Store Reporter

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

Congressional Plaza

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. Opening Saturday (March 30th) 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.

 

  • 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.

mailto:publisher@storereporter.com

Last Call at Neiman’s, Goldberg’s Bagels, auctions heat up & the new shopping landscape

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Shopping won't look like it used to

As we draw closer to the reopening of Montgomery County — date still to be determined — our stores are preparing to welcome back customers to an altered shopping environment. Masks will be de rigueur, of course, with some places handing out gloves and sanitizer. Staffers will be cleaning constantly, enforcing social distancing and limiting traffic in their stores. Bra fittings, makeup testing and other “high-touch” services will no longer be offered. Fitting rooms will be scarce at some stores and closed at others; “try-it-on-at-home” will be the norm. And all that stuff you end up returning? It will have to be quarantined and/or disinfected before going back to the racks. Lastly, forget about bringing cash: A lot of stores will no longer accept it.

Game Gym

Last call for Last Call?

With Neiman Marcus joining the ranks of retailers in Chapter 11, we’re not too optimistic about the future of the Last Call outlet in Rockville. Even before the pandemic caused all department stores to close, the Dallas-based chain had announced plans to shutter most of its Last Call locations. Luxury and high prices are what Neiman Marcus is known for, and Last Call’s discount model had been chipping away at the mystique. At Congressional Plaza, Last Call occupies a massive space next to the new Barnes & Noble and the upcoming “FitRow” gym hub. (You remember gyms, those places where we used to go to work out?)

Mimi Arnold

Is Goldberg's coming back?

Store Reporter readers have been wondering about the fate of the Goldberg’s bagel chain, whose restaurants have remained closed throughout the pandemic. The phone line at Goldberg’s Cabin John location has been disconnected, but owners tell us it’s only temporary and their restaurants will reopen in a couple of weeks. Also expected to make a comeback is longtime favorite Bagel City, which has been dark on Rockville Pike since March. More on that in our April 23rd edition.

International School of Music

While people are home, auctions heat up

With so much of our time spent at home these days, a lot of us are viewing our surroundings with fresh eyes. For some, the moment finally has arrived to fill up those blank walls and empty shelves. For others, now is the time to start selling off unwanted art, jewelry and collectibles. Debrah Dunner, a Potomac-based rep for the auction house Freeman’s, says clients are consigning everything from fine art to jewelry, designer furniture and rare books. “Some of our clients are getting ready to downsize, and some are just looking around and realizing that they don’t need all this stuff in their homes,” she says. And with online auctions making it easier than ever to participate, Dunner says first-time buyers are entering the market at record levels. “No one is going out to dinner or going places right now,” she says. “So instead of collecting experiences, a lot of people are looking to spend money on objects they can own.” Are you thinking of buying, selling or just want to know how much your stuff is worth? Dunner offers free auction estimates via virtual appointments, with easy no-contact pickup of your goods. Questions? Email ddunner@freemansauction.com or call (301) 738-0347.

"We're Open!" for food, fashion, face masks & more

This week’s guide has even more stores and restaurants that deliver to your doorstep, plus a growing list of kids’ activities and businesses that are currently open to serve you.

 

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.

 

 

 

FASHION

 

  • Bows Etc., now making face masks with personality for men, women & kids. Your smile may be hidden, but you can still rock fun designs and show off your favorite sports teams & colleges. All our masks are reversible & washable, with three layers of 100% cotton fabric & pocket for an additional filter. Masks are $14 plus $5 shipping, or porch pickup in the Shady Grove area. Shop Facebook or email arlen.groban@yahoo.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 @lovegymantonic 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.

 

  • 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.

 

  • 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. 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. We’re open from noon to 6 p.m. for curbside pickup. Check out our online Flash Sale Fridays for some fantastic savings! Click here for our super fashionable (leopard, snake, tie dye) face masks. Also check our Instagram for weekly giveaways. Call us: 301-348-5047. Shop: northbethesda.scoutandmollys.com.

 

FOOD

 

  • Brooklyn’s Deli, homemade meats, soups & sandwiches at Potomac Woods Plaza. 1089 Seven Locks Road. Brooklyn’s Deli would like to thank Eagle Bank for getting us through this extremely rough time. Open daily for carry-out & catering. Phone: 301-340-3354. 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: https://gyrolandmd.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. Offering delivery, carry-out and curbside pickup. 1/2 off beer and wine to go, mixed drinks to go at happy hour prices. Stop by and say hi! Call: 240-499-8922. Menu: lahinchtavernandgrill.com.

 

 

  • 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.

 

  • 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: https://mykonosgrill.com/

 

  • Normandie Farm, pop on over for fine cooking in 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.

 

 

 

  • 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. More info here: mygym.com/potomac.

