring our Cava lamb chops, scallops risotto & spanakopita. Reservations through our website or OpenTable. Seating is limited, so reservations are strongly recommended but not required. We also offer contactless takeout & delivery featuring family meals, individual platters & (2) for Tuesdays: $40 for two adult booze pouches. More info: cavamezze.com.

 

  • GREGORIO’S TRATTORIA, Italian favorites at Cabin John Village, 7745 Tuckerman Lane. Outdoor seating & limited indoor seating for lunch & dinner, 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. We also offer curbside pickup, pay by phone & contact-free delivery. Full menu and weekly specials, plus 1/2 off all wine, beer & cocktails. Phone: (301) 296-6168. Menu: gregoriostrattoria.com.

 

  • GYROLAND casual Greek food, cooked fresh seven days a week. 1701 Rockville Pike in the Shops at Congressional Village, right under the Verizon store. Dine-in service, cashless transactions only. Open 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Friday & Saturday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday. Pork, chicken, beef and lamb gyros, plus mixed grill and vegetarian options. Free delivery in a five-mile radius with $30 minimum. 1/2 off all wine with your order. Call us: (301) 816-7829. Menu: gyroland.com.

 

  • HUNTER’S BAR AND GRILL, the “Cheers” of Potomac. 10123 River Road. Phone: (301) 299-9300. Open for lunch, dinner & gift card sales. Half-priced bottles of wine with food purchase. Delivery through DoorDash and GrubHub, choose no-contact curbside carryout, or enjoy outdoor patio dining plus limited seating indoors. Reservations recommended. Check Facebook for daily specials. Menu: huntersbarandgrill.com.

 

  • JULII RESTAURANT, located in the heart of Pike & Rose, offering Chef D’s take on timeless French classics. Outside dining now available, featuring signature dishes like foie torchon, crispy trout and salmon crudo. Seating is limited, so reservations are strongly recommended but not required. We also offer contactless takeout & delivery services, plus (2) for Tuesdays: $40 for two adult booze pouches. Call (301) 517-9090 or visit us at julii.com.

 

  • LAHINCH TAVERN AND GRILL, regional American cuisine at Cabin John Village. New menu featuring split grilled bangers, Guinness-battered fish & chips, corned beef & cabbage, shepherd’s pie, chops, steaks & sandwiches. Now offering limited indoor dining, or enjoy outdoor dining in our new socially distanced patio & have a cocktail at our new outdoor bar. We also offer delivery & curbside pickup. Call: (240) 499-8922. Menu: lahinchtavernandgrill.com.

 

 

  • MIRCH MASALA GRILL, Indian cuisine at Westfield Montgomery mall. Open through the end of June for curbside pickup 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, with popular dishes like butter chicken, chicken tikka, lamb curry, rice bowls with chicken, vegan dishes & samosas. We also cater for larger groups. Use delivery apps, call (301) 365-0677, or text your order to (240) 432-8077.

 

  • MOBY DICK KABOBS, Persian cooking on the go. Multiple locations in Maryland and the DMV. Potomac location: (240) 660-2626. Rockville location: (301) 738-0005. Open for carry-out, delivery, limited seating & curbside pickup. Menu: mobyskabob.com.

 

  • MOSAIC CUISINE, modern French cooking in Rockville. Freshly reopened for curbside pickup at 186 Halpine Road or delivery with Grubhub. Also offering outdoor dining plus limited seating in our newly redesigned dining room. Offering your favorite waffles, beef bourguignon, two-course family meals for four starting at $58, and much more. Order online or by phone: (301) 468-0682. Menu: mosaiccuisine.com.

 

  • MYKONOS GRILL, fine Greek dining in Rockville. 121 Congressional Lane. Our outdoor patio is now open! Indoor dining beginning Friday at 5 p.m. Hours: 11:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday & Saturday, noon to 9:30 p.m. Sunday. Reservations strongly recommended. Cashless transactions only. Carry-out & free delivery in a five-mile radius with $50 minimum. We also work with the major delivery apps. Try our branzino, octopus, lamb chops & vegetarian platters. 1/2 off wine bottles with carry-out. Call (301) 770-5999. Menu: mykonosgrill.com.

 

  • NORMANDIE FARM, pop on over for fine cooking in the heart of Potomac, 10710 Falls Road. Outdoor patio now open, plus limited indoor seating. Full menu service, fine wines & spirits, live music Thursday-Sunday evenings, and of course our famous popovers. Also open for carry-out service. Phone: (301) 983-8838. Menu: popovers.com.

 

  • POTOMAC PIZZA, a delicious favorite since 1978. Multiple locations in Maryland and the DMV. Potomac location: (301) 299-7700. Traville location: (301) 279-2234. Chevy Chase location: (301) 951-1127. Offering contact-free delivery, curbside pickup & takeout. Sister company Bagels & Grinds also offering bagels, lox & cream cheese pickup in Potomac on Saturday mornings. Menu: potomacpizza.com.

 

  • QUARTERMAINE COFFEE ROASTERS, locally roasted fresh coffee. Bethesda store open 6 a.m.-3 p.m. daily with drinks, beans & pastries. Use the Quartermaine app or call (301) 718-2853. Also: $5 flat-rate shipping with $30 minimum for beans shipped to your door. Click on the person next to the shopping cart at www.quartermaine.com.

 

  • SISTERS THAI POTOMAC, Asian & Thai cuisine + desserts at Cabin John Village, 7995 Tuckerman Lane. Specialties like chicken satay, larb gai, pad thai, drunken noodles, curry dishes & more. Carry-out & free no-contact delivery with $30 to $40 minimum order. Phone: (301)299-4157. Menu: sistersthaicabinjohn.com.

 

  • SUGO at Park Potomac, dinner takeout featuring pastas, pizzas & family meals. Try our patio brunch, or feed 4 to 5 people for Father’s Day (or anytime) with our hanger steaks, chicken & eggplant parmesan, spicy rigatoni, risotto fritters & more. Don’t forget bottled sangria & Sugo Punch. Order via the major delivery apps, email info@eatsugo.com or call (240) 386-8080 and pick up curbside. Our patio is now open with happy hour from 4 p.m. daily! Menu: eatsugo.com.

 

 

  • YEKTA Persian restaurant & market. 1488 Rockville Pike. Restaurant open Tuesday-Sunday for curbside pickup, carry-out & delivery apps; call (301) 984-0005. Market open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday with curbside pickup. Email info@yekta.com or call (301) 984-1190. Menu: yekta.com.

FOR THE KIDS

 

 

  • INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF MUSIC, now offering online music lessons. All ages and levels, multiple platforms including Skype, FaceTime and Zoom. Take the next step on your musical journey. Call (301) 365-5888 or visit our website: ismw.org.

