Store Reporter

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

Bowling & Gaming

Playa Bowls, Java Nation, Hank Dietle’s, Fire Wok & Forever 21

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Playa Bowls rolls into Cabin John

After you’ve had your fill of Halloween candy, it’s time to start counting the days until a new sweet treat arrives: Playa Bowls is set to open in mid-November at Cabin John Village. This Jersey Shore favorite is known for its bowls, juices and smoothies featuring custom blends of apples, acai berries, bananas, dragonfruit, chia seeds, coconut, kale, peanut butter, oatmeal, granola and honey. At the Cabin John location, you’ll also find nitro coffee and New Orleans-style cold brew with chicory.

Lisa Nasar
Strathmore Museum Shop Holiday Market

Coffee and a comeback

Coffee lovers, take note: The much-anticipated Java Nation is targeting a Nov. 20th opening in the former Addie’s/Helen’s space on Rockville Pike. This will be the second location for the popular Kensington shop, known for its tasty brews and European-style menu. Meanwhile, right next door, a new group is trying to revive the burned-down Hank Dietle’s Tavern and turn it into a local music venue. Stay tuned.

Normandie Farm

Wok's cooking in Potomac VIllage

Fire Wok, the Chinese restaurant that’s been under construction since last spring in the former Fortune Garden space, just opened its doors next to SunTrust in Potomac Village. The menu features typical Americanized Chinese favorites: beef with broccoli, basil chicken, shrimp with lobster sauce and the like. For a peek inside, check out Store Reporter on Facebook and Instagram.

Toy Castle
Bender JCC of Greater Washington

What's the future of Forever 21?

Forever 21 is looking pretty shabby at Westfield Montgomery mall these days, with racks of clothes in disarray and much of the inventory marked down to $3. The struggling retailer is in Chapter 11 and has announced plans to close 200 stores, but employees insist that this one is going to stay open. We’ll see.

The Game Gym

Escape from Pike & Rose

Just when you thought the escape room craze had run its course, a new one just opened at Pike & Rose. Escapology, an Orlando-based chain, offers four different hour-long adventures: two murder mysteries, a Secret Service mission and a chance to save the world from chemical warfare. You’ll find Escapology on Old Georgetown Road next to BiBiBop.

Washington Hebrew Congregation Holiday Boutique and Silent Auction
Capital Area Food Bank
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Busy season ahead for Pike & Rose, Bethesda Bagels rolls into Wildwood and more

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What's about to open at Pike & Rose

Busy season ahead for Pike & Rose, with three big openings in the next three months. West Elm, offering modern furniture and home decor, will arrive the week of Sept. 30th. Sunday Morning Bakehouse, the first brick-and-mortar store for the popular farm market vendor, will debut in the next few weeks. And The Block, a new Asian food hall, will open its doors in November with a whole new assortment of quick-serve eateries and snack spots. Stay tuned to Store Reporter as these opening dates firm up.

Central Farm Market
Shin Orthodontics

Bethesda Bagels on the way

Bethesda Bagels is planning a late September opening at Wildwood, where it’s been under construction since last winter in the former Coco Blanca space near CVS. Owner Danny Fleishman says he hopes to open in time for the Jewish High Holidays, which begin on Sept. 30th this year. This will be the fifth restaurant for Bethesda Bagels, a family-owned enterprise that’s approaching its 40th year in business.

Prep 1on1
Le Pain Quotidien

Kneipp checks out

This week we say goodbye to Kneipp, the bath and body shop that closed its doors after a three-year run at Westfield Montgomery mall. Kneipp (pronounced K-nay-p) is a German company that opened eight U.S. retail stores in 2016, going head-to-head with big players like Kiehl’s, Lush and Bath & Body Works. All eight stores, including the one in Pentagon City, will be closed by the end of October. Kneipp products will continue to be sold online and in specialty shops.

National Foot & Ankle
International School of Music

Grim year for Gamestop

GameStop, a mall favorite in the early 2000s, is having a hard time these days as gamers increasingly abandon physical platforms in favor of digital downloads and subscription services. This summer, GameStop’s CEO told investors that a turnaround will require an “ongoing sense of urgency that is off the chart.” The company recently shut down ThinkGeek.com, the nerdtastic gift site that it acquired four years ago. But inside GameStop’s stores, the shelves are increasingly stocked with figurines, toys and quirky fan merchandise. Watch for much more of that this holiday season.

Power Hour Editing
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Big summer ahead for Rio, new restaurants for Rockville, new yoga for Park Potomac and a Lord & Taylor update

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Rio's new backyard

This week we checked out the snazzy new boardwork at Rio in Gaithersburg, where a striking outdoor concert stage is nearly complete and a summer’s worth of performances are on the way. Rio is undergoing a $30 million facelift with dramatic changes to its appearance and tenant mix. Shown here: the view from what will soon be a second-floor lounge outside the AMC movie theater and the upcoming Dave & Buster’s (aiming to open July 1st). What’s next for Rio? A huge Silver Diner with indoor/outdoor seating and full bar (tentatively opening in August); an “experiential” Xfinity store (opening date TBD); and a state-of-the-art IMAX cinema that’s almost finished inside the movie theater. Plans for a Baked Bear ice cream shop have fallen through, but local creamery Moorenko’s is coming with a summertime pop-up. For behind-the-scenes photos from our visit this week, check out Store Reporter on Facebook and Instagram.

Wintergreen Plaza
Realtor Lisa Nasar of Long & Foster

Latest on Lord & Taylor

Lord & Taylor finally announced plans to close its store at Gaithersburg’s ailing Lakeforest Mall — no surprise, as other tenants have been exiting in droves while the mall’s owners look for a buyer.  Meanwhile, the retailer’s White Flint store remains in business more than four years after the adjoining mall was demolished. On a recent visit, we found the White Flint Lord & Taylor in surprisingly good shape with up-to-date merchandise and plenty of still-loyal shoppers. After years of litigation with White Flint’s owners, it’s unclear how much longer this department store will be around. But for now, there’s plenty of summer merchandise on the shelves.

Wink Eyecare Boutique

New restaurants for Rockville Town Square

Good news on the dining front for Rockville Town Square: Four new Asian restaurants are on the way. Friendship BBQ, featuring skewered meats and seafood dishes, will open this summer across from Sushi Damo. And the former Mellow Mushroom space, empty since last fall, will be divided into three new eateries: Gyuzo Japanese BBQ, offering sake and tabletop grilling; Kyoto Matcha, serving green tea, cakes and other desserts; and Taro Cents Family, specializing in Taiwanese taro balls. Rockville Town Square and the surrounding area are already home to a number of Asian restaurants, from the upscale Peter Chang, Sushi Damo and Thai Pavilion to fast-casual Pearl Lady and busy food hall The Spot. Meanwhile, Little Dipper Hot Pot House and the adjoining Lab Cafe recently closed on Gibbs Street.

Shin Orthodontics

Yoga at Park Potomac

A new yoga studio is heading to Park Potomac. Local yogi Debi Schenk is taking over the long-empty Barre Belle space a few doors down from Kaufmann Jewelers. Plans call for an early September opening, with a price point around $17 per class. Schenk’s studio won’t be the only new fitness option in Potomac this fall; Pure Barre is moving to Potomac Village. More on that in our May 2nd edition.

