• Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer

Store Reporter

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

  • Home
  • Guide
  • Favorites
  • About
  • Advertise
  • Subscribe
  • Contact

Rio Washingtonian Center

Park Potomac restaurant update, Pier 1 ships out, sneak peek of the new Hank Dietle’s

January 15, 2020 By Store Reporter Leave a Comment

Time's up for Zoës — is sushi on the way?

Zoës Kitchen, one of the first tenants to open at Park Potomac, will close its doors for good on Jan. 26th. The departure, first reported by The Moco Show, comes a year after the Mediterranean chain was purchased by D.C.-based Cava. What’s next? Rumors are flying about a well-known sushi restaurant, but landlords tell us no leases have been finalized. Meanwhile, we’re also hearing buzz about a possible juice shop in the empty space around the corner. Stay tuned to Store Reporter as these deals get firmed up.

Wink Eyecare Boutique
Lisa Nasar

Sneak peek of Hank Dietle's

Here’s a glimpse of the scene inside Hank Dietle’s, the century-old Rockville Pike dive bar that’s been closed since a 2018 fire. New owners are completely rebuilding the interior with plans to reopen in late spring. Lisa White, who will be booking acts at the venue, says she hopes to draw local and regional bands from rockabilly, roots rock and blues to country, swing, Cajun and zydeco — plus performances by local music students. “We’re doing a lot of work to this place, but the footprint will stay the same,” she says. “It’s still going be a small, really cozy roadhouse.” For more photos of the work in progress, check out Store Reporter on Facebook and Instagram.

Normandie Farm

Pier 1 ships out

Pier 1 Imports, which is shuttering half of its 942 stores amidst rumors of impending bankruptcy, will close up shop in Montgomery County by spring. Markdowns are already in progress at the Rockville Pike and Rio stores, with some of the best deals already gone. Both locations will be out before the end of March.

International School of Music
Power Hour Editing
mailto:publisher@storereporter.com

Did you miss these issues?

Spring crop: Three new boutiques
Arhaus moves to the mall, Rakugaki opens, Trapezaria closes, Potomac boutique goes dark
Chopt and sushi at Cabin John, cupcakes on the Pike
Red Orchard, Quincy’s, Tara Thai & Corner Bakery
Gregorio’s Park Potomac update, new tenant for Toy Castle, new moves at the mall
New Raku ready to roll, CalTort gets a facelift, Tuesday Morning is toast
Pet store chain goes belly-up, Cava goes public, another new gym for Potomac
Two openings at Cabin John, construction near Life Time, designer shoe store closes
New golf store, new booze store, new fitness options for Potomac & Rockville

Filed Under: Asian Food, Gift Shops, Park Potomac, Rio Washingtonian Center, Rockville Pike, Seafood

Hello Lands’ End, so long Saks, Bethesda Bagels arrives, closings at Pike & Rose

October 10, 2019 By Store Reporter Leave a Comment

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

Did you miss these issues?

Spring crop: Three new boutiques
Arhaus moves to the mall, Rakugaki opens, Trapezaria closes, Potomac boutique goes dark
Chopt and sushi at Cabin John, cupcakes on the Pike
Red Orchard, Quincy’s, Tara Thai & Corner Bakery
Gregorio’s Park Potomac update, new tenant for Toy Castle, new moves at the mall
New Raku ready to roll, CalTort gets a facelift, Tuesday Morning is toast
Pet store chain goes belly-up, Cava goes public, another new gym for Potomac
Two openings at Cabin John, construction near Life Time, designer shoe store closes
New golf store, new booze store, new fitness options for Potomac & Rockville

Filed Under: Bagels & Delicatessens, Cabin John Village, Clothing and Accessories, Congressional Plaza, Gift Shops, Pike & Rose, Rio Washingtonian Center, Steakhouses, Westfield Montgomery mall, Wildwood Shops

Mod Pizza moves in, Silver Diner makes its debut — plus, is the curtain coming down for iPic?

August 22, 2019 By Store Reporter Leave a Comment

Mod Pizza moves in

Opening next week on Rockville Pike: Mod Pizza, offering quick-serve personal pies with 30 customizable toppings – not to mention gluten-free and cauliflower crusts, salads, milkshakes, draft beer and wine. Mod is the latest addition to the new restaurant row at Montrose Crossing, joining neighbors Cava, Honeygrow, Slapfish and Five Guys. You’ll find them all in the spot where Timpano once stood.

Wink Eyecare Boutique
Taff & Levine

Is the curtain coming down for iPic?

The iPic movie theater chain filed Chapter 11 this month, announcing plans to restructure its debt and seek a potential buyer. It’s unclear what this means for Pike & Rose, where iPic and its adjoining City Perch restaurant were among the first tenants to open in 2014. iPic says its 16 theaters will operate as usual despite the bankruptcy filing. (But if you happen to be holding onto any movie passes, now would be a good time to use them.) iPic made a splash a decade ago with its ultra-posh theaters featuring cushy recliners, cocktails and fancy food delivered right to your seat. But other movie chains soon upped their game, and many theaters now offer similar perks at a considerably lower price point. At Pike & Rose, a pair of iPic’s “premium plus” seats will set you back $56.