 

  • The Story House, a carefully curated selection of books & games for kids & adults. Now selling cotton face masks for men, women & kids. Most are reversible, with two patterns; all have a filter pocket. Shop www.storyhouseonline.com or visit us inside Dawson’s Market at Rockville Town Square. Free shipping on orders over $25, free pick-up at Dawson’s in-store or curbside. Email us: debbie@storyhouseonline.com.

 

  • 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.

 

  • 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. www.normandycarpet.com.

 

 

mailto:publisher@storereporter.com

New Barnes & Noble, Cabin John construction, who’s closed but coming back

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Books in, toys out at Congressional

Whenever this pandemic finally ends, here’s one thing we know for sure: There will still be plenty of books to buy in Rockville. Construction has been moving along at Congressional Plaza, and the new Barnes & Noble sign is finally up. In case you haven’t heard, the bookstore will be moving across the street from its longtime home at Montrose Crossing. (Timetable? No one knows right now.) Meanwhile, Congressional Plaza also lost a longtime tenant this week: Child’s Play, one of our last locally owned toy stores, has closed its doors in Rockville. Owners say the exit is permanent, and it’s unrelated to coronavirus.

Lisa Nasar

More construction at Cabin John

In other construction news, bulldozers have been bustling at Cabin John Village these past few weeks. In addition to the townhouses being built behind the center, the parking lot outside the mini-mall is fenced off for upgrades to its asphalt, landscaping and lighting. Long-term plans call for additional retail buildings on this side of Cabin John. Stay tuned to Store Reporter for the latest.

California Tortilla

Closed for now, but not for good

While many of our local restaurants remain open for takeout and delivery (scroll down for our list), some have opted to shut down temporarily instead of making the switch. Bagel City on Rockville Pike has been closed for several weeks, and the papered-over windows had customers concerned that it wouldn’t be coming back. Not to worry: Owners tell us they’ll reopen as soon as it’s safe to do so. First Watch also closed its doors at Rockville Town Square last week, but the Florida-based chain says all locations will reopen when the time is right.

We're Open! Local food, shopping and live classes

The “We’re Open!” Guide is our weekly list of locally owned businesses ready to serve you. Support our stores and restaurants — and give yourself a much-needed break — with takeout meals, no-contact delivery, shopping, kids’ programs and more. (Want to advertise in our guide? Email us: publisher@storereporter.com.)

 

DINING

 

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

 

  • California Tortilla, a family fave. Potomac, Bethesda, Olney and Quince Orchard locations open daily 11 a.m.-9 p.m. for carryout, curbside pickup and delivery. Order one of our Family Fajita Fiesta or Family Taco Night meals today! californiatortilla.olo.com/home/.

 

  • 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. 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.

 

  • 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. julii.com.

 

 

  • 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.

 

  • Normandie Farm, pop on over for fine cooking in 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.

 

 

  • St. Veg, 100% plant-based (vegan) cuisine at Fallsgrove Village Center. 14929 Shady Grove Rd., Unit M. Phone: 301-605-7511. Open for carry-out Tuesday-Saturday, noon to 6:30 p.m. Call in your order, pay by phone and pick up at the designated table just inside the entrance. stveg.com/menu/

 

 

  • 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.

 

BEER, WINE & COFFEE

 

  • 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.

 

 

SHOPPING

 

  • Hanna’s Connection clothing boutique. Refresh your closet. Refresh your mood. Temporarily closed at the Cabin John mini-mall, but offering virtual shopping and online orders with free delivery. Now offering designer face masks, $10 or free with purchase. 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.

 

  • On Cloud 9, trendy boutique for babies, girls and adults. Offering virtual shopping & online orders. We deliver by mail, drop off anywhere 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.

 

  • R Boutique, soon to reopen inside Art & Chemistry by Diego at Downtown Crown. Now selling unisex cotton face masks, solids and prints, hand-washable and reusable, starting at $10. Shop Facebook. Shop Instagram. For questions, call Rayna Badwey Matz: 301-943-2000. To purchase, 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 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 here: mygym.com/potomac.

 

  • Toy Castle home delivery service. Open for orders 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday. Same-day, no-fee delivery with $35 minimum order. 1,000-piece puzzles and tons of other items continually re-stocked. Shop for ideas 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’ll help you get top dollar for your unwanted items, large and small. We manage the details so you don’t need to: No contact, no worries. Call us: 301-990-2040. Email us: info@isolditmd.com. More info: www.isolditmd.com.

 

  • 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. www.normandycarpet.com.