International School of Music
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What’s ahead for Wildwood, test kitchen at Zoës, new food at Congressional, ready for takeoff at the mall

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Wildwood blooms this summer

There’s a lot to look forward to at Wildwood this summer, with three new restaurants scheduled to open in the next few months. Flower Child, known for its flavorful and healthy menu, is nearing completion in the former Red Door space with a tentative opening date of July 3rd. Bethesda Bagels is on track for a late summer arrival, and Joe & the Juice won’t be far behind. Meanwhile, Salon Nader just moved into its new space between Flower Child and Belina Boutique. For more on all the new restaurants— as well as the recent departures of Oakville Grille and Wildwood Italian Cuisine — click here for our Jan. 17th edition.

Realtor Lisa Nasar of Long & Foster
Shin Orthodontics

Testing the menu at Zoës

In the six months since Cava Group acquired Zoës Kitchen, the Park Potomac restaurant has been serving as a testing ground for the fast-casual Mediterranean chain. “We are focusing on the basics, which includes making everything more fresh and flavorful,” says Cava partner Ted Xenohristos. “From the meats on the kabobs to the veggies on our salads, we are working on keeping things simple and putting a focus on the quality of the ingredients.” A new assortment of bowls, for example, features quinoa, lentils, cauliflower rice, cabbage slaw and other plant-based fare. If you haven’t seen the current menu, click here to check it out. If you’ve already tried it, click here to take an online survey and earn yourself a free drink from Zoës.

Hanna's Connection
Trio Jr.

Taking off at the mall

This week we have a few more details on Dream Aero, the flight simulator that’s heading to Westfield Montgomery mall. The ride is expected to open late this year in the empty space above Cava and Gusto, just down the hall from the ArcLight Cinema. Prices will start around $150, a rep tells us, for a 30- to 120-minute ride with a pilot by your side in a cockpit that mimics the sights and sounds of a Boeing 737NG. This will be the first U.S. venture for Dream Aero, a Russian company that operates similar rides in St. Petersburg, Moscow and Dubai.

International School of Music
The Big Greek Cafe

Beer, wine and a bite to eat

New place to grab a bite at Congressional Plaza: Beer & Wine Cellar, on the back side of the center at 146 Congressional Lane, is expanding into the space next door and venturing into the food business. Owner Joseph Gomes says he’ll offer a moderately priced menu of deli sandwiches, flatbread pizzas and cheesesteaks. “We’ll make your sandwich right in from of you, then you can get a glass of beer or wine and go sit outside,” he says. Indoor seating is already in place; the outdoor area should be up and running by the end of May.

Power Hour Editing
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Sweetgreen & more at Pike & Rose — plus Cinnabon, Wicked Waffle and a 737 at the mall

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Sweetgreen arrives, BurgerFi on the way

Sweetgreen, the fast-casual salad chain with D.C. roots, opened its doors this week at Pike & Rose. (Check out our photos on Facebook and Instagram.) This is the third Montgomery County location for the 12-year-old chain, which was founded by three undergraduate business students from Georgetown University. What’s next for the Pike & Rose food scene? BurgerFi should be open in a couple of weeks, followed by Sunday Morning Bakehouse sometime this summer. Meanwhile, there’s another new business just down the block. Read on for more.

The Grllled Oyster Co.
Wink Eyecare Boutique

New gift shop at Pike & Rose

A locally owned gift shop — something we don’t see much of these days — just opened its doors at Pike & Rose. Olive & Loom, which replaces the Seasons oil and vinegar shop next to Stella Barra, specializes in artisan-made goods from Turkey and the U.S. The store is already set up for summer with brightly colored towels, cover-ups, beach bags and kimonos, plus soaps, bath products, pillows and kitchenware. Owner Ferzan Jaeger has another shop, Sabun Home in downtown Bethesda, but she’s closing that down to focus on Olive & Loom. For a closer look at the new store, check out our photos on Facebook and Instagram.

Realtor Lisa Nasar of Long & Foster
Washington Hebrew Congregation

What's up with Cinnabon & Wicked Waffle

Here come the calories: Cinnabon is fast-tracking its buildout at Westfield Montgomery mall, where it’s scheduled to open at the beginning of April next to Popeyes. Meanwhile, bad news for Wicked Waffle fans: Plans for a comeback have fallen through. The restaurant closed in January and was supposed to reopen the following month, but its new owner wasn’t able to work out a lease agreement with the mall. If you miss Wicked Waffle, you’ll have to visit the D.C. location.

Toy Castle
Alice in Wonderland at Herbert Hoover Middle School

Fly me to the mall

In an unfortunate bit of timing given events of the past few weeks, a Dubai-based company just agreed to install a Boeing 737 flight simulator at Westfield Montgomery mall. The Dream Aero machine, which looks like a spaceship on the outside and a jet cockpit on the inside, will hover above Cava and Gusto in a still-undeveloped space on the mall’s third level. Timing is TBD, but we’re told construction is going to take awhile.

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What’s next for Cabin John Village, first look at Aldi, virtual reality at the mall

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Here’s your retail & restaurant scoop for the week of Nov. 1, 2018:

What's next for Cabin John Village

If you’ve been wondering what Cabin John Village is going to look like once all the construction is over, here’s a peek into the future. D.C.-based developer Edens, which bought the property two years ago, shared this rendering along with several others that you can find on our Facebook page. Reconstruction of the facades, new lighting and other upgrades will continue all winter, followed by a parking lot renovation next spring. (More details on what’s changing can be found in our Oct. 11th edition). In the meantime, Edens reps tell us they’re on the lookout for new tenants including professional offices, service businesses and yoga/Pilates studios, plus fresh stores and restaurants that are new to the local market. The next phase of Cabin John’s development — timeline still to be determined — will include housing, new retail buildings and a pedestrian cut-through to the back lot. More on that in our May 17th edition.

Explore Kensington

First look at Aldi

Aldi opened its doors this week at the Congressional North shopping center on Rockville Pike, a few doors down from Petco and Bed Bath & Beyond. Having heard mixed reviews about the no-frills German grocery chain, we were eager to check the place out. What we liked: Easy parking, wide aisles, good selection of regular and organic produce, great values on grocery staples (mostly Aldi’s own brands) without the pressure to buy in Costco-sized quantities. What we didn’t like: Some of the fruit looked tired, you have to bag everything yourself, and you won’t find many familiar brand names. What really shocked us: Paying less than $30 for a heaping bag of groceries. We’ll be back.

Shin Orthodontics

Walk the plank at Westfield Montgomery mall

Just opened across from the Apple store at Westfield Montgomery mall: Virtual Insanity, a virtual reality arcade where you can “experience” everything from walking the plank to kickboxing to painting in 3D. Ten minutes costs $10, or you can book a booth for longer sessions and take turns watching your friends make virtual fools of themselves. “Watching someone else do it is almost as entertaining as doing it yourself,” says co-owner Austin Berk. What else is happening at the mall? Lots of big news in last week’s issue; stay tuned next week for an update on the restaurant scene.

Washington Hebrew Congregation Holiday Boutique

Rockville restaurants open, Potomac boutique closes — plus free bowling at Lucky Strike

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Two new restaurants for Rockville

Now open at Montrose Crossing: a brand new Five Guys restaurant (relocating from the other side of Rockville Pike) and Slapfish, a California-based chain that’s making its first move into the D.C. area. The two eateries join CAVA and Honeygrow, rounding out the new restaurant row that replaced Timpano at that site. (Not familiar with Slapfish? Want to know what a Clobster is? Click here.)