International School of Music
TGIF

Diner debut

The new Silver Diner has opened its doors at Rio — the latest piece of the center’s $30 million renovation project. This is the 16th restaurant for the D.C.-area chain, and the first to include an indoor/outdoor patio and bar. (Check out our photos on Facebook and Instagram.) This has been a busy summer for Rio, with the recent opening of Dave & Buster’s and the unveiling of a snazzy new boardwalk and performance stage. Grand opening events are planned for September.

Power Hour Editing
mailto:publisher@storereporter.com

Did you miss these issues?

Spring crop: Three new boutiques
Arhaus moves to the mall, Rakugaki opens, Trapezaria closes, Potomac boutique goes dark
Chopt and sushi at Cabin John, cupcakes on the Pike
Red Orchard, Quincy’s, Tara Thai & Corner Bakery
Gregorio’s Park Potomac update, new tenant for Toy Castle, new moves at the mall
New Raku ready to roll, CalTort gets a facelift, Tuesday Morning is toast
Pet store chain goes belly-up, Cava goes public, another new gym for Potomac
Two openings at Cabin John, construction near Life Time, designer shoe store closes
New golf store, new booze store, new fitness options for Potomac & Rockville

Filed Under: Montrose Crossing, Movie Theaters, Pike & Rose, Pizza, Rio Washingtonian Center, Rockville Pike, Special Diets

July opening updates: Cooper’s Hawk, China Garden, Sisters Thai, Dave & Buster’s — plus what’s next for Cabin John Village

July 4, 2019 By Store Reporter Leave a Comment

Your July dining plan

While you’re enjoying your holiday weekend foodfest, it’s time to start making plans for this month’s restaurant openings. Cooper’s Hawk lands July 15th at Research Row off I-270 in Rockville; we’ll be there a few days early to share some photos. China Garden is planning a July 12th lunchtime opening at North Bethesda Market off Rockville Pike. Sisters Thai is still waiting on final inspections and is thisclose to opening at Cabin John Village. (For a sneak peek, check out our photos on Facebook and Instagram). And just in time for the July 4th movie weekend, Dave & Buster’s has opened its doors next to the AMC theater at Rio. (To see what else is happening at Rio, check out our June 6th edition.)

Realtor Lisa Nasar of Long & Foster

What's next for Cabin John

We know you’ve got questions about construction at Cabin John Village. When will they start cutting through the strip center? Which tenants will be displaced, and which ones will be returning? What’s happening with the mini-mall? What else is on the way? Stay tuned for a special issue of Store Reporter with the answers to your Cabin John questions. (Got a few more? Ask us anything via Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.)

Shin Orthodontics

Look what's new at the mall

Checking in at Westfield Montgomery mall for the July 4th weekend: Eyebobs, specializing in hip reading glasses, is now open in the Macy’s wing (more info in our April 25th edition). Crabtree & Evelyn is finally gone after an extended going-out-of-business sale. The new 7-Eleven is not ready to serve up Slurpees just yet, but the former Shilla Bakery is poised for a comeback with a new name and new owner. More info in the next couple of weeks.

Did you miss these issues?

Spring crop: Three new boutiques
Arhaus moves to the mall, Rakugaki opens, Trapezaria closes, Potomac boutique goes dark
Chopt and sushi at Cabin John, cupcakes on the Pike
Red Orchard, Quincy’s, Tara Thai & Corner Bakery
Gregorio’s Park Potomac update, new tenant for Toy Castle, new moves at the mall
New Raku ready to roll, CalTort gets a facelift, Tuesday Morning is toast
Pet store chain goes belly-up, Cava goes public, another new gym for Potomac
Two openings at Cabin John, construction near Life Time, designer shoe store closes
New golf store, new booze store, new fitness options for Potomac & Rockville

Filed Under: Asian Food, Bakeries, Bubble Tea & Desserts, Cabin John Village, Coffee Houses, Rio Washingtonian Center, Rockville Pike, Seafood, Steakhouses, Westfield Montgomery mall

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

June 6, 2019 By Store Reporter Leave a Comment

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
mailto:publisher@storereporter.com

Did you miss these issues?

Spring crop: Three new boutiques
Arhaus moves to the mall, Rakugaki opens, Trapezaria closes, Potomac boutique goes dark
Chopt and sushi at Cabin John, cupcakes on the Pike
Red Orchard, Quincy’s, Tara Thai & Corner Bakery
Gregorio’s Park Potomac update, new tenant for Toy Castle, new moves at the mall
New Raku ready to roll, CalTort gets a facelift, Tuesday Morning is toast
Pet store chain goes belly-up, Cava goes public, another new gym for Potomac
Two openings at Cabin John, construction near Life Time, designer shoe store closes
New golf store, new booze store, new fitness options for Potomac & Rockville

Filed Under: Asian Food, Bakeries, Bubble Tea & Desserts, BBQ, Bowling & Gaming, Clothing and Accessories, Downtown Rockville, Fitness & Beauty, Movie Theaters, Park Potomac, Potomac Village, Rio Washingtonian Center, Rockville Pike, Rockville Town Square, Seafood, Steakhouses

Sears checks out, Five Below is on the go, Justice closes… and what’s up with Wicked Waffle?

