Newcomers Guide 2021-2022

2021-2022 Newcomers Guide • BethesdaMagazine.com Bethesda Magazine 2020-2021

Bethesda Magazine’s

2021-2022

The Must-Have

Resource FOR

Communities Schools Restaurants Health & Fitness Things to Do Kids Fun

BETHESDA | CHEVY CHASE | GAITHERSBURG | KENSINGTON | POTOMAC | ROCKVILLE | SILVER SPRING

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APPLIANCES MAKE LIFE BETTER.

Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove kitchen package.

A B W M A K E S OWN I N G T H E M E A SY. Kitchen, laundry, and outdoor appliances work hard to keep your home running smoothly. When it’s time to replace or repair your appliances, you may wish for expert guidance, an enjoyable shopping experience, and premium brands. Look no further than ABW, Appliances A Better Way. ABW Appliances, minority-owned and familyfounded in 1968, provides products that power home, hassle-free. When you shop at one of ABW’s six locations across the DC and Baltimore Metro area, you support local business and earth-friendly practices.

Dacor live kitchen at Arlington showroom. @appliancesABW

“ABW is committed to reducing our carbon footprint by implementing environmentallyfriendly policies, facilities, and vehicles,” says CEO Ryan Simon. “We recycle 100% of our cardboard and hauled-away appliances, and our entire service fleet is comprised of low-emissions hybrid vehicles.” For more: (301) 589-1445 or www.ABWappliances.com

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FIND YOUR PATH TO BETTER HEALTH Adventist HealthCare has all your health needs covered. We’re ready to support your path to well-being with:

• Primary & specialty care • ER & urgent care • Telehealth • Hospital care • Imaging • Mental health services • Rehabilitation & physical therapy • Home care Learn more at: AdventistHealthCare.com/Welcome

Shady Grove Medical Center • White Oak Medical Center Fort Washington Medical Center • Rehabilitation Adventist Medical Group • Urgent Care Imaging • Home Care

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Luxury Assisted Living Residences

A lifestyle tailored to your unique story. Design that is contemporary and refined, yet comfortable and welcoming. Thoughtful care, enriching activities, and elevated dining. This is The Seneca, a different kind of assisted living community— opening in summer 2021 in Rockville, Maryland.

Here, integrative wellness offerings combine with open floor plans and elegant interiors to create an environment that fosters engagement, inspires connection, and provides a sense of excitement, too. From culinary experiences with artisan menus to virtual reality programs and workshops through the award-winning Watermark University, there’s truly something for everyone.

Assisted Living and Memory Care, Reimagined.

Ideally located in the heart of Montgomery County, with convenient access to local restaurants, shopping, and cultural venues, The Seneca includes 146 spacious, modern residences—along with a wealth of opportunity through our Assisted Living, Memory Care, and The Bridge options.

Flooded with natural light, boasting landscaped verandas and expansive gardens that include a serenity garden and meditative labyrinth walk, The Seneca blends the best of our natural surroundings with a vast array of upscale amenities.

The pet-friendly community features an on-site spa, fitness center, and salon; four signature restaurants; health and educational programming; a robust calendar of social events; and much more. And 24/7 concierge service makes it easy for residents to make the most of each day.

To learn more and schedule a private tour, please call 240-614-2800. senecarockville.com 55 W. Gude Dr., Rockville, MD 20850 | 240-614-2800 ASSISTED LIVING

·

THE BRIDGE

·

MEMORY CARE

A SILVERSTONE/WATERMARK RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

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KNOCK ON THE DOOR and step inside.

Readers’ Pick, Best Luxury Apartments

All-Inclusive Living _ All Inclusive Utilities _ No Amenity Fees _ 24-hour Concierge Service _ 24-hour Fitness Center with Trainer & Towel Service _ 24-hour Business Center with Internet _ 24-hour Resident Lounges with Cable TV & Wi-fi _ 3 Blocks from the Bethesda Metro _ Private Elevator Access To Penthouse Apartment(s) _ Washer/dryer In-suite _ Furnished Apartments Available

844.235.8173 | THEPALISADESAPTS.NET

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WELCOME

23 OUR TOWNS

8

Montgomery County is home to a wide variety of communities. Here’s information on the demographics of 12 in the Bethesda area.

TO OUR READERS

THE ESSENTIALS 11 This handy guide provides all the info you need about local government and frequently used services.

24

BETHESDA

32 POTOMAC

26

CHEVY CHASE

28

GAITHERSBURG/ NORTH POTOMAC

34 ROCKVILLE/ NORTH BETHESDA

30

KENSINGTON & GARRETT PARK

40

WHERE TO LIVE

42

HOME SALES HIGHLIGHTS

36 SILVER SPRING 38 CABIN JOHN & GLEN ECHO

Here’s the latest on the hottest neighborhoods and highest average sale prices in 2020 An annual publication of

MAGAZINE

COVER PHOTO: GETTY IMAGES

PHOTOS BY DEB LINDSEY AND MICHAEL VENTURA

inside

the newcomers guide

4 Bethesda Magazine | 2021-2022 NEWCOMERS GUIDE

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What do entrepreneurial business owners, individuals arranging their estate, couples navigating partnership planning or coping with divorce, leading builders and developers all have in common? They all choose McMillan Metro again and again for personal, practical, and positive solutions to their legal needs.

How can we assist you?

KNOWLEDGE

STRATEGY

RESULTS

Conveniently located at I-270 & Montrose Road 7811 Montrose Road, Suite 400 • Potomac, MD 20854 • 301-251-1180 • McMillanMetro.com ©2021 McMillan Metro, PC.

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inside

the newcomers guide

51 SCHOOLS

79 DINING

Best of Bethesda picks, Montgomery County public high schools list and nontraditional public school programs

Best of Bethesda picks and dining guide

61 HEALTH Guide to hospitals, Best of Bethesda picks and urgent medical care options

73 FITNESS & BEAUTY

99 THINGS TO DO Music venues, farmers markets and parks, play centers, art and dance classes, theaters for kids and sports leagues

112 PICTURE SHOW Full moon over the Potomac River

Best of Bethesda picks, plus popular hiking and biking trails in the county and region

An annual publication of

MAGAZINE

PHOTO BY SKIP BROWN; PHOTO COURTESY OF FRESH BAGUETTE; PHOTO BY LAURA CHASE DE FORMIGNY

YOUR LIFE

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In an emergency, know where to go.

We’re Always Here: 8600 Old Georgetown Road Bethesda, Maryland 20814 suburbanhospital.org/er Greentree Rd

.

Grant St.

Garfield

town Rd.

Old George

St.

Southwick St.

In a medical emergency, get help and choose wisely. With our renowned expertise and ability to give you an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment, we’ve been voted a winner in Bethesda Magazine's Best of Bethesda Readers’ Poll for best emergency room not just once, but four consecutive times.

• Montgomery County’s only Level II Trauma Center • Certified Primary Stroke Center • Dedicated pediatric emergency center and more All ready to safely care for you, get you well and put your mind at ease. In a medical emergency, call 911.

.

McKinley St

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welcome

to the neighborhood I MOVED TO THE Washington, D.C., area from Connecticut 30 years ago—and I can still recall the feeling of dislocation. Besides not knowing how to get from Point A to Point B, I didn’t know the best places to dine and get my hair cut, let alone how to find a doctor and a dentist.

Unfortunately, there were few resources available to help me figure things out. (In 1990, the Internet as we know it was not an option.) Through word of mouth and trial and error I eventually found my way around— although not before enduring several bad meals and haircuts.

Thirty years later, things have gone from famine to feast. These days anyone who is moving to a new community has countless resources available at the click of a mouse.

That’s a wonderful thing—and a big problem.

The amount of information available online can be overwhelming. (A recent Google search for doctors in Bethesda, Maryland, produced more than 263 million results!)

In 2004, my wife, Susan, and I launched Bethesda Magazine from the basement of our Chevy Chase house. We started the magazine because we wanted to help keep local residents informed about the people, places and happenings in the area—and to help foster a sense of community.

Now we are pleased to publish the Bethesda Magazine “Newcomers Guide,” an annual print and digital publication. It is the resource I needed when I moved to the area. It is full of useful information for newcomers about towns, real estate, schools, dining, doctors, dentists, things to do and much more. It also contains hundreds of web addresses in the print edition and links in the digital edition so you can obtain more detailed information.

I believe the guide is an invaluable resource for newcomers. It will help you make educated and informed decisions about all the choices you face.

You have moved (or are moving) to an extraordinary area. Bethesda and the surrounding towns are among the most affluent and well educated in the country.

The public and private schools are superb.

There are literally hundreds of neighborhoods to choose from, and countless dining, shopping and recreational options. (Of course, the summers and the traffic can be brutal, but no place is perfect!)

As I write this, Montgomery County and the country are emerging from the COVID-19 pandemic and life is returning to normal. I’m excited that you, as a newcomer to the area, can start to explore all that this community has to offer. Welcome to the neighborhood.

Steve Hull Editor and Publisher, Bethesda Magazine steve.hull@bethesdamagazine.com

P.S. BY READING BETHESDA MAGAZINE, you’ll learn a lot more about your new community.

To subscribe, go to BethesdaMagazine.com and click on the “subscribe” link. I also urge you to check out Bethesda Beat, our daily online news briefing that will keep you up to date on local happenings. You can read Bethesda Beat on our website.

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Discover.

See.

Explore.

Test.

Create.

Compare.

Collaborate.

Interact.

Meet.

Inspiration for your new home.

Give your new home an elevated look with The Home Depot Design Center. Discover endless inspiration and put products to the test in 30+ interactive kitchen, bath and laundry rooms.

Get access to designer brands plus complimentary design and project advice from experts you can trust. Let us help you create a space as unique as you as you settle into your new home.

Visit us virtually or in-store to get started.

12087 Rockville Pike

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|

Rockville, MD 20852

|

(301) 692-3700

|

homedepot.com/HDDCBethMag

5/7/21 2:04 PM

Magazine’s

CEO

Scott Copeland

Magazine’s

EDITOR & PUBLISHER

Steve Hull

VICE PRESIDENT OF PUBLISHING AND ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Susan E. Hull

MANAGING EDITOR

Stephanie Siegel Burke COPY EDITOR

Julie Rasicot

ART DIRECTOR

READ BETHESDA BEAT’S DAILY NEWS STORIES covering local politics and government, development, crime, schools and restaurants

Jenny Fischer

DEPUTY ART DIRECTOR

Laura F. Goode DESIGNER

Olivia Sadka ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Jennifer Farkas

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Arlis Dellapa, Penny Skarupa, LuAnne Spurrell ADVERTISING PRODUCTION COORDINATOR

Meghan K. Murphy

MARKETING & EVENTS MANAGER

Amélie Ward

DIGITAL MARKETING AND AUDIENCE ENGAGEMENT MANAGER

Leigh McDonald WEB PRODUCER

Erin Roby

CUSTOMER SERVICE MANAGER

Onecia Ribeiro

FINANCE MANAGER

Jill Trone

ADVERTORIAL WRITERS

Ann Cochran, Jim Mahaffie ADVERTORIAL PHOTOGRAPHERS

Tony J. Lewis, Hilary Schwab, Michael Ventura

Bethesda Magazine is published six times a year

by Z-Pop Media, LLC. © 2021

bethesdamagazine.com

For customer service: Call 301-718-7787, ext. 205; or send an email to customerservice@bethesdamagazine.com.

For advertising information: Call 301-718-7787, ext. 220; send an email to advertising@bethesdamagazine.com; or go to www.BethesdaMagazine.com.

For information on events and reprints: Call 301-718-7787, ext. 207; or send an email to marketing@bethesdamagazine.com.

Bethesda Magazine 7768 Woodmont Ave., #204, Bethesda, MD 20814

Phone: 301-718-7787 Fax: 301-718-1875 www.BethesdaMagazine.com

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COURTESY OF GETTY IMAGES

essentials Finding what you need in your new hometown can sometimes feel like searching for your wallet in a large handbag: You know it’s in there, but you can’t seem to put your hands on it. We’re here to help with information on how to contact county offices and frequently used services.

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essentials

County Government MC311

Dial 311 for the county’s general information line (or 240-777-0311 from outside the county); www.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcg/contactus.html Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich, 240-777-0311, www.montgomerycountymd.gov/opi/contactus.html Montgomery County Council, 240-777-7900, www.montgomerycountymd. gov/council/. The County Council generally meets on Tuesdays at 9:30 a.m. at the Council Office Building, 100 Maryland Ave., Rockville. Five council members are elected by their respective council districts; four others are elected at-large.

Council Members President Sidney Katz, D, District 3 240-777-7906 councilmember.katz@montgomerycountymd.gov

County Executive Marc Elrich

voting Montgomery County Board of Elections 18753 N. Frederick Ave., Suite 210, Gaithersburg, 240-777-8500 Register to vote or find your polling place by visiting www.montgomerycountymd.gov/elections

Evan Glass, D, At-Large 240-777-7966 councilmember.glass@montgomerycountymd.gov

Will Jawando, D, At-Large 240-777-7811 councilmember.jawando@montgomerycountymd.gov

Hans Riemer, D, At-Large 240-777-7964 councilmember.riemer@montgomerycountymd.gov

Andrew Friedson, D, District 1 240-777-7828 councilmember.friedson@montgomerycountymd.gov

Tom Hucker, D, District 5 240-777-7960 councilmember.hucker@montgomerycountymd.gov

Nancy Navarro, D, District 4 240-777-7968 councilmember.navarro@montgomerycountymd.gov

Craig Rice, D, District 2 240-777-7955 councilmember.rice@montgomerycountymd.gov

County Council District Map

PHOTO OF COUNTY COUNCIL BUILDING COURTESY; PHOTO OF HUGHES BY MICHAEL VENTURA

240-777-7959 councilmember.albornoz@montgomerycountymd.gov

MAP GRAPHIC FROM COUNTY

Gabe Albornoz, D, At-Large

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Police and Fire

Cabin John Park Volunteer Fire Department 301-365-2255 (Station 10) 301-299-4300 (Station 30) cjpvfd.com

Chevy Chase Village Police Department 301-654-7300 chevychasevillagemd.gov/35/Police

Glen Echo Fire Department 301-229-3200 gefd.org Volunteer EMT Padraic Hughes of the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rescue Squad

PHOTO BY MICHAEL VENTURA

In an emergency, dial 911. For nonemergency calls, try the following numbers.

Montgomery County Fire & Rescue Service

City of Rockville Police Department

240-683-6520 montgomerycountymd.gov/mcfrs/

240-314-8900 rockvillemd.gov/police

Montgomery County Police Department

Gaithersburg Police Department

301-279-8000 montgomerycountymd.gov/police

301-258-6400 gaithersburgmd.gov/government/ departments/ gaithersburg-police-department

Bethesda Fire Department 301-652-5602 bethesdafire.org

Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rescue Squad 301-652-0077 bccrs.org

Silver Spring Volunteer Fire Department 301-587-3400 silverspringvfd.org

Kensington Volunteer Fire Department 301-929-8000, kvfd.org

Rockville Volunteer Fire Department 301-424-0310 rvfd.org

Wheaton Volunteer Rescue Squad 301-949-9673 wvrs.org

O AT

21

RANKED TOP 1%

20

PV O TE G ET TE R

MAP GRAPHIC FROM COUNTY

SIX YEARS IN A ROW!

TWO YEARS IN A ROW!

CAROLYN SAPPENFIELD • 240.353.7601 • CAROLYNHOMES.COM REALTOR®

RE/MAX Realty Services • Bethesda Row • 301.652.0400 • 4825 Bethesda Avenue #200 • Bethesda, MD 20814

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essentials

Utilities Phone

Electric

800-922-0204 verizon.com/home

800-685-0123 bge.com

Gas

First Energy/Potomac Edison

Verizon

Washington Gas 703-750-1000 washingtongas.com

Water/Sewer

Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission

Digital Cable/ High-Speed Internet and Digital Home Phone

BGE

Comcast

800-686-0011 firstenergycorp.com

RCN 800-746-4726 rcn.com

PEPCO 202-833-7500 pepco.com

Verizon 800-922-0204 verizon.com/home/fios-fastest-internet/

301-206-4001 wsscwater.com/home.html

TRASH & BULK TRASH

800-934-6489 xfinity.com

Shady Grove Transfer Station

Poolesville Beauty Spot

16101 Frederick Road, Derwood, 240-777-0311 montgomerycountymd.gov

19200 Jerusalem Road, Poolesville, 240-777-0311 montgomerycountymd.gov

Recycling Shady Grove Transfer Station 16101 Frederick Road, Derwood, 240-777-0311 montgomerycountymd.gov

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Libraries Aspen Hill Library

4407 Aspen Hill Road, Rockville, 240-773-9410

Chevy Chase Library

8005 Connecticut Ave., Chevy Chase, 240-773-9590

Connie Morella Library

7400 Arlington Road, Bethesda, 240-777-0970

Damascus Library

9701 Main St., Damascus, 240-773-9444

Little Falls Library

Davis Library

6400 Democracy Blvd., Bethesda, 240-777-0922

Gaithersburg Library

18330 Montgomery Village Ave., Gaithersburg, 240-773-9490

Germantown Library

19840 Century Blvd., Germantown, 240-777-0110

Kensington Park Library

4201 Knowles Ave., Kensington, 240-773-9515

LIBRARY CARD You can register for a library card in person at any Montgomery County Public Libraries branch by bringing a photo ID and proof of address.