1-800-GOT-JUNK
Shin Orthodontics
Lucky Strike Bethesda

FREE bowling at Lucky Strike

This week we have a special offer for Store Reporter readers from Lucky Strike Bethesda at Westfield Montgomery mall. Visit any Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and mention Store Reporter for one FREE game of bowling (shoes included). What will you find at Lucky Strike? Seasonal craft beer and handcrafted cocktails, chef-driven gastropub cuisine, sports games on two dozen 60-inch LED screens, and 12 full-sized bowling lanes with an edgy steampunk decor. Planning a special event? Don’t forget to ask about the fully customizable party packages with integrated audiovisuals and private lane-side suites (click here or email bethesdaparties@luckystrikesocial.com for details). One offer per visit, good through Sept. 30, 2018. To claim your free game, be sure to mention Store Reporter when you walk in.

Pike Kitchen

Make a date for Urban Plates

If you’re curious about Urban Plates, the restaurant that’s moving into the Naples space at Westfield Montgomery mall, then it’s time to pay a visit to Tysons Galleria. The California-based chain just opened its first D.C.-area location at Tysons, offering freshly prepared foods in a modern cafeteria-style setting. Plans call for a 2019 debut at Westfield Montgomery. For more info and a look at the Urban Plates menu, click here.

Germantown Moving & Storage

Potomac boutique to close its doors

Say sayonara to Sonoran Rose, the boho-chic Potomac boutique at 12211 River Road. After two years in the roadside barn that once housed local favorite Flora’s Feathered Nest, owner Isabel Chiotti says the out-of-the-way location simply didn’t generate enough foot traffic to pay the bills. “We had an enormous amount of great customers who really appreciated our fine tuning of merchandise, but it just wasn’t enough,” she says. “Everyone in this area is so busy, and the way people shop has changed a lot from the days when Flora’s was there. In the end, we just couldn’t compete with the big-box stores.” For info on the store’s closing sale, call 301-983-0231.

Scout & Molly's
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Did you miss these issues?

Cabin John construction update, new food & new Starbucks at Pike & Rose

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Cabin John construction moving along

The new restaurant row at Cabin John Village is really beginning to take shape. Construction crews have been busy at the intersection of Tuckerman Lane and Seven Locks Road, where Sisters Thai, Shake Shack, CAVA and Le Pain Quotidien are all scheduled to open later this year. On the parking lot side where the restaurant entrances will be (shown here), we hear there’s going to be a spacious outdoor seating area with shade trees. For more on all the new eateries heading to Cabin John, click here. For details on the center’s new spin studio/barre fitness gym, click here.

Congregation B'nai Israel Evening with Ben Stein
Nando's interior at Pike & Rose

Spicy chicken, more coffee for Pike & Rose

Nando’s Peri-Peri opens at Pike & Rose on Monday April 23rd, just down the street from the new Canopy Hotel (Click here for more sneak-peek photos on our Facebook page.) The fast-growing restaurant chain offers a South African/Portuguese menu that showcases spicy sauces and flame-grilled chicken. And in other Pike & Rose news: As we predicted in our Jan. 18 issue, Starbucks has posted signs for a new location next to H&M in the middle of all the new stores and restaurants. For now, it’s unclear whether the older Starbucks on Rockville Pike will close or the two locations will coexist.

Stella & Dot
The Baked Bear ice cream sandwich

Dreamy desserts on the way

What’s next for Pike & Rose? Just in time for warmer weather, The Baked Bear is set to open May 19th next to L.L.Bean. The California-based chain is known for its overstuffed ice cream sandwiches featuring mix-and-match combos of cookies, brownies and donuts. For a look at the menu, click here. For more on all the new restaurants coming to Pike & Rose, click here.

Stepping Stones Shelter
The Game Gym

Game on at Cabin John

The Game Gym, a new tenant at Cabin John Village, is set to open next month in the offices across from Dunkin’ Donuts. Owner Josh Hafkin, a Potomac native who spent his teens as a competitive athlete, says kids and young teens can learn some of same skills through video gaming as they do in physical sports. “The ability to communicate, to receive criticism, to learn how to win and how to lose — all of it can be learned through ‘esports,’” Hafkin says. The first round of afternoon programs will focus on the games League of Legends and Super Smash Bros. 4. Click here for details.

New venture from the Cava team, new closings and our favorite restaurants for 2017

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Cava team cooks up something new for Pike & Rose

Have you been wondering what’s up with that glass-encased building across from the new L.L.Bean store on Rockville Pike? Now we know: It’s the future home of Julii, a new French Mediterranean restaurant from the founders of Cava. This will be a standalone concept created specifically for Pike & Rose, serving an all-day menu that moves from croissants and coffee in the morning to shakshouka, roast chicken and cocktails in the evening. Co-owner Ted Xenohristos tells us he hopes to open the doors by late spring or early summer.

Wintergreen Plaza
Norman's Farm Market
Toy Kingdom at Rockville Town Square

Game over for Toy Kingdom

Toy Kingdom, one of the last original tenants at Rockville Town Square, will close its doors at the end of this month after more than a decade on Maryland Avenue. Toy stores large and small have been struggling to compete with online commerce these past few years; high-end Marbles closed all its stores last winter (including the one at Westfield Montgomery Mall), while Toys R Us filed Chapter 11 this past fall. In our area, Toy Castle in Potomac and Child’s Play in Rockville are now the only two toy stores left standing.

O'Donnell's Market Wednesday Meal Deals
Helen's holiday sign

Trouble for Helen’s

Helen’s, which opened last year in the former Addie’sspace on Rockville Pike, is struggling to stay in business. Owner Helen Wasserman, a longtime D.C. caterer, says it’s been difficult to turn a profit in an aging building that has needed so many repairs. “We’re hoping to stay open if we can work things out with the landlord,” she says. The building’s former tenants, restaurateurs Jeff and Barbara Black, had similar issues that led them to close the original Addie’s in 2013. They recently debuted a new version at Park Potomac — and it’s one of our Store Reporter Favoritesfor 2017. Scroll down to find out who else made the list.

Realtor Lisa Nasar of Long & Foster
Shanghai Bao Kitchen

Another restaurant closes at the mall

Westfield Montgomery Mall lost another eatery last week with the closing of Shanghai Bao Kitchen, a two-year-old concept from the owners of Bob’s Shanghai 66. The restaurant had made several attempts to revamp its menu in the past few months, adding sushi burritos, poke bowls and other trendy items, but it suffered from its out-of-the-way location plus competition from the neighboring B/Bop/Q.

Park Potomac Winterwilds Market

Our favorite new restaurants of 2017

This has been a tough year for retailers, but a relatively good one for the local dining scene. From Rockville Pike to Potomac to Westfield Montgomery Mall, some terrific new places have opened over the past 12 months. Here’s a look at some of our favorites.