January 24, 2019 By Store Reporter Leave a Comment

Sears checks out, mall's ready to move on

Sears closed its doors for the last time at Westfield Montgomery mall this past weekend, clearing the way for the mall’s upcoming redevelopment. Long-term plans call for offices, apartments, a hotel, pedestrian walkways and outdoor promenades lined with upscale stores and restaurants. The mall also is getting a fancy new gym — and we hear it’s going to be a Life Time Athletic club, complete with a formal restaurant and rooftop swimming pool. We’re also hearing that the Macy’s Home Store will be next to close. More details on everything in our Oct. 25th edition.

International School of Music at Cabin John
Realtor Lisa Nasar of Long & Foster

What's up with Wicked Waffle?

There was some confusion this week about the fate of Wicked Waffle when the five-year-old eatery, a sister to Rockville’s Mosaic Cuisine, suddenly went dark at Westfield Montgomery mall. Despite what it looks like, owners tell us the restaurant will reopen next month with the same name and menu. In fact, they say they’re making plans for a national expansion of the Wicked Waffle brand. (Editor’s note: Wicked Waffle did not end up returning to the mall as planned. Click here for a follow-up story in our March 21st edition.)

Wink Eyecare

More for the men

Fascino, the Italian clothing shop that opened last year at Westfield Montgomery mall, has left the Nordstrom wing for a new space right next to Untuckit. That makes two men’s stores conveniently located right across from Apple. (Editor’s note: Fascino closed its doors just two months after this move. Click here for more in our March 28th edition.)

Five Below is on the go

Five Below, the five-bucks-and-under discount chain, is moving out of its longtime home at Federal Plaza. Doors will close in late February and the store will reopen further north on Rockville Pike, right next to Aldi at the Congressional North shopping center. Five Below caters to kids and teens, but adults can find plenty of bargains — from $5 phone chargers, iPad covers and party supplies to pillows, T-shirts and bath bombs.

Realtor Jacqueline Band Olinger of Long & Foster
The Grilled Oyster

No Justice at Rio

Justice is closing its doors at Rio Washingtonian Center, marking the tween retailer’s exit from Montgomery County. Justice, once known as Limited Too, has been shuttering locations across the country to avoid the fate of bankrupt competitors like Wet Seal, American Apparel and Delia’s. What’s next for Rio? A $30 million upgrade. More details in our Oct. 4th edition; click here.

OneTest
Bender JCC of Greater Washington
mailto:publisher@storereporter.com

Did you miss these issues?

Spring crop: Three new boutiques
Arhaus moves to the mall, Rakugaki opens, Trapezaria closes, Potomac boutique goes dark
Chopt and sushi at Cabin John, cupcakes on the Pike
Red Orchard, Quincy’s, Tara Thai & Corner Bakery
Gregorio’s Park Potomac update, new tenant for Toy Castle, new moves at the mall
New Raku ready to roll, CalTort gets a facelift, Tuesday Morning is toast
Pet store chain goes belly-up, Cava goes public, another new gym for Potomac
Two openings at Cabin John, construction near Life Time, designer shoe store closes
New golf store, new booze store, new fitness options for Potomac & Rockville

Filed Under: Bakeries, Bubble Tea & Desserts, Clothing and Accessories, Federal Plaza, Rio Washingtonian Center, Rockville Pike, Westfield Montgomery mall, Wildwood Shops

Lululemon, beer and a new veggie restaurant — plus the return of Dawson’s Market

December 5, 2018 By Store Reporter Leave a Comment

New Lulu

Here’s a holiday gift for Lululemon lovers: The company’s newest store will open its doors Dec. 14th at Gaithersburg’s Downtown Crown. The spot is strategically located just around the corner from Life Time Athletic and LA Fitness (not that anyone really needs a workout as an excuse to visit). Lululemon joins the recently opened Sephora as Crown begins to mix in some retail with all those restaurants.

Moda Optic
Moda Optic

Comeback for Dawson's Market

Is Dawson’s Market making a comeback at Rockville Town Square? It certainly looks that way. When we stopped by this week, the lights were on and longtime manager Bart Yablonsky could be seen sprucing up inside. No one is talking on the record yet, but we’re hearing that Yablonsky has worked out a deal to reopen the market under a new ownership structure. The uproar over Dawson’s recent closing — and the town meetings and brainstorming sessions that followed — might finally mark a turning point for the long-troubled development. The Russian restaurant Samovar, which faced an uncertain future after sustaining water damage earlier this year, is now expected to reopen. Meanwhile, other tenants tell us they’re starting to feel more optimistic about the Square’s future. (Editor’s note: A day after we published this issue, Dawson’s Market confirmed that they will in fact reopen in mid-December. Watch for a follow-up in next week’s Store Reporter.