You also can apply online at http://montgomerycountymd.gov/library/ services/registration.html.

5501 Massachusetts Ave., Bethesda, 240-773-9520

Long Branch Library

8800 Garland Ave., Silver Spring, 240-777-0910

Maggie Nightingale Library 19633 Fisher Ave., Poolesville, 240-773-9550

Marilyn J. Praisner Library 14910 Old Columbia Pike, Burtonsville, 240-773-9460

Noyes Library for Young Children

10237 Carroll Place, Kensington, 240-773-9570

Quince Orchard Library

15831 Quince Orchard Road, Gaithersburg, 240-777-0200

Rockville Memorial Library 21 Maryland Ave., Rockville, 240-777-0140

Silver Spring Library 900 Wayne Ave., Silver Spring, 240-773-9420

Twinbrook Library

202 Meadow Hall Drive, Rockville, 240-777-0240

Wheaton Library

Olney Library

11701 Georgia Ave., Wheaton, 240-777-0678

Potomac Library

11701 New Hampshire Ave., Silver Spring, 240-773-9555

3500 Olney-Laytonsville Road, Olney, 240-773-9545 10101 Glenolden Drive, Potomac, 240-777-0690

White Oak Library

IVYMOUNT OUTREACH PROGRAMS Ivymount Outreach shares the expertise of Ivymount School and the Maddux School with the greater community by offering services by highly trained staff to individuals, families and professionals.

Endeavors ABA Services & Programs

Educational & Therapeutic Programs

Recreational Programs

Professional Services

High quality ABA services for individuals aged 2- young adult in clinic and home based settings.

Individual and group programs for students and families, lead by our expert teachers and therapists.

Includes speech therapy, occupational therapy, and tutoring.

After-school clubs and weekend group programs with an emphasis on FUN.

Individualized consultation services and trainings to organizations, agencies, schools and professionals using evidence-based practices.

Learn more or register www.ivymountoutreach.org Bethesda Magazine | 2021-2022 NEWCOMERS GUIDE 15

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essentials

Transportation How to Get Around Metro (map on page 17) The Metro has a dozen stops in Montgomery County on the Red Line, which connects the county to Washington, D.C. The Red Line stretches from Shady Grove through the nation’s capital and back into the county, ending in Glenmont. Parking is available at 44 Metro stations. wmata.com/rail

Bethesda Circulator This free bus makes a 3.3-mile loop through downtown Bethesda every 10 to 15 minutes. Its 20 stops include the Bethesda Metro station and Bethesda’s public garages. bethesda.org/bethesda/bethesda-circulator

Silver Spring VanGo

Metrobus Metrobus’ 400,000 trips each weekday in Maryland, Virginia and the District make it the sixth busiest bus agency in the United States. For information about schedules and stops, visit wmata.com/bus.

The VanGo is a free shuttle service circulating through downtown Silver Spring from the Silver Spring Metro station. silverspringdowntown.com/ transportation/vango-stops

Bike Rentals

Ride On bus The Ride On bus system is the most used form of public transportation in the county. Ride On operates dozens of routes, which serve much of the county. The Montgomery County Department of Transportation lists the routes and schedules: montgomerycountymd.gov/dot-transit/ routesandschedules/rideonroutes.html.

Capital Bikeshare enables users to rent its signature red bikes from one of hundreds of stations across the region, including dozens throughout Montgomery County, and then return them to another station. In Silver Spring, users can also find dockless bikes available from other bikeshare companies.

Motor Vehicle Administration There are four MVA offices in Montgomery County, plus one pop-up office that opens once a month in Chevy Chase. Find out which services are offered at each location, along with wait times, at the MVA website: www.mva.maryland.gov/locations/montgomerycounty.htm.

Gaithersburg

Full service

15 Metropolitan Grove Road, Gaithersburg

Limited service

Glenmont Shopping Center, 12335 Georgia Ave., Silver Spring

Limited service

16520 S. Westland Drive, Gaithersburg

White Oak

Full service

2131 Industrial Parkway, Silver Spring

Chevy Chase MVA Bus, Friendship Heights Village Council

Limited service

4433 S. Park Ave., Chevy Chase (The MVA Bus is at this location only once a month.)

Glenmont Walnut Hill

How to get a driver’s license New residents must obtain a Maryland driver’s license within 60 days. Bring your out-of-state license, plus proof of your age, identity and residency. You’ll need to pass a vision screening at an MVA office or submit a vision screening form from a doctor.

How to title and register a vehicle You must register your vehicle within 60 days of moving to Maryland. Generally, you’ll need to provide proof of ownership (the existing title identifying you as the owner), a state inspection certificate and an application form (available on the MVA website). You also must have a vehicle liability insurance policy that conforms to Maryland’s requirements. Apply for a Maryland title and registration at any full-service MVA office, or mail copies of the above documents to the MVA’s Out-of-State Title Unit, 6601 Ritchie Highway, Glen Burnie, MD 21062.

Vehicle emissions inspection locations in the county Maryland requires the inspection of a vehicle’s emissions system every two years. Get your car inspected at these two Montgomery County locations. mva.maryland.gov/ locations/veip/montgomerycounty.htm Montgomery County, East 2121 Industrial Parkway, Silver Spring Montgomery County, Central 15910 Chieftain Ave., Derwood

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metro map

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Pet Grooming Doggie Daycare Dog Parties

Bone Jour!

Pet Boutique Dog Boarding Dog Training

Grooming

Daycare

Parties

Boarding

Boutique

Dog Training

Bone Jour n 4922 Del Ray Ave. n Bethesda 301-656-BONE (2663) n bonejour.com info@bonejour.com Readers’ Pick, Best Pet Boutique and A Top Vote Getter Doggie Daycare, 2021

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essentials

Pets How to get a pet license All dogs and cats over the age of 4 months and living in the county need to wear tags that prove they have been licensed and vaccinated for rabies. Pet licenses can be obtained from the county online at licensepet.com/ montgomerycounty, in person at the Montgomery County Animal Services & Adoption Center (7315 Muncaster Mill Road, Derwood) or by mail (call 240-773-5900, option 7, to request a form).

Veterinarians issue rabies tags. Rockville and Gaithersburg residents also need to register their pets with their cities. Rockville residents can visit www.rockvillemd.gov or apply in person at Rockville City Police Department, Neighborhood Services Division, 2 W. Montgomery Ave., Rockville. Gaithersburg residents can apply in person at City of Gaithersburg Animal Control, 31 S. Summit Ave., Gaithersburg, or by visiting www.gaithersburgmd.gov.

Dog parks Black Hill Regional Park 20930 Lake Ridge Drive, Boyds, 301-528-3490

Comprehensive wellness, emergency and specialty care Primary Care

Emergency Care

Specialty Care

Wellness Plans

Open 24/7/365

Dermatology

Evening & weekend appointments

VECCS-Certified Level I

Neurology

General surgery

Board-certified Criticalists

Dentistry

Oncology

Rehabilitation And more!

Cabin John Regional Park 7400 Tuckerman Lane, Bethesda

Dog Exercise Area in Green Park 251 Bickerstaff Way, Gaithersburg

Ellsworth Urban Park & Dog Park 621 Ellsworth Drive, Silver Spring

Olney Manor Recreational Park

Friendship provides state-of-the-art, comprehensive services for our clients and patients. But, more than that, we provide a caring team who understands the unique human-animal bond.

Friendship is open 24 hours every day and has been accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association for over sixty years.

16601 Georgia Ave., Olney

Ridge Road Recreational Park 21155 Frederick Road, Germantown, 301-528-3450

Rockville Dog Park at King Farm 1800 Piccard Drive, Rockville, 240-314-8700

Takoma Park Dog Park 198 Darwin Ave., Takoma Park

Wheaton Regional Park

PHOTO BY JAMES MERTZ

11710 Orebaugh Ave., Wheaton, 301-905-3045

24 hours 202.363.7300 www.friendshiphospital.com 4105 Brandywine Street NW Washington, DC 20016

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essentials

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Malls & Shopping Centers The Bethesda area offers many shopping opportunities that range from shops and boutiques found in pedestrian-friendly centers such as Bethesda Row, Rockville Town Square and Pike & Rose in North Bethesda to those located in more traditional indoor malls such as Westfield Montgomery in Bethesda and Westfield Wheaton. Here’s a sampling of local shopping areas:

BETHESDA

18 Fallsgrove Village Center

4950 Elm St., www.bethesdarow.com

Kentlands Boulevard at Market and Main streets, www.kentlandsmarketsquare.com

14955 Shady Grove Road, www.fallsgrovevillagectr.com

2 The Shoppes of Bethesda

10 Lakeforest Mall

1776 East Jefferson St., www.federalrealty.com/properties/ federalplaza

4928 Hampden Lane, www.shoppesofbethesda.com

3 Wildwood Shopping Center 10241 Old Georgetown Road, www.shopsatwildwood.com

4 Westfield Montgomery 7101 Democracy Blvd., www.westfield.com/montgomery

Chevy Chase

701 Russell Ave., www.shoplakeforest.com

11 RIO 9841 Washingtonian Blvd., www.riolakefront.com

Potomac

12 Cabin John Village

11325 Seven Locks Road, www.cjvillage.com

5 The Collection at Chevy Chase

13 Potomac Promenade

6 The Shops at Wisconsin Place

14 Potomac Village Shopping Center

5471 Wisconsin Ave., www.collectionchevychase.com

MAP GRAPHIC DRAWN BY MARY ANN SMITH AND JENNY FISCHER

9 Kentlands Market Square

1 Bethesda Row

5310 Western Ave., www.shopwisconsinplace.com

Clarksburg

9812 Falls Road, #201

9935 Falls Road

15 The Shops at Park Potomac 12525 Park Potomac Ave., www.parkpotomac.com

7 Clarksburg Premium Outlets

22705 Clarksburg Road, www.premiumoutlets.com/outlet/clarksburg

Gaithersburg/ North Potomac

8 Downtown Crown

Sam Eig Highway at Fields Road, www.downtowncrown.com

Rockville/North Bethesda

16 Congressional Plaza

19 Federal Plaza

20 Montrose Crossing 12055 Rockville Pike

21 Pike & Rose 11580 Old Georgetown Road, www.pikeandrose.com

22 Potomac Woods Plaza 1087 Seven Locks Road

23 Rockville Town Square 200 E. Middle Lane, www.rockvilletownsquare.com

24 Wintergreen Plaza 815-895 Rockville Pike, www.wintergreenplaza.com

Silver Spring

25 Downtown Silver Spring

916 Ellsworth Drive, www.downtownsilverspring.com

26 Westfield Wheaton

Rockville Pike and Halpine Road, www.congressionalplaza.com

11160 Veirs Mill Road, www.westfield.com/wheaton

17 Congressional Village Shopping Center

Upper Northwest, D.C.

1701 Rockville Pike

27 Mazza Gallerie

5300 Wisconsin Ave. NW, www.mazzagallerie.com

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NEW SECTION NOW SELLING! NEW HOMES FROM THE $400S

A BRIGHTER WAY TO LIVE This material shall not constitute an offer or solicitation in any state where prior registration is required. Equal Housing Opportunity. © 2020 All rights reserved VII Crown Farm Owner, LLC. Drawings and renderings are for illustrative purposes only and subject to change.

SmartUrbanLiving.com Sam Eig Highway at Fields Road Gaithersburg, MD 20878

EXPLORE PIKEDISRICT.ORG TO FIND SHOPPING, DINING, NEWS AND EVENTS HAPPENING IN NORTH BETHESDA Full page ad template.indd 1

5/11/21 10:02 AM

PHOTO BY SKIP BROWN

our towns

A SENSE OF COMMUNITY defines the towns and cities in the Bethesda area.

From neighborhoods that hold annual events such as Fourth of July parades to concerts and festivals sponsored by individual towns and cities, these communities strive to create a welcoming environment for their residents, whether they have lived in Montgomery County all of their lives or have moved here.

Newcomers will find the county offers top-notch schools, a broad variety of housing styles and communities ranging from the bucolic neighborhoods of Potomac to the more urban environs of Bethesda, Rockville and Silver Spring.

Downtown Bethesda Streetery

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Downtown Bethesda is a vibrant mix of shops, restaurants and housing.

SOMEONE ONCE REFERRED to Bethesda as “big

and a strong sense of community. The addition of new

city, small town.” It’s an apt description. Bethesda, which

shops and restaurants and high-end housing adds to

is actually unincorporated, has many of the attributes

the vitality of Bethesda’s bustling downtown. Meanwhile,

of a big city—a bustling downtown, an educated and

construction cranes dot the downtown area as upscale

sophisticated populace, a striking number and variety

condo and apartment complexes continue to rise, meeting

of restaurants, and world-class cultural venues. (The flip

a demand for close-in living and easy access to shops,

side is that it also has bad traffic, limited parking and

dining and mass transportation. Between Wisconsin and

expensive housing.) But Bethesda in many ways still

Woodmont avenues, the new headquarters of Marriott

feels like a small town: people recognize each other on

International is taking shape, adding an exciting element

the street, and there are dozens of leafy neighborhoods

to the Bethesda skyline.

PHOTO BY SKIP BROWN

Bethesda

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POPULATION 60,858 EDUCATION

High school graduate or higher (persons age 25+) 97.9% Bachelor’s degree or higher (persons age 25+) 85.9%

INCOME

Median household income $164,142

HOUSING

Median value of owneroccupied housing units $911,000

COMMUTE

Mean travel time to work (workers age 16+) 29.8 minutes Source: U.S. Census Bureau

#5

“WEALTHIEST ZIP CODES IN GREATER D.C.” PHOTO BY MICHAEL VENTURA

PHOTO BY SKIP BROWN

Washington Business Journal in 2020

#52

“BEST SUBURB TO LIVE IN AMERICA”

Niche.com in 2020

Locals

“

“We are centrally located. Everything is at your fingertips. In 30 minutes, you can be in downtown D.C., you can be in rural Potomac on a horse farm, yet within 10 minutes you are at some of the most unique restaurants in the metro area. It’s an amazing, rich food scene. We are always excited about the new restaurants and stores opening with the redevelopment in Bethesda.”

”

Tom Manatos

vice president of government relations at Spotify and founder of Tom Manatos Jobs Bethesda Magazine | 2021-2022 NEWCOMERS GUIDE 25

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Chevy Chase DESPITE ITS HEAVY concentration of high-octane

hushed streets, as well as top-notch public

inhabitants, Chevy Chase somehow manages to

schools—although many families choose private

seem bucolic and old-fashioned, a place that time

schools. Residents praise Chevy Chase for its family-

forgot. Chevy Chase isn’t a single entity, but rather

friendliness and charm—as well as its proximity to

a collection of small towns and unincorporated

the nation’s capital—and enjoy the convenience of

neighborhoods. Together they make up an affluent

having three Metro stops and downtown Bethesda

enclave of pricey homes, well-tended lawns and

close by.

PHOTO BY MICHAEL VENTURA

Different styles of homes line the streets of Chevy Chase.

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POPULATION 9,545 EDUCATION

High school graduate or higher (persons age 25+) 99.9% Bachelor’s degree or higher (persons age 25+) 86.1%

INCOME

Median household income $181,929

HOUSING

Median value of owneroccupied housing units $944,700

COMMUTE

Mean travel time to work (workers age 16+)

30 minutes Source: U.S. Census Bureau

#1 PHOTO BY MICHAEL VENTURA

PHOTO BY MICHAEL VENTURA

“MOST EDUCATED TOWN IN MARYLAND” Business Insider website in 2019

#6

“BEST PLACES TO LIVE IN MARYLAND” niche.com in 2020

Locals

“

“I love how our neighborhood feels like a community. People are supportive of one another. We have a Fourth of July potluck. The community pool is a big draw and gathering place that brings people together for trivia nights, Sunday night movies, and family-friendly events to raise money for different causes. I like how people who live here are socially conscious and politically aware. They really care.”

”

Aviva Goldfarb

cookbook author and restaurant marketing consultant Bethesda Magazine | 2021-2022 NEWCOMERS GUIDE 27

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Rio in Gaithersburg offers shopping, dining and entertainment.