 

 

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More changes for Congressional Plaza, goodbye Gordon Biersch, Art & Chemistry on the move

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Congressional Plaza "inks" new deal

Another new tenant on the way to Rockville’s Congressional Plaza: Custom Ink, the Virginia-based logowear company, will open its third brick-and-mortar store in the newly empty Baskin-Robbins space. While Custom Ink does most of its business online, Rockville customers will be able to meet with a designer and get some advice about the best way to plaster their photos and logos onto T-shirts, hats, bags, tumblers and tech accessories. Custom Ink is the latest addition to Congressional’s reinvigorated north side, joining upcoming newcomers Madison Reed Color Bar, Orangetheory Fitness, CorePower Yoga and Barnes & Noble. Stay tuned to Store Reporter for opening dates.

Shin Orthodontics

Gordon Biersch empties out

Rockville Town Square took another big hit this week with the closing of one its oldest tenants, Gordon Biersch. The brewery’s parent company has declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy and shuttered multiple locations, including those in D.C. and Baltimore. In Rockville, the closing comes just a month after the loss of nearby Bar Louie — yet another victim of Chapter 11.

Taff & Levine

Double dose of Walgreens

Walgreens has completed its conversion of the Rite Aid store in Potomac Village, giving the drugstore chain a double presence on either side of River Road. The newly renovated location offers wider aisles and a streamlined layout that will likely make for quicker shopping (see our interior photos on Facebook and Instagram). For the time being, we’re told that Walgreens plans to keep both stores in business.

Wintergreen Plaza

Art & Chemistry on the move

After 25 years at Kensington’s White Flint Plaza, Art & Chemistry is moving north. On April 1 the salon will relocate to Downtown Crown, where it replaces the blow dry bar Blo at 317 Ellington Blvd. “This opportunity literally fell into our lap, and we loved the location,” says Nikol Paez, who co-owns the salon with husband Diego. “It has great parking, great foot traffic, and it’s really a destination where our clients can go shopping or out to eat after they’re done.” Also making the move is Rayna Badwey Matz of R Boutique, who subleases space inside the salon and will continue to sell her clothing, accessories and jewelry at the new location.

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Home Depot Design Center, Barnes & Noble, Pike & Rose boutique and a 7-Eleven update

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Hello Home Depot Design Center

Construction has begun on Rockville’s new Home Depot Design Center, which is taking over the long-empty Golf Galaxy space at Montrose Crossing. This will be the second store of its kind in the country, featuring kitchen and bath showrooms, high-end appliances and an army of designers to plan and execute your project. Meanwhile, what’s going on with the Barnes & Noble store next door? Scroll down.

Realtor Mimi Arnold of Century 21 Redwood Realty

New look for the books

Lots of construction at Congressional Plaza this week as the upcoming Barnes & Noble store gets a grand new facade. So…. does this mean we’re getting two whole floors of books? Sadly, no. Despite what it looks like, Federal Realty tells us the new store will not have a second level. Doors are supposed to open this summer, but a peek inside reveals that not much progress has been made. Check it out for yourself on Facebook and Instagram.

Wintergreen Plaza

The luxe life

Newly open at Pike & Rose: Evoluxxy, a locally owned boutique carrying brands like Vince, Theory, Stuart Weitzman, Citizens of Humanity and Mother — plus a selection of pieces by the store’s own designers. You’ll find it in the former Francesca’s space, between Olive & Loom and the Lucky store.

Wink Eyecare Boutique

Mall moves: Stationery, Sheepskin & Slurpees

These are the final days for Papyrus at Westfield Montgomery mall, and last weekend the store was packed with bargain-hunting shoppers. Also departing is the Sheepskin Gifts store, which trots into the mall every fall and goes out to pasture every spring. Meanwhile, the new 7-Eleven is set to open on Friday, March 13th.

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New Chinese restaurant for Rockville Pike, goodbye Bose & Papyrus, more closings ahead

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Hot pot on the Pike

Finally a new tenant for the onetime REI space at 1701 Rockville Pike: Da Yu, a high-end chain of Chinese hot pot restaurants, is moving in this spring. This will be the second U.S. venture for the China-based company, which has hundreds of locations overseas and debuted in New York last fall. Plans call for 190 seats in the former REI space, which has been empty since 2017 when the outdoor retailer moved to Pike & Rose. For more detailed renderings of the future Da Yu, check out Store Reporter on Facebook and Instagram.

Shin Orthodontics
Taff & Levine

Sounds of silence

Audio manufacturer Bose, an early pioneer of “experiential” shopping, is closing all 54 of its U.S. showrooms. Many of these stores have been open since the early 1990s, when Bose made a bet that audiophiles would pay more for its products if they could hear the difference for themselves. These days the company’s speakers, earbuds and noise-canceling headphones are mostly sold online. The Bose store at Westfield Montgomery mall is expected to close in June.