Wink Eyecare Boutique
Realtor Jacqueline Olinger of Greystone Realty

Yard House is here

Yard House, a high-end sports bar showcasing craft beer and cocktails, opens its doors this Monday (Dec. 10th) at Rio Washingtonian Center. The restaurant replaces Romano’s Macaroni Grill, which closed last year after its parent company filed Chapter 11. What’s on the menu besides drinks? Burgers, pizzas, fries, nachos, sandwiches and wings plus some fancier entrées. Yard House is a division of Darden Restaurants, which also owns Olive Garden, Seasons 52, LongHorn Steakhouse and The Capital Grille among others. For a look at the menu, click here.

Eyeland/Luxoptics

Veggies in Fallsgrove

New place to try at the Fallsgrove shopping center: St. Veg, offering a plant-based menu, is newly open in the corner spot previously occupied by Melt. The restaurant hopes to tempt carnivores as well as vegetarians with specialty dishes like Mom’s Caramel Tofu Bowl, the Flavor Bomb Pho Dip and the Vegball Sub (shown here). St. Veg is open for lunch and dinner, with most meals priced around $10.

The Grilled Oyster

Gifts for the kitchen

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

  • Instant Pot: This gadget continues to top many wish lists, and it’s no wonder. The new Max version can pressure-cook, slow-cook, steam, sauté, brown and warm your food — not to mention making yogurt, canning, pasteurizing and serving up the perfect pot of rice or hard-boiled eggs. There’s definitely a learning curve involved here, but fans say the results are well worth the time. (Priced from around $70; click here for more.)
  • Thermo-Clad Stainless Steel Cookware: As a gift for someone starting out in a new home or first apartment, you can’t beat Williams Sonoma’s workhorse pots and pans. Made in Italy to the company’s precise specifications, these are among the best we’ve tried — and bonus, they’re dishwasher-safe. (Starting around $75; click here for more.)
  • Peppermint Bark: When you’re guesting rather than hosting, this classic, cheery red-and-white box will be welcome in just about any home. (Starting around $20; click here for more.)

For more gift picks from Williams Sonoma, visit Bethesda Row, Tysons Galleria, Reston Town Center or shop online at williams-sonoma.com.

Sponsored Content

OneTest
mailto:publisher@storereporter.com

Did you miss these issues?

Spring crop: Three new boutiques
Arhaus moves to the mall, Rakugaki opens, Trapezaria closes, Potomac boutique goes dark
Chopt and sushi at Cabin John, cupcakes on the Pike
Red Orchard, Quincy’s, Tara Thai & Corner Bakery
Gregorio’s Park Potomac update, new tenant for Toy Castle, new moves at the mall
New Raku ready to roll, CalTort gets a facelift, Tuesday Morning is toast
Pet store chain goes belly-up, Cava goes public, another new gym for Potomac
Two openings at Cabin John, construction near Life Time, designer shoe store closes
New golf store, new booze store, new fitness options for Potomac & Rockville

Filed Under: Clothing and Accessories, Downtown Crown, Downtown Rockville, Fallsgrove, Grocery Stores, Rio Washingtonian Center, Rockville Pike, Rockville Town Square, Shady Grove Road, Special Diets

Dawson’s out, Aldi in for Rockville — plus a new look for Rio and new food at the mall

October 4, 2018 By Store Reporter 2 Comments

Here’s your retail & restaurant scoop for the week of Oct. 4, 2018.

Dawson's Market

Dawson's Market exiting Rockville Town Square

Rockville Town Square suffered a major blow this week when longtime anchor tenant Dawson’s Market announced plans to close at the end of October. The natural-foods grocery store had been an integral part of downtown Rockville for the past six years, offering a full schedule of foodie events from beer tastings to cooking classes to Sunday jazz brunches. Dawson’s owners, who operate a similar grocery store in Richmond, VA, said the Rockville location simply wasn’t profitable. Dawson’s joins a long list of failed businesses at Rockville Town Square, including the just-closed Mellow Mushroom. (More on that in our Sept. 27th edition.) 

1-800-GOT-JUNK
Occasions
Aldi in Rockville

Aldi arrives

Just as Dawson’s Market gets ready to move out of Rockville, Aldi is moving in. Nov. 1 is opening day for the German grocer, which has taken over the former H.H. Gregg space near Bed Bath & Beyond on Rockville Pike. Aldi, which plans to open 2,500 new U.S. stores in the next four years, is known for its low prices, private-label brands, intentionally limited product lines and random surprise “treasure hunt” items. Customers bring their own bags, pack their own groceries and even pay a (refundable) 25-cent fee to use the shopping carts. Recently Aldi announced a new focus on organic, vegetarian, takeout and ready-to-cook foods as it tries to do a better job of catering to American palates.

Potomac Village Farmers Market
Al Ha'esh Israel Grill
Popculture

Gourmet popsicles and ramen at the mall

New food at Westfield Montgomery mall: Ejji Ramen has opened its doors, and a gourmet popsicle stand is on the way this fall. Pop Culture Craft Pops, taking over the former B/Bop/Q space later this month, will offer freshly made frozen treats with intriguing flavors like pumpkin spice latte, honey almond butter banana, pineapple jalapeño and chili papaya lime (shown here). Pop Culture’s owners, Joel Rogozinski and Holly Bagwell, are following a trend that has been… uh… popularized these past few years in hot-weather states like Florida, California and the Carolinas. This winter, they’ll also warm things up with nitro coffee and hot chocolate plus kombucha and fresh-brewed teas. There’s another Pop Culture in Loudon County, and plans are in the works for a third one in Georgetown.  “We’re not just doing this for one store,” Rogozinski says. “We intend to make this a national brand.”