FROM THE HISTORIC central business district known

intersection of I-270 and the I-370/Intercounty

as “Old Towne,” to the newer, planned neighborhoods

Connector, is a bustling community within walking

that emphasize pedestrian-friendliness and community

distance of Downtown Crown, which features a Harris

closeness, to the shops and restaurants of the Rio

Teeter grocery store, restaurants, shops and businesses.

Washingtonian Center, Gaithersburg has a lot to offer.

Gaithersburg also features residential areas in the

It’s a diverse community that provides an affordable

far west, such as Kentlands and its sister community,

alternative to Bethesda, Chevy Chase and Potomac.

Lakelands, which were designed to be walkable and offer

Crown, a growing neighborhood that lies near the

a variety of housing and recreation options.

PHOTO BY MICHAEL VENTURA

Gaithersburg/ North Potomac

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POPULATION 68,289 EDUCATION

High school graduate or higher (percent of persons age 25+) 88.1% Bachelor’s degree or higher (percent of persons age 25+) 54%

INCOME

Median household income $89,763

HOUSING

Median value of owneroccupied housing units $389,200

COMMUTE

Mean travel time to work (workers age 16+)

32.9 minutes Source: U.S. Census Bureau

#2

NORTH POTOMAC: “BEST PLACES TO LIVE IN MARYLAND” PHOTO BY MICHAEL VENTURA

Niche.com in 2020

#2

GAITHERSBURG: “MOST DIVERSE CITY IN U.S.” WalletHub in 2020

Locals

“

“The diversity that you find [in Gaithersburg], in terms of people, culture, approaches, restaurants, just the community is great. I’ve lived in other areas of the U.S. and I travel a lot for work, and here you can feel it, you can notice it, and it is really interesting. We have such a great asset in this city because of that.”

”

Yamil Hernandez chief business officer of biotechnology company Exegi Pharma

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Kensington & Garrett Park WITH HISTORIC Victorian homes,

Now, along with the timeworn furniture

the entire town is on the National

tree-lined streets and shady parks,

and collectibles of Antique Row, there

Register of Historic Places. Hallmarks

Kensington doesn’t feel all that removed

are glass and art studios and a variety

include the towering trees and

from its late 19th-century roots, when

of apparel shops ranging from boutiques

manicured gardens that led the town to

it was created as a haven from the

to consignment stores. And recent

designate itself an arboretum in 1977;

Washington summer heat. In recent

arrivals are creating a dining scene for

as well as left-leaning politics and quirky

years, an influx of interior design

people who want to stay close to home,

traditions, including the lack of home

studios, clothing boutiques, spas and

adding even more to the appeal of this

mail delivery, which means residents

restaurants has been changing the

small community.

must pick up their mail—and interact

image of the town of nearly 2,100

with their neighbors—at the town post

residents. Since 2013, several new

GARRETT PARK, an incorporated town

office. The town is also conveniently

retailers have opened in the town and

located west of Kensington, offers

located, with easy access to commuter

just outside of its borders in an area

impeccably preserved Victorian homes

trains and the Grosvenor-Strathmore

once dominated by auto repair shops.

and “Chevy houses” of the mid-1920s;

Metro station.

Noyes Children’s Library in Kensington

The Black Market Bistro in Garrett Park

GARRETT PARK

POPULATION 2,098

POPULATION 1,049

EDUCATION High school graduate or higher (percent of persons age 25+) 95.7%

HOUSING Median value of owneroccupied housing units $712,500

Bachelor’s degree or higher (percent of persons age 25+) 73.2%

COMMUTE

INCOME

(workers age 16+)

Median household income $125,357

Mean travel time to work 32.6 minutes

EDUCATION High school graduate or higher (percent of persons age 25+) 99.7% Bachelor’s degree or higher

HOUSING Median value of owneroccupied housing units $823,300

(percent of persons age 25+)

COMMUTE

84.4%

Mean travel time to work (workers age 16+)

INCOME

31.3 minutes

Median household income $187,778

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

NOYES LIBRARY PHOTO BY RUSS SPRAGUE; GARRETT PARK PHOTO BY MICHAEL VENTURA

KENSINGTON

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Locals

“ “

Locals

PHOTOS BY MICHAEL VENTURA

NOYES LIBRARY PHOTO BY RUSS SPRAGUE; GARRETT PARK PHOTO BY MICHAEL VENTURA

“

“When I moved to Garrett Park, I was coming from living in the city and I was looking for a change of pace—somewhere with a neighborhood-y feel, quiet and an escape from work. [Garrett Park] has parades and it’s packed with kids at Halloween. Also, it’s cool that we have our own restaurants [and] post office, and when it snows we have our own plow service.”

OurTowns_2021.indd 31

”

Marcus Lee

owner of PureFire Yoga

“I’m a big cyclist, and I can head out the door in any direction for a ride.

My favorite is to go to Rock Creek Park on weekends when they close off Beach Drive.

We have access to the outdoors and access to mass transit with two Metro stations within walking distance, and the MARC train in downtown Kensington.”

Spouses Kristen Moe (left) and Jackie DeCarlo

“Kensington is a great combination of suburban and urban life. It’s very vibrant.

I like to go to the local yoga studio, shop on Saturdays at the farmers market, walk along the historic antique row, and hang out at the local coffee shops. All these things are within easy reach. It has a small-town feel.”

” ” Jackie DeCarlo

CEO of Manna Food Center

Kristen Moe

a registered dietician with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and captain in the Commissioned Corps of the U.S. Public Health Service

Bethesda Magazine | 2021-2022 NEWCOMERS GUIDE 31

5/17/21 9:24 AM

Potomac POTOMAC IS THE Bethesda area’s most affluent

20854 ZIP code was about $1.1 million. And all that

community, characterized by large lots, houses that run

seclusion can translate into long commutes for workers.

the gamut from spacious to gargantuan, rolling fields with

But residents don’t need to drive to Rockville or Bethesda

split-level fences and the genteel, outdoorsy feel of horse

for a decent meal. Recent years have seen the arrival

country. Cars are a must, but the schools are top-notch,

in Potomac Village of some well-regarded eateries and

the parks and preserves are abundant, and the shops in

diners can find plenty to choose from at Park Potomac, a

Potomac Village bustle with customers. On the downside:

mixed-use development off I-270, and Cabin John Village,

The cost of housing means Potomac is off limits to

a retail and residential redevelopment offering a variety of

many—in 2020, the average sales price in Potomac’s

shops and restaurants.

PHOTO BY SKIP BROWN

The annual Potomac Day celebration draws visitors of all ages.

32 Bethesda Magazine | 2021-2022 NEWCOMERS GUIDE

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POPULATION 44,965 EDUCATION

High school graduate or higher (percent of persons age 25+) 97.4% Bachelor’s degree or higher (percent of persons age 25+) 80.6%

INCOME

Median household income $195,884

HOUSING

Median value of owneroccupied housing units $893,800

COMMUTE

Mean travel time to work (workers age 16+)

33.5 minutes Source: U.S. Census Bureau

Locals

#4

“WEALTHIEST ZIP CODES IN GREATER D.C.” Washington Business Journal in 2020

#4 PHOTO BY HILARY SCHWAB

“MOST EDUCATED PLACES IN AMERICA” Nerdwallet.com in 2016

#7

“BEST PLACE TO LIVE IN MARYLAND” Niche.com in 2020

“

“When we were looking for a house, I wanted a place where I could have a big garden and where my kids could walk to school. We are always outside. As a school nurse, I know kids are often inside and playing video games. I tell them to get out and about, and I give them a list of all these amazing things they can do here. There’s the Billy Goat Trail, rec centers, and ice-skating rinks nearby.”

”

Catherine Kelly

school nurse, Montgomery County Public Schools

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A skating rink creates a festive vibe at Rockville Town Square.

ONE OF MARYLAND’S oldest towns, Rockville is

communities. Rockville Town Square, with its broad

nonetheless a quintessentially 21st-century American

plaza, public library and pedestrian-friendly shops

suburb: From the busy Rockville Pike with its big-box

and restaurants, serves as the city’s downtown. In

stores to its comfortable homes and quiet cul-de-

next-door North Bethesda, Pike & Rose, a multiuse

sacs, Rockville, the second-largest city in Maryland,

development, continues to grow since opening in

is a study in contrasts. Rockville somehow manages

2014. The neighborhood of restaurants, stores,

to be both a fitting setting for F. Scott Fitzgerald’s

entertainment venues and housing provides a modern

burial site (at Old St. Mary’s Church) as well as

vibe to the area at the corner of Rockville Pike and

an attractive magnet for vibrant new immigrant

Old Georgetown Road.

PHOTO BY SKIP BROWN

Rockville/ North Bethesda

34 Bethesda Magazine | 2021-2022 NEWCOMERS GUIDE

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POPULATION 68,079 EDUCATION

High school graduate or higher (percent of persons age 25+) 92.9% Bachelor’s degree or higher (percent of persons age 25+) 64.9%

INCOME

Median household income $106,576

HOUSING

Median value of owneroccupied housing units $540,000

COMMUTE

Mean travel time to work (workers age 16+)

32.4 minutes

PHOTO BY MICHAEL VENTURA

PHOTO BY SKIP BROWN

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

#2

NORTH BETHESDA: “BEST SUBURB TO LIVE IN AMERICA” Niche.com in 2019

OurTowns_2021.indd 35

Locals

“

“I like my neighbors in Rockville and the character of the city. It’s a very green city and it’s easy to walk around. I do my shopping by bike. Walking, biking, swimming—Rockville is extremely inviting on those fronts. Also, it’s very diverse in terms of race, ethnicity and age. It’s an amazing jewel within Montgomery County.”

”

Diego Uriburu executive director of Identity Inc., a nonprofit serving at-risk Latino youths

Bethesda Magazine | 2021-2022 NEWCOMERS GUIDE 35

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SILVER SPRING IS KNOWN for its rich diversity of

was about $829,000 in 2020, and Connecticut

dining, shopping, entertainment and recreation, as

Avenue Estates, farther out, with an average sales

well as for tranquil neighborhoods filled with brick

price of about $450,000. With a boom in residential

colonials and pedestrian-friendly streets. You’ll

options and the nearby transit center plus new shops

find longtime residents, recent immigrants, young

and restaurants, the downtown area is the place

families and single professionals. A mix of ethnic

to be on weekends. There’s likely to be something

and racial diversity, the unincorporated suburb has

going on, whether it’s a farmers market or a musical

neighborhoods such as Woodside Park near downtown

performance at Veterans Plaza or families enjoying

Silver Spring, where the average home sales price

splashing in the large fountain on Ellsworth Drive.

PHOTO BY MARKETA EBERT

Silver Spring

This mural and others add an artistic touch to downtown Silver Spring.

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POPULATION 80,265 EDUCATION

High school graduate or higher (percent of persons age 25+) 85% Bachelor’s degree or higher (percent of persons age 25+) 54.9%

INCOME

Median household income $83,782

HOUSING

Median value of owneroccupied housing units $516,900

COMMUTE

Mean travel time to work (workers age 16+)

35.1 minutes Source: U.S. Census Bureau

Locals

“

PHOTO BY MICHAEL VENTURA

PHOTO BY MARKETA EBERT

“Walkability is really our major thing.

We can walk to anything we want to do here. We can walk to the movie theater, we can walk to get a great cup of coffee. I love the diversity of offerings.”

#2

BEST SUBURB FOR YOUNG PROFESSIONALS IN MARYLAND Niche.com in 2021

”

Lysette House

deputy director, Friends of the Library, Montgomery County Chair of the Silver Spring Citizens Advisory Board

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Cabin John & Glen Echo CROSS THE SINGLE-LANE

River and C&O Canal with fish-

tasks as gardening, cooking,

home from 1891 until her

stone bridge to Cabin John,

ing poles and buckets of bait.

making home repairs, paying

death in 1912. Streets are

bordered by the C&O Canal

The community has a neigh-

bills, preparing tax forms and

named after universities in

National Historical Park and

borhood pool and the Clara

providing transportation.

the United States, such as

the Beltway, and you feel like

Barton Community Center run

you’ve traveled through time

by the Montgomery County

STARTED IN 1889, the

Place, and many of the homes

as well as space. Its housing

Department of Recreation. The

Town of Glen Echo is a

here date back to the late

stock of about 900 homes

center offers activities, has an

chartered town, with its own

19th- and early 20th-century.

includes everything from Sears

exercise room and runs a sum-

mayor and ZIP code, that

Glen Echo Park offers many

houses from the early 1900s

mer camp and special events.

resides along the west side

opportunities for fun, including

to modern mansions. Resi-

A symbol of the community’s

of MacArthur Boulevard. Glen

a puppet theater and Adventure

dents meet for a weekly coffee

commitment to its residents,

Echo borders the C&O Canal,

Theatre MTC, a renovated

klatch at The Market on the

the Neighbor 2 Neighbor

Glen Echo Park and the Clara

1921 Dentzel Carousel and

Boulevard, and it’s not uncom-

program helps residents age in

Barton House, named for the

the Spanish Ballroom, which

mon to see kids riding their

their own homes by providing

founder of the American Red

offers dance classes and holds

bikes to the nearby Potomac

volunteers to perform such

Cross who called Glen Echo

dances year-round.

Princeton Avenue and Harvard

The Dentzel Carousel at Glen Echo Park

Potomac River in Cabin John

GLEN ECHO

CABIN JOHN

POPULATION 309

EDUCATION High school graduate or higher (percent of persons age 25+) 100% Bachelor’s degree or higher

HOUSING Median value of owneroccupied housing units $933,200

(percent of persons age 25+)

COMMUTE

91.2%

Mean travel time to work

EDUCATION High school graduate or higher (percent of persons age 25+) 99% Bachelor’s degree or higher

33.2 minutes

Median household income $182,279

Median value of owneroccupied housing units $920,100

(percent of persons age 25+)

COMMUTE

91.6%

Mean travel time to work

(workers age 16+)

INCOME

HOUSING

(workers age 16+)

INCOME

29.1 minutes

Median household income $211,875

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

CABIN JOHN PHOTO BY SKIP BROWN; GLEN ECHO PHOTO BY JOHN SONDERMAN

POPULATION 2,120

38 Bethesda Magazine | 2021-2022 NEWCOMERS GUIDE

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Locals

Locals

Mona Kishore with her daughters Riya (left) and Alya

PHOTOS BY HILARY SCHWAB

CABIN JOHN PHOTO BY SKIP BROWN; GLEN ECHO PHOTO BY JOHN SONDERMAN

“

“We fell in love with Glen Echo Park. Our kids are young, but we saw them growing into all the activities and programs. Sure enough, in the last three years since we moved here, they have taken advantage of Washington Conservatory of Music lessons and attended Adventure Theatre.

The carousel is probably the No. 1 thing we have to show off whenever anyone comes for a playdate or from out of town.”

“ “ “We appreciate the close-knit nature of the neighborhood.

It feels like a small town. When we moved in, people were incredibly friendly and made sure we felt connected to the community. I really like how much pride the neighborhood has in itself and how people look out for each other.”

” ”

Allie Reschovsky

senior counsel at MedStar Health

Ben and Allie Reschovsky with their baby Hailey

“We go to the Cabin John Crab Feast and have run in the Turkey Trot around the neighborhood on Thanksgiving.

We love being able to walk along the towpath and the Potomac River on one side [of the neighborhood], and the Cabin John Creek trail on the other. It’s a very different environment than you’d expect being so close to the city.”

”

Mona Kishore

Ben Reschovsky

head of operations and partnerships for travel technology company Togo Group

physicist at the National Institute of Standards and Technology

Bethesda Magazine | 2021-2022 NEWCOMERS GUIDE 39

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5/11/21 10:20 AM

real estate

where to live WHETHER YOU’RE AN URBANITE seeking a condo within walking distance of downtown or you’re a lawn lover craving a slice of suburban heaven, Montgomery County’s housing stock is full of options. And newcomers will be thrilled to learn that the Greater Washington, D.C., housing market has remained relatively stable through the spikes and downturns seen in other parts of the country. But before you start your housing hunt, check out these options.

URBAN LIVING

All the regular rules apply when it comes to renting vs. buying in Montgomery County. Buying can provide a sense of control and ownership, while renting can give uncertain newcomers a little time to learn about the area before jumping into the real estate market. Those who decide to rent have a plethora of options, from high-rise apartments near Metro stations to rent-to-own houses in suburban neighborhoods.

Either way, new residents may want to contact a real estate agent to guide their search. Many agents in the area are happy to take renters as clients, knowing that they may one day turn into homebuyers.

Area real estate agents say walkability is a major factor for many buyers.

There are plenty of neighborhoods in downtown Bethesda, Rockville and Silver Spring where residents can travel by foot to shops, restaurants and public transportation. Living near a Metro station can cut down on transportation costs and frustrations, as the region’s notoriously bad traffic can be a stumbling block for commuters.