Wintergreen Plaza
Bender JCC

Papyrus signs off

That’s a wrap for paper chain Papyrus, which is closing its 254 retail stores and will exit Westfield Montgomery mall in the next few weeks. The 70-year-old company, known for its elaborate greeting cards, gift wrap and stationery, has faced an ever-shrinking market in the 21st century. Although the stores are closing, Papyrus says its products aren’t going away; they will still be sold online and at other retail outlets.

International School of Music

Color Bar for Congressional

Madison Reed Color Bar, an up-and-coming chain of hair salons, is on the way to Congressional Plaza. The shop will open this spring next to the new Barnes & Noble store, selling its own brand of hair color products and offering on-site coloring services for $30 to $60. (What won’t it offer? Haircuts.) This will be the second Montgomery County location for Madison Reed, which arrived in downtown Bethesda last month. Meanwhile, there may be more shakeups ahead on the hair scene: Hair Cuttery and Bubbles will be closing multiple locations in the next few weeks.

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Coffee, cocktails and a mancave for Rockville Pike; three more stores say goodbye

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Java and cocktails on Rockville Pike

Here’s a first look at Java Nation, which arrived on Rockville Pike this week in the former Addie’s/Helen’s space next to Hank Dietle’s. The cafe will open early in the morning and stay that way until 9:30 or 10 most evenings, with a moderately priced menu of sandwiches, salads, soups and crepes plus a few dishes from El Salvador and Peru. Owner Simona Cabana, who also has a location in Kensington, imports her coffee beans from small suppliers and roasts them right behind the bar. Coming soon: a signature menu of caffeine-infused cocktails. For a closer look at Java Nation, check out Store Reporter on Facebook and Instagram.

Bender JCC
Park Potomac Yoga

Mancave at Montrose

Boardroom Salon for Men, a posh barbershop chain from Texas, is heading to Rockville’s Montrose Crossing. It will fill the long-empty space between Slapfish and Five Guys, offering haircuts, shaves and spa services amidst a manly decor complete with chessboards and pool tables. Signature service is the $60 “Benchmark Haircut,” which includes scalp massage, face massage, hand massage and skin-softening paraffin hand dip. Also on the way to Montrose Crossing: a Home Depot Design Center. More on that in our Dec. 19th edition.

Mimi Arnold
Wintergreen Plaza

Two stores out at the mall

Closing soon at Westfield Montgomery mall: Destination Maternity, home to the Pea in the Pod and Motherhood Maternity clothing brands. The New Jersey-based retailer, which filed for bankruptcy last fall, had dominated its niche for decades until chains like The Gap, Old Navy and Target started moving in on moms-to-be. Also out at the mall is Yvonne Ex, which opened last summer with a colorful array of clothes and accessories from Ghana. More info on post-holiday closings in our Jan. 2nd edition.

Potomac Physical Therapy
Wink Eyecare Boutique

Boutique closes at Congressional Plaza

The pop-up boutique Sheyla closed up shop this week after a three-month run next to Chico’s at Congressional Plaza. Owner Sheyla Difo Voye, who opened a second location in Arlington at the same time, says the northern Virginia market was a better fit for her merchandise. Wondering what else has been happening at Congressional Plaza? Click here. (Editor’s update on Sheyla: The boutique reopened a few weeks after this post, extending its stay at Congressional Plaza.)

International School of Music
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Barnes & Noble update, more changes at Congressional Plaza, Red Door rebrands at Pike & Rose

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Barnes & Noble & more at Congressional Plaza

Wondering what’s happening with the new Barnes & Noble store at Congressional Plaza? From what we hear, it’s not going to be ready until next summer at the earliest. That timing should coincide with the opening of the two new gyms — CorePower Yoga and Orangetheory Fitness —  that are now under construction in the former Thomasville space right next door. The north side of Congressional Plaza has seen plenty of upheaval this year: White House Black Market, Modern Market and Baja Fresh all closed their doors in that section, while Chico’s and Lebanese Taverna (now LebTav) relocated to smaller spaces. And Baskin-Robbins, one of Congressional’s oldest tenants, will serve its final scoops this Sunday (Dec. 15th). Owners say they could no longer afford the rent.

Wink Eyecare Boutique
Lisa Nasar
Dawson's Market

Makeover for the Red Door

If you’ve been to Pike & Rose this holiday season, you may have noticed something new next to the Canopy Hotel. The Elizabeth Arden Red Door spa, which relocated from Wildwood in 2018, has replaced its iconic red door and changed its name to Mynd Spa & Salon. All 26 Red Door locations are converting to the new Mynd brand, which is dropping its image of old-school glamour in favor of millennial buzzwords like “mindfulness,” “wellness” and “self-care.”

FiberArt Studio
Chocolate Moonshine

Feeling gifty?

This year we’re doing some holiday shopping at two of our area’s newest stores: West Elm at Pike & Rose and Lands’ End at Congressional Plaza. Both retailers sent us a selection of gifts to review and recommend to our readers. Below are four of our top picks.