 

  • MY GYM LIVE! age-appropriate fun for all the kids. Live interactive 30-minute kids’ fitness classes filled with song, dance, gymnastics, sports and more. Our gyms may be closed, but we’re bringing all the fun you expect from My Gym directly into your house. Now offering My Gym Live! birthday parties and new outdoor classes. More info: mygym.com/potomac.

 

CELEBRATIONS

 

  • CREATIVE INVITATIONS BALLOONS AND MORE, planning local weddings & mitzvahs for more than three decades. Owner Shelley Poulos can help with everything: choosing your venue, caterer & DJ, selecting favors, decorating & staffing your event. We’ll also decorate the outside of your house with balloons & signs for any occasion. Mention Store Reporter for a discount. Call 301-279-0560 or click here.

 

  • FLASHBACK FILMS, photo & video montages for your special occasion — whether in-person or virtual. Professional montages at affordable prices for all your important milestones: birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, mitzvahs & more. We’re a locally based, student-run company and will work within your budget. Send us your photos and we’ll do the rest. Visit us on Instagram. For video samples & pricing, email flashbackfilms123@gmail.com.

 

  • LILAC, special occasion wear for girls, tweens & teens. We have the perfect outfits for graduations, cotillion, bar & bat mitzvahs (both service & party) and other special occasions. Plan for your fall events now; private shopping appointments are available throughout the summer. We also have fashionable face masks for kids & adults! Find us on Instagram (@lilacgirlshop) and Facebook (@shoplilacgirl). For more info, email sales@shoplilacgirl.com.

 

  • PALACE FLORISTS, family-owned since 1943. Farm-fresh, gorgeous flower arrangements and beautiful wrapped bouquets, plus festive & fun balloon bouquets, stunning orchid plants and lush green plants. Curbside pickup in Rockville at 4980 Wyaconda Rd., or no-contact delivery throughout the DMV. Call (301) 945-0253 or shop www.palaceflorists.com.

 

  • PARTYSCAPES, custom yard signs for any occasion. Let us set the perfect scene for any celebration: graduations, birthdays, anniversaries, bar/bat mitzvahs & more. 100% contact-less service. Stunning, personalized, larger-than-life designs that will make your celebration POP! Social: @partyscapesdc. Email us: info@partyscapes.net. Call us: (855) 369-5904. Website: partyscapes.net.

 

  • SUNNYDYES AT HOME, mobile tie-dye parties for kids & adults. Let us host an event in your backyard or other open space. You pick the project, we’ll bring the tie-dye and all the supplies. Great for kids’ birthdays, adult happy hours & all kinds of special events. Instagram: @sunnydyesathome. For info, call (301) 461-6400 or email sunnydyesinfo@gmail.com.

 

FURNITURE, ART & COLLECTIBLES

 

  • FREEMAN’S AUCTION, America’s oldest auction house, established in 1805. Potomac-based rep Debrah Dunner will help you consign fine art including modern & contemporary art, jewelry, 20th Century design & more. Virtual appointments, free auction estimates, easy no-contact pickup of your goods. For more info, call (301) 738-0347 or email ddunner@freemansauction.com.

 

  • ISI FURNISH, lightly used furnishings & decor at a fraction of the cost. Our white-glove service makes it easy to sell your fine furniture discreetly & professionally. If you’re looking to buy, we offer a wide range of affordable luxury furnishings to match your design and budget.  Call us: (971) 337-4403. Shop with us for new items every week: isifurnish.com.

 

HOME SERVICES

 

  • ISOLDIT, the easy way to turn your stuff into cash. We do the work, you cash the check. Get top dollar for your unwanted electronics, music equipment, jewelry, collectibles & furniture. Looking to reduce equipment or inventory for your business? We can help. Call us: (301) 990-2040. Email us: info@isolditmd.com. Safety is our priority — no contact, no worries. More info: www.isolditmd.com.

 

  • JIMMY GUSKY HEATING & AIR, one-stop shop for heating, air conditioning, plumbing and ductwork, serving Rockville & the D.C. area. We always give you an honest opinion and transparent pricing, making repairs when we can and helping you decide when replacement is the better option. Have an emergency? We’re available 24/7. Call (301) 327-7306 or click here.

 

  • MIKE’S LOCKSMITH & SECURITY, offering lock repair and replacement, keyless & touchpad systems plus door hardware, high-security keys and mailbox lockdown. All work guaranteed as long as you own your home. For after-hour emergencies or regular appointments, call (240) 506-7500. For more information, email mike@mikes-locksmith.com or click here.

 

  • NORMANDY CARPET, excellence in carpet, rugs & upholstery cleaning. We also specialize in fabricating custom area rugs and wall-to-wall installation. Come visit our showroom, or we can bring the samples to you. We follow CDC safety guidelines for cleaning, and our method removes dangerous viruses & bacteria. Call (301) 741-2005 or email info@normandycarpet.com. More info: www.normandycarpet.com.

 

  • TOWN & COUNTRY MOVERS, family-owned moving and storage company, based in Gaithersburg and serving the DMV since 1977. We handle local, long-distance and international relocations, as well as short-term and long-term storage solutions. Our staging division works with local realtors to enhance listings and improve home sales. Call (301) 670-4600 or click here.
mailto:publisher@storereporter.com

Montgomery County gets ready to reopen — plus more closings and a Nordstrom secret

By 2 Comments

Are you ready for reopening?

Local restaurants may begin opening up their dining rooms next week as Montgomery County prepares for the second phase of reopening. What will that look like? Cashless transactions, socially distanced tables, masked wait staff and continuous disinfection of the seating areas. Stores and gyms will be allowed to reopen too, but traffic will be limited to one customer per 200 feet of floor space. Depending on the judgment of county officials, the transition to Phase II could begin as early as Monday.

The Grilled Oyster

Permanent closings in Rockville

It looks like we can add Honeyfish Poke to the list of local restaurants that won’t be coming back. The Rockville eatery, one of the first in this area to serve up Hawaiian-style raw fish, appears to be permanently closed after a three-year run at Congressional Plaza. Other local restaurants that likely won’t be reopening include Le Pain Quotidien at Cabin John Village (more here), Addie’s at Park Potomac (more here) and Chuy’s on Rockville Pike (more here), not to mention the bankrupt La Tasca at Rockville Town Square (more here).