LUXURY CONDOS AND TOWNHOMES Young professionals and empty nesters seeking housing with less yard work and maintenance may want to check

out the variety of services offered at many luxury condo and apartment communities in the Bethesda area.

HISTORIC CHARM Many communities in Montgomery County were built in the 1800s as weekend escapes from the District.

Thanks to efforts by history-minded homeowners, many of the area’s original houses have been well preserved. As a result, historic homes abound in the Bethesda area.

Gingerbread Victorians and cute bungalows line the streets of the tiny town of Garrett Park and of historic districts such as the West End in Rockville, among other communities.

PHOTOS BY SKIP BROWN

RENTING VS. BUYING

40 Bethesda Magazine | 2021-2022 NEWCOMERS GUIDE

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All dogs enjoy multiple outdoor walks everyday.

WIDE-OPEN SPACES Living a short drive from the White House doesn’t mean the absence of open space. Drive through the upscale community of Potomac and you’ll see horse farms and tony mansions on spacious lots. Nearby Cabin John offers an eclectic vibe and easy access to the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park. Those willing to drive a bit farther can also enjoy rural charm within the county’s borders in communities such as Poolesville and Darnestown.

Boarding in playrooms or private runs.

Crates only on request.

Professional Grooming, Show clips to Pet clips.

24 Hour Security VETERINARIANS KNOW US AND RECOMMEND US.

Collecting pet food for area food banks.

301-587-5820 ............................

2621 Garfield Avenue, Silver Spring, MD 20910 www.cleverdog.net

PHOTOS BY SKIP BROWN

SCHOOL DISTRICTS AND SUBURBIA Not everyone dreams of exploring wide-open spaces from their backyard or walking to get coffee in the morning at an upscale café.

Lovers of cul-de-sacs and residential atmospheres will find themselves at home in scores of neighborhoods in the area. And commuters don’t necessarily have to trade ease of transport for their big lawns—the county’s Ride On buses circulate through most area neighborhoods and travel to nearby Metro stops.

Families with school-age kids will love the wide variety of neighborhoods that include some of the top public schools in the state and country. In 2021 U.S. News & World Report named Bethesda’s Walt Whitman High School as the top school in Maryland, with several other county high schools earning high spots in state and national rankings. n Bethesda Magazine | 2021-2022 NEWCOMERS GUIDE 41

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real estate

HOME SALE HIGHLIGHTS A snapshot of last year’s housing market in our area Neighborhoods

Highest Average Sale Price in 2020* # of Sales

KENWOOD Chevy Chase 12

$3,377,500

Potomac

12

$3,193,333

Bethesda

8

EDGEMOOR

Bethesda

LYBROOK

Bethesda

BRADLEY HILLS GROVE

Bethesda

GREAT FALLS ESTATES

Potomac

11 3 7 8 6 45 4 8 7 4 7 8 24 3 6

BRADLEY FARMS BRADLEY HILLS (ZIP CODE 20817 ONLY)

PINEVIEW SPRING VALLEY

Bethesda Upper NW D.C.

WILSON KNOLLS

Bethesda

KENWOOD PARK

Bethesda

MERRY-GO-ROUND FARM BRADLEY VILLAGE POTOMAC FALLS

Potomac Bethesda Potomac

WEST CHEVY CHASE

Chevy Chase

CHEVY CHASE VILLAGE

Chevy Chase

LONGWOOD

Bethesda

PALATINE

Potomac

Chevy Chase

20816

$2,898,563

Bethesda

20817

Bethesda

$2,679,545 $2,325,833 $2,196,000 $2,173,438 $2,059,817 $2,052,534 $2,049,375 $2,015,532 $2,006,857 $1,931,250 $1,906,788 $1,889,875 $1,886,638 $1,855,000 $1,830,833

20015

Upper NW D.C.

20814

Bethesda

20854

Potomac

20812

Glen Echo

20896

Garrett Park

20818

Cabin John

20852

North Bethesda/Rockville

20895

Kensington

20878

North Potomac/Gaithersburg

20850

Rockville

20910

Silver Spring

20902

Silver Spring

Where Houses Sold the Fastest in 2020* Average # of Days on Sales Market

TOWER OAKS North Bethesda/ Rockville GREENWICH FOREST (ZIP CODE 20817 ONLY)

ROSEDALE PARK MILLS FARM FORT SUMNER

2

Bethesda

7 7 3 3 3 5 3

4 4 4 4 4 4 4

Bethesda Silver Spring

PARKWAY

Silver Spring

ROLLINGWOOD TERRACE

1

4

KEMP MILL FOREST COUNTRY PLACE

10

Bethesda

North Potomac/Gaithersburg

Potomac Chevy Chase

20016 Upper NW D.C. 20815

*Minimum of three sales

Neighborhoods

Average Sale Price in 2020

ZIP Codes

ZIP Codes

$1,705,321 $1,540,074 $1,379,807 $1,296,718 $1,291,922 $1,253,510 $1,208,531 $1,198,375 $1,133,600 $887,833 $795,301 $745,723 $737,282 $729,286 $701,704 $490,296

Average Days on Market in 2020

20812 Glen Echo 20015

Upper NW D.C.

20902

Silver Spring

20816

Bethesda

20852

North Bethesda/Rockville

20910

Silver Spring

20895

Kensington

20016

Upper NW D.C.

20850

Rockville

20818

Cabin John

20878

North Potomac/Gaithersburg

20814

Bethesda

20817

Bethesda

20815

Chevy Chase

20854

Potomac

20896

Garrett Park

15 16 16 20 20 22 24 26 28 29 31 31 34 39 42 52

*Minimum of three sales

Data is for single-family homes and was provided by Bright MLS and MarketStats for ShowingTime.

Statistics generated on Jan. 7, 2021. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

Some numbers have been rounded.

42 Bethesda Magazine | 2021-2022 NEWCOMERS GUIDE

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Deborah has lived and worked in Bethesda for over 25 years. An awardwinning Realtor® and leader of The DC Team of Long & Foster Real Estate, she has an intimate knowledge of Bethesda as well as DC and all its surrounding suburbs.

The DC Team offers sellers exceptional staging, marketing and negotiating skills allowing their clients to sell for top dollar and to buy at the best possible price. With specialized experience in relocation, Deborah also assists clients moving into and out of the DC area.

The DC Team holds licenses in DC, Maryland and Virginia. They are affiliated with the top-producing Bethesda Gateway Office in downtown Bethesda.

Deborah Cheshire, Realtor® The DC Team of Long & Foster Real Estate 202.288.9939 | deborah.cheshire@LNF.com thedcteam.com Bethesda Gateway Office 301.907.7600

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

TOP PRODUCER

PROFILES

real estate agents

Susan Verner REALTOR, LONG & FOSTER PARK POTOMAC 12500 Park Potomac Ave., Suite 101S, Potomac, MD 20854 301-469-4700 | D: 240-381-8853 | Twitter @SusanVerner susan.verner@longandfoster.com www.susanverner.realtor

TONY J. LEWIS

Q: What makes you different than other agents?

A: For me, it’s all about the people and places we call “home,” especially as “home” has new meaning in this challenging time. Whether helping maximize your sale or find your new nest, being your Realtor requires a unique skillset. While we act as advisors on the important nuts and bolts of each transaction, including marketing, staging, showings, contracts, paperwork and contingencies, home purchases and sales are personal.

With years of experience buying and selling homes, I bring my steady hand and strong negotiating skills developed as a California lawyer. I also bring empathy, patience and care to ensure the best possible outcome. Success for my clients is my “why.”

In my clients’ own words: “Susan surpassed all our expectations.” “[Her] negotiating skills are second to none.” “[H]ardworking, detail oriented, and highly professional.” “We will never buy or sell another property without Susan as our Realtor.”

Bethesda Magazine | 2021-2022 NEWCOMERS GUIDE 43

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PROFILES

real estate agents SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

TOP PRODUCER

“Since COVID, your home is not only your most valuable asset; it’s where your life is centered. It really is your everything.”

5471 Wisconsin Ave., 3rd floor Chevy Chase, MD 20815 M: 240-461-3928 | O: 301-298-1001 mary.noone@compass.com www.trentandco.com

real estate market?

A: In 2020, more buyers were competing for fewer homes on the market. The median sales price was up 9.8% in Bethesda due to a drop in inventory of 14.7%. But to us, the bigger message was the way COVID changed our definition of “home.” It’s no longer just an asset, wealth builder or a place to sleep; it’s a place for work, play, school – even vacation. It’s where we can find comfort in a sometimes scary world. It’s the total package.

Q: How do you recommend

buyers and sellers navigate this competitive market?

A: The best way to succeed is with a well-executed plan. For buyers, this means connecting with an agent early in the process. They may not realize that the seller pays all the commission and in Maryland, buyers must have representation. There isn’t a buyer who

wins in a multiple-offer situation who wasn’t backed by a strong, seasoned agent fueling a great strategy for their client. For sellers, the best way to gain a competitive edge is by investing in smaller things that will yield larger returns – like updating a light fixture or renting a storage unit to declutter a home. These things can easily add an extra $25,000 to a sales price. Today, more than ever, buyers prefer a home that’s move-inready. Our job is to advise sellers on those things that will attract buyers and add value to their home. We support them throughout the process to make it easier for them.

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COURTESY PHOTO

TRENT & CO. AT COMPASS REAL ESTATE

Q: How has COVID changed the

COURTESY PHOTO

Mary Noone & Trent Heminger

PROFILES

real estate agents

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

TOP PRODUCER

Dana Rice Group of Compass Real Estate “In this age of transparency and immediate access to information, we better bring value beyond just pointing out some houses and sending a computer-generated list.”

COURTESY PHOTO

5471 Wisconsin Ave., Suite 300 Chevy Chase, MD 20815 202-669-6908 Dana.Rice@compass.com www.compass.com

Q: How would your clients

Q: What makes you different than

describe you?

A: We attract people that want to be with agents who are deeply knowledgeable about the nuances of each neighborhood, plus really dialed into home trends and all the possibilities of a particular house and property.

We also tend to attract buyers and sellers that want it all—smarts, marketing strategy and fun. We are very proactive and excellent communicators, which helps in so many ways, not just with our clients, but with everyone along the way.

My feedback is that our clients stick with us because we provide what they really need, which is the insight to know what they are most anxious about (sometimes anxieties they don't recognize in themselves), and taking care of the particular issues so they don't feel that way. Bringing solutions to a complex transaction is the inherent value we provide.

other real estate agents?

A: We get it. In this age of transparency and immediate access to information, we better bring value beyond just pointing out some houses and sending a computer-generated list. We use our “Compass Collections” tool to create a super-easy virtual dialog between our client and us.

It may sound funny, but a good, effective relationship between a client and an agent is like dating. You need to connect as like-minded partneres and be in tune with them all the time, whether it’s a weeklong relationship or lasts for years.

That’s the only way to make the best, most informed decisions about your real estate needs.

Bethesda Magazine | 2021-2022 NEWCOMERS GUIDE 45

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PROFILES

ASK THE HOME EXPERTs SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

DEB LEVY SENIOR HOME LENDING ADVISOR, CHASE

Many 5-star reviews on Zillow; Nationally registered; 35 years of experience as a senior home lending advisor 1667 K St. NW, Ste 100, Washington, DC 20006 301-332-7758 | deb.levy@chase.com homeloan.chase.com/deb.levy NMLS ID 481255 All home lending products are subject to credit and property approval. Rates, program terms and conditions are subject to change without notice. Not all products are available in all states or for all amounts. Other restrictions and limitations apply. Home lending products offered by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. ©2021 JPMorgan Chase & Co.

Q: How is buying a home today different from the past?

A: I started my mortgage banking career in 1986 with Chase Bank of Maryland. A lifelong Washingtonian and native to Montgomery County, I've seen the market evolve over the past 35 years.

It’s a faster market than in prior years. For the most part, buyers have to make instant decisions and move quickly to secure a contract on a home. Competition means multiple offers and buyers need to be prepared, as often sellers are looking for items that make the buyer take more risk.

We’re seeing a lot of all-cash contracts with the right to take financing, meaning that buyers are going in with limited contingencies. To make this happen, buyers need to speak with an industry professional and not just accept a prequalification as a go-ahead to buy a home. We're encouraging our buyers to be fully underwritten with a conditional commitment letter that their financing will be in place when they need it. This also allows our buyers to settle quickly as the contract dictates.

information is on the Internet, there's a lot of misinformation, too. It’s great that we can see homes online, but an industry professional can help a buyer navigate potential pitfalls.

As the largest bank in the country, Chase can offer full-service banking products as well as individualized service. It’s the perfect blend of an industry leader and a neighborhood expert. We’re expanding into the D.C. area and the addition of the new banking centers has been exciting.

Buying or refinancing a home can seem overwhelming. I can help make the process easier for you by reviewing loan options and answering all questions.

FROM LEFT: LISA BENNETT, ASSISTANT DEB LEVY, SENIOR HOME LENDING ADVISOR

COURTESY PHOTO

Q: How is buying a home the same today?

A: Buyers still need full representation. As much

46 Bethesda Magazine | 2021-2022 NEWCOMERS GUIDE

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HOME

SHOWCASE

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

ROCKVILLE INTERIORS 5414 Randolph Road, Rockville, MD 20852 301-424-1900 | www.rockvilleinteriors.com

BIO

Family owned and operated, Rockville Interiors was founded by Tom Fulop. We have been the D.C. area’s premier fabric workroom since 1971. We specialize in the design, fabrication and installation of custom window treatments, re-upholstery, slipcovers, pillows, cushions, bed ensembles and more.

OUR WORK

COURTESY PHOTO

2020 Winner of Bethesda Magazine Best of Bethesda Readers’ Poll for Best Place for Custom Window Treatments. Customers can meet with interior designers in the showroom or at home for guidance on selecting the perfect fabrics for their projects.

We operate in locally owned workrooms where our team of artisan tailors, seamstresses and carpenters pair state-of-the-art technology with old world craftsmanship. Everything is made by hand, using only the world’s finest home fashion fabrics.

Factory-trained technicians oversee delivery and installation. Visit our gorgeous showroom or schedule your free in-home design consultation today!

Bethesda Magazine | 2021-2022 NEWCOMERS GUIDE 47

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Showcase

Luxury Condos, Apartments, TownhoMES

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

THE PALISADES OF BETHESDA APARTMENTS & PENTHOUSES 4835 Cordell Ave., Bethesda, MD 20814 301-725-4723 | thepalisadesapts.net

BIO

Since 1965, the name Southern Management has been synonymous with quality, service and value. Whereas other companies may simply manage or own their apartment communities, Southern Management does both—assuring the highest standards in the business. It’s what makes us the leader in apartment home living, and your first choice when searching for the perfect community.

Step inside The Palisades of Bethesda and you are immediately surrounded by indescribable luxury and charming sophistication.

Boasting a premier location on the corner of Cordell and Woodmont avenues, this beautiful high-rise promises a living experience far exceeding expectations. With free concierge services and all utilities included, The Palisades provides a perfect blend of convenience, comfort and customer service. With sophisticated colors and contemporary wood and marble finishes, the lobby lounges and library resemble private clubs while the private fitness studio offers personal training in a windowed, spacious and bright facility—and no fees are charged for any of it. The Palisades is within walking distance of countless shopping, dining and entertainment opportunities, as well as the Bethesda and Medical Center/NIH Metro. The Palisades has established a reputation as one of the most coveted residential communities in the Metropolitan area. Four-time Best of Bethesda winner.

COURTESY PHOTOS

THE PROPERTY

48 Bethesda Magazine | 2021-2022 NEWCOMERS GUIDE

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HOME

SHOWCASE

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

COURTESY PHOTOS

RESOURCE GUIDE

FISHER LUMBER

JACK ROSEN KITCHENS

Family owned and operated since 1947, Fisher Lumber provides top quality building materials. Our selection includes only the best materials from the brands professionals trust.

With an enthusiastic and friendly staff, our focus is outstanding service that exceeds customer expectations.

Voted “Best Kitchen Design Firm, 2020” by the readers of Bethesda Magazine, Jack Rosen Custom Kitchens, Inc. continues to be one of the most celebrated kitchen design firms in the Washington, DC area.

Offering award-winning designs and fine cabinetry for culinary, closets, home offices and entertainment with outstanding service.

301-424-6500 | www.FisherLumber.com

240-595-6732 | info@rosenkitchens.com www.BeautifulRosenKitchens.com

LIVING SPECTRUM

MC ENERGY CONNECTION

Voted “Best in Customer Service”, we provide highquality craftsmanship in wallpaper installation and interior/exterior painting.

We work with homeowners or interior designers to complete beautiful projects.

Our projects have been featured in Domino, Classic Home and the Washington Post. Your partner in painting and wallpapering!

Mercury is hazardous!

That’s why it’s important to RECYCLE CFL bulbs at the Shady Grove Transfer Station (16101 Frederick Road), or DISPOSE of them at designated retailers, or SWAP them for LEDs at a Montgomery Energy Connection event.