  • Addie’s at Park Potomac: This reincarnation of the beloved Rockville restaurant was one of the most anticipated openings of the year — and many longtime fans say it was worth the wait. Seafood towers are the centerpiece of the high-end menu. Click here for details.
  • Buredo at the Wildwood Shops: This is the first Maryland location for the D.C.-based chain, an early pioneer of the sushi burrito craze. We’re partial to the Beatrix, stuffed with yellowfin tuna and salmon sashimi. Click here for details.
  • CSNY Pizza on Rockville Pike: From the owners of the much-loved Pizza CS, this is about as close as you can get to authentic New York-style pizza in Rockville. Click here for details.
  • Don Pollo at Westlake Crossing: Come for the juicy roasted chicken, stay for the tasty Peruvian dishes. We particularly like the ceviche, yuca and plantains. Click here for more.
  • Filicori Zecchini at Park Potomac: Finally, a neighborhood coffee shop that Potomac can call its own. With sleek European furniture, a stunning copper bar and authentic Italian coffee, it’s worlds away from Starbucks. Click here for more.
  • Honeyfish Poke at Congressional Plaza: Hawaiian-style poke bowls are all the rage, and this place does it right: generous portions, fresh toppings and flavorful sauces. Click here for details.
  • Fresh Baguette on Hungerford Drive: The second location for this popular French bakery is designed to service wholesale clients (think country clubs and ritzy hotels) but is happy to serve you a super-fresh sandwich, a loaf of bread or a single perfect pastry. Click here for more.
  • Gusto Farm to Street at Westfield Montgomery Mall: The pizzas and salads are all very good, but it’s the chewy, gluten-free cauliflower crust that really sets this place apart. Click here for more.
  • Lucky Strike at Westfield Montgomery Mall: The food is surprisingly good at this snazzy bowling alley, where you can sit front-and-center at the sports bar or huddle in a cozy corner for a quiet board game. Click here for more.
  • Mission BBQ at Wintergreen Plaza: This uber-patriotic restaurant has something of a cult following, both for its top-notch barbecue and its dedication to supporting those in uniform. The brisket is a standout. Click here for more.
  • Moby Dick in Potomac Village: A welcome addition to this restaurant-starved neighborhood, offering a reliable Middle Eastern menu that’s well-suited for takeout. Click here for more.
  • Pinstripes at Pike & Rose: Bocce and bowling aren’t the only reasons to visit: The dishes here are among the tastiest we’ve had this year in North Bethesda. Don’t miss the boneless short rib and the crispy calamari. Click here for more.

Special fall party-planning edition: What’s trending in dining, decor, party favors & more

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Party season starts now

We asked local event planners, deejays, decorators and party venues to tell us what’s hot in dining, decor, party favors and more. Whether you’re hosting a party this season or just attending them, here are five trends you’ll be seeing.

 

 

Lounge Furniture from Creative Balloons & MorePhoto: Creative Balloons & More

 

Trend #1: Moveable feasts

Sit-down dinners are on the wane these days, as more party hosts ditch the big round tables in favor of themed food stations, high-tops, plush couches and ottomans. Lounge furniture has been a popular option at kids’ parties for several years, but now it’s becoming more common for the adults as well. “Nobody wants to go down a long buffet table anymore,” says Shelley Belk, director of events at the Hyatt Regency Bethesda. “This way they keep moving, and it makes for a more fun and vibrant atmosphere.” Michelle Solomon of CGF Events says her clients also appreciate another advantage to this setup: No worries about table arrangements when party guests drop in and out at the last minute. “The final numbers can be changing right up to the day of the event,” she says. “This takes a lot of the stress off.”

 

 

Events at the Hyatt Regency Bethesda: https://bethesda.regency.hyatt.com/en/hotel/meetings-and-events.html

 

 

 

Cell phone taking a video at a party

 

Trend #2: Everyone’s a photographer

Now that every party guest arrives with cell phone in hand, hosts are finding ways to take advantage of all those extra cameras. This year’s hot party accessory is the Snapchat Geofilter, which allows hosts to stamp a custom design on photos and videos taken at the precise time and place of their event. Rented photo booths are also capable of texting images directly to guests’ cell phones, encouraging them to post the photos on social media or even project them onto a video screen during the event. And once the party’s over, apps like Veri and Webpix allow everyone to share their photos in one place. “You have to look for ways to integrate the phones into the fun,” says local party planner Sandy Max. “For kids especially, this is the way they interact and enjoy things now.”

 

 

Events at AMP by Strathmore: https://www.ampbystrathmore.com/private-events?utm_source=Store%20Reporter&utm_medium=banner&utm_content=AMP%20Venue%20Rental

 

 

 

Bat mitzvah girl with name in lightsPhoto: CGF Events

 

Trend #3: Have it your way

Customization is the buzz word this year when it comes to party favors, foods and decor. Today’s brides, grooms and mitzvah kids are searching the web for inspiration and asking planners to help them “brand” a party as their own. That might mean a cocktail named after the wedding couple, a quirky menu featuring a teen’s favorite foods, an unusual theme or a custom-designed logo that can be stamped on napkins, printed on T-shirts and projected onto the dance floor. “No one wants a cookie-cutter event anymore,” says Shelley Belk of the Hyatt Regency Bethesda. “Everyone wants something that says, ‘This is me.'”

 

 

Washington Talent Agency: http://washingtontalent.com

 

 

 

Flashing LED photo boothPhoto: Washington Talent Agency

 

Trend #4: If it lights up, they love it

Flashing eyeglasses and glow necklaces are as popular as ever on the party circuit this season, but the list of light-up options just keeps getting longer. “People always love the blinky stuff,” says Angel Santiago of Washington Talent Agency. What’s hot right now? Light-up fidget spinners, inflatable LED photo booths and glowing neon furniture. What’s out? Apparently, balloons. Shelly Poulos of Creative Balloons & More says despite her company’s name, she’s not doing much with helium these days. Most of her clients are opting for glowing candle centerpieces instead.

 

 

CGF Events: http://www.cgfevents.com

 

 

 

Party at the Air & Space MuseumPhoto: Washington Talent Agency

 

Trend #5: Company parties are losing the snooze

“Five or six years ago, the corporate party planners just wanted a deejay and that’s it,” says Brian Wasser of Electric Events DC. “But the younger generation has a different kind of attention span. They want to be stimulated, they want to be interacted with, they want to do a lot more than just showing up for dinner.” The result: Company parties are getting hipper every year, adding casino tables and arcade games, lounge furniture and lighting, TV monitors with live feeds, and all manner of photo booths. Angel Santiago of Washington Talent Agency says he recently brought a breakdancer to liven up a relatively stuffy event. “After the awards and announcements, he got the CEO out of his chair and was teaching him how to dance,” Santiago says. “It was the hit of the party.”

 

 

The Judaice Shop at Washington Hebrew Congregation: https://www.whctemple.org/groups-and-activities/adult-groups/sisterhood/sister-judaica-shop

 

 

 

Email news and advertising questions to: publisher@storereporter.com

 

 

 

Pinstripes & Peruvian food on the Pike — plus sushi burritos, edible cookie dough and a Potomac Village closing

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Bocce court at Pinstripes

 

Pinstripes opens at Pike & Rose

Who says the summer months are slow around here? A lot happened when we took a few weeks off. Let’s start with Pike & Rose, where Pinstripes opened its doors last weekend with bowling, bocce, cool rooftop views and a surprisingly top-notch menu. We loved the tenderloin sliders ($16), stuffed mushrooms ($11), boneless short rib with mashed potatoes ($25) and roasted cauliflower pasta with sundried tomatoes ($13). A 4,000-square-foot Sephora store is also new at Pike & Rose, soon to be followed by L.L. Bean, H&M, Sur La Table, Nando’s, Taylor Gourmet and a Porsche dealership. For more Pinstripes photos, visit our Facebook page.