4&Co

Nordstrom's back — sort of

There’s still no official word on when Westfield Montgomery mall will reopen, but this week we discovered a little-known secret: The Nordstrom store is already processing returns at a curbside kiosk. If you’ve been doing a little too much online shopping, it’s easy to get rid of those excess purchases. Just pull up your car to Nordstrom’s side entrance, drop your stuff into a plastic bag, fill out a form and be on your way. A socially distanced sales clerk will be standing by to process the transaction after you leave. The only catch: Your returns will be quarantined for 72 hours, so the refund won’t show up in your account for a couple of days.

Mimi Arnold

Diamonds aren't forever after all

Signet Jewelers, parent company of Kay Jewelers, Piercing Pagoda, Jared and Zales, says it will permanently close some 150 stores that have been shuttered due to coronavirus. Another 150 stores will shut down early next year as the jewelry company pares back its brick-and-mortar business. No word yet on what this will mean for Westfield Montgomery mall, which is home to a Kay Jewelers and a Piercing Pagoda, or for the Jared store on Rockville Pike.

International School of Music

The Store Reporter Guide — this week's meals, deals & services

 

FOOD & DRINKS

 

  • BROOKLYN’S DELI, homemade meats, soups & sandwiches at Potomac Woods Plaza,  1089 Seven Locks Road. Phone: (301) 340-3354. Brooklyn’s Deli would like to thank Eagle Bank for getting us through this extremely rough time. Open daily for carry-out, catering & patio dining. Menu: brooklynsdelimd.com.

 

  • CAVA MEZZE, five locations across the DMV, now offering outdoor dining featuring our Cava lamb chops, scallops risotto & spanakopita. Reservations through our website or OpenTable. Seating is limited, so reservations are strongly recommended but not required. We also offer contactless takeout & delivery featuring family meals, individual platters & (2) for Tuesdays: $40 for two adult booze pouches. More info: cavamezze.com.

 

  • GREGORIO’S TRATTORIA, Italian favorites at Cabin John Village, 7745 Tuckerman Lane. Outdoor seating now open for lunch & dinner, 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. We also offer curbside pickup, pay by phone & contact-free delivery. Full menu, weekly specials plus 1/2 off all wine, beer & cocktails. Phone: (301) 296-6168. Menu: gregoriostrattoria.com.

 

  • GYROLAND casual Greek food, cooked fresh seven days a week. 1701 Rockville Pike in the Shops at Congressional Village, right under the Verizon store. Dine-in service beginning Friday at 5 p.m. Cashless transactions only. Open 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Friday & Saturday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday. Pork, chicken, beef and lamb gyros, plus mixed grill and vegetarian options. Free delivery in a five-mile radius with $30 minimum. 1/2 off all wine with your order. Call us: (301) 816-7829. Menu: gyroland.com.

 

  • HUNTER’S BAR AND GRILL, the “Cheers” of Potomac. 10123 River Road. Phone: (301) 299-9300. Open for lunch, dinner and gift card sales. Half-priced bottles of wine with food purchase. Delivery through DoorDash and GrubHub, choose no-contact curbside carryout, or enjoy our patio for outdoor dining. Check Facebook for daily specials. Menu: huntersbarandgrill.com.

 

  • JULII RESTAURANT, located in the heart of Pike & Rose, offering Chef D’s take on timeless French classics. Outside dining now available, featuring signature dishes like foie torchon, crispy trout and salmon crudo. Seating is limited, so reservations are strongly recommended but not required. We also offer contactless takeout & delivery services, plus (2) for Tuesdays: $40 for two adult booze pouches. Call (301) 517-9090 or visit us at julii.com.

 

  • LAHINCH TAVERN AND GRILL, regional American cuisine at Cabin John Village. New menu featuring split grilled bangers, Guinness-battered fish & chips, corned beef & cabbage, shepherd’s pie, chops, steaks & sandwiches. Discounted beer and wine to go. Delivery, carry-out, curbside pickup or enjoy outdoor dining in our new socially distanced patio seating. Call: (240) 499-8922. Menu: lahinchtavernandgrill.com.

 

 

  • MIRCH MASALA GRILL, Indian cuisine at Westfield Montgomery mall. Now open for curbside pickup 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, with popular dishes like butter chicken, chicken tikka, lamb curry, rice bowls with chicken, vegan dishes & samosas. We also cater for larger groups. Use delivery apps, call (301) 365-0677, or text your order to (240) 432-8077.

 

  • MOBY DICK KABOBS, Persian cooking on the go. Multiple locations in Maryland and the DMV. Potomac location: (240) 660-2626. Rockville location: (301) 738-0005. Open for carry-out, delivery and curbside pickup. Menu: mobyskabob.com.

 

  • MOSAIC CUISINE, modern French cooking in Rockville. Freshly reopened for curbside pickup at 186 Halpine Road or delivery with Grubhub. Offering your favorite waffles, Beef Bourguignon, two-course family meals for four starting at $58, and much more. Order online or by phone: (301) 468-0682. Menu: mosaiccuisine.com.

 

  • MYKONOS GRILL, fine Greek dining in Rockville. 121 Congressional Lane. Our outdoor patio is now open! Indoor dining beginning Friday at 5 p.m. Hours: 11:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday & Saturday, noon to 9:30 p.m. Sunday. Reservations strongly recommended. Cashless transactions only. Carry-out & free delivery in a five-mile radius with $50 minimum. We also work with the major delivery apps. Try our branzino, octopus, lamb chops & vegetarian platters. 1/2 off wine bottles with carry-out. Call (301) 770-5999. Menu: mykonosgrill.com.

 

  • NORMANDIE FARM, pop on over for fine cooking in the heart of Potomac, 10710 Falls Road. Outdoor patio now open! Full menu service, fine wines & spirits, live music Thursday-Sunday evenings, and of course our famous popovers. Also open for carry-out service. Phone: (301) 983-8838. Menu: popovers.com.

 

  • POTOMAC PIZZA, a delicious favorite since 1978. Multiple locations in Maryland and the DMV. Potomac location: (301) 299-7700. Traville location: (301) 279-2234. Chevy Chase location: (301) 951-1127. Offering contact-free delivery, curbside pickup & takeout. Menu: potomacpizza.com.

 

  • QUARTERMAINE COFFEE ROASTERS, locally roasted fresh coffee. Bethesda store open 6 a.m.-3 p.m. daily with drinks, beans & pastries. Use the Quartermaine app or call (301) 718-2853. Also: $5 flat-rate shipping with $30 minimum for beans shipped to your door. Click on the person next to the shopping cart at www.quartermaine.com.

 

  • RSVP CATERING, fine catering & groceries delivered right to your home. Gourmet foods for date night, family meals & everything in between. Store in your fridge, re-heat when ready. Also offering grocery items, essentials & margaritas by the gallon. Call (703) 573-8700 or shop rsvpcatering.com/store.