Wink Eyecare Boutique
Fallsgrove Orthodontic Center
Rio Washingtonian lakefront renovation

New look, new Silver Diner for Rio

Rio Washingtonian Center has announced plans for a $30 million upgrade over the next two years, including improvements to the boardwalk and pedestrian bridge, a new performance stage and a redesigned lakefront seating area. An indoor/outdoor Silver Diner will open along the water next summer, joining a list of upcoming tenants that now includes Yard House, Dave & Buster’s, Lanzhou Hand Pulled Noodles, Kung Fu Tea and The Baked Bear. And the AMC movie theater is almost done with a renovation of its own: Snazzy new reclining seats, an expanded menu and a bar are all set to debut next month.

Power Hour Editing
Capital Area Food Bank

Did you miss these issues?

Spring crop: Three new boutiques
Arhaus moves to the mall, Rakugaki opens, Trapezaria closes, Potomac boutique goes dark
Chopt and sushi at Cabin John, cupcakes on the Pike
Red Orchard, Quincy’s, Tara Thai & Corner Bakery
Gregorio’s Park Potomac update, new tenant for Toy Castle, new moves at the mall
New Raku ready to roll, CalTort gets a facelift, Tuesday Morning is toast
Pet store chain goes belly-up, Cava goes public, another new gym for Potomac
Two openings at Cabin John, construction near Life Time, designer shoe store closes
New golf store, new booze store, new fitness options for Potomac & Rockville

Filed Under: Bakeries, Bubble Tea & Desserts, Grocery Stores, Rio Washingtonian Center, Rockville Pike, Rockville Town Square, Special Diets, Westfield Montgomery mall

New seafood on Rockville Pike, new boutique for Park Potomac, Rio movie theater revamp

June 14, 2018 By Store Reporter 3 Comments

Slapfish on the way to Rockville

Opening next month at Montrose Crossing on Rockville Pike: Slapfish, the fast-casual seafood restaurant that’s expanding to the D.C. area. The California-based chain offers a moderately priced menu ranging from fish tacos to shrimp salad to a seafood/grilled cheese mashup called the Clobster. Slapfish is set to open July 13th next to CAVA and newcomer Honeygrow, part of the new restaurant row that’s rising where Timpano once stood. Also on the way: Five Guys , relocating from its longtime home on the other side of Rockville Pike. For more on Slapfish in our Feb. 8th edition, click here.

Wintergreen Plaza
1-800-GOT-JUNK
Gym & Tonic

New boutique for Park Potomac

New boutique on the way to Park Potomac: Gym & Tonic, featuring high-end workout wear plus blazers, sweaters and cute tank tops that can transition from day to night. The store is a new venture from longtime local retailer Wendy Abelman, who previously worked for Lucky Brand and My Best Friend’s Closet, and business partner Amy Morgan Block, who once ran a similar store in Miami. The duo are hoping to open by early fall next to Addie’s — right in the sweet spot between Life Time Athletic and Orangetheory Fitness.

Grilled Oyster
Norman's Farm Market
AMC Loews movie theater at Rio Washingtonian Center

Revamp for Rio’s movie theater

The AMC Loews theater at Rio Washingtonian Center will be fully renovated by fall, the company tells us, with reclining seats, improved lighting and sound equipment, and an upgraded food and beverage menu. AMC is freshening up its properties across the country to meet the expectations of today’s audiences, who have grown accustomed to posh competitors like iPicand ArcLight.  No word yet on how all these changes will affect ticket prices. For more on what’s happening at Rio Washingtonian, click here for our June 7th edition.

Fallsgrove Orthodontic Center
Wildwood Summer Sidewalk Sale

Summer kickoff at Wildwood this weekend

What’s happening this weekend? The annual Summer Sidewalk Sale at Wildwood Shopping Center. Stop by for great summertime deals at many of your favorite stores and restaurants: Belina Boutique, Blanca Flor, Coco Blanca, Hadlee, Irresistibles, Oakville Grille and Wine Bar, Red Orchard, Salon Nader, Sanctuary Interior Designs, Sandy Springs Bank, Secrete Jewelry, Sequel, [SOLIDCORE], South Moon Under, Voorthuis Opticians, Wildwood Italian Cuisine and Yves Delorme. The fun kicks into high gear on Saturday (June 16th) with live music and giveaways from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. — including a chance to win $500 in gift cards to Wildwood merchants. Wildwood Shopping Center, 10241 Old Georgetown Road, Bethesda, 301-998-8100.

Sponsored Content

mailto:publisher@storereporter.com

Did you miss these issues?