Sleek and modern at West Elm

  • This Mid-Century Jewelry Box is an Art Deco stunner. From the champagne lacquer finish to the soft canvas interior, it’s spacious enough for all your favorite pieces and looks great on any dresser. The box seen here is $199, but holiday sales are frequent and smaller sizes are available. See it in person at the Pike & Rose store, or click here to find it on the West Elm website.
  • The milky-white wave makes this Wood + Resin Tray a standout, perfect for displaying a few items or adding some interest to your table. Regular price is $69 — and for $29 more, you can throw in a set of matching coasters. Check it out in person at the Pike & Rose store, or click here to find it on the West Elm website.

Ready for the road at Lands' End

  • This Waxed Canvas Travel Duffle Bag gets the thumbs-up from our frequent flyers, who appreciate details like the padded shoulder strap, mesh pockets and snazzy zipper pulls. Regular price is $159.95, but 50%-off sales are common. See the bag in person at Congressional Plaza, or click here to find it on the Lands’ End website.
  • We also love this company’s flannel Plaid Totes, which are roomy enough for all your winter essentials and pack a special pocket for your cell phone. $59.95 and up in red/brown or blue/green (but again, watch for sales). See the bags in person at Congressional Plaza, or click here to find them on the Lands’ End website.

First look at Lands’ End, new boutique for Rockville Pike, skating season starts and a boxing gym punches in

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First look at Lands' End

Here’s a peek at the new Lands’ End store, now open at Congressional Plaza with the most impressive collection of plaids on Rockville Pike. The spacious, brightly lit interior looks a lot like L.L.Bean, with clothes for men, women and kids along with cozy pajamas, slippers, outerwear, tote bags and home goods. Grand opening festivities will be happening all weekend. For a closer look inside the store, check out our photos on Facebook and Instagram.

Wintergreen Plaza
Hanna's Connection

New boutique on the Pike

Also new at Congressional Plaza is Sheyla, a pop-up boutique that just moved into the empty space between Child’s Play and Chico’s. The shop specializes in dressy suits and partywear from brands like Elie Tahari, Jones New York and Worth, including a deep selection of petite sizes. Another new boutique, Chaliskan, made its debut last week at Westfield Montgomery mall — and a third is on the way to Pike & Rose. Click here for more in our Oct. 17th edition.

Shin Orthodontics

Boxing in, sushi out at White Flint Plaza

Title Boxing Club, a popular workout spot at the Travilah Square Shopping Center, is about to open its second Montgomery County location. You’ll find it at the White Flint Plaza, two doors down from The Big Greek Cafe. In between: an empty space left by the recent departure of longtime tenant Hiro Sushi. No word yet on who’s going to fill it.

Bender JCC of Greater Washington
Power Hour Editing

Get your skates on

Ice skating is back for the season at Rockville Town Square. The outdoor rink opened last weekend, priced at $13 for kids and $14 for adults including skate rental. Meanwhile, we’re still waiting for the three new Asian restaurants that are supposed to 0pen across the way in the former Mellow Mushroom space. More in that in our June 6th edition.

Capital Area Food Bank

Three new boutiques and a Russian flight simulator

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Clothes call

Good news for everyone who’s had their fill of online shopping: Three new boutiques are heading our way. Chaliskan, specializing in clothes and gifts from Turkey, just made its debut next to Pandora at Westfield Montgomery mall. Next up is Sheyla, opening beside Chico’s at Congressional Plaza with styles from Elie Tahari, Worth, Jones New York and the like. Lastly, posh boutique Evoluxxy will be taking over the Francesca’s space at Pike & Rose. Plans call for a February opening with brands like Vince, Max Mara and Mother. (Wondering why Francesca’s is closing? Get the scoop in our Oct. 10th edition.)

Lisa Nasar
The Grilled Oyster

Taking flight at the mall

The Dream Aero flight simulator is finally ready for takeoff at Westfield Montgomery mall. You’ll find it above Gusto on the mall’s upper level, visible from the Dining Terrace and accessible via a hallway next to the ArcLight Cinema. For a couple hundred bucks ($195 for a 30-minute session, $325 for an hour), you and two friends can pretend to pilot a Boeing 737 all the way from takeoff to landing. Westfield Montgomery is the first U.S. location for Dream Aero, a Russian company that has operated similar rides in St. Petersburg, Moscow and Dubai. For more photos, check out Store Reporter on Facebook and Instagram.

Wink Eyecare Boutique
Taff & Levine D.D.S.