Get more info at bit.ly/ recycleCFLs

info@livingspecpaint.com | www.LivingSpecPaint.com @LivingSpectrum

240-777-7711 | www.MontgomeryEnergyConnection.org

MOLLY MAID

ROCKVILLE INTERIORS

We’re Maid for This!

Life goes by fast.

Responsibilities and priorities change. It’s hard enough finding time for the people and activities you love. House cleaning duties shouldn’t get in the way.

Take back your precious free time with professional house cleaning services.

Since 1971, Rockville Interiors has been manufacturing custom draperies, valances, cornices, swags and all types of window treatments in our workroom on the premises.

Roman shades manual or motorized are our specialty.

Our professional technicians measure and install all our products. Amazing selection of fabrics in our showroom.

Designers to help.

301-841-9292 | MollyMaid.com

301-424-1900 | www.RockvilleInteriors.com Bethesda Magazine | 2021-2022 NEWCOMERS GUIDE 49

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We Give Them Wings to Soar!

The Maddux School Pre-K through Second Grade

• Small Classes in Nurturing Environment • Flexible, Differentiated Instruction • Innovative Curriculum and Teaching Methods -Targets social skills, academic success and self-esteem

Building Strong Foundations for Learning and Friendship

• Integrated Support for Different Learning Styles

11614 Seven Locks Road Rockville, MD

301-469-0223 www.madduxschool.org

OFFERING the best in MONTESSORI EDUCATION for 31 years LOWER SCHOOL

HIGH SCHOOL

6701 Wisconsin Ave. Chevy Chase, MD 20815

9411 Connecticut Ave. Chevy Chase, MD 20815

VOTED

“BEST MONTESSORI SCHOOL IN THE DC-AREA” - 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 & 2020 Washington Family Magazine.

301-652-7751 admissions@ onenessfamily.org

NOW OFFERING:

In-Person Learning for Preschool through High School

50 Bethesda Magazine | 2021-2022 NEWCOMERS GUIDE

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schools Students walk in a hallway at Glen Haven Elementary School in Silver Spring.

PHOTO BY LISA HELFERT

JUST HOW IMPORTANT IS education to residents in our area? The short answer: very.

More than half of the adult residents of Montgomery County have attained a bachelor’s degree—or higher—and that percentage goes way up in many of the towns in our community.

More than 85% of Bethesda’s residents ages 25 or older have bachelor’s degrees, and more than 50% have graduate or professional degrees.

In 2016, Bethesda topped NerdWallet’s list of the “most educated places in America,” and Potomac was No. 4.

When it comes to their children’s education, local parents want nothing but the best. As a result, the county’s public

school system, the largest in Maryland and the 14th biggest in the country, boasts some of the best schools in the nation. It has 41 National Blue Ribbon schools, a distinction bestowed by the U.S. Department of Education on highperforming or high-improving schools, and an 89.3% graduation rate. The Class of 2019 earned an average combined SAT score of 1119, which is higher than the national and state averages.

Bethesda’s Walt Whitman High School, Poolesville High School, Thomas S. Wootton High School in Rockville and Winston Churchill High School in Potomac were ranked among the top five high schools in Maryland in U.S. News & World Report’s 2021 rankings and five county

schools were among the top 500 high schools in the nation, according to the same rankings.

Montgomery County’s 208 public schools serve nearly 160,560 students from 157 countries. The school system offers 135 elementary schools, 40 middle schools and 25 high schools.

And for families choosing to go the independent school route, the Bethesda area has some of the finest private schools in the country.

According to the Private School Review website, there are 185 private schools in the county, serving nearly 33,000 students. And there are many others in Washington, D.C., and Northern Virginia that Bethesda-area students attend.

Bethesda Magazine | 2021-2022 NEWCOMERS GUIDE 51

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READERS’ CHOICES FOR

best schools & kids Every year in its January/February issue, Bethesda Magazine publishes its “Best of Bethesda” picks. Here are some of the readers’ picks in 2020 and 2021 for the top public and private schools, summer camps and children’s activities. The winner is listed first, followed by the runners-up.

Landon School Washington Episcopal School Bullis School Christ Episcopal School PRIVATE SCHOOL FOR BOYS SPORTS (Readers’ Pick, 2021)

Landon School Georgetown Prep Bullis School

PRIVATE SCHOOL THAT DID THE BEST JOB WITH DISTANCE LEARNING (Readers’ Pick, 2021)

Washington Episcopal School McLean School St. Jane de Chantal Catholic School Landon School Bullis School The Academy of the Holy Cross PRIVATE SCHOOL FOR NONTRADITIONAL LEARNERS (Readers’ Pick, 2021)

McLean School The Katherine Thomas School The Siena School The Lab School of Washington The Diener School Ivymount School PRIVATE SCHOOL FOR ACADEMICS (Readers’ Pick, 2021)

Landon School Washington Episcopal School Stone Ridge School of the Sacred Heart Holton-Arms School Bullis School McLean School St. Andrew’s Episcopal School PRIVATE SCHOOL FOR MUSIC/ARTS (Readers’ Pick, 2021)

McLean School

PRIVATE SCHOOL FOR GIRLS SPORTS (Readers’ Pick, 2021)

The Academy of the Holy Cross Stone Ridge School of the Sacred Heart Holton-Arms School CHILDREN’S THEATER (Readers’ Pick, 2021)

Imagination Stage Adventure Theatre MTC DANCE STUDIO

Geneva Day School Georgetown Hill Early School B’nai Israel Schilit Nursery School Bradley Hills Presbyterian Church Nursery School Bender Early Childhood Center Preschool Temple Beth Ami Nursery School Christ Episcopal School Washington Episcopal School PRIVATE SCHOOL (LOWER SCHOOL) (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

McLean School Washington Episcopal School Bullis School Stone Ridge School of the Sacred Heart Christ Episcopal School Green Acres School St. Jane de Chantal School Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School Norwood School

(Readers’ Pick, 2021)

Bethesda Conservatory of Dance Dawn Crafton Dance Connection Joy of Motion Dance Center Bella Ballet DRIVING SCHOOL (Readers’ Pick, 2021)

I Drive Smart Greg’s Driving School SUMMER OVERNIGHT CAMP (Readers’ Pick, 2021)

Camp Tall Timbers Calleva Capital Camps Camps Airy & Louise SUMMER DAY CAMP (Readers’ Pick, 2021)

Calleva McLean School SummerEdge Valley Mill Camp Landon Summer Bar-T Henry’s Sweet Retreat

PRIVATE SCHOOL (UPPER SCHOOL) (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

Bullis School McLean School Stone Ridge School of the Sacred Heart Holton-Arms School Landon School St. Andrew’s Episcopal School Georgetown Preparatory School Sidwell Friends School PRIVATE SCHOOL WITH RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

St. Jane de Chantal School Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School Stone Ridge School of the Sacred Heart Washington Episcopal School Christ Episcopal School St. Andrew’s Episcopal School Our Lady of Good Counsel High School

COURTESY PHOTO

Washington Episcopal School: Private School That Did the Best Job with Distance Learning

PRESCHOOL/DAY CARE (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

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INDOOR PLAY SPACE

SUMMER DAY CAMP

(Readers’ Pick, 2020)

(Readers’ Pick, 2020)

Badlands ZavaZone My Gym Sky Zone BusyBees

Creative Summer at Holton-Arms School Geneva Camp for Young Children Calleva SummerEdge at McLean School Landon Summer Camp JCC at Bender JCC Valley Mill Camp Summer@WES Green Acres Camp Henry’s Sweet Retreat

PLACE FOR KIDS PARTIES (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

Henry’s Sweet Retreat My Gym Badlands Glen Echo Park BounceU Playseum BusyBees SPORTS CAMP (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

Tru2Form Hoops Bullis Summer Programs Koa Sports Camp Landon Summer TK Sports Camp

SUMMER OVERNIGHT CAMP (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

Camps Airy & Louise Camp Tall Timbers Summer Performing Arts Intensives Capital Camps Calleva Camp Rim Rock TUTORING FIRM (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

PrepMatters Kumon

Mathnasium Learning Essentials Applerouth PrepU The Treatment and Learning Centers YOUTH ARTS OR MUSIC CLASSES (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

Young Artists of America at Strathmore Glen Echo Park VisArts Bella Ballet Levine School of Music Bach to Rock Imagination Stage Artworks Fine Art Studio YOUTH SPORTS PROGRAM (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

Tru2Form Hoops Montgomery Youth Hockey Association Montgomery Soccer Inc. (MSI) Koa Sports Potomac Soccer Association BCC Baseball

In their imaginations, anything is possible.

The same is true for their futures.

COURTESY PHOTO

At Beauvoir, children truly embrace the wonder of childhood in an exciting, dynamic learning environment designed to achieve their absolute healthiest development.

As the power of imagination is encouraged and celebrated, each child learns to build both the confidence and compassion that will allow them to make a lifelong, positive impact in whatever they pursue.

Beauvoir. Just imagine.

3500 Woodley Road, NW | Washington, D.C. 20016 | 202.537.6485 | Beauvoirschool.org Bethesda Magazine | 2021-2022 NEWCOMERS GUIDE 53

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Our High Schools Av er 20 age 18 SA Gr T S ad co Gr ua re ad te s ua s fo r tio n Pe rc en To ta ta ge lE nr Ra ol te lm en St t ud en t/ St af AP fR /I at B io Sc T or es t i Sc ng s: % or 3 o o in r f G g H 4 igh rad or e u Ye Hi r o ate ar gh n s s er AP Pr of on Te of E e x IB st % ssi per Te or w ona ien st ith l ce P 5- er of 15 so Ye Ye nne ar ar l: s s Pr of of E es xp % si er w on ien ith al c m Pe e o or rs f e on th n % an el: of 15 St of ud Ye M en ar D s En ts M tra e e nc tin Or e ig Re g U in al qu niv Co ire ers ns m ity tru en Ye ts Sys ct ar io te Re n m no Da va te te d

Here’s what you need to know about local public schools

Bethesda-Chevy Chase, Bethesda

1200

≥95

2,257

15.7

69.6

36.7

45.3

71.7

1934

2018

Montgomery Blair, Silver Spring

1202

86.1

3,223

13.6

52.5

41.2

48.1

62.9

1998

N/A

James Hubert Blake, Silver Spring

1052

92.1

1,795

13.4

45.9

35

55.3

65.4

1998

N/A

Winston Churchill, Potomac

1291

≥95

2,274

12.9

77.9

42.4

47.7

84.5

1964

2001

Clarksburg

1077

91.5

2,472

13.7

42.1

39.5

52.1

64.8

1995

2006

Damascus

1148

94

1,271

11.7

48.3

21.7

73.9

89.2

1950

1978

Thomas Edison High School of Technology, Silver Spring

N/A

N/A

804

18.7

N/A

24.2

66.7

N/A

1982

2018

Albert Einstein, Kensington

1020

80.6

1,818

11.4

45.2

35.7

50.3

53.1

1962

1997

Gaithersburg

980

76.5

2,397

10.7

30

35.4

41.9

58.2

1951

2013

Walter Johnson, Bethesda

1234

≥95

2,747

14.3

70.8

34.9

56.6

67.1

1956

2009

John F. Kennedy, Silver Spring

897

79.9

1,817

10.2

27.7

33.1

48.3

23.6

1964

1999

Colonel Zadok A. Magruder, Rockville

1067

85.2

1,697

11.8

46.7

34.4

50

64.5

1970

N/A

Richard Montgomery, Rockville

1255

94.1

2,505

14.2

67

36.7

52.7

65.4

1942

2007

1091

94.5

2,623

13.4

51.9

39.2

43.6

72.5

1998

N/A

973

79.2

1,805

11.1

33.6

36.1

45.1

48.1

1956

2004

Paint Branch, Burtonsville

1024

92.4

1,996

12.1

43

28

60.7

62.7

1969

2012

Northwest, Germantown Northwood, Silver Spring

Poolesville

1330

≥95

1,205

14.4

76.2

33.7

60.2

84.8

1953

1978

Quince Orchard, Gaithersburg

1120

91.7

2,148

12.2

55.3

41.9

50.6

63.7

1988

N/A

Rockville

1106

83

1,440

9.7

50.8

33.6

52.9

60.2

1968

2004

Seneca Valley, Germantown

981

85.9

1,226

10.4

33.3

29.8

56.7

38.1

1974

N/A

Sherwood, Sandy Spring

1128

90.2

1,964

13.1

55.2

24.3

69.1

69

1950

1991

Springbrook, Silver Spring

1027

85.2

1,746

11.8

43.2

27.9

55.7

58.5

1960

1994

Watkins Mill, Gaithersburg

917

81.2

1,590

10

32.5

36.4

48.6

48.1

1989

N/A

Wheaton, Silver Spring

1084

84.4

2,179

12.6

47.8

31.7

48.2

63.2

1954

2016

Walt Whitman, Bethesda

1339

≥95

2,039

13

84

28.3

62.3

81.4

1962

1992

Thomas S. Wootton, Rockville

1315

≥95

2,116

14.4

78.4

30.7

63.5

83.8

1970

N/A

This chart reflects data from Montgomery County Public Schools for the 2018-2019 and the 2019-2020 school year, the most recent available.

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schools

Beyond the traditional classroom

BY NATALIE GRIFFIN MONTGOMERY COUNTY public schools offer a variety of enrichment programs for students from elementary through high school. These magnet, language, accelerated and vocational/technical programs provide students with unique opportunities for a specialized education.

Some programs are open only to students who live within specific geographical areas, while others are open to students countywide.

MAGNET PROGRAMS Magnet programs provide tailored curricula for gifted students or students showing promise or interest in a particular academic discipline ranging from math and science to arts and humanities.

College Gardens Elementary School in Rockville offers a Primary Years Programme in kindergarten through fifth grade. Takoma Park and Roberto Clemente middle schools offer a mathematics, science and computer science magnet program, and Martin Luther King Jr. and Eastern middle schools offer a humanities and communication magnet program. Eastern Middle School is in Silver Spring and Martin Luther King Jr. is in Germantown.

High school magnet programs open to students countywide include the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme at Richard Montgomery in Rockville, visual and performing

Students participating in an auto body repair technology program work on cars at Thomas Edison High School of Technology in Silver Spring.

arts at Albert Einstein in Kensington, global ecology at Poolesville and various career-focused education tracks at Thomas Edison High School of Technology in Silver Spring. Students must apply for acceptance into these programs.

Admission into magnet programs often is highly competitive and consideration may begin with a central review by staff to identify which students may be qualified, followed by testing. Most applications, except for the elementary program, are due in the fall before the student would matriculate into the program.

The application for the Takoma Park Elementary School enrichment magnet is due in the spring of the student’s kindergarten year.

Depending on the program, adjudicators may consider grades, coursework, test scores, teacher recommendations and written statements from students when determining admission. Most programs send acceptance decisions in late winter or early spring.

Several middle schools and high schools also offer regional or consortium-based programs. The Middle School Magnet Consortium consists of Argyle and A. Mario Loiederman middle schools in Silver Spring and Parkland Middle School in Rockville. Each school offers a challenging curriculum

that focuses on a specific topic: digital design and development at Argyle, creative and performing arts at Loiederman and aerospace technology and robotic engineering at Parkland.

At the high school level, Montgomery Blair High School in Silver Spring offers a science, mathematics and computer science magnet that is open by application to incoming ninth-graders from specific high school clusters. Blair also offers a communications arts program open by application to students who attend middle schools in a specific geographical area. Wheaton High School is the home of biomedical and engineering magnets, and John F. Kennedy High School in Silver Spring offers the Leadership Training Institute. Also in Silver Spring, the Thomas Edison High School of Technology offers 18 highly acclaimed career and technology education programs.

Generally, applications to regional or consortium programs are limited to students who live within prescribed geographical boundaries. However, unfilled spots may be available to students who live outside the zones. The middle school magnet consortium program is available to everyone residing within prescribed geographical boundaries, and is open to other students by application.

All third-graders are reviewed for participation in the Centers for Enriched

PHOTO BY LAURA CHASE DE FORMIGNY

Montgomery County public schools offer plenty of enrichment options

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Studies in their region of the county.

Students are notified in early February whether they will be invited to apply and those who are interested will take an aptitude test. Selection results are mailed to parents in late March. Nine elementary schools offer center programs: Pine Crest, Oak View and Dr. Charles Drew in Silver Spring, Lucy V. Barnsley in Rockville, Cold Spring in Potomac, Fox Chapel in Germantown, Clearspring in Damascus, Mill Creek Towne in Derwood and Chevy Chase Elementary.

This two-year program may require students to change schools in fourth grade and doesn’t guarantee admission into magnet or consortium programs in middle school or high school.