Spring crop: Three new boutiques
Arhaus moves to the mall, Rakugaki opens, Trapezaria closes, Potomac boutique goes dark
Chopt and sushi at Cabin John, cupcakes on the Pike
Red Orchard, Quincy’s, Tara Thai & Corner Bakery
Gregorio’s Park Potomac update, new tenant for Toy Castle, new moves at the mall
New Raku ready to roll, CalTort gets a facelift, Tuesday Morning is toast
Pet store chain goes belly-up, Cava goes public, another new gym for Potomac
Two openings at Cabin John, construction near Life Time, designer shoe store closes
New golf store, new booze store, new fitness options for Potomac & Rockville

Filed Under: Burgers, Clothing and Accessories, Fitness & Beauty, Montrose Crossing, Movie Theaters, Park Potomac, Rio Washingtonian Center, Rockville Pike, Seafood, Wildwood Shops

Poke and dim sum, MOM’s Organic Market, Baked Bear heads to Rio

June 7, 2018 By Store Reporter 2 Comments

More poke on the way

Poki D.C., the Hawaiian-inspired restaurant chain that launched last year in Penn Quarter, is expanding throughout the D.C. area with three locations in Montgomery County. Much like Honeyfish Poke at Congressional Plaza (but spelled with an “i” instead of an “e”), Poki D.C. offers custom-made bowls of raw fish, rice and salad greens with various sauces and toppings. A Gaithersburg location at Rio Washingtonian Center will open in the next week or two. After that comes a Rockville location at The Spot, an all-Asian food hall under construction in the ground floor of The Metropolitan (click here for more on that). The third location will be at Georgetown Square Shopping Center off Democracy Boulevard, in the empty space next to Not Your Average Joe’s. Gary Ngo, co-owner of Poki D.C., says he hopes to open there by fall. For a peek at the menu, click here.

Grilled Oyster
The Baked Bear

Another Baked Bear for MoCo

Last week we told you that The Baked Bear was looking to open a second location at Rio Washingtonian Center in Gaithersburg. This week it’s official: The bakery/ice cream shop is taking the former 16 Handles space between Muse Paintbar and Starbucks, where it’s expected to open later this year. The Baked Bear, a California chain known for its custom-made ice cream sandwiches, has been generating incredible lines at Pike & Rose every weekend since it opened May 19th. Click here for more in our June 1st issue.

Realtor Lisa Nasar of Long & Foster
Mom's Organic Market produce section

MOM’s on the move

MOM’S Organic Market opened its doors last weekend at the new Upper Rock center on Shady Grove Road. This is the 19th and largest location for MOM’s — and the first to include an on-site bakery as well as the Naked Lunch organic restaurant. Upper Rock, across from Home Depot and Nordstrom Rack, is already home to CAVAand Firehouse Subs.

Shin Orthodontics
Dim sum

Dim sum on the Pike

Moving into the former Paladar space at North Bethesda Market on Rockville Pike: China Garden, a dim sum restaurant from the owners of Rockville’s Pandora Seafood House & Bar. “This group ran another China Garden in Arlington for many years, and now they’re relocating it here,” says broker Shang Wang, who handled the deal for JGB Companies. Known as a popular place for weddings and other large events, China Garden originally was supposed to move into the former REI space on Rockville Pike. That deal never materialized, but the Paladar space became available when the Latin restaurant closed its doors last winter. The new China Garden is expected to open by the end of this year.

Did you miss these issues?

Spring crop: Three new boutiques
Arhaus moves to the mall, Rakugaki opens, Trapezaria closes, Potomac boutique goes dark
Chopt and sushi at Cabin John, cupcakes on the Pike
Red Orchard, Quincy’s, Tara Thai & Corner Bakery
Gregorio’s Park Potomac update, new tenant for Toy Castle, new moves at the mall
New Raku ready to roll, CalTort gets a facelift, Tuesday Morning is toast
Pet store chain goes belly-up, Cava goes public, another new gym for Potomac
Two openings at Cabin John, construction near Life Time, designer shoe store closes
New golf store, new booze store, new fitness options for Potomac & Rockville

Filed Under: Asian Food, Bakeries, Bubble Tea & Desserts, Grocery Stores, Pike & Rose, Rio Washingtonian Center, Rockville Pike, Shady Grove Road

Trader Joe’s in Travilah, CAVA on Rockville Pike, Dave & Buster’s at Rio

February 22, 2018 By Store Reporter 5 Comments

Trader Joe’s at Travilah? Not just yet

Disappointing news for Trader Joe’sfans in Rockville: The new location at Travilah Square Shopping Centeris really behind schedule. While the store initially was expected to open by early spring, construction has been delayed — and now we hear that it might not even arrive before the holidays. A company spokesman was noncommittal: “Later this year” was all we could get. The Gaithersburg Trader Joe’s will be closing once the new store opens, but the Rockville location is staying put. (Editor’s note: For an update on this story, click here.)

Wintergreen Plaza
Cava Rockville

Another CAVA for Rockville

CAVA opened its newest Montgomery County location this week, joining newcomer Honeygrow at the former Timpano site on Rockville Pike. The two eateries mark the beginning of a new restaurant row that soon will include Five Guys and Slapfish. Never heard of Slapfish? Click here. Wondering when CAVA is going to open at Cabin John? Click here.