 

 

  • SUGO at Park Potomac, dinner takeout featuring pastas, pizzas & family meals. Feed 4 to 5 people with our hanger steaks, chicken & eggplant parmesan, spicy rigatoni, risotto fritters & more. Try our two-for-$20 pizzas, plus bottled sangria & Sugo Punch. Order via the major delivery apps, email info@eatsugo.com or call (240) 386-8080 and pick up curbside. Our patio is now open with happy hour from 4 p.m. daily! Menu: eatsugo.com.

 

 

  • YEKTA Persian restaurant & market. 1488 Rockville Pike. Restaurant open Tuesday-Sunday for curbside pickup, carry-out & delivery apps; call (301) 984-0005. Market open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday with curbside pickup. Email info@yekta.com or call (301) 984-1190. Menu: yekta.com.

 

CELEBRATIONS

 

  • CREATIVE INVITATIONS BALLOONS AND MORE, planning local weddings & mitzvahs for more than three decades. Owner Shelley Poulos can help with everything: choosing your venue, caterer & DJ, selecting favors, decorating & staffing your event. We’ll also decorate the outside of your house with balloons & signs for any occasion. Mention Store Reporter for a discount. Call 301-279-0560 or click here.

 

  • FLASHBACK FILMS, photo & video montages for your special occasion — whether in-person or virtual. Professional montages at affordable prices for all your important milestones: birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, mitzvahs & more. We’re a locally based, student-run company and will work within your budget. Send us your photos and we’ll do the rest. Visit us on Instagram. For video samples & pricing, email flashbackfilms123@gmail.com.

 

  • PALACE FLORISTS, family-owned since 1943. Farm-fresh, gorgeous flower arrangements and beautiful wrapped bouquets, plus festive & fun balloon bouquets, stunning orchid plants and lush green plants. Curbside pickup in Rockville at 4980 Wyaconda Rd., or no-contact delivery throughout the DMV. Call (301) 945-0253 or shop www.palaceflorists.com.

 

  • PARTYSCAPES, custom yard signs for any occasion. Let us set the perfect scene for any celebration: graduations, birthdays, anniversaries, bar/bat mitzvahs & more. 100% contact-less service. Stunning, personalized, larger-than-life designs that will make your celebration POP! Social: @partyscapesdc. Email us: info@partyscapes.net. Call us: (855) 369-5904. Website: partyscapes.net.

 

  • SUNNYDYES AT HOME, mobile tie-dye parties for kids & adults. Let us host an event in your backyard or other open space. You pick the project, we’ll bring the tie-dye and all the supplies. Great for kids’ birthdays, adult happy hours & all kinds of special events. Instagram: @sunnydyesathome. For info, call (301) 461-6400 or email sunnydyesinfo@gmail.com.

 

FASHION

 

  • AUSTYN PARKER, fun jewelry for kids & cute clothes for moms. For kids: Make-your-own jewelry kits & online parties where everyone works on a project together. For moms: We’ve got your favorite brands like LNA, Monrow, Perfect White Tee, Generation Love, Chrldr & Comune. Shop Facebook or Shop Instagram. For gift ideas, party planning & what’s in stock, call us: (301) 706-8122 or email us: randi@austynparker.com.

 

  • GYM & TONIC, luxury athleisure apparel, now in the comfort of your own home. 20% off all clothes right now. DM us for virtual shopping appointments and delivery in the DMV. Don’t forget to ask about our cute masks with filters. Shop @lovegymandtonic on Instagram. Email us: wendyamy18@gmail.com. Call us: (301) 340-8800. Text us: (202) 744-0169.

 

  • HANNA’S CONNECTION clothing boutique. Refresh your closet. Refresh your mood. Soon to reopen at the Cabin John mini-mall, now offering virtual shopping and online orders with free delivery. We carry designer face masks, free with purchase. Call us: (301) 704-0264. Shop Facebook or Shop Instagram.

 

  • KAREN’S ROCKS AND RAGS, new & gently used women’s boutique. On-trend, affordable clothing & accessories. Great selection of face masks $8-$12. Facetime shopping, free shipping on orders over $100, local delivery & curbside pickup at 212 Main Street, Gaithersburg. Almost everything is 20% off right now. Shop Facebook. Shop Instagram. Phone: (240) 476-9800. eBay store: ebay.com/str/karensrocksandrags.

 

 

  • R BOUTIQUE, a sophisticated & cute clothing store, soon to reopen inside Art & Chemistry by Diego at Downtown Crown. Fully stocked with clothing, jewelry & stylish masks. Tons of casual wear, tie-dye sets, shorts, tank tops, sandals & sneakers. Now offering curbside pickup & free delivery within a 10-mile radius. Shop Facebook. Shop Instagram. Or call Rayna Badwey Matz for a Facebook shopping appointment, (301) 943-2000. To purchase masks, visit rboutique.shop.

 

  • SCOUT & MOLLY’S BOUTIQUE, your North Bethesda fashion destination at Pike & Rose. The store will be reopening on Friday, June 19th at 5 p.m. We have tons of new summer arrivals. Click here for new facemask colors & styles. Shop Instagram. Shop Facebook. We will continue to officer curbside pickup, so feel free to shop online or call us at (301) 348-5047 to help with your shopping needs! northbethesda.scoutandmollys.com.

 

GIFTS

 

  • JOYFUL BATH CO., natural handmade bath and body care products for spa & wellness at home. 5534 Wilkins Ct., North Bethesda. Soaps, shower steamers, bath bombs, hemp ultra therapy, soy candles, Turkish towels & gift sets plus our own citric acid surface cleaner. Open 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday-Friday. Call (301) 986-5320 or order online for shipping or curbside pickup: joyfulbathco.com.

 

 

 

FOR THE KIDS

 

 

  • INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF MUSIC, now offering online music lessons. All ages and levels, multiple platforms including Skype, FaceTime and Zoom. Take the next step on your musical journey. Call (301) 365-5888 or visit our website: ismw.org.

 

  • MY GYM LIVE! age-appropriate fun for all the kids. Live interactive 30-minute kids’ fitness classes filled with song, dance, gymnastics, sports and more. Our gyms may be closed, but we’re bringing all the fun you expect from My Gym directly into your house. Now offering My Gym Live! birthday parties and new outdoor classes. More info: mygym.com/potomac.

 

FURNITURE, ART & COLLECTIBLES

 

  • FREEMAN’S AUCTION, America’s oldest auction house, established in 1805. Potomac-based rep Debrah Dunner will help you consign fine art including modern & contemporary art, jewelry, 20th Century design & more. Virtual appointments, free auction estimates, easy no-contact pickup of your goods. For more info, call (301) 738-0347 or email ddunner@freemansauction.com.