LANGUAGE IMMERSION Some county public schools offer Chinese, French and Spanish language immersion programs for elementary and middle school students. These programs allow students to take some or all of their core courses in a target language.

On the elementary school level, Chinese and some Spanish programs are partial immersion, while the French program and other Spanish programs are total immersion, meaning all core subjects are taught in the specific language. Middle school programs are all partial immersion.

These elementary schools offer language immersion programs: Bayard Rustin in Rockville and Potomac Elementary offer Chinese; Maryvale in Rockville and Sligo Creek in Silver Spring offer French; and Burnt Mills and William Tyler Page in Silver Spring, Rock Creek Forest in Chevy Chase and Rolling Terrace in Takoma Park offer Spanish.

Middle school students can continue Chinese at Herbert Hoover in Potomac, French at Gaithersburg Middle or Silver Spring International and Spanish at Silver Spring International or Westland in Bethesda.

Students entering kindergarten through fifth grade are eligible to apply through a spring lottery. Admittance for students in grades two through five is determined by both language proficiency and available space.

Visit www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org for more information. n

Ready to Take on the World We prepare children age 21/2 through 8th grade to become the compassionate leaders and creative problem solvers that our world needs.

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Multicultural. Inclusive.

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An education like no other in Washington D.C.

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They're interested in challenging things that should be challenged. They know how to advocate for themselves and to do so respectfully. That's a hugely important skill, especially as they go off to high school.

Finally, Green Acres students love learning.

Their motivation to learn comes from within—and there's true integrity to that.

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Caring | Challenging | Community

Co-ed K-12

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St. Jane de Chantal Catholic School is a Christcentered educational community committed to meeting the individual needs of students through a flexible and innovative curriculum.

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PROFILES

physicians ADVERTISEMENT

Sherry L. H. Maragh, MD, FAAD, FACS, FACMS MARAGH DERMATOLOGY, SURGERY & VEIN INSTITUTE 14995 Shady Grove Road, Suite 150 Rockville, MD 20850 301-358-5919 www.maraghdermatology.com

With three state-of-the-art facilities in Rockville, Ashburn, Virginia and Warrenton, Virginia, the Maragh Dermatology, Surgery & Vein Institute has established itself as a premier center for comprehensive dermatological treatment in the Washington metropolitan area.

The team of board-certified physicians has extensive experience and is dedicated to providing compassionate, specialized care, paying great attention to detail and catering to the specific needs of each patient.

Maragh Dermatology specializes in the most advanced techniques of medical, cosmetic, laser and surgical dermatology. Dr. Sherry Maragh has a range of expertise in Mohs Micrographic surgery, with cosmetic facial reconstruction, for the treatment of skin cancer. She performs cutting-edge procedures in minimally invasive face and body rejuvenation—such as liposuction and cellulite treatment, body contouring and leg vein issues.

The three offices are equipped with lasers that repair scars and stretch marks, tighten facial skin and remove unwanted hair. They can also be used to treat acne, rosacea and unwanted pigment caused by the sun.

“Skin, the body’s largest organ, grows and changes over time,” says Dr. Maragh. “It’s important to care for this protective layer just as one would any other part of the body.” Sun damage sustained over the years has a cumulative effect. Early detection can save lives, which is why Dr. Maragh and the Maragh Dermatology team know that maintaining an ongoing relationship with a dermatologist for routine screenings is key to overall skin health.

Awards & Honors

COURTESY PHOTO

Best of Suburbia, Best Dermatologist, Posh Seven Magazine, 2019; Best (for Botox, fillers and injectables) of Suburbia, Posh Seven Magazine, 2018; Top Doctor, Washingtonian, 2014

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health

A nurse checks on a patient at Adventist Healthcare Shady Grove Medical Center in Rockville.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ADVENTIST HEALTHCARE

ACCORDING TO DATA from Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond and the Princeton, N.J.-based Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, residents of Montgomery County live longer on average than most people in the country. The average life expectancy in Montgomery County is about 85 years.

People live longer here because they generally take care of themselves and have access to excellent doctors and hospitals, the latter including Suburban in Bethesda, Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center in Rockville, MedStar Montgomery Medical Center in Olney, Holy Cross in Silver Spring and

Germantown, and Sibley Memorial in Northwest Washington, D.C. In addition, Bethesda is home to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.

NIH opened its doors just north of downtown Bethesda in 1938. As the largest source of medical research funding in the world, it supports studies at more than 2,500 universities and research institutions across the country and around the world. About 6,000 scientists work in NIH’s own research laboratories, most of which are located in Bethesda, and well over 1,000 clinical

studies are underway at any given time in the NIH Clinical Center, where breakthroughs have included the first use of azidothymidine [AZT] to treat AIDS and the use of gene therapy to fight disease. NIH’s National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, along with biotech company Moderna Inc., codeveloped a COVID-19 vaccine in 2020.

Across Wisconsin Avenue from NIH is Walter Reed, the world’s largest military medical center. It provides care and services to more than 1 million patients annually, including members of military families, active-duty personnel, veterans and political leaders.

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As part of its comprehensive cancer program, Holy Cross Health offers radiation therapy in Silver Spring.

area hospitals

What you need to know about their services and specialties

BY ARCHANA PYATI AND AMY REININK

SUBURBAN HOSPITAL Located in Bethesda, Suburban Hospital is a 228-bed facility that specializes in acute care and offers all major medical services except for obstetrics. Suburban is the state-designated level II adult trauma center for Montgomery County, meaning acute care and surgical services must always be available. The hospital treats about 1,200 trauma patients each year.

Suburban Hospital became a member of Johns Hopkins Medicine in 2009 and is affiliated with the National Institutes of Health, located across the street.

The hospital’s new 300,000-square-foot North Building, featuring 108 private patient rooms, 14 operating rooms with robotic technology, two interventional cardiovascular labs and a new visitor lounge, opened in March 2020.

Suburban provides cardiac surgery, elective and emergency angioplasty, and

inpatient diagnostic and rehabilitation services through the Johns Hopkins Cardiothoracic Surgery Program. The hospital also offers radiation and surgical oncology as part of the Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center, and provides comprehensive treatment for multiple brain and nervous system conditions. It maintains a 24-hour stroke team, provides orthopedic care, and operates a fullservice emergency department, including a pediatric emergency center for children and adolescents.

8600 Old Georgetown Road, Bethesda, 301-896-3100, Suburbanhospital.org

ADVENTIST HEALTHCARE SHADY GROVE MEDICAL CENTER Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center is a 443-bed comprehensive community hospital in Rockville that has nearly doubled its original size since

opening in 1979. Its offerings include services for women and children, a freestanding cancer center, and inpatient and outpatient mental health care.

The Shady Grove Adventist Aquilino Cancer Center offers oncologists, diagnostic and treatment services, clinical trials and a physician-led integrative medicine program.

Shady Grove has added an advanced brain and spine surgery program that includes sophisticated imaging and minimally invasive surgery. Shady Grove surgeons provide robotic joint replacement procedures for hips, knees and shoulders.

The orthopedics program was awarded the Gold Seal for quality by The Joint Commission, a credentialing body for health care facilities. The hospital has earned national recognition for its surgical programs, including weight loss surgery, and heart attack and stroke care.

Mental health is also a major focus for Shady Grove, which operates inpatient and outpatient behavioral health services for children and adults. All services connect patients to the wider Adventist HealthCare network, which includes physician practices, physical rehabilitation services and home care.

The birth center at Shady Grove delivers about 4,500 babies a year and includes a neonatal intensive care unit. Families recover in private rooms and have access to parenting classes, breastfeeding resources and support groups. The hospital also has a dedicated pediatric unit and pediatric emergency room care.

Shady Grove’s emergency department sees about 100,000 cases each year. It is home to the county’s forensic medical unit, where specially trained nurses care for victims of abuse and assault.

9901 Medical Center Drive, Rockville, 240826-6000, www.adventistSGMC.com

ADVENTIST HEALTHCARE WHITE OAK MEDICAL CENTER In August 2019, Washington Adventist Hospital received a new name and a new home when the 180-bed Adventist HealthCare White Oak Medical Center opened with all private rooms in Silver Spring.

PHOTO COURTESY OF HOLY CROSS HOSPITAL

health

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PROFILES

physicians

ADVERTISEMENT

Chevy Chase Facial Plastic Surgery JENNIFER PARKER PORTER, MD, FACS JIGAR SITAPARA, MD

COURTESY PHOTO

The Centre for Rhinoplasty at Chevy Chase Facial Plastic Surgery meets the unique needs of their many rhinoplasty patients, whose initial consultations include the use of computer MIRROR® imaging technology. In photographic clarity, it allows patients to see the results of a rhinoplasty procedure before committing to surgery.

7201 Wisconsin Ave., Suite 515 Bethesda, MD 20814 301-652-8191 coordinate@chevychaseface.com www.chevychaseface.com

At Chevy Chase Facial Plastic Surgery, individualization rules over standardization. “Every treatment or procedure that I recommend,” says Dr. Jennifer Parker Porter, “is unique to that patient. I take into account his or her face shape, bone structure, age, skin thickness, and any other nuances and subtleties I observe that might influence an outcome.”

A double board-certified facial plastic surgeon with 22 years of experience, and a 2019 Bethesda Magazine Top Doctor, Dr. Porter understands the importance of attention to detail and considers it her duty to provide each patient with a complete understanding of their treatment options. The goal of Chevy Chase Facial Plastic Surgery is giving patients realistic expectations and natural-looking results.

The practice offers brow lifts, facelifts, rhinoplasty, eyelid surgery, hair transplant, otoplasty and facial fat transfer, a full spectrum of non-surgical facial procedures and Morpheus8 skin tightening as well as laser surgery

procedures. Their aesthetic nurse offers treatments such as hydrafacial and microneedling. Patients love the convenience of booking Botox/Dysport appointments through Tox2GO, an app developed by Dr. Porter.

New to the practice is Montgomery County native Jigar Sitapara, MD, who has spent years in the specialization of plastic surgery of the face and neck. One of only 46 facial plastic surgery fellows in the United States, Dr. Sitapara has a passion for the most advanced cosmetic facial plastic surgery, with particular expertise in extended deep plane face/ neck lifts, closed rhinoplasty and hair transplantation.

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health

MEDSTAR MONTGOMERY MEDICAL CENTER MedStar Montgomery Medical Center is a 117-bed hospital in Olney that offers a full range of services and a separate pediatric center. MedStar Montgomery’s stroke and chest pain centers have earned accreditations from ACC Accreditation Services and The Joint Commission.

MedStar Montgomery also has received the Delmarva Foundation’s Excellence

Sibley Memorial Hospital for Maternity

Award for Quality Improvement for five consecutive years.

The hospital offers comprehensive addiction and mental health treatment services for adolescents and adults, and a self-contained 24-hour crisis evaluation unit for behavioral health patients in its emergency department.

Founded in 1918, the hospital was known as Montgomery General Hospital until it merged in 2008 with MedStar Health, a regional health system that includes MedStar Washington Hospital Center and MedStar Georgetown University Hospital. MedStar Montgomery has the ability to tap into the greater resources of MedStar Health.

18101 Prince Philip Drive, Olney, 855-6330207, www.medstarmontgomery.org

HOLY CROSS HOSPITAL Located just outside the Capital Beltway in Silver Spring, Holy Cross Hospital is one of the largest hospitals in the state, a 441bed facility that cares for about 30,000 inpatients a year, offering private rooms to all patients.

A member of Trinity Health, Holy Cross Health was founded by the Congregation of the Sisters of the Holy Cross in 1963. It provides expertise in women’s and infant health, innovative senior care, surgery, neuroscience and cancer.

In U.S. News & World Report’s 20202021 listing of America’s Best Hospitals, Holy Cross Hospital ranked among the top 10 hospitals in Maryland, tying for

10th place. In 2020, Holy Cross Hospital received Healthgrades’ “America’s 250 Best Hospitals Award,” placing it in the top 5% of hospitals nationwide for clinical outcomes for the fourth consecutive year.

Holy Cross Hospital’s Seniors Emergency Center, a dedicated space designed to care for older adults with nonlife-threatening needs, was the first of its kind in the nation.

Holy Cross Hospital is designated as a Primary Stroke Center by the Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems and has been designated an Advanced Primary Stroke Center by The Joint Commission.

The hospital also has received quality recognition for its cancer program, breast center, minimally invasive gynecologic surgery, and epilepsy monitoring unit, and for hip and knee replacements, spine surgery and bariatric surgery.

1500 Forest Glen Road, Silver Spring, 301754-7000, HolyCrossHealth.org

HOLY CROSS GERMANTOWN HOSPITAL Located just off I-270, Holy Cross Germantown Hospital is a six-story, 237,000-square-foot facility with 78 beds and a full-service emergency department.

The hospital offers medical, surgical, emergency, maternity, intensive, behavioral health and diagnostic care. Patient rooms are private.

The hospital is designated as a Primary Stroke Center by the Maryland

PHOTO COURTESY OF SIBLEY MEMORIAL HOSPITAL

The new hospital, which replaces Washington Adventist’s Takoma Park campus, is on a 48-acre site at the center of the White Oak Science Gateway, a developing life sciences community that combines medical research facilities, retail and other businesses. Nearby, outpatient services and doctors’ offices in the Medical Pavilion at White Oak opened in the summer of 2020. The site is adjacent to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) headquarters. White Oak Medical Center staff partner with the FDA on public health research.

The White Oak location specializes in maternity and childbirth, orthopedics and surgery, and care for emergencies, stroke and cancer. Its cardiac program offers heart attack care, angioplasty, open-heart surgery, minimally invasive heart valve surgery and advanced structural heart procedures.

White Oak holds the highest “threestar” quality rating for heart surgery from The Society of Thoracic Surgeons and was named an accredited chest pain center by the American College of Cardiology.

The Maryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems has designated the hospital as a Cardiac Interventional Center and Primary Stroke Center. White Oak received the Platinum Performance Achievement Award from the American College of Cardiology Foundation and the Stroke Gold Plus Quality Achievement Award from the American Heart Association.

11890 Healing Way, Silver Spring, 240-6374000, AdventistWhiteOak.com

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Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems. Surgical care includes a broad range of specialties, and robotic surgery is available. The hospital also offers advanced digestive health diagnostic technologies and treatments.

The hospital is part of the Pinkney Innovation Complex for Science and Technology at Montgomery College and is the first hospital in the nation built on a community college campus, with an educational partnership to train future health care providers.

19801 Observation Drive, Germantown, 301-557-6000, HolyCrossHealth.org

SIBLEY MEMORIAL HOSPITAL Sibley Memorial Hospital, located in Northwest Washington, D.C., not far from the Montgomery County line, has been serving the community since its

founding in 1890. The 318-bed community hospital offers medical, surgical, obstetric, oncological and orthopedic care, skilled nursing inpatient services and an emergency department. Sibley’s campus is also home to the Grand Oaks assisted living facility, a medical building with physician offices, and ambulatory surgery and imaging centers.

A member of Johns Hopkins Medicine, Sibley opened a new and expanded emergency department in 2015. The department includes a dedicated fasttrack area to care for patients with minor illnesses, as well as interior and exterior decontamination showers capable of handling unique emergencies, such as a mass exposure to hazardous materials.

Sibley opened a new main building in 2016 with 200 large fully private rooms, the capacity to handle 4,500 births per

year, a new pharmacy, expanded oncological services, new operating rooms and more.

The Johns Hopkins Proton Therapy Center at the hospital features three treatment rooms and more than 30 specialists, combining innovative technology and advancements in research to provide tailored cancer treatment for children and adults.

With its 3,000-square-foot “Innovation Hub,” Sibley is believed to be the only community hospital in the country with a hospital-based center to foster new ideas in patient care. Says former Sibley President Richard Davis, who established the Innovation Hub, “It is a real-world laboratory for testing new ideas and for providing the resources in which to implement them.”

5255 Loughboro Road NW, Washington, D.C., 202-537-4000, www.sibley.org n

PROFILES

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Dentists

Jason A. Cohen, DDS 5530 Wisconsin Ave., Suite 560, Chevy Chase, MD 301-656-1201 | DrCohen@CosmeticDDS.com www.CosmeticDDS.com

Q: What brings you the most satisfaction in your

work?

MICHAEL VENTURA

PHOTO COURTESY OF SIBLEY MEMORIAL HOSPITAL

A: Our philosophy has always been to Treat Your Family Like

Family— and that's not an empty promise! We want to provide the best dental treatment with all the care, skill and judgment we would want for our own families. We do this from start to finish—on the phone, in our office, throughout your treatment—we live our mantra every day. It’s very satisfying that our philosophy is such a win-win for everyone, our team and our patients. We see it in people’s smiles, in their wonderful feedback and when they bring their children and friends to us.