Bethesda Central Farm Markets
Rio Washingtonian Center

Dave & Buster’s rolls into Rio

Nine months after we first reported that Dave & Buster’s would be heading to Gaithersburg’s Rio Washingtonian Center, the deal finally became official this week. The gaming chain, which has been seeking a new location in this area since the White Flint Mall was torn down, is moving into the former Sport & Health space near the movie theater. And we hear there are more renovations on the way for Rio. Stay tuned.

My Best Friend's Closet

My Best Friend’s Closet grows up

A lot has changed at My Best Friend’s Closet since the boutique opened nearly a decade ago in Rockville. Once a go-to for tweens in search of gently used clothing and party wear, the store now carries all-new merchandise that takes its customers into their 20s and beyond. Partners Susan Olan and Cheryl Rhodes say the same young women who first came looking for bat mitzvah dresses are now out of college and still shopping at the store — as are their mothers. While My Best Friend’s Closet no longer carries any recycled items, the store has managed to keep prices down by working with vendors whose clothes can’t be found in department stores. My Best Friend’s Closet, 9735 Traville Gateway Drive, 301-340-3233. www.mybffcloset.com.

Sponsored Content

Wills Decorating
Federal Plaza with Oreck vacuum store

Vacuum store bites the dust

This week we received a lot of reader mail about the unexpected closing of the Oreck store at Federal Plaza on Rockville Pike. Some customers who had dropped off their vacuums for repair are now trying to figure out how to get them back. Oreck is directing people to its next-closest store in Ellicott City, where some of the missing vacuums apparently have shown up. To get in touch with that store, click here.

 

mailto:publisher@storereporter.com

Did you miss these issues?

Spring crop: Three new boutiques
Arhaus moves to the mall, Rakugaki opens, Trapezaria closes, Potomac boutique goes dark
Chopt and sushi at Cabin John, cupcakes on the Pike
Red Orchard, Quincy’s, Tara Thai & Corner Bakery
Gregorio’s Park Potomac update, new tenant for Toy Castle, new moves at the mall
New Raku ready to roll, CalTort gets a facelift, Tuesday Morning is toast
Pet store chain goes belly-up, Cava goes public, another new gym for Potomac
Two openings at Cabin John, construction near Life Time, designer shoe store closes
New golf store, new booze store, new fitness options for Potomac & Rockville

Filed Under: Clothing and Accessories, Federal Plaza, Grocery Stores, Montrose Crossing, Rio Washingtonian Center, Travilah

All-Asian food court, Cava on Shady Grove and a Rio restaurant update

November 16, 2017 By Store Reporter Leave a Comment

 

 

 

Gong Cha bubble tea

 

Next up for Rockville: An all-Asian food court

Coming soon to the new Metropolitan apartment building near Rockville Town Square: an all-Asian food court featuring everything from poke bowls and Taiwanese street food to cocktails and bubble tea. “It’s going to be called The Spot, and it will be the hottest place in Rockville by next summer,” says broker Shang Wang of JBG Companies, who’s finalizing the tenant list for the North Washington Street complex. Among that list will be the Taiwanese bubble tea chain Gong Cha, which is moving into Maryland after a three-year expansion around the New York area. Click here to check out the menu. 

 


 

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

 

 


 

Sonoran Rose: https://www.sonoran-rose.com

 

 


 

Poki District bowl

 

New restaurants for Rio Washingtonian

New dining and drinking options are on the way to Gaithersburg’s Rio Washingtonian Center. Just for the holidays, this week marks the launch of a Friday-only pop-up bar on the plaza across from Uncle Julio’s. (Click here for details). Next comes Poki District, a fast-expanding D.C. chain that will debut this spring near the movie theater. And Yard House, a craft beer and cocktail chain from Darden Restaurants, will replace the closed Macaroni Grill in 2019. Click here for a preview.

 


 

 

 


 

Toy Castle at Cabin John Mall: https://www.facebook.com/toycastlepotomac/

 

 


 

CAVA bowl

 

New Cava for Shady Grove

Cava has opened its newest Rockville restaurant at the Upper Rock retail complex on Shady Grove Road, where its neighbors will include CVS and MOM’s Organic Market. Two other Cavas also are on the way to this area, one now under construction at Montrose Crossing on Rockville Pike (details here) and the other at Cabin John Shopping Center in Potomac (details here).

 


 

VIP Outdoor at Westfield Montgomery Mall: https://www.facebook.com/VipOutdoor-150156621670618/

 

 


 

Store Reporter raffle gifts

 

Who won our raffle?

Congratulations to the winners of the Store Reporter raffle from last weekend’s Washington Hebrew Congregation Sisterhood Holiday Boutique & Silent Auction. Here’s who got lucky this year:

  • Shannon Zlotnik and Randi Poli each won $15 gift certificates for workout wear by LavaLoka (www.lavaloka.com).
  • Naomi Samuels won a sampler pack of edible cookie dough from The Cookie Jar DC (https://www.thecookiejardc.com).
  • Barbara Faigen won a $25 gift certificate for Lost & Forged, specializing in gifts made from reclaimed silver (www.lostandforged.com).
  • Lauren Topf won a $30 gift certificate for kids’ clothing from PixieLane Kids (click for more on Facebook).
  • Nancy Paul won a gift certificate for $25 in hair accessories from Bows Etc. (bows etc.com).
  • Jamie Kramer won a child’s fleece blanket from Perfect Presents by Pamela (click for more on Facebook).