 

  • ISI FURNISH, lightly used furnishings & decor at a fraction of the cost. Our white-glove service makes it easy to sell your fine furniture discreetly & professionally. If you’re looking to buy, we offer a wide range of affordable luxury furnishings to match your design and budget.  Call us: (971) 337-4403. Shop with us for new items every week: isifurnish.com.

 

HOME SERVICES

 

  • ISOLDIT, the easy way to turn your stuff into cash. We do the work, you cash the check. Get top dollar for your unwanted electronics, music equipment, jewelry, collectibles & furniture. Looking to reduce equipment or inventory for your business? We can help. Call us: (301) 990-2040. Email us: info@isolditmd.com. Safety is our priority — no contact, no worries. More info: www.isolditmd.com.

 

  • JIMMY GUSKY HEATING & AIR, one-stop shop for heating, air conditioning, plumbing and ductwork, serving Rockville & the D.C. area. We always give you an honest opinion and transparent pricing, making repairs when we can and helping you decide when replacement is the better option. Have an emergency? We’re available 24/7. Call (301) 327-7306 or click here.

 

  • MIKE’S LOCKSMITH & SECURITY, offering lock repair and replacement, keyless & touchpad systems plus door hardware, high-security keys and mailbox lockdown. All work guaranteed as long as you own your home. For after-hour emergencies or regular appointments, call (240) 506-7500. For more information, email mike@mikes-locksmith.com or click here.

 

  • NORMANDY CARPET, excellence in carpet, rug & upholstery cleaning & installation. We’re essential & here to serve you. Spilled wine on your carpet? Dog peed in the house? Flooding from the rain? We follow CDC safety guidelines, and our cleaning method removes dangerous viruses & bacteria. Call (301) 741-2005 or email info@normandycarpet.com. More info: www.normandycarpet.com.

 

  • TOWN & COUNTRY MOVERS, family-owned moving and storage company, based in Gaithersburg and serving the DMV since 1977. We handle local, long-distance and international relocations, as well as short-term and long-term storage solutions. Our staging division works with local realtors to enhance listings and improve home sales. Call (301) 670-4600 or click here.
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Outdoor dining returns to MoCo – plus the latest closings & bankruptcies

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MoCo starts to reopen

Montgomery County will ease into the first phase of reopening on Monday, June 1st, as some bars and restaurants begin to offer limited outdoor seating along with takeout and delivery. Customers will be allowed to remove their masks while eating and drinking at outside tables. Not much will change for our local stores, which still will be limited to delivery and curbside pickup unless they are deemed “essential.” Fitness centers, movie theaters and indoor malls will remain closed for now. Salons can reopen, but only for haircuts. No waxing, no mani/pedis.

Game Gym

LPQ sells for a song

In this week’s restaurant bankruptcy roundup, we have bad news for fans of Le Pain Quotidien. The company’s U.S. division has filed Chapter 11 and is selling its assets to a New York restaurant operator. LPQ was losing money even before the pandemic; hence the shockingly low sales price of $3 million for all 98 of its U.S. locations. No word yet on whether LPQ will reopen at Wildwood or Cabin John.

RSVP Catering

Chapter 11 for Tuesday Morning

Tuesday Morning, the Dallas-based discount chain, is the latest national retailer to file Chapter 11 bankruptcy. The company blames coronavirus for its cash-flow problems, but says it expects stay in business after a reorganization. Several hundred Tuesday Morning stores will be closing permanently, including locations in Glen Burnie, Salisbury and Towson. But the retailer already has reopened in Rockville, where its mix of home goods and snacks is apparently considered an “essential” business.

International School of Music

Closing the window on Next Day Blinds

Next Day Blinds has gone out of business after more than a quarter-century in the D.C. area. The company was based in Jessup and had more than a dozen stores, including one on Rockville Pike.

Stephen Austin for Montgomery County Board of Education

"We're Open!" for dining, shopping & more

Some of the restaurants in this week’s “We’re Open!” Guide will soon begin offering outdoor dining. All will continue to serve you with takeout, delivery and curbside pickup. New in this issue: Indian cuisine, home-style catering and fabulous flowers. And don’t forget to check out our growing options for shopping, services and family fun.

 

FOOD

 

  • Brooklyn’s Deli, homemade meats, soups & sandwiches at Potomac Woods Plaza. 1089 Seven Locks Road. Phone: 301-340-3354. Brooklyn’s Deli would like to thank Eagle Bank for getting us through this extremely rough time. Open daily for carry-out & catering. Menu: brooklynsdelimd.com.

 

  • Cava Mezze, Greek comfort food. Family meals starting at $50 include kabobs, rice, salad, sandwiches & more. Champagne, batched cocktails, discounted beer, 1/2 off wine. Delivery with multiple apps, or 10% off contactless curbside pickup if you call directly: (301) 309-9090. Menu: cavamezze.com.

 

  • Downtown Crown online services, restaurant takeout and delivery options at Sam Eig Highway and Fields Road, Gaithersburg. Whatever you’re craving, you’ll find it here. For a complete list of what’s available now, visit ShopDowntownCrown.com.

 

  • Gregorio’s Trattoria, Italian favorites at Cabin John Village. 7745 Tuckerman Lane. Phone: 301-296-6168. Open daily for lunch & dinner. Carry-out, curbside pickup, pay by phone & contact-free delivery available. All wine and beer 1/2 off. Menu: gregoriostrattoria.com.

 

  • Gyroland casual Greek food, cooked fresh seven days a week. 1701 Rockville Pike in the Shops at Congressional Village, right under the Verizon store. Pork, chicken, beef and lamb gyros, plus mixed grill and vegetarian options. Free delivery in a five-mile radius with $30 minimum. 1/2 off all wine with your order. Call us: (301) 816-7829. Menu: gyroland.com.

 

  • Hunter’s Bar and Grill, the “Cheers” of Potomac. 10123 River Road. Phone: 301-299-9300. Open for lunch, dinner and gift card sales. Half-priced bottles of wine with food purchase. Delivery through DoorDash and GrubHub, or choose no-contact curbside carryout. Check Facebook for daily specials. Menu: huntersbarandgrill.com.

 

  • Julii, comfort food + market goods. $30 family meals, sandwiches, Chef D’s favorite dishes plus toilet paper, paper towels & flour. Champagne, batched cocktails, discounted beer, 1/2 off wine. Delivery with UberEats, or 10 percent off contactless curbside pickup if you call directly: (301) 517-9090. Menu: julii.com.