 

 

Potomac Village Farmers Market: https://www.facebook.com/PVFM20854/?ct=t%28SR-8-10-17%3A+Pnstrps%2CPrvian%2CSshiBrrits%2CCkieDgh%2C+JT%29&mc_cid=7a747c96b2&mc_eid=%5BUNIQID%5D

 

 

 

Beatrix roll at Buredo

 

Hello Buredo

For sushi lovers, this month’s big news is the opening of Buredo at Wildwood Shopping Center. This is the third location for the D.C.-based chain, which serves up burrito-sized sushi rolls wrapped in seaweed instead of tortillas. Shown here: the Beatrix, featuring a mix of tuna and salmon sashimi, cucumber, pickled cabbage, green onion and tempura crunch topped with unagi sauce. To see what else is on the menu, click here.

 

 

La Limena Grill in Rockville

 

New Peruvian on the Pike

La Limeña Grill, under construction since last year in the former Potomac Grill space, finally opened its doors this week at 1093 Rockville Pike. The new restaurant is about twice the size of its older sister, La Limeña at Ritchie Center, with a more formal decor featuring black scroll lamps and charming murals. And while the original La Limeña offers a mix of Cuban and Peruvian food, owner Emma Perez says her new place will focus exclusively on the latter. The restaurant’s website isn’t up yet, but you can check out the menu for the Ritchie Center location here.

 

 

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

 

 

Bangkok Shrimp Bowl at California Tortilla

 

Who won our California Tortilla giveaway?

Congratulations to Store Reporter readers Michael Goozh and Marcy Trost, the winners of our California Tortilla giveaway drawing. They each won two fresh entrees with drinks and sides, to be redeemed at the Cabin John location or anywhere else in the D.C. Metro area. Didn’t win this time? You can still catch Cal Tort’s spicy-sweet Bangkok Shrimp bowls, burritos and quesadillas through the end of August — or stick with year-round menu favorites like the California Sunset Bowl and Korean BBQ Tacos. For a look at what’s cooking at California Tortilla, click here.

 

Sponsored Content

 

 

Jenny Camps Personal Training ad: http://www.jocpersonaltraining.com

 

 

 

JT Interiors in Potomac Village

 

Potomac Village gift shop to close this fall

This week we say a sad goodbye to one of our favorite local gift shops. JT Interiors in Potomac Village will close its doors in late September after five years in the little house at 9906 River Road. Owner Terri Downs, who launched the business 17 years ago in Kentlands, is having health issues and wants to focus on her recovery. The JT Interiors website will continue to operate, but the store is clearing out most of its inventory at 60 to 70 percent off. New merchandise, including decor that was purchased ahead for the holidays, is arriving daily. Check the JT Facebook page for updates. 

 

 

Cookie Dough & Co. and Teavana

 

Cookie dough in, Teavana out at the mall

Westfield Montgomery Mall has a new place to tempt your sweet tooth. Cookie Dough & Co., the first shop in our area to showcase the trendy treat, is now open in the former Peet’s Coffee kiosk near Sears. On the menu: safe-to-eat cookie dough in a variety of flavors, scooped like ice cream and served with milk or La Colombe coffee on the side. Meanwhile, the mall will soon lose the short-lived Teavana store that opened in expanded quarters just last winter. Starbucks has announced it will close all 389 of its tea stores by next spring. No word yet on how long ours will last.

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

Dave & Buster’s, boxes of jewels and what’s next for Cabin John Mall

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Cabin John Mall

 

What’s next for Cabin John?

It’s been six months since Cabin John Shopping Center & Mall was sold to Edens, a national firm with extensive holdings in the D.C. area. The new owners have been quiet about their plans up to now, but rumors have been swirling about new construction on the back parking lot and possible housing units to be built above the stores and restaurants. An Edens spokesman tells us she can’t comment on those rumors just yet, but she expects to release info on several new tenants in the weeks to come. (See our May 18th edition to find out who just moved into the mini-mall.) Stay tuned to Store Reporter as this story unfolds.

 

 

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

 

 

 

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

 

 

 

Pop-a-Shot

 

Dave & Buster’s back in the game?

Have you missed Dave & Buster’s since the White Flint Mall was torn down? We hear the gaming center is about to make a comeback — this time at Rio Washingtonian Center in Gaithersburg. Likely location is the Sport & Health space on Washingtonian Boulevard, which emptied out this week when the fitness center lost its lease. Dave & Buster’s, known for its hoops and arcade games since 1982, has been adding bowling and billiards at its newest locations. (Editor’s update: This rumor is now official. Click here for more.)

 

 

JT Interiors in Potomac Village: https://www.facebook.com/jtinteriorspotomac/?ct=t%28SR-5-25-17%3A+D&B%2C_Boxes_of_Jewels%2C_Cabin_John%29=&mc_cid=8c7853af96&mc_eid=%5BUNIQID%5D

 

 

 

Norman's Farm Market: http://normansfarmmarket.com/roadside-stands/

 

 

 

Leilabox from Leila Jewels

 

Jewels to your door

Leila Fine Gifts & Jewels, celebrating its fifth anniversary at Cabin John Shopping Center, is launching a monthly subscription service for jewelry. “What’s more fun than getting a box in the mail?” asks owner Deb Shalom, whose LeilaBox concept is loosely modeled on popular services like Birchbox and Stitch Fix. Members pay $22 a month for three surprise pieces that can be borrowed indefinitely, purchased at a discount or sent back immediately with no shipping charges. “This is jewelry from terrific unfamiliar designers that you would normally only find at funky little boutiques, not the kind that you can buy anytime at Macy’s,” Shalom says. Click here for details.

 

 

Bagel City party platters: https://www.facebook.com/Bagel-City-1449523538616738/?ct=t%28SR-5-25-17%3A+D&B%2C_Boxes_of_Jewels%2C_Cabin_John%29=&mc_cid=8c7853af96&mc_eid=%5BUNIQID%5D

 

 

 

Elephant topiary at Westfield Montgomery Mall

 

Flower show at the mall

Montgomery in Bloom, a six-week flower fest at Westfield Montgomery Mall, is now open in the lower level of the Nordstrom wing. Inspired by the Macy’s Flower Show in New York City, the event features topiaries, product samples, painting parties and other floral-themed happenings through the end of June. Click here for more photos on our Facebook page.

 

 

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

 

 

 

Email news and advertising questions to: publisher@storereporter.com

 

 

 

REI, Nespresso, Victoria’s Secret & Lovesacs — plus a Strathmore ticket giveaway

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New REI store at Pike & Rose

 

Opening day for REI

Tuesday (April 25th) is opening day for the handsome new REI store at Pike & Rose, the beginning of a new wave of tenants that will soon include L.L. Bean and a Pinstripes bocce and bowling center. The 36,000-square-foot store replaces REI’s older location at 1701 Rockville Pike, which will close its doors for the last time Sunday night. Grand opening festivities are set for the following weekend (April 28th-30th) with classes, music, food and giveaways. For more on the new REI store — and what the company thinks about being neighbors with L.L. Bean — click here for our March 16th edition.