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READERS’ CHOICES FOR

best health care Every year in its January/February issue, Bethesda Magazine publishes its “Best of Bethesda” picks. Here are some of the readers’ picks in 2020 and 2021 for the top medical practices, practitioners and hospital departments. The winner is listed first, followed by the runners-up.

HOSPITAL FOR MATERNITY

GENERAL DENTIST

VEIN CARE PRACTICE

(Readers’ Pick, 2021)

(Readers’ Pick, 2021)

(Readers’ Pick, 2021)

Sibley Memorial Hospital Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove

Medical Center Holy Cross Hospital

Steven Janowitz, DDS Jason A. Cohen, DDS Taff & Levine Jay H. Samuels, DDS Richard Hunsinger Jr., DDS Timothy J. Dunn, DDS David J. Schlactus, DMD

Center for Vein Restoration Capitol Vein & Laser Centers Vein Clinics of America Horizon Vascular Specialists

COSMETIC SURGEON (Readers’ Pick, 2021)

Jennifer Parker Porter, MD Joseph Michaels, MD A. Dean Jabs, MD Roger Friedman, MD Gregory O. Dick, MD Philip S. Schoenfeld, MD Bruno | Brown Plastic Surgery

SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITY (Readers’ Pick, 2021)

Champlain Ophthalmology Harry H. Huang, MD Laurie J. Wenger, MD Charles F. Bahn, MD Michael Tigani, MD

Maplewood Park Place Leisure World The Village at Rockville Asbury Methodist Village Five Star Premier Residences of Chevy

Chase Erickson Living–Riderwood Ingleside at King Farm

(Readers’ Pick, 2021)

PODIATRIST

IN-HOME HEALTH CARE

Capital Women’s Care Foxhall OB/GYN Associates Bloom OB/GYN Brendan F. Burke, MD Vivian M. Fraga, MD Simmonds, Martin & Helmbrecht Diane J. Snyder, MD

(Readers’ Pick, 2021)

(Readers’ Pick, 2021)

Paul Ross, DPM Franklin R. Polun, DPM Amir D. Assili, DPM Gene S. Mirkin, DPM Lee E. Firestone, DPM Michael Gittleson, DPM

Lifematters Family & Nursing Care Advanced Nursing + Home Support Capital City Nurses Home Instead

HEART/STROKE CARE

URGENT CARE PRACTICE

(Readers’ Pick, 2020)

(Readers’ Pick, 2021)

(Readers’ Pick, 2021)

Suburban Hospital Heart Care Bethesda (Johns Hopkins

Community Physicians) MedStar Washington Hospital Center

Righttime Medical Care PM Pediatrics Patient First–Rockville MedOne Urgent Care MedStar Health Urgent Care–Chevy Chase

Potomac Audiology The Feldman Hearing Studios Family Hearing Center at TLC

OPHTHALMOLOGIST (Readers’ Pick, 2021)

OB-GYN

AUDIOLOGY PRACTICE

PEDIATRIC DENTIST (Readers’ Pick, 2021)

MARRIAGE/FAMILY THERAPY PRACTICE

Derek Blank, DDS Drs. Ensor, Johnson & Lewis Ricardo A. Perez, DDS Karen Benitez, DDS Roya Pilcher, DDS Charlie Coulter, DDS

(Readers’ Pick, 2021)

The Counseling Center of Maryland Potomac Therapy Group Emily Cook Therapy

CHILD PSYCHOLOGIST (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

The Counseling Center of Maryland Rathbone & Associates Georgetown Psychology Mary Alice Silverman

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PRIMARY CARE PRACTICE

Summit Orthopedics Maryland Orthopedic Specialists

CHIROPRACTOR (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

James Hook, DC Cory Aplin, DC Moskowitz Chiropractic Charlotte Jensen, DC Fred Bruno, DC

(Readers’ Pick, 2020)

PHYSICAL THERAPIST (ATHLETIC INJURIES) (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

DERMATOLOGY PRACTICE (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

Capital Laser & Skin Care Drs. Jaffe, O’Neill & Lindgren DermAssociates Chevy Chase Dermatology Center Advanced Dermatology & Cosmetic Center The Dermatology Center and Rockledge MedSpa Tamjidi Skin Institute HOME CARE PROVIDER (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

Lifematters Family & Nursing Care Comfort Home Care Home Instead Senior Care Advanced Nursing + Home Support

Point Performance Sports & Orthopaedic Therapy Services Precision Physical Therapy Aspire PT & Wellness ProAction Physical Therapy Healthy Baller Issa Physical Therapy Rehab 2 Perform PRACTICE FOR MEDICAL AESTHETICS (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

Capital Laser & Skin Care DEFY Aesthetic West Institute The MedSpa at PSIW Chevy Chase Facial Plastic Surgery Cosmetic Surgery Associates

Potomac Physician Associates Rockville Internal Medicine Group Gary B. Wilks, MD Cullen, Umosella and Cullen Kelly Goodman, NP & Associates SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITY (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

Maplewood Park Place Charles E. Smith Life Communities Fox Hill Leisure World of Maryland Ingleside at King Farm Riderwood Five Star Premier Residences of Chevy Chase Asbury Methodist Village

HOSPITAL EMERGENCY ROOM (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

Suburban Hospital Sibley Memorial Hospital Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center Holy Cross Hospital (Silver Spring)

A unique full-service dental practice providing most procedures under one roof

MEDICAL MARIJUANA DISPENSARY (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

Rise Liberty Cannabis Peake ReLeaf Health for Life Harvest ORTHODONTIA PRACTICE (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

Rad Orthodontics EJL Dental Frederick S. Fritz, DDS Gerlein Orthodontics Dr. Jill J. Bruno Orthodontics Orchin Orthodontics John & Bob Gillespie ORTHOPEDIC PRACTICE (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

OrthoBethesda Washington Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine Montgomery Orthopaedics

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7811 Montrose Rd, Suite 300 | Potomac, MD 20854

301-530-3717 www.taffandlevine.com

Readers’ Pick, Best Dental Group Practice

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health

no appointment needed Need a doctor in a hurry? Here are 23 places to go for urgent medical care.

BY CYDNEY HARGIS BETHESDA All Care Urgent Care

www.concentra.com/urgent-care-centers Hours: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

8305 Wisconsin Ave., 301-800-7000, allcarefamilymed.com Hours: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

GERMANTOWN

Med-One Urgent Care

19825 Frederick Road, 240-801-9944, www.adventisturgentcare.com Hours: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily

7930 Old Georgetown Road, 301-652-0111, Hours: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily

Righttime Medical Center 4507 Stanford St., Bethesda 888-808-6483, Myrighttime.com Hours: 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily

CHEVY CHASE MedStar Health Urgent Care Barlow Building, 5454 Wisconsin Ave., #401, 301-215-9440, www.medstarhealth.org/mhs/urgent-carechevy-chase Hours: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily

GAITHERSBURG All Day Medical Care Clinic 702 Russell Ave., Ste. 100, 301-330-0006 alldaymeedicalcare.com Hours: Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Righttime Medical Care 882 Muddy Branch Road, 888-808-6483, myrighttime.com/gaithersburg Hours: 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily

MedStar Health Urgent Care 12111 Darnestown Road, 301-926-3020, www.medstarhealth.org/mhs/urgent-caregaithersburg Hours: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.; weekends and holidays, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Concentra Urgent Care 803 Russell Ave., Suite 1A and 1B, 301-869-0700,

Adventist HealthCare Urgent Care

Righttime Medical Care 19777 Frederick Road, 888-808-6483, www.righttime.com/germantown Hours: 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily

Physicians Now Urgent Care 15215 Shady Grove Road, Suite 100, 301-637-5328, www.myphysiciansnow.com Hours: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday, Sunday and holidays, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Righttime Medical Care 12220 Rockville Pike, 888-808-6483, www.myrighttime.com/rockville Hours: 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily

Patient First Urgent Care 726 Rockville Pike, 240-238-0411, www.patientfirst.com Hours: 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily

Patient First Urgent Care 21044 Frederick Road, 240-238-5432, www.patientfirst.com Hours: 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily

KENSINGTON Fast Track Urgent Care 10540 Connecticut Ave., 301-949-0300, www.fastrackmd.com Hours: Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

POTOMAC First Clinic Potomac Medical Arts Center, 9800 Falls Road, Suite 3, 301-765-9255, www.firstclinicllc.com Hours: Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Righttime Medical Care 350 Fortune Terrace, Suite D, 888-808-6483, myrighttime.com Hours: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily

ROCKVILLE Adventist HealthCare Urgent Care 750 Rockville Pike, 301-273-7743, www.adventisturgentcare.com Hours: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily

SILVER SPRING Righttime Medical Care 20 University Blvd. East, 888-808-6483, www.myrighttime.com/silver-spring Hours: 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily

Patient First Urgent Care 8206 Georgia Ave., 301-960-4682, www.patientfirst.com Hours: 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily

Fast Track Urgent Care 13428 New Hampshire Ave., 301-384-5020, www.fastrackmd.com Hours: Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

WHEATON MedStar Health Urgent Care 11915 Georgia Ave., 301-942-4505, www.medstarhealth.org/mhs/urgent-carewheaton Hours: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily

Access Now Urgent Care 11406 Georgia Ave., 301-200-2230, accessnowurgentcare.com Hours: Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. n

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PROFILES

Dentists

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Karen Benitez, DDS CHEVY CHASE PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY 8401 Connecticut Ave., Suite 650 Chevy Chase, MD 20815 301-272-1246 hello@chevychasekids.dentist www.chevychasekids.dentist

Q: What is unique about your practice?

A: Our entire office was specifically designed to build the most comfortable, fun atmosphere to meet our young patients' needs. Our space is alive with colors and toys, and even a separate nook just for kids. Our interactive-wall toys, costume sunglasses and movies help our littles gain confidence that they are involved in the entire experience — we understand good vibes! We encourage our patients to touch, feel and engage with us, making their dental experience comfortable for even the most nervous kiddos.

Come experience the magic of Chevy Chase Pediatric Dentistry, where we "tickle teeth," use "power washes," spit into "magic straws," make silly faces and wear fun masks.

Our enthusiasm to share this experience with our families cannot be curbed!

Q: What is one thing your patients should know about your practice?

A: Systemic health is a continuum of oral health, and we implement research-supported dentistry, providing conservative and predictable outcomes. Our advanced cavity management includes SDF/SMART therapies, the Hall Technique, White Zirconia Crowns and Lesion Sterilization and Tissue Repair and patients with MTHFR gene mutation, in which traditional treatment approaches are modified, making it critical to understand non-invasive treatment alternatives. Tethered tissues and feeding/ airway management are essential to your child's health.

I collaborate with myofunctional and feeding therapists to provide laser releases and maintain airway-centric philosophies to guide proper development.

We care for each patient as though they are family. Our core philosophy centers on considering your child's unique needs. We welcome you to pop in for a visit soon!

HILLARY SCHWAB

Affiliations & Awards: Bethesda Magazine, Top Dentist, 2020 American Dental Association American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry American Board of Pediatric Dentistry Maryland Pediatric Dental Association American Academy of Physiological Medicine & Dentistry Alpha Omega Academy of Applied Myofunctional Sciences Myofunctional Research Company The Breathe Institute/Baby Breathe Tongue-tied Academy Bethesda Magazine | 2021-2022 NEWCOMERS GUIDE 69

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PROFILES

Dentists

Derek Blank, DDS DC PEDIATRIC SMILES FROM LEFT: SARAH FORD, PEDIATRIC DENTAL HYGIENIST SYDNEY COLES, PEDIATRIC DENTAL HYGIENIST MEREDITH SELLERS, OFFICE MANAGER DR DEREK BLANK, PEDIATRIC DENTIST ELSY ESTRADA, PEDIATRIC DENTAL ASSISTANT ANED MOLLINEDO, CLINICAL MANAGER SHAE COLEMAN, EXPERIENCE COORDINATOR NOT PICTURED: ALLISON LEDESMA, ZAZZI LOPEZ, AND DAJAH RICHARDSON (CATCHING WAVES AT SURF CAMP DURING PHOTO) 5640 Shields Drive, Bethesda, MD 20817 301-363-9026 www.dcpediatricsmiles.com

Awards & Honors: “Best Pediatric Dentist”, Bethesda Magazine, Best of Bethesda Readers’ Poll, 2019; Diplomate, American Board of Pediatric Dentistry

Q: What is unique about your

practice?

A: At DC Pediatric Smiles, your child’s dental visit is as fun as a trip to the beach.

Step into our office and you’ll be immersed in the bright, clean, beach house vibe of coastal California. Our team is committed to providing children with a comfortable and approachable introduction to dentistry in the safest environment possible. Our motto is simple: Laugh.

Grow. Smile. Families love the positive, encouraging experience we provide kids of all ages. We also understand that convenience is key for busy parents.

We offer online, mobile-friendly forms, contactless reception, curbside check-in and ample free surface parking.

Q: How would your patients describe you?

A: I think patients would say I’m fun, energetic, patient and approachable. As a father of three young kids, I understand the importance of connecting with all my

patients to ensure their first impression of the dentist is positive. Coming into the dental setting understandably can be intimidating and scary for kids (and parents too). Our team is talented at easing any fear through their laidback, calm and confident approach to care.

That’s how we’ve been crushing sugar bugs since 2017.

Q: What makes you different from other dentists?

A: The inclusive nature of our practice.

I founded DC Pediatric Smiles on the principles of celebrating diversity and service to the greater community. In particular, patients with autism and children with unique medical needs find a comforting home at DC Pediatric Smiles.

We are so fortunate to be located in such a dynamic, diverse region of the country.

Our team strives to provide fun, kidfriendly dentistry in a positive setting to all families to build healthy, happy smiles for a lifetime.

STUDIO EIGHTY EIGHT

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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PROFILES

Dentists

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Despina M. Markogiannakis, DDS SMILES OF CHEVY CHASE 5454 Wisconsin Ave., Suite 835 Chevy Chase, MD 20815 301-652-0656 smilesofchevychase.com @smilesofchevychase Q: What is unique about your practice?

A: My advanced training and expertise in implants and cosmetic dentistry allow me to create beautiful smiles that reflect the complex relationship between oral and systemic health. Through the pandemic, we have created the safest environment by adding a sterile air system and chairside aerosol evacuator units breaking down any virus or bacteria to the 0.3 micron. Staying at the forefront of digital dentistry also enables me to complete smile makeovers and full-mouth reconstructions seamlessly while guiding patients through the process toward an optimal result. The personal and individualized care extended to each patient, combined with our relaxing office environment, fosters a warm, welcoming atmosphere for even the most anxious patient.

Q: What is one thing your patients should know about you?

A: My vision is Inspiring Smiles through a unique patient-centered experience, providing the highest quality of comprehensive care in which treatment plans are individualized to meet each patient's needs. I am a perfectionist who is caring, compassionate and always motivated to be better. I value clear communication with patients to explain a diagnosis and treatment plan, both short- and long-term, to promote oral health.

I also love giving back to the community. With our "One for One for One" initiative, patients, simply by tending to their oral health, are giving back, too. For each patient who comes in, we donate a complete oral health kit to a person in need and 1 percent of their visit to charity, starting in 2021 with the Leukemia Lymphoma Society.

COURTESY PHOTO

Affiliations & Awards: Bethesda Magazine, Top Dentist, 2020 Washingtonian, Top Dentist, 2021 American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry American Academy of Facial Esthetics American Dental Association American Dental Education Association District of Columbia Dental Society Greater Washington Academy of Dental Studies Bethesda Magazine | 2021-2022 NEWCOMERS GUIDE 71

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DENTIST

FINDER

Meet Leading Dentists in the Bethesda Area

PERIODONTICS, DENTAL IMPLANTS

ORTHODONTICS

Dr. Madeleine Goodman

Roy Eskow, DDS

Harmony Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics

Bethesda Dental Implant Center 5626 Shields Drive Bethesda, MD 20817 301-493-6200 www.bethesdadentalimplantcenter.com

Dental School: University of Maryland School of Dentistry Expertise: We provide state of the art periodontal therapy in a comfortable and caring environment. 30 years experience in dental implant surgery, periodontics, oral medicine, dental sleep apnea. Paramount is building a quality relationship with each and every patient.

4818 Del Ray Avenue Bethesda, Md 20814 301-664-4220 www.harmonybethesda.com

Dental School: University of Pennsylvania Expertise: Dr. Madeleine Goodman is a board-certified orthodontist who has been practicing locally for many years. She has expertise in early childhood interventions and pediatric sleep apnea management as well as braces and Invisalign for children and adults.