Stay tuned for more Store Reporter giveaways this winter. And don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

 


 

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

 

 


 

Filed Under: Asian Food, Bakeries, Bubble Tea & Desserts, Gift Shops, Rio Washingtonian Center

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

May 25, 2017 By Store Reporter Leave a Comment

 

 

 

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

 

 


 

Filed Under: Bowling & Gaming, Cabin John Village, Gift Shops, Rio Washingtonian Center, Westfield Montgomery mall

Primary Sidebar

Subscribe to our FREE weekly emails.

 

 

 







Click to advertise.

Categories

Check Out Our Store Reporter Guide


Dining & Delivery

DINING
& DELIVERY


Local Shopping

LOCAL
SHOPPING


Local Services

LOCAL
SERVICES


Fitness, Fun & More

FITNESS, FUN & MORE

Recent Issues

  • Spring crop: Three new boutiques
  • Arhaus moves to the mall, Rakugaki opens, Trapezaria closes, Potomac boutique goes dark
  • Chopt and sushi at Cabin John, cupcakes on the Pike
  • Red Orchard, Quincy’s, Tara Thai & Corner Bakery
  • Gregorio’s Park Potomac update, new tenant for Toy Castle, new moves at the mall
  • New Raku ready to roll, CalTort gets a facelift, Tuesday Morning is toast
  • Pet store chain goes belly-up, Cava goes public, another new gym for Potomac
  • Two openings at Cabin John, construction near Life Time, designer shoe store closes
  • New golf store, new booze store, new fitness options for Potomac & Rockville
  • Rockville movie theater reaches “The End,” Party City goes bankrupt
  • Macy’s closing sale, new Potomac pet shop and a sushi sneak peek
  • Amazon grocery stalls, Bed Bath & Beyond at a breaking point, home-baked desserts & new teen store at the mall
  • Year-end wrap-up: The biggest openings & closings in Rockville, Potomac & North Bethesda
  • Last-minute shopping for kids & “kidults,” new teen store on the way
  • New sushi & Chinese BBQ, new place to chill at Wintergreen Plaza
  • New Potomac salon, Pike & Rose restaurant & Squishables
  • Cabin John sushi, new owners for Amalfi, Popeyes goes dark
  • Holiday deals, unhappy returns and kosher bowls at Cabin John
  • New Indian & Italian food for Rockville Pike, holiday pop-up bar at the mall
  • Dick’s on the Pike, Red Orchard expands, Slapfish is fried
  • Middle Eastern & Greek food, collectible sneakers, latest on Pike & Rose
  • Hello Thai food, goodbye Vera Bradley, new jewels for the mall
  • Hello Toys R Us, goodbye Sport & Health — plus a store that will knock your socks off
  • New plan for Rockville shopping center, Chopt on the way to Cabin John
  • Latest on Wegmans, Rockville shopping center auctioned — plus Psycho Bunny & more at the mall
  • Rockville rundown: Town Square is sold, Dick’s on the way, bye bye Bambū
  • New businesses for Potomac Woods Plaza, tastings are back at Trader Joe’s, Miller’s exits Rockville
  • Falafel, FAO Schwarz, Pier 1 and Tuesday Morning
  • Nordstrom Rack, Cabin John Village, designer watches & more
  • New hope for Bed Bath & Beyond — plus halal platters & southern soul food
  • New drinks for Rockville Pike, new scoops for Cabin John & the first sign of Halloween
  • New sushi scene in Potomac Village, last call for Rockville sports bar
  • New pizzeria & ice cream for Cabin John, young Asian designers hit the mall
  • New Gregorio’s, falafel & soul food, Rockville deli closes
  • PGA Tour Superstore, new Rockville boutiques, boozy milkshakes & boardwalk food at the mall
  • Baskin Robbins, Village Yoga & Toys R Us on the comeback trail
  • Chicken and waffles, DQ/Orange Julius update and the summer of bargains
  • Italian food & Warby Parker for Pike & Rose; sushi’s in & ice cream’s out at the mall
  • Psycho Bunny, Orange Julius, closings at Wildwood & Potomac Village
  • Three openings at Pike & Rose, Normandie Farm says goodbye

Who's the Store Reporter?

Cheryl Kane Heimlich has been a staff writer, columnist, editor and contributor to a dozen publications including the South Florida Business Journal, Bethesda Magazine, Miami Today, Miami Metro, Vista Magazine, St. Louis Magazine, the Boca Raton Observer, Washington Jewish Week and Variety. She has won numerous awards for her magazine profiles, parenting columns and business news coverage.

Footer

Advertise | Terms | Privacy | Subscribe | Contact

Copyright © 2019 Store Reporter

 

Loading Comments...