 

 

AMP by Strathmore: https://www.ampbystrathmore.com/?utm_source=Store%20Reporter&utm_medium=Banner&utm_content=AMP%20Come%20Together

 

 

Nespresso at Westfield Montgomery Mall

 

Hello Nespresso

The Nespresso store is finally open at Westfield Montgomery Mall — several months behind schedule, but well worth the wait for the espresso-obsessed. If you’re looking to sip a custom-brewed cappuccino while you debate the pros and cons of the Vertuo Plus vs. the Lattissima Pro, this is the place to do it. Adding to the cool factor: A towering rainbow coffee pod display that makes the store feel a bit like an art installation. You’ll find Nespresso on the mall’s second level across from Swarovski; click here for a sneak peek of those snazzy coffee machines.

 

 

Washington Talent Mitzvah Madness: http://washingtontalent.com/mitzvahmadness

 

 

 

 

Rent stars live at Strathmore — win our tickets!

This week we have a special giveaway for Broadway fans: A chance to see Adam Pascal and Anthony Rapp, two of the original stars of Rent, appearing live at Strathmore on Friday, April 28th. The pair will perform songs from the show that made them famous (click here for a preview), along with their solo albums and post-Rent careers. (Pascal also starred on Broadway in Cabaret and Elton John’s Aida.) Strathmore’s spring schedule also includes appearances by Tony Bennett, Audra McDonald, Gladys Knight and the creators of the Serial podcast. Want to enter our raffle for Adam & Anthony Live? Click here to send us an email, or visit our Facebook page. Update: Dara Baylinson and Gail Hyman won these tickets. Stay tuned to Store Reporter for more great giveaways.

 

Sponsored Content

 

 

Realtor Lisa Nasar: http://www.lisanasarhomes.com

 

 

 

Bra from Victoria's Secret

 

New home for Victoria’s Secret and Pink

Victoria’s Secret and Pink are on the move at Westfield Montgomery Mall. The lingerie sister stores are leaving their current spot in the Nordstrom wing for a new home between Macy’s and Sephora. The relocation should happen sometime this summer. Who will move in when the bras and undies move out? Stay tuned.

 

 

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

 

 

 

Lovesac beanbag

 

Lovesac, baaaaybee

Behold the Lovesac. If you’re not familiar with this line of beanbag-style furniture, that’s about to change: The Connecticut-based company is joining the lineup at Westfield Montgomery Mall, opening late summer/early fall next to Aldo in the Nordstrom wing. Besides the basic round Lovesac pictured here, the retailer also offers “Sactionals” for your family room, “Squattomans” for your feet and “Petsacs” for your dog (click here to check out the lineup). This will be the second beanbag-style furniture store at Westfield Montgomery Mall; Yogibo opened 18 months ago near Old Navy.

 

 

Hope for Henry 5K: http://www.hopeforhenry.org/hope-henry-run-5k-make-kids-day

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lucky Strike opens, White Flint update and our restaurant contest winners

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Lucky Strike Social at Westfield Montgomery Mall

 

Time to get Lucky

This weekend brings the long-awaited debut of Lucky Strike Social, opening Saturday underneath the Dining Terrace at Westfield Montgomery Mall. At a sneak peek this week, we found an inviting space for bowlers and non-bowlers alike: plush leather couches at each of the 12 lanes, comfy seating areas for pre-and post-game socializing, and a lively bar that’s likely to become a gathering spot for shopped-out sports fans. Lanes can be rented by the hour on weekend evenings for $65 a pop; at other times, the price will be $5 to $6 per person per game (plus shoe rental). We have more photos on the Store Reporter Facebook page; click here for look.

 

 

JT Interiors at Potomac House: https://www.facebook.com/jtinteriorspotomac/

 

 

 

Menchie's Frozen Yogurt and Stride Rite at Westfield Montgomery Mall

 

Who’s in, who’s out at the mall

Lots of comings and goings at Westfield Montgomery Mall since our last edition. On the food side, Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt finally opened across from Build-a-Bear Workshop; meanwhile, Bistro Sensations has vanished from the Dining Terrace and Chocolate Moonshine has closed its seasonal pop-up shop. Also gone is American Apparel, which finally completed its extended bankruptcy sale, and Sheepskin Gifts & Alpaca Too, whose owners say they’ll be back again next fall. Exiting soon: the Marbles game store (going bankrupt) and the Stride Rite kids’ shoe store, which will close at the end of March.

 

 

Bethesda Salt Cave: http://www.bethesdasaltcave.com

 

 

 

Lord & Taylor on Rockville Pike

 

White Flint update

This week there was a new development in the longstanding battle between Lord & Taylor and the owners of the former White Flint Mall. A U.S. Court of Appeals upheld a 2015 verdict that Lord & Taylor, which is still doing business on the property, is entitled to $31 million in damages resulting from the mall’s demolition. The mall’s owners, Lerner Enterprises and The Tower Cos., have said they might not follow through with redevelopment plans if the verdict didn’t go their way. Bethesda Beat reports that their lawyers are now deciding whether to appeal yet again.

 

 

East Gate Swim & Tennis Club: https://www.teamunify.com/Home.jsp?team=recpveggstmd

 

 

 

Fish Taco platter

 

And the restaurant winners are…

Last month we asked our readers to vote for their favorite new restaurants in the Rockville/Potomac area, drawing from a list of two dozen eateries that have opened over the past year. The results made one thing abundantly clear: The fast-casual segment is where it’s at. Most of the votes went to places where you can take the kids, wear something comfortable, and get a good meal for less than $15 per person.

And the winners are:

  • Fish Taco at Wildwood, the runaway winner of our poll, has earned a loyal following for its distinctive menu, tasty margaritas, striking decor and casual atmosphere that works equally well for couple meet-ups and family dinners.
  • Chuy’s on Rockville Pike is another favorite for its generous portions of Tex-Mex food and drinks, not to mention the excellent service and quirky Elvis-themed decor.
  • The Big Greek Café, a family-owned restaurant that recently added a location off Rockville Pike at Nicholson Lane, is beloved for its delicious home-cooked food and exceptionally warm staff.
  • Chopt and Modern Market, the two newest eateries at Congressional Plaza, both earn high praise for their winning combination of healthy food that tastes great. 
  • The Habit Burger Grill and Jersey Mike’s Subs, both at Wintergreen Plaza, offer an updated take on fast food that’s resonating with many of our readers.

In the fine-dining arena, two restaurants earned the most votes:

  • Helen’s, which took over the former Addie’s space on Rockville Pike, is a favorite for its top-notch cooking and welcoming, intimate atmosphere.
  • Lahinch, in the former Benny’s space at Cabin John Shopping Center, earned high marks for its Irish/American menu and lively ambience.

Other popular choices in our poll were Owen’s Ordinary at Pike & Rose, Mellow Mushroom at Rockville Town Square, and Beefsteak at Westfield Montgomery Mall. And the winner of dinner for four at Chuy’s? Hillary Benson of Potomac.