Dessert spots go dark

This week we say goodbye to Cookie Dough & Co., which has closed up shop on the lower level of Westfield Montgomery mall. The business opened two years ago at the height of the edible cookie dough craze, taking over the kiosk that originally was built for Peet’s Coffee. It also looks like we’ve seen the last of  Syd’s bakery, which briefly replaced Shilla next to Chick-fil-A but never seemed to get fully up and running. Shoppers with a sweet tooth shouldn’t worry, though: Patisserie Manuel, offering Illy coffee and fresh-baked French pastries, is scheduled to open next month in the Dining Terrace. More on that in our Sept. 19th edition.

Capital Area Food Bank
Power Hour Editing
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Hello Lands’ End, so long Saks, Bethesda Bagels arrives, closings at Pike & Rose

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Hello Lands' End, so long Saks

Oct. 17th is opening day for Lands’ End at Congressional Plaza, one of the first stand-alone stores for the Wisconsin-based company. In addition to the usual assortment of clothing, you’ll also find a selection of cozy home goods: flannel sheets, quilted comforters, sleeping bags, cashmere throws and the like. Next week also marks the end for the neighboring Saks Off 5th store; doors close for the last time on Oct. 20th.

The Rooted Studio

Bethesda Bagels arrives

The Jewish New Year is off to a good start at Wildwood, where Bethesda Bagels finally makes its debut this weekend. This is the fifth location for the family-owned chain and the first to serve the Rockville/Potomac area. Also new at Wildwood: Joe & the Juice, which opened last week with juices, smoothies, coffees and more. Catch up on that in our Oct. 3rd edition.

The Grilled Oyster

Two closings at Pike & Rose

Two of the original tenants to open at Pike & Rose are closing this month after a five-year run. Del Frisco’s Grille, which is shuttering multiple locations after the sale of its parent company, will serve its last steaks on Oct. 20th. The closing, first reported by The Moco Show, comes just months after the arrival of Brazilian steakhouse Fogo de Chão right across the street. The second departure is more surprising: Francesca’s, which survived the early days when few people shopped at Pike & Rose, is exiting now after a company-wide downsizing. The women’s boutique chain has three other nearby stores at Rio, Bethesda Row and Westfield Montgomery mall. “There simply wasn’t enough foot traffic at this location,” an employee tells us.

Potomac Squash Club World Squash Day

Made in the shade at Cabin John

The Shade Store has opened its doors at Cabin John Village, offering a wide assortment of window coverings in the storefront next to Carpet & Vacuum Expo. Next up for Cabin John: Playa Bowls, tentatively opening in late October. Stay tuned to Store Reporter for the official date.

Wink Eyecare Boutique

The write move

Bertram’s Inkwell, a gathering place for lovers of the handwritten word, has moved to a new location on Rockville Pike. You’ll find the specialty pen store at the Metro Pike Shopping Center, home of Palm Beach Tan and the Champion boxing gym. Owner Bert Oser, a longtime tenant at the White Flint Mall who spent the past few years inside an office building, says he’s happy to be returning to a retail setting. “I do a lot of sales online, and I thought my business would end up entirely on the internet,” Oser says. “But as it turns out, 80 percent of our sales are from people coming through the door.”

Wintergreen Plaza

Bethesda Bagels at Wildwood, subs & cycling at Fallsgrove, Modern Market moves out

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Bethesda Bagels: Not schmear yet

A bit of bad news on the bagel front: Bethesda Bagels is not going to arrive at Wildwood for another couple of weeks. Owner Danny Fleishman had hoped to get this location open in time for the Jewish High Holidays, one of the busiest times of year in the bagel biz. But Rosh Hashanah begins on Sunday night (Sept. 29th), and construction isn’t done yet. Fleishman is now aiming to open on Oct. 11th.

Wintergreen Plaza
Realtor Eris Norman

Modern Market moves out

Notice something missing between LebTav and Chopt? Modern Market has closed its doors in Rockville after a three-year run at Congressional Plaza, where it served up a health-conscious menu of salads, sandwiches and brick oven pizzas. The Colorado-based chain also shuttered its location on Bethesda Row, but it’s still operating restaurants in D.C. and Columbia, Maryland. What went wrong in Montgomery County? A spokesman declined to comment.

A Smarter You Tutoring Center
Ladies Night Park Potomac

Subs and cycling at Fallsgrove

Jersey Mike’s Subs has opened its doors at the Fallsgrove shopping center, taking over the space that previously belonged to Jerry’s Subs & Pizza. This is the second Rockville restaurant for Jersey Mike’s, which also has a location at Wintergreen Plaza. Up next for Fallsgrove: Senz Yoga, Barre & Cycle. Stay tuned for an opening date.

Potomac Squash Club World Squash Day
International School of Music

Tell your friends about Store Reporter. Here's why.