 

  • Lahinch Tavern and Grill, regional American cuisine at Cabin John Village. Featuring a daily menu with family-style dining options, 1/2 off beer and wine to go, and mixed drinks at happy hour prices. Delivery, carry-out or curbside pickup. Call: 240-499-8922. Menu: lahinchtavernandgrill.com.

 

 

  • Mirch Masala Grill, Indian cuisine at Westfield Montgomery mall. Now open for curbside pickup 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, with popular dishes like butter chicken, chicken tikka, lamb curry, rice bowls with chicken, vegan dishes & samosas. We also cater for larger groups. Use delivery apps, call (301) 365-0677, or text your order to (240) 432-8077.

 

  • Moby Dick Kabobs, Persian cooking on the go. Multiple locations in Maryland and the DMV. Potomac location: 240-660-2626. Rockville location: 301-738-0005. Open for carry-out, delivery and curbside pickup. Menu: mobyskabob.com.

 

  • Mosaic Cuisine, modern French cooking in Rockville. Freshly reopened for curbside pickup at 186 Halpine Road or delivery with Grubhub. Offering your favorite waffles, Beef Bourguignon, two-course family meals for four starting at $58, and much more. Order online or by phone: (301) 468-0682. Menu: mosaiccuisine.com.

 

  • Mykonos Grill, fine Greek dining in Rockville. 121 Congressional Lane. Carry-out & free delivery in a five-mile radius with $50 minimum. We also work with the major delivery apps. Specialties include branzino, octopus, lamb chops & vegetarian platters. 1/2 off wine bottles with carry-out. Call 301-770-5999. Menu: mykonosgrill.com.

 

  • Normandie Farm, pop on over for fine cooking in the heart of Potomac. 10710 Falls Road. Phone: 301-983-8838. Open for carry-out service. Full menu, popovers & jam to go: popovers.com.

 

  • Potomac Pizza, a delicious favorite since 1978. Multiple locations in Maryland and the DMV. Potomac location: 301-299-7700. Traville location: 301-279-2234. Chevy Chase location: 301-951-1127. Offering contact-free delivery, curbside pickup & takeout. Menu: potomacpizza.com.

 

  • Quartermaine Coffee Roasters, locally roasted fresh coffee. Bethesda store open 6 a.m.-3 p.m. daily with drinks, beans & pastries. Use the Quartermaine app or call 301-718-2853. Also: $5 flat-rate shipping with $30 minimum for beans shipped to your door. Click on the person next to the shopping cart at www.quartermaine.com.

 

  • RSVP Catering, fine catering & groceries delivered right to your home. Gourmet foods for date night, family meals & everything in between. Store in your fridge, re-heat when ready. Also offering grocery items, essentials & margaritas by the gallon. Call (703) 573-8700 or shop rsvpcatering.com/store.

 

 

  • Sugo at Park Potomac, dinner takeout featuring pastas, pizzas & family meals. Feed 4 to 5 people with our hanger steaks, chicken & eggplant parmesan, spicy rigatoni, risotto fritters & more. Try our two-for-$20 pizzas, plus bottled sangria & Sugo Punch. Order via the major delivery apps, email info@eatsugo.com or call (240) 386-8080 and pick up curbside. Menu: eatsugo.com.

 

 

  • Yekta Persian restaurant & market. 1488 Rockville Pike. Restaurant open Tuesday-Sunday for curbside pickup, carry-out & delivery apps; call 301-984-0005. Market open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday with curbside pickup. Email info@yekta.com or call 301-984-1190. Menu: yekta.com.

 

FASHION

 

 

  • Gym & Tonic, luxury athleisure apparel, now in the comfort of your own home. 20% off all clothes right now. DM us for virtual shopping appointments and delivery in the DMV. Don’t forget to ask about our cute masks with filters. Shop @lovegymandtonic on Instagram. Email us: wendyamy18@gmail.com. Call us: (301) 340-8800. Text us: (202) 744-0169.

 

  • Hanna’s Connection clothing boutique. Refresh your closet. Refresh your mood. Soon to reopen at the Cabin John mini-mall, now offering virtual shopping and online orders with free delivery. We carry designer face masks, free with purchase. Call us: 301-704-0264. Shop Facebook or Shop Instagram.

 

  • Karen’s Rocks and Rags, new & gently used women’s boutique. On-trend, affordable clothing & accessories. Great selection of face masks, $8-$12. For Facetime shopping, call (240) 476-9800. Free shipping on orders over $100, local delivery & curbside pickup at 212 Main Street, Gaithersburg. Almost everything is 20% off right now. Shop Facebook. Shop Instagram. eBay store: ebay.com/str/karensrocksandrags.

 

  • R Boutique, a sophisticated & cute clothing store, soon to reopen inside Art & Chemistry by Diego at Downtown Crown. Fully stocked with clothing, jewelry & stylish masks. Free delivery within a 10-mile radius. Shop Facebook. Shop Instagram. Or call Rayna Badwey Matz for a Facebook shopping appointment, 301-943-2000. To purchase masks, visit rboutique.shop.

 

  • Scout & Molly’s Boutique, your North Bethesda fashion destination at Pike & Rose. Open from noon to 6 p.m. for curbside pickup. Click here for our super fashionable (leopard, snake, tie dye) face masks. Free shipping, curbside pickup or local delivery. Shop online or contact us for a virtual shopping experience. Check our Instagram for weekly giveaways. Call us: 301-348-5047. Shop: northbethesda.scoutandmollys.com.

 

GIFTS

 

  • Joyful Bath Co., natural handmade bath and body care products for spa & wellness at home. 5534 Wilkins Ct., North Bethesda. Soaps, shower steamers, bath bombs, hemp ultra therapy, soy candles, Turkish towels & gift sets plus our own citric acid surface cleaner. Open 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday-Friday. Call 301-986-5320 or order online for shipping or curbside pickup: joyfulbathco.com.

 

 

 

KIDS & FAMILY

 

  • Bows Etc., now making face masks with personality for men, women & kids. Our website has been updated! Your smile may be hidden, but you can still rock fun designs & show off your favorite sports teams & colleges. Our masks are reversible & washable, with three layers of 100% cotton fabric & filter pockets. $14 plus $5 shipping, or porch pickup in the Shady Grove area. Email arlen.groban@yahoo.com or shop bowsetc.com.

 

 

  • International School of Music, now offering online music lessons. All ages and levels, multiple platforms including Skype, FaceTime and Zoom. Take the next step on your musical journey. Call (301) 365-5888 or visit our website: ismw.org.