 

 

Email questions to publisher@storereporter.com

 

 

 

La Limeña and Lucky Strike, game over for Marbles, last chance to win dinner at Chuy’s

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Peruvian on the Pike

La Limeña Grill, a new spinoff of the popular Peruvian restaurant, is set to open next month in the former Potomac Grill space at 1093 Rockville Pike. Owner Emma Perez says the new place will be a bit more formal than its older sister at nearby Ritchie Center, with twice as much indoor seating plus a spacious outdoor patio. Unlike the original La Limeña, this restaurant will focus solely on Peruvian food with no Cuban dishes in the mix. The new menu is still being finalized, but you can see what’s cooking at the original La Limeña by clicking here.

 

 

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

 

 

 

Marbles The Brain Store

 

Game over for Marbles

Another week, another retail bankruptcy to report. This time it’s Marbles: The Brain Store, which has filed Chapter 11 after nearly a decade in business. The Chicago-based company carried a carefully edited selection of games and puzzles, with a hands-on approach that encouraged customers to play before they purchased. All 37 Marbles stores will be closing in the next month or two, including the one in the Nordstrom wing at Westfield Montgomery Mall. To see what’s still for sale, click here.

 

 

Sculpt Studio: http://sculptstudio.com

 

 

 

Lucky Strike bowling alley

 

Bowling alley opening delayed again

The debut of Lucky Strike Social at Westfield Montgomery Mall has been delayed yet again. Grand opening events that were scheduled for February have now been pushed back to early March — about nine months later than originally planned, as the company tinkered with its new bowling alley/game center/party venue concept. For more on Lucky Strike Social, click here for our Jan. 19 edition.

 

 

 

 

 

DXL men's shirts

 

New men’s store on Rockville Pike

DXL, the new incarnation of Casual Male XL, recently moved into the former Ethan Allen space at 12137 Rockville Pike. The store carries big-and-tall men’s apparel and accessories from Polo Ralph Lauren, Brooks Brothers, True Religion, Lacoste, Nautica and other popular brands. Ethan Allen can now be found on the ground floor of Galvan at Twinbrook, the retail/residential complex that opened last year on the Pike at Chapman Avenue.

 

 

Chuy's platters

 

Last chance to win dinner at Chuy’s

Have you weighed in yet in our reader poll about the best new restaurants in the greater Rockville/Potomac area? From burgers and beer to Irish and Russian cuisine, Store Reporter has covered the openings of some two dozen new restaurants in the past 12 months. Tell us which ones you like best, and we’ll enter you into our raffle to win dinner for four at Chuy’s on Rockville Pike. Here are the contenders:

  • Beefsteak at Westfield Montgomery Mall
  • Carluccio’s at Pike & Rose
  • Chopt at Congressional Plaza
  • Chuy’s at Federal Plaza
  • Fish Taco at the Wildwood Shops
  • Finnegan’s Wake Irish Pub at Rockville Town Square
  • Habit Burger at Wintergreen Plaza
  • Helen’s on Rockville Pike
  • Jersey Mike’s at Wintergreen Plaza
  • Lahinch at Cabin John Shopping Center
  • Mellow Mushroom at Rockville Town Square
  • Miso Fusion Café at Rockville Town Square
  • Modern Market at Congressional Plaza
  • Owen’s Ordinary at Pike & Rose
  • Pieology on Shady Grove Road
  • Pie 360 on Rockville Pike
  • Samovar at Rockville Town Square
  • Smashburger on Rockville Pike
  • Tara Thai at Westfield Montgomery Mall
  • The Big Greek Cafe on Nicholson Lane
  • Wingstop at Wintergreen Plaza
  • World of Beer in downtown Rockville

Click here to email us with the names of your favorites (choose as many as you want) or click here to comment on our Facebook page. We’ll tally up the votes and draw the winning name in an upcoming issue.

 

 

Please email questions to publisher@storereporter.com

 

 

 

Modern Market eyes Fallsgrove, new tenant for American Tap Room, goodbye Ten Thousand Villages

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Modern Market at Congressional Plaza

 

Modern Market heading to Fallsgrove?

It’s not a done deal yet, but we’re hearing that Modern Market will soon announce plans for a second Rockville restaurant at the Fallsgrove Village Center off Shady Grove Road. The chain made its D.C.-area debut last summer in downtown Bethesda, followed in December by a second location at Rockville’s Congressional Plaza and just this week by a third location in Washington. Modern Market, based in health-conscious Boulder, CO, has earned an avid following for its super-fresh menu (click here), detailed nutritional information, and willingness to accommodate a variety of specialized diets. (At Fallsgrove, though, we might just be tempted to top off all that healthy eating with a hot Krispy Kreme.)

 

 

Sculpt Studio: http://sculptstudio.com

 

 

 

 

New successor for American Tap Room

Six weeks after the closing of Rockville’s American Tap Room, a new restaurant has leased the space with plans to open this summer. Pandora Seafood Restaurant and Bar is a new venture from the owners of China Garden, a longtime fixture in Rosslyn, VA, that’s known for hosting large events. China Garden recently announced plans to close at the end of July, just when this new restaurant is expected to open.

 

 

Catering at Duck Donuts: https://duckdonuts.com/locations/rockville-md/

 

 

 

 

Goodbye Ten Thousand Villages

Ten Thousand Villages, which sells crafts made by artisans in developing countries, will close its Bethesda and Rockville stores this spring. The company is trimming down “in response to a changing retail environment,” says spokesman Juanita Fox, but will continue to operate stores in Baltimore and Old Town Alexandria. The 11-year-old location at Rockville Town Square is scheduled to exit March 25, followed shortly afterwards by the Bethesda store on Elm Street. If you’re a fan of Ten Thousand Villages and its global mission, you can still shop the website by clicking here.

 

 

Tips on Trips & Camps Summer Opportunities Fair: https://tipsontripsandcamps.com/dc/

 

 

 

Silver Moon Valentine's Day jewelry 2017

 

Valentine’s Day gifts at Silver Moon

Valentine’s Day is approaching fast, and the Silver Moon gift shop at Congressional Plaza (formerly known as Tiara) is brimming with heart-shaped jewelry from Pandora. Shown here: sterling silver earring and necklace set for $125; pavé heart bracelet with love charm and silver clips for $195; and the “Love Struck” charm gift set for $65. All three come complete with lovely red gift boxes. Silver Moon Jewelry & Accessories, Congressional Plaza, 1659 Rockville Pike. Call 301-468-1122 or visit www.silvermoonstyle.com.

 

Sponsored Content

 

 

Westfield Montgomery Mall

 

More post-holiday closings at the mall

More closings to report this week at Westfield Montgomery Mall, where January always brings a slew of departures but this year was particularly rough. Best Buy Mobile and Wetzel’s Pretzels are the latest tenants to leave, joining a list that now includes Naples Ristorante, The Limited, Peet’s Coffee, R. Riveter, Smart Toys, American Classic Clothes and Freddy. American Apparel, which recently declared bankruptcy, is also on its way out. But February will bring some fresh tenants into the mix, with Lucky Strike Social and Nespresso both expected to open in the next few weeks. For details on all the recent closings, catch up on our past issues at www.storereporter.com.

 

 

Email questions to: publisher@storereporter.com

 

 

Lucky Strike and Nespresso at Westfield Montgomery Mall, women ditch black at the gym, and a comeback for The Limited

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Lucky Strike Social

 

New bowling alley almost ready to roll

Lucky Strike Social, under construction for nearly a year in the old movie theater space at Westfield Montgomery Mall, is finally set to open its doors next month. This will be the second location for Lucky Strike’s new breed of entertainment centers, which include a full kitchen and bar menu, space for concerts and parties, and a variety of games from billiards to ping pong to old-school arcades. Lucky Strike, like the ArcLight Cinema that came before it, is part of the mall’s long-term strategy to reduce its reliance on retail and boost its image as an entertainment destination. For a preview of what’s on the way, click here.