It’s been almost six years since we launched Store Reporter, and we’re looking to expand our reach even further. The more people who read us, the better job we can do covering news in our community. Love what we do? Want to help us grow? Make sure to subscribe to our weekly emails — and send this link to your friends and family so they can do the same.

Dulles Golf Center Red Cross fundraiser
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The wait for Wegmans, Orangetheory to the Pike and a Potomac Village update

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The wait for Wegmans

For everyone who’s counting the days until Wegmans arrives on Rockville Pike, we have some bad news: It’s not going to happen anytime soon. Things are moving slooooowly for the proposed Twinbrook Quarter development (pictured here), which ultimately will encompass 18 acres with Wegmans at its center. With months of paperwork and lots of planning meetings still ahead, Rockville city officials tell us we won’t be seeing Wegmans until at least 2021. As always, stay with Store Reporter for the latest.

Wink Eyecare Boutique
Mimi Arnold
The Rooted Studio

Three new gyms for Congressional Plaza

Big news on the fitness front for Congressional Plaza in Rockville: CorePower Yoga and Orangetheory Fitness are moving in. The two studios — along with a third that hasn’t been announced yet — will take over the empty Thomasville space next to Last Call by Neiman Marcus. This trio of gyms should provide a steady source of foot traffic for Congressional Plaza — not to mention the Barnes & Noble store that will be opening right nextdoor. FITRow, as Congressional Plaza is calling it, will make its debut in 2020.

Dulles Golf Center Red Cross fundraiser
The Grilled Oyster

Potomac Village update: PureBarre coming, Walgreens staying

The Potomac Village Shopping Center, home to Tally Ho and Hunters Bar & Grill, will welcome two new tenants by the end of this year. Village Nail Studio is weeks away from opening, and the Pure Barre fitness center is aiming for a November/December debut next to Big Wheel Bikes. Meanwhile, it looks like the center’s Walgreens store is going to survive the merger of Walgreens and Rite Aid. Some 200 drugstores will be closing in markets where the two brands overlap, but insiders tell us that both stores are doing quite well in Potomac Village. For now at least, Walgreens and Rite Aid will continue to coexist on either side of River Road.

Park Potomac Yoga
Wintergreen Plaza

Tell your friends about Store Reporter! Here's why.

It’s been almost six years since we launched Store Reporter, and we’re looking to expand our reach even further. The more people who read us, the better job we can do covering retail and restaurants in our community. Love what we do? Want to help us grow? Make sure to subscribe to our weekly emails — and send this link to your friends and family so they can do the same.

Park Potomac Fall Ladies' Night
International School of Music
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New restaurant for Wildwood, Lands’ End seals the deal — plus an opening, a closing and a comeback

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New restaurant for Wildwood

Promising new restaurant on the way to the Wildwood shopping center: Piccoli Piatti, a fresh concept from Fish Taco founder Francis Namin. The fast-casual eatery will take over the Oakville Grille space with a family-friendly atmosphere and a moderately priced menu of thin-crust pizzas and Mediterranean-inspired small plates. Namin is no stranger to pizza restaurants: His family once ran Bethesda’s much-missed Red Tomato Café. Tentative opening date for this one: March 2020.

Wintergreen Plaza

Lands' End in, Baja Fresh out at Congressional Plaza

Congressional Plaza gained a store and lost a restaurant this week, as Lands’ End confirmed rumors that it’s joining the lineup while Baja Fresh made a quiet exit. This will be the second full-sized Lands’ End store in Maryland, part of the retailer’s ambitious plan to forge into the brick-and-mortar world while cutting ties with the failing Sears chain. At Congressional, doors will open this fall in the old Performance Bicycle space — just about the time that next-door neighbor Saks Off 5th closes its doors. (More on that in our June 27th edition.)

Realtor Lisa Nasar of Long & Foster

New at the mall

Interesting new addition to Westfield Montgomery mall this week: Yvonne Ex, now open next to Lenscrafters with a dazzling array of clothing and accessories from Ghana. This is the first U.S. venture for owner Yvonne Tawiah, who produces her own tie-dyes and batiks for men and women. What else is new at the mall this week? Clothing store Windsor has opened its doors in the Old Navy wing, Kicks USA has changed its names to Snipes, and Shilla Bakery will now be known as Syd’s.

Wink Eyecare Boutique

Comeback for Taylor Gourmet

Sandwich chain Taylor Gourmet, on the comeback trail after a 2018 bankruptcy, has announced plans to reopen three locations including the one at Pike & Rose. The North Bethesda restaurant was just four months old when Taylor Gourmet filed Chapter 11 last September. Its new owners, who bought the company’s assets in bankruptcy court, plan to bring back all three locations by the end of the summer.