 

  • My Gym Live! age-appropriate fun for all the kids. Live interactive 30-minute kids’ fitness classes filled with song, dance, gymnastics, sports and more. Our gyms may be closed, but we’re bringing all the fun you expect from My Gym directly into your house. Now offering My Gym Live! birthday parties. More info: mygym.com/potomac.

 

  • On Cloud 9, trendy boutique for babies, girls and adults. Offering virtual shopping & online orders. We deliver by mail, drop off in a 10-mile radius, or you can pick up curbside by our Potomac Woods Plaza store. 20% off everything right now. Call 301-251-1331 or email oncloud9potomac@gmail.com. Shop Facebook or Shop Instagram.

 

  • Toy Castle home delivery service. Open for orders 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays & Saturdays. Same-day, no-fee delivery with $35 minimum order. Great outdoor toys & games arriving daily, tons of other items continually re-stocked. Shop for ideas on our Facebook page, call for suggestions and to place your order: (301) 299-0680.

 

SERVICES

 

  • iSoldIt, the easy way to turn your stuff into cash. We do the work, you cash the check. Get top dollar for your unwanted electronics, music equipment, jewelry, collectibles & furniture. Looking to reduce equipment or inventory for your business? We can help. Call us: 301-990-2040. Email us: info@isolditmd.com. Safety is our priority — no contact, no worries. More info: www.isolditmd.com.

 

  • Mike’s Locksmith & Security, offering lock repair and replacement, keyless & touchpad systems plus door hardware, high-security keys and mailbox lockdown. All work guaranteed as long as you own your home. For after-hour emergencies or regular appointments, call 240-506-7500. For more information, email mike@mikes-locksmith.com or click here.

 

  • Normandy Carpet, excellence in carpet, rug & upholstery cleaning & installation. We’re essential & here to serve you. Spilled wine on your carpet? Dog peed in the house? Flooding from the rain? We follow CDC safety guidelines, and our cleaning method removes dangerous viruses & bacteria. Call 301-741-2005 or email info@normandycarpet.com. More info: www.normandycarpet.com.

 

  • Palace Florists, family-owned since 1943. Farm-fresh, gorgeous flower arrangements and beautiful wrapped bouquets, plus festive & fun balloon bouquets, stunning orchid plants and lush green plants. Curbside pickup in Rockville at 4980 Wyaconda Rd., or no-contact delivery throughout the DMV. Call (301) 945-0253 or shop www.palaceflorists.com.

 

Want to advertise your restaurant, store or business in our “We’re Open!” Guide? Email us: publisher@storereporter.com.

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Hello Urban Plates and LebTav, goodbye to half The Gap, two more closings at Rockville Town Square

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Urban Plates arrives

The Dining Terrace at Westfield Montgomery mall looks a whole lot different this week: Urban Plates officially debuts on Monday (March 11th), but crowds started lining up on Thursday with tickets to pre-opening events. The restaurant offers a fresh-cooked cafeteria-style menu of soups, salads, and sandwiches along with more elaborate entrées, baked goods and juices. For a look at the menu, click here. For a look at the interior, check out our photos on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Wink Eyecare Boutique
Realtor Lisa Nasar of Long & Foster

New look for Lebanese Taverna

LebTav, the new version of local favorite Lebanese Taverna, opened its doors this week a few doors down from its longtime home at Congressional Plaza. LebTav is smaller than its predecessor, with a pared-down menu of salads, pita sandwiches, falafel, shawarma, hummus and grab-and-go items. For more on the new format — and lots more about all the changes at Congressional Plaza — check out our Feb. 21 and  Feb. 28 editions.

Trio Jr.

Two more closings at Rockville Town Square

The exodus at Rockville Town Square continued this week when two neighboring businesses on Gibbs Street — Lab Cafe and Little Dipper Hot Pot House — closed their doors within days of each other. Lab Cafe, a bubble tea shop that opened in 2017, is the fifth business to fail at the same address since 2007. (Remember Bobby’s Crabcakes, Tippy’s Taco House, 82 Steak Out and Ev & Maddy’s?) Little Dipper also opened two years ago in the corner spot that once housed Noodles & Company. Add these two to the list of recent RTS closings that now includes Pandora Seafood House & Bar, Mellow Mushroom and LiquidBlue Denim Boutique, along with the neighboring Apollo restaurant. Dawson’s Market also closed last October, but it reopened in December under new ownership.

Realtor Jacqueline Band-Olinger of Greystone Realty

Rolling into Park Potomac

Roll by Goodyear has rolled into Park Potomac, opening a new store between Elevation Burger and The Wine Harvest. This is the space that once housed the Emily Grace boutique, most recently home to the pop-up Pooch Portrait Studio. Roll, which installs tires wherever you are, has blanketed Montgomery County with a half-dozen stores in the past few months.

Churchill Blast
Alice in Wonderland at Herbert Hoover Middle School

Big week for The Gap & Gymboree

Gap Inc. made so many announcements this week that even we found it hard to keep up. Number one, the company said it will close about half of its 500ish Gap stores over the next two years. Number two, it will spin off the thriving Old Navy brand into a separate publicly traded company. Number three, it will purchase the Janie and Jack kids’ clothing chain from bankrupt Gymboree Group. Meanwhile, Gymboree Group got some other good news when rival retailer The Children’s Place announced plans to purchase and “revitalize” what’s left of the Gymboree brand. Does that mean the Gymboree stores are no longer going out of business? The answer isn’t clear yet — and all these plans still have to go through bankruptcy court.

Diener Denim Plus Diamonds
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Changes for Congressional Plaza, reboot for Lebanese Taverna, update on Cooper’s Hawk, more closings at the mall

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Change is in the air at Congressional Plaza

There’s a lot of reshuffling at Rockville’s Congressional Plaza this month, with longtime tenants on the move and more changes still to come. Here’s the lowdown:

  • Lebanese Taverna has closed its 20-year-old restaurant and will return next month with a new name, new format and new location between Ulta and Modern Market. Say hello to LebTav, which dispenses with the grill in favor of a fast-casual menu of salads, pita sandwiches, falafel, shawarma, hummus and grab-and-go items. This will be the second location for the Leb Tav format, which also involves more cooking at a central commissary. “If it’s successful, we will probably go this route for all our restaurants in the future,” says marketing manager Pamela Ferreira. For a sneak peek of the Rockville restaurant in progress, click here.
  • Chico’s, which has been closing stores including the one in Potomac Village, is relocating from the north side of Congressional Plaza to a smaller space on the south side. The old Chico’s will close on Feb. 24th and the new one will open a few days later.
  • On the back side of Congressional, new tenant Big Bear Custom Apparel is creating personalized clothing designs for sports teams, businesses, groups and individuals. Click here to check out the Big Bear website.
  • Performance Bicycle has been holding a going-out-of-business sale since its parent company filed bankruptcy late last year. The store will remain open until early March, but most of its inventory is already gone.