 

 

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

 

 

 

Nespresso SoHo Boutique

 

A February debut for Nespresso

Also making its debut at Westfield Montgomery Mall next month: The long-awaited Nespresso Boutique, opening across from Swarovski near the new Apple store. This location will be similar to the ones in Tysons Corner and SoHo, New York (the latter shown here), with a full selection of Nespresso machines and coffee samples — but sadly, no food.

 

 

 

 

 

LavaLoka trio of workout pants

 

Print is the new black

Printed leggings are trending at local gyms this winter as women dare to ditch their black pants for bold graphics in vivid shades. At the forefront of this trend is LavaLoka (formerly known as HotPants), a three-year-old line of brightly colored activewear from Potomac entrepreneur Amy Pascal. “The black pants thing is so boring, but it’s a comfort zone that’s hard for many women to get out of,” says Pascal, who sells primarily at boutique shows and online (www.lavaloka.com). Pascal says the trend was first embraced in cities like New York, Miami and L.A. — but it’s clearly catching on in the D.C. area, where women are wearing their eye-popping workout pants everywhere from Starbucks to the supermarket. “It’s all about being comfortable and expressing your individuality,” Pascal says. “People like being able to take their look from the gym to the street.”

 

 

 

Leila Fine Gifts and Jewels January clearance sale: http://leilajewels.com

 

 

 

Sweaters from The Limited

 

A comeback for The Limited?

The Limited, which closed all its stores after the holidays and filed for bankruptcy this week, may be poised for a comeback online. A private equity firm is buying the company’s intellectual property and may relaunch The Limited as a web-only retailer, reports The Columbus Dispatch. The new owner is Sycamore Partners, which also operates the brands Coldwater Creek, Hot Topic, Jones New York and Talbots. The Limited’s website is currently sporting a “we’ll be back soon” message. Stay tuned.

 

 

Email questions to publisher@storereporter.com

 

 

White Flint Update: Wegmans, Bloomie’s and more

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The latest on White Flint

The biggest mystery on Rockville Pike right now: What’s going to happen to the White Flint Mall? Three years have passed since the announcement that White Flint would be replaced by an open-air mix of retail, restaurants, offices and living space. Bloomingdale’s closed in 2012, followed by a two-year parade of departures that left only three survivors: Lord & Taylor, Dave & Buster’s and P.F. Chang’s. So what’s next for White Flint? Nothing has been announced yet — not even a demolition date — but we’re here to tell you what we know.

 

 

Wegmans Storefront

 

 

Wegmans on the way?

Store Reporter would not kid you about this. We’re hearing that Wegmans — the uber-popular grocery store with the cult following — has signed a deal to open at White Flint in 2017. The new store would be roughly triple the size of a typical Giant or Safeway, leaving plenty of room for the specialty departments that Wegmans fans rave about: Sushi bars. Olive bars. Coffee bars. Cheese bars. Fresh pizza, gourmet sandwiches, restaurant-worthy prepared foods, top-notch baked goods, eye-popping bins of bulk candy… we could go on, but we’re getting hungry. Wegmans, which opened a store in Germantown last fall, has been trying for years to move into our area. Looks like it’s really happening this time.

 

 

Bloomingdale's Big Brown Bag

 

Bloomie’s coming back?

They say you can’t go home again, but there’s a chance that Bloomingdale’s will do just that. The store’s closing left a void for Bloomie’s fans, who must drive to Tyson’s or Chevy Chase when they can’t find what they’re looking for at sister store Macy’s. There’s talk now that Bloomie’s might return to its old home with a brand-new store at White Flint. The mall’s other original anchor, Lord & Taylor, is expected to keep its existing building. So is P.F. Chang’s. But the future is less clear for Dave & Buster’s, which like Lord & Taylor has sued the mall’s owners over redevelopment plans.

 

 

Grand Luxe Cafe Beignets

 

Another slice of Cheesecake?

It also looks like White Flint may not have seen the last of Cheesecake Factory. The mega-popular restaurant relocated late last year to new digs at Westfield Montgomery Mall. But now we hear that Cheesecake’s owners are considering White Flint for their higher-end concept, Grand Lux Cafe. With a flagship location in Las Vegas and 10 more nationwide, Grand Lux has a Cheesecake-style massive menu specializing in Thai, Malaysian, Caribbean and other international cuisines. The on-site bakeries get great reviews, especially for their New Orleans-style beignets. If this deal happens, you can try one for yourself in about three years.

 

Balls and bowls on Rockville Pike, sushi in Potomac Village

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Coming to Pike & Rose

Pike & Rose, the new “downtown” development slated for Rockville Pike and Montrose Parkway (former site of Toys R Us, Filene’s Basement, etc.) is picking up steam as new tenants climb aboard. Here’s a look at some of what’s to come…

 

 

Pinstripes

 

Bowling, bocce and bistro

Pinstripes, which just made its local debut in Georgetown, is close to finalizing a deal for a second location at Pike & Rose. It will offer a combo of bowling lanes, bocce courts, food, drinks and live music — all in an upscale atmosphere with Jerusalem stone floors and communal outdoor fire pits. Pinstripes also will host weddings, bar mitzvahs and corporate events, says CEO Dale Schwartz. “Each of our locations does about 2,000 parties a year.” But you’ve got plenty of time to plan: Pinstripes is scheduled to open in 2016.

 

 

iPic Theaters with 3D Glasses

 

Best seats in the house

Maryland’s first iPic Theater, part of a new wave of ultra-luxury movie houses, is set to raise the curtain at Pike & Rose this fall. Like the ArcLight Cinema under construction at Westfield Montgomery Mall, iPic will offer swanky decor, state-of-the-art sound systems, reserve-ahead seating, bar service and high-end food. And for a few extra bucks, they’ll throw in even more perks: pillows, blankets and black-clad “ninja” waiters who bring the cocktails and Portobello sliders right to your cushy reclining seat.

 

 

ShopHouse Asian Kitchen rice bowl

 

Chipotle goes Asian

ShopHouse Southeast Asian Kitchen, a new concept from Chipotle, brings the Mexican chain’s assembly-line format to a whole new cuisine. Start with a bowl of rice or noodles, then choose from an array of meat, tofu, fresh vegetables, herbs, spicy sauces and toppings reminiscent of Bangkok, Singapore and Hanoi. ShopHouse already has established a cult following at its D.C. and Bethesda locations. And by the way: The original Chipotle will still be part of the new Pike & Rose — just in a slightly different location. So will the French bakery La Madeleine.

 

 

Sushi Roll

 

Potomac Village on a roll

Just opened in Potomac Village: En Bistro & Sushi, the latest venture from a man who knows his way around a spicy tuna roll. “A lot of people in this area will recognize me from years of catering at country clubs, bar mitzvahs and baseball games,” says owner Billy Ye, who has two other “En” restaurants in Rockville and Germantown. En Bistro offers a full pan-Asian menu. You can find it near Tally Ho, on the back side of the Verizon store. Oh… and did we mention they deliver?

 

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