Shin Orthodontics
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So long Saks, hello Lands’ End, yoga at Park Potomac and Fu Shing fades out

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So long Saks

Sad news for all you label-conscious bargain hunters on Rockville Pike: Saks Off 5th is closing its doors after a three-year run at Congressional Plaza. The Rockville location is a victim of cost-cutting at Saks’ parent company, Hudson Bay Co., which also is closing some of its Lord & Taylor stores. (What does that mean for the White Flint and Lakeforest locations? Click here.) The Congressional Plaza Saks store will be open until October, with discounts getting deeper as the months go by. For a look at what’s happening inside, check out our photos on Facebook and Instagram.

Moda Optic

A comeback for Lands' End?

Is Lands’ End on the way to Rockville? That’s the buzz this week after the Washington Business Journal uncovered construction documents for a spacious new store at Congressional Plaza. Plans call for Lands’ End to move into the former Performance Bicycle space, right next door to the departing Saks Off 5th (scroll up for more on that). This location would replace the Lands’ End shop inside Westfield Montgomery’s Sears store, which closed its doors last winter. Stay tuned to Store Reporter for the latest.

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Fu Shing fades out

If this counter looks familiar, we have some bad news: Fu Shing, a local favorite for Chinese takeout, is closing its doors after 20 years at the Westlake Crossing shopping center. Owners say their lease was up and they’ve decided to retire. Doors close on July 1st.

Mimi Arnold

Yoga arrives at Park Potomac

Get your yoga mats ready: Park Potomac Yoga is arriving earlier than expected. July 1 is opening day for the new studio, which is taking over the long-empty Barre Belle space next to Love Couture Bridal Salon. Owner Debi Schenk will be teaching many classes herself, with assistance from instructors including Stephanie Rosenblatt, Becca Thomas, Scott Taylor, Meg Goodwin and Kelly Gerrish. Classes will include the new “rocket yoga” format, which incorporates lots of arm balances and inversions. Click here for more info.

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The mall has your number

The Sleep Number store raised its profile at Westfield Montgomery mall this week, leaving its modest storefront for a snazzy new space in the Macy’s wing next to Ann Taylor. Meanwhile on the other side of the mall, newcomer Möge Tee is already drawing crowds near Chick-fil-A with an unusual take on bubble tea. More on that in our June 20th edition.

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New opening at Pike & Rose, Five Below is on the go, Rockville restaurant closes and the real price of delivery apps

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Curry on over to Pike & Rose

Commonwealth Indian opened its doors at Pike & Rose this week, offering an upscale menu and stunning, modern decor (check out our photos on Facebook and Instagram). Traditional Indian entrees (curried chicken, butter chicken, lamb stew and vegetarian dishes) are served in family-style portions priced from $19 to $29. Also on the menu: six types of flatbreads, plus a full bar with Indian beer, wine and cocktails. Commonwealth is the third venture from chef Sunil Bastola, who also owns the Bollywood Bistro restaurants in Fairfax and Great Falls. What’s next for Pike & Rose? Brazilian steakhouse Fogo de Chão, almost ready to open right next door. Click here for more in our May 23rd edition.

The Big Greek Cafe
Mimi Arnold

Five Below is on the go

June 14th is moving day for Five Below on Rockville Pike. The popular discount chain, which sells teen gear and trendy household goods for five bucks or less, is leaving its longtime home at Federal Plaza for a new one next to Aldi, Michaels and Petco at Congressional North. Between now and mid-June, just in case five bucks isn’t enough of a bargain, everything in the old store is marked down 50 percent.

California Tortilla

Rolling out of Rockville

Rolls ‘n Rice Japanese Bistro Cafe has closed its doors after a decade in the Shops at Congressional Village off Rockville Pike. Owners opted not to renew their lease and have no plans to reopen.

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The dish on delivery

Eater has an interesting report this week about online food delivery apps and the potential damage they’re doing to local restaurants. Services like Grubhub, Postmates and Uber Eats charge commissions as high as 30 percent, and some apparently also charge for handling customer questions and complaints. In the restaurant business, which already works on tight margins, these fees can take a substantial bite out of any potential profits. What to do? When you’re looking for local food delivery, Eater suggests skipping the apps and calling your favorite restaurant directly.

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
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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.

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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.

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Pure Barre in Potomac, pet stores in Rockville, straighter teeth at CVS and a comeback for Taylor Gourmet

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Pure Barre in Potomac

Good news on the fitness front in Potomac Village: Pure Barre is on the way. The popular barre fitness chain is moving into the old Verizon space at 9935 Falls Road, in the same shopping center as Tally-Ho. Erin McNeill, a new franchisee for the Potomac area, says she fell in love with the Pure Barre format after trying every fitness craze during her nine years as a fashion buyer in New York City. “These classes were transformative for my physical fitness, my mental health and my overall well-being,” she says. McNeill hopes to open Pure Barre in the Village around October.