All of these changes — plus the recent closing of the Thomasville furniture store — add up to a lot of empty space on the north side of Congressional Plaza. So what’s the plan for all that square footage? For awhile we were hearing talk about a mini Barnes & Noble store, but that seems unlikely now that the bookseller has renewed its lease at Montrose Crossing. Still, it certainly looks like something big is on the way. Watch our upcoming issues for the latest.

(Editor’s note: For an update on this story in our March 28th edition, click here.)

Realtor Lisa Nasar of Long & Foster
Bender JCC of Greater Washington

Cooper's Hawk will take flight soon

With the recent openings of Onelife Fitness and Chick-fil-A at Rockville’s Research Row, anticipation is building for the arrival of Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant. The Illinois-based chain, which has locations in Reston, Ashburn and Annapolis, is known for its food-and-wine pairings, wine-tasting rooms and in-house gourmet markets. There’s no official opening date for Rockville just yet, but the company tells us it should happen sometime this summer.

Jacqueline Olinger of Greystone Realty
Eyeland/Luxoptics

Who's out at the mall

Add Payless to the list of stores holding going-out-of-business sales at Westfield Montgomery mall. The shoe chain has filed Chapter 11 bankruptcy for the second time and will close all 2,500 locations by May. Also on the way out of the mall are Gymboree (Chapter 11), Crabtree & Evelyn (downsizing) and Sheepskin Gifts (a seasonal tenant that comes and goes every year). Already gone as of this week: the Kia Stinger showroom. So what’s on the way to Westfield Montgomery? More food. Catch up at storereporter.com for the latest on Cinnabon, 7-Eleven and Urban Plates.

Norman's Farm Market
Churchill Blast
Alice in Wonderland at Herbert Hoover Middle School
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Thanksgiving shopping, Black Friday specials, new restaurants for the holidays

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Happy Thanksgiving — and let the shopping begin

Just about the time you’re finishing that last piece of pumpkin pie, lots of stores will be opening their doors for the earliest Black Friday shoppers. Westfield Montgomery mall will be open from 6 p.m. to midnight on Thursday — although some of the biggest stores, including Apple and Nordstrom, will be sitting it out until Friday. Most of Rockville’s major retailers will be closed on Thanksgiving, reopening as early as 6 a.m. for Friday morning door-busters. If you prefer a stress-free shopping experience, pay a visit to your local retailers like the ones at Cabin John Village. Many will be offering terrific Black Friday deals, and they’ll even handle the gift-wrapping for you. Scroll down for details.

Toy Castle
Susan Koehn Designs
Occasions
The Grilled Oyster

Last hurrah for Sears and the Macy's Home Store

This will be the last Black Friday for Sears at Westfield Montgomery mall, and likely for the Macy’s Home Store as well. From what we hear, there’s a new Life Time Athletic fitness club and eventually a whole new Macy’s store on the way. More on these plans in our Oct. 25th edition. And stay tuned for next week, when we have some news about a big change happening on Rockville Pike.

Realtor Jacqueline Band-Olinger of Greystone Realty
Eyeland/Luxoptics

New restaurants for the holidays

What’s new on the holiday dining scene? Flower Child, the new fast-casual restaurant at Travilah Square Shopping Center, offers a healthy, veg-heavy menu that makes a great counterpart to all those Thanksgiving calories. Nada, specializing in tacos and cocktails, opened its doors on Monday at Pike & Rose. We haven’t tried it yet, but the interior is lovely. And Julii, a new French/Mediterranean restaurant from the founders of Cava, will be opening down the street in about a week. This week we took a sneak-peek tour with chef Sasha Felikson, who’s supervising every detail from the Moroccan tagine cookware to the chocolate soufflés. Check out our Facebook page for photos of all three places.

Wink Eyecare Boutique
Explorekensington.com
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New restaurant for Westfield Montgomery, Sugo’s secret chef, new picks on the Pike

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New restaurant for Westfield Montgomery

Big news for the Dining Terrace at Westfield Montgomery mall: Urban Plates, a modern take on the classic cafeteria, is taking over the empty Naples space with plans to open next year. The California-based chain offers a variety of chef-driven food stations, allowing customers to choose from freshly tossed salads and bowls, hand-carved sandwiches, side dishes and scratch-made desserts. Foodies should be happy with this place, where the beef is grass-fed, the chicken free-range, the seafood sustainably sourced and the produce mostly local. Want a peek at the menu? Click here or head over to Tysons Galleria, where Urban Plates will open in mid-July. Want to know what other restaurants are on the way to the mall? Click here.

1-800-GOT-JUNK
Wintergreen Plaza
Sugo at Park Potomac

Sugo’s secret chef

New talent in the kitchen this summer at Sugo: Sasha Felikson, a respected young chef who has worked at top D.C.-area restaurants from CityZen to Minibar, has been quietly revamping dishes at the Park Potomac eatery. Felikson, known for his adventurous choices, has been raising the bar at Sugo with new additions like small-batch mozzarella cheese and homemade pastas. (The crab gnocchi is a knockout). He’s now working on recipes for Julii, the new venture from the founders of Sugo and Cava, where he’ll be running the kitchen when doors open this fall at Pike & Rose. The Julii menu will be French-Mediterranean, with a few surprises. (Ever seen ice cream prepared tableside? Felikson tells us he’s working on it. Stay tuned.)

Central Farm Market
Scout & Molly's
CAVA, Honeygrow, Slapfish and Five Guys at Montrose Crossing 2

New picks on the Pike

The summer outdoor dining scene is starting to shape up at Montrose Crossing, with three new restaurants already open and two more nearing completion. Slapfish and Five Guys will soon join Cava and Honeygrow at the center’s new restaurant row, while Honey Pig Korean BBQ is now open near Old Navy. What’s missing from the lineup? Pieology. The make-your-own pizza chain has dropped out of the project, and we’re still waiting to hear who will fill the last few spaces. As soon as we know, you’ll know.

Launch Trampoline Park
Up Top Acres at Pike & Rose

Rooftop crops at Pike & Rose

Remember the rooftop farm at Pike & Rose that we told you about last January? The first summer is off to a good start, with 17,000 square feet of crops including greens, root vegetables, herbs, tomatoes and peppers. Up Top Acres is overseeing the farm, which is said to be the largest of its kind in the Washington metro area. The food is being distributed to Pike & Rose restaurants, farm share members (maxed out for this year) and customers at the Saturday farm markets. For more info on Up Top Acres, click here.

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