PROSTHODONTICS, GENERAL DENTISTRY

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY; PEDIATRIC SPECIAL NEEDS DENTISTRY

Flavio H. Rasetto, DDS, MS, FACP

Dr. Heather Sholander Harmony Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics

Chevy Chase Cosemtic & Implant Dentistry

4818 Del Ray Avenue Bethesda, Md 20814 301-664-4220 www.harmonybethesda.com

5454 Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 1500 Chevy Chase, MD 20815 301-652-9717 www.cccid.net

Dental School: University of Maryland School Dental School Prosthodontic Program Expertise: Cosmetic Bonding, Crowns & Bridgework, Implant Crowns, Veneers, Full Mouth Rehabilitation, TMJ/TMD Treatment, Whitening, Sleep Apnea

PHYSICIAN FINDER

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Dental School: Medical College of Georgia Expertise: Dr. Heather is a board-certified pediatric dentist who believes that treating kids starts with building relationships. She makes going to the dentist fun by incorporating songs, games, TV, and anesthesia-free laser dentistry into her practice.

Meet Leading doctors in the Bethesda Area

OPTOMETRY

GENERAL PEDIATRICS

Rachel Cohn, OD

Scott D. Wissman, M.D., M.P.H.

Wink Eyecare Boutique

Wonder Years Pediatrics

1095 Seven Locks Road Potomac, MD 20854 301-545-1111 www.wink.net

9601 Blackwell Road, Suite 300 Rockville, MD 20015 www.wonderyearspediatrics.com

Wink is a full scope optometry practice that includes the latest technology combined with the latest & most fashionable eyewear designers.

Dr. Cohn is dedicated to taking the time and energy to meet the needs of each patient.

Our mission is to provide a comprehensive medical home for patients and their families during the wonder years—from birth to young adulthood. By working as a team, our goal is to provide personalized care by addressing the diverse needs of our patients.

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Fitness & Beauty Owner and instructor Shayla Cornick at Cycled! in downtown Silver Spring

to gentle. People seeking an authentic and meditation-focused experience will find plenty of traditional studios throughout the county.

Those seeking to develop a “yoga butt” or get a good stretch will find studios that incorporate strength training and Pilates.

OUTDOORS LOVERS

BETHESDA AND WASHINGTON, D.C., are perennially named among the healthiest cities in America by national publications and the American College of Sports Medicine. It’s no wonder, considering the region’s hundreds of miles of hiking and biking trails, fitness studios that cater to all tastes, and convenient public recreation centers. Here are just a few highlights of our area’s best fitness offerings.

PHOTO BY EDGAR ARTIGA

TRENDSETTERS Call us early adopters. When a new fitness trend is on the horizon, you can bet the Bethesda area is first in line to get a studio where you can sample the new activity.

From posh indoor cycling studios to superslow exercise gyms, you can try your hand at whatever’s the latest and greatest in the fitness world without traveling far from home. Recent additions to the boutique fitness offerings in the area include aerial yoga, functional fitness and multiple indoor cycling studios. You can even impress your kids by learning parkour, the practice of running, leaping and spinning over obstacles to get from one place to another.

GYMS Just about every conceivable fitness chain has a local outpost. If luxury’s your thing, there’s a gym that offers patrons chilled face towels soaked in eucalyptus-scented water for post-workout cooldowns. If you’re looking for the no-frills basics, you can find budget gyms or CrossFit “boxes” throughout Montgomery County. There are also several locally owned gyms where you’ll feel like everybody knows your name.

RECREATION CENTERS A great recreation center can serve as a place for community members to gather, enjoy each other’s company and improve their own health. The county has 21 recreation centers, and its municipalities have several more, most of which feature gyms, fitness classes and programs for kids and older adults. Many also have indoor or outdoor pools, and offer swim lessons and other aquatic programs.

YOGA Yogis can find studios specializing in a variety of styles, from Bikram to vinyasa

Newcomers to Montgomery County might not expect to arrive in a haven for outdoors lovers. But a few miles as the crow flies from the bustle of Washington, D.C., you can enjoy rock scrambles, world-class kayaking and overlooks that make you feel like you’ve escaped civilization.

The same Potomac River that flows lazily through the District produces one of the world’s deadliest rapids, Great Falls, which is renowned by kayakers worldwide for its Class V white water. The Potomac River also offers plenty of options for novices, from kayaking in flat water to stand-up paddleboarding.

Montgomery County parks alone offer more than 100 miles of trails, from singletrack dirt paths that will thrill the most hard-core trail runners to mellow paved trails appropriate for casual cyclists and parents with baby strollers. That’s in addition to local favorites such as the Billy Goat Trail in the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park (start at the Potomac trailhead), trails on 1,282-foot Sugarloaf Mountain in Dickerson, and others in state, national and privately owned parks within county lines. Many neighborhoods in southern Montgomery County abut Rock Creek Park, a 2,000-acre swath of forest that bisects the northwest quadrant of the District. Sections of Rock Creek Park’s central road, Beach Drive, are closed to make way for cyclists and runners every weekend.

If exploring the outdoors by foot or by bike isn’t your thing, you can also fish, row, ice skate or simply enjoy the flowers and other foliage in the county’s parks. n

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READERS’ CHOICES FOR

BEST FITNESS & Beauty Every year in its January/February issue, Bethesda Magazine publishes its “Best of Bethesda” picks. Here are some of the readers’ picks in 2020 and 2021 for the top exercise facilities, hair salons and other services. The winner is listed first, followed by the runners-up.

DAY SPA (Readers’ Pick, 2021)

The Woodhouse Day Spa–North Bethesda Blu Water Day Spa & Salon The Woodhouse Day Spa–Gaithersburg Aveda Bethesda Salon and Spa Ninotch HAIR SALON (Readers’ Pick, 2021)

Bella Bethesda Salon Kindle & Boom Progressions salon spa store Salon Central

Plane Jane Salon Aveda Bethesda Salon and Spa Salon Nader PLACE FOR MEN’S HAIRCUTS (Readers’ Pick, 2021)

Seven Locks Barber Floyd’s 99 Barbershop Roosters Men’s Grooming Center Hair Cuttery Bella Bethesda Salon Spiro’s Barber & Hairstyling Bradley Barber Shop

VIRTUAL WORKOUTS DURING THE PANDEMIC (Readers’ Pick, 2021)

Pulse Fitness Bethesda Fit Body Boot Camp Life Time Equinox Park Potomac Yoga Orangetheory Fitness FITNESS STUDIO (Readers’ Pick, 2021)

Pulse Fitness Bethesda Fit Body Boot Camp

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Equinox Life Time Orangetheory Fitness YOGA/PILATES STUDIO (Readers’ Pick, 2021)

extendYoga Pulse Fitness Bethesda Sweetbay Yoga Simon Says Yoga RTR Pilates (Potomac Pilates) CorePower Yoga Park Potomac Yoga PureFire Yoga NEW GYM OR WORKOUT STUDIO (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

Park Potomac Yoga Biker Barre YMCA Bethesda-Chevy Chase (recently renovated) Onelife Fitness BOOTCAMP WORKOUT (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

Foundry Fitness Fit4Mom Montgomery County F45 Bethesda

SALON IN BETHESDA (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

Bella Bethesda Salon Aveda Bethesda Salon and Spa The Shop Salon Salon Central Plane Jane Salon Franz Sebastian Salon Salon Nader

Mynd Spa & Salon Eloquence Salon Oxygen Salon and Day Spa SALON IN POTOMAC (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

(Readers’ Pick, 2020)

Zohra & Zohra [Men] Salon KARMA by Erwin Gomez Studio Ten83 Bella Moda Salon & Spa Potomac Hair Design Samantha James Salon

DESSANGE Paris Salon Lofts

SALON IN SILVER SPRING

SALON IN CHEVY CHASE

SALON IN GAITHERSBURG/ N. POTOMAC (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

Aurelia Salon\Spa O’HAIR Salon+Spa Salon Red Mynd Spa & Salon

(Readers’ Pick, 2020)

Arif Hair Salon Alchemy Salon Kibana Hair Salon Spa Headlines Hair Designers SALON IN UPPER NORTHWEST D.C. (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

PR at Partners

SALON IN N. BETHESDA/ROCKVILLE (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

New Wave Salon & Spa Kindle & Boom Progressions Salon Spa Store

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fitness & beauty

hiking | biking trails We may live in a major metropolitan area, but getting close to nature is easy.

Here are some of the region’s best hiking and biking routes.

HIKING BILLY GOAT TRAIL, SECTION A

There are three sections of the Billy Goat Trail in the C&O Canal National Historical Park in Potomac. Section A, running from Great Falls toward Old Angler’s Inn, is the most popular—and most rigorous. Roughly 4 miles round-trip, this hike takes two to three hours and provides stunning views of Great Falls and the Potomac River below.

The trail begins near the Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center, and continues straight along the Potomac River for roughly 2 miles of varied terrain, from dirt trails through thick forests to rock scrambles. Save time by taking the C&O Canal towpath back to the parking lot, or savor the views again by retracing your steps. www.nps.gov/choh

ROCK CREEK PARK

Those looking for an escape into the natural world can find it in their backyards—sometimes literally—with the 2,000-acre Rock Creek Park, which abuts many neighborhoods in Silver Spring and Chevy Chase. Pick up the Western Ridge Trail on Beach Drive, near the Washington, D.C., line, and follow the green-blazed, 4-plus-mile trail through the heart of the park. Side trails lead to the park’s Nature Center and Planetarium, at 5200 Glover Road NW, or the Smithsonian National Zoo at 3001 Connecticut Ave. NW, both in the District.

Or stick to the path as it winds through thickly forested woods, and you’ll forget you’re in the city at all. www.nps.gov/rocr

MONONGAHELA NATIONAL FOREST Those looking to escape summer crowds might

want to drive a couple extra hours beyond Shenandoah National Park to Monongahela National Forest in West Virginia. The roughly 7-mile, three- to fourhour Cowpasture Trail loop offers something for history-seekers and would-be botanists alike.

From the Cranberry Mountain Nature Center, walk northeast on Route 150 until it meets up with crumbling blacktop, the site of the old Mill Point Federal Prison Camp, a 1930s work camp with no bars, fences or barricades. (The remote location was thought to be enough to prevent escapes.)

Follow the Cowpasture Trail as it leads into the woods and eventually meets up with the boardwalk through the Cranberry Glades, a series of five peat bogs created during the last glacial period. The area’s acidic soil supports plant life more commonly found in Canada than in the Mid-Atlantic region, including cranberry vines and carnivorous plants. After following the boardwalk around, meet up with Route 150 again and retrace your steps back to the nature center. It’ll take you four hours to drive back to Bethesda, so consider reserving a spot to pitch a tent at the Cranberry Campground for the evening. www.fs.usda.gov/mnf

OLD RAG MOUNTAIN

The 9.2-mile Old Rag loop near Sperryville, Virginia, is as much a warm-weather D.C. tradition as the National Cherry Blossom Festival. But be forewarned: On sunny summer days, the route to the 3,291-foot mountain gets as crowded as the Beltway during rush hour, so start the hour-and-45-minute drive from Bethesda early.

The hike starts in the Old Rag parking lot. From there, walk less than a mile uphill along State Road 600, then follow the blue-blazed Ridge Trail through several switchbacks to the first of many viewpoints at the 2-mile mark. The fun begins less than a mile later, when you scramble over a series of rock formations for the last mile of the trail. This includes shimmying through a narrow crevice in a large rock formation and walking through a small cave. Continue to follow the blue blazes to the summit for expansive

views of Shenandoah National Park, then follow the blue-blazed trail and map directions to get back down. With steep, uneven pathways and inevitable stops for photo opportunities, it’s wise to set aside an entire day for the hike. (No pets allowed.) Families with young kids may want to view the National Park Service video detailing the dangers associated with the hike before planning a trip. www.nps.gov/shen/planyourvisit/old-raghike-prep.htm

SUGARLOAF MOUNTAIN

This 1,282-foot mountain in Dickerson—just a 35-minute drive from Bethesda—has arguably some of the best hiking in the area. Try the 7-mile loop around the base of the mountain, open to hikers and horseback riders year-round and bikers from Memorial Day through Labor Day, weekdays only. Follow the 5-mile blue trail from the Westview parking lot through a thick forest of oak, tulip poplar and Eastern hemlock trees. Or take a quarter-mile hike on the green trail from the Westview parking lot to the summit. With 15 miles of trails within the recreation area, visitors have plenty of well-marked options to shorten the route.

Stop for a wine tasting at Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard on Comus Road, near the entrance to the recreation area, before heading home. www. sugarloafmd.com

WHITEOAK CANYON

Looking for something less strenuous than Old Rag? Try the three-hour, 4.6-mile out-and-back Whiteoak Canyon hike, also in Shenandoah National Park. Highlights include some of the park’s highest waterfalls and multiple swimming holes. Start at the Whiteoak Parking Area along Skyline Drive and follow the Whiteoak Canyon Falls Trail downhill. The trail will eventually parallel Whiteoak Run, a babbling stream you’ll follow until you reach Upper Whiteoak Falls. Stop to admire the 86-foot cascade, the highest of the Whiteoak falls, and cool down in one of the swimming holes below it before heading back. Intrepid hikers may want to continue on to the lower falls, adding 2.7 miles (and a 1,100-foot change in elevation) round trip to their journey. You’ll be hiking uphill on the way back, though, so conserve your energy.

As with Old Rag, it’s best to arrive early to avoid congestion. www.nps.gov/shen/planyourvisit/ waterfalls.htm

ROAD BIKING BEACH DRIVE

Parts of the leaf-canopied road are closed to vehicular traffic from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday-

PHOTO BY SKIP BROWN

A cyclist pedals along the towpath in the C&O Canal National Historical Park.

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Sunday, creating a wide, flat, paved surface suitable both for triathletes in training and for families with young kids on training wheels. (A word of caution, though: Paved trails such as this can get busy on weekends, so families should beware speeding cyclists.) Those looking to add mileage or variety can wander onto the paved, 18.6-mile Rock Creek multi-use trail or other adjoining paths. www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/ things2do.htm; www.montgomeryparks.org

stone). Woodsy and scenic, the trail traverses historic tunnels and bridges. The trail is closed east of Bethesda for construction of the light-rail Purple Line. www.cctrail.org

while adventure-seekers can test their skills on the single-track trails. Both are less than an hour from Bethesda.

MOUNTAIN BIKING

C&O CANAL TOWPATH

GAMBRILL STATE PARK/ FREDERICK WATERSHED

Once you’ve covered the trails listed here, expand your horizons at the 16,000-acre Patapsco Valley State Park, located a few miles from the Baltimore/Washington International Airport, about 40 minutes from Bethesda. The park extends along the 32-mile Patapsco River Valley, and its slopes provide some intense uphill climbs. It gets crowded on summer weekends, area cyclists say, because it offers the longest, steepest trails around.

This 184.5-mile towpath along the C&O Canal is the go-to location for long-distance bike rides in the Bethesda area. The wide, flat, hard-pack dirt trail follows the north bank of the Potomac River from Georgetown to Cumberland, Maryland. But even short chunks of the towpath make for a great day trip, with killer river views for cyclists and hikers of all ages and experience levels. www.nps.gov/choh

CAPITAL CRESCENT TRAIL

The 11-mile Capital Crescent Trail may be the best place in the Bethesda area for a family bike ride. The trail, which follows the abandoned tracks of the Georgetown Branch of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, stretches from Silver Spring to Georgetown. The 7-mile section from Bethesda to Georgetown is especially family-friendly, with a 10-foot-wide, hard-surface trail (the section from Bethesda to Silver Spring is packed, crushed

Find directions to the mountain-biking trails below and scope out other trails by visiting www.more-mtb.org.

Mountain bikers willing to cross the county line will find 16 miles of wooded, rocky trails in the Catoctin Mountains northwest of Frederick, about an hour from Bethesda. All trails (except the blue) are loops, allowing cyclists to explore new terrain every inch of their ride. Though beginners won’t find much here, experts will love the steep trails, ample rock gardens and heartstopping descents.

LITTLE BENNETT AND BLACK HILL REGIONAL PARKS

Located in Clarksburg and Boyds, respectively, these two parks offer some of the most challenging trails in Montgomery County. The hills are steeper and the roots and rocks are gnarlier than almost anywhere else nearby. But here, too, beginners can pedal along paved or gravel trails

PATAPSCO VALLEY STATE PARK

SCHAEFFER FARM

This Germantown recreation area, located about 45 minutes from Bethesda, is the heart of Montgomery County’s mountain-biking scene.

With rolling hills, swoopy turns and a few roots along its 15 miles of single-track trails, it’s ideal for intermediate riders looking for a fun and scenic course. The best part: It offers options for beginning mountain bikers, too. Start with the 2-mile white-orange loop, which is well-marked and relatively easy.

—AMY REININK For more information about county parks, check out www.montgomeryparks.org.

RIVER/CAMP

2 0 2 1

Life is better

s r o o d ut o

• Summer Camps • Leaders in Training • River School weekend kayaking • River School international trips • Calleva Trough Outfitters (canoe rentals)

FARM/EVENTS • • • • • •

Calleva Horse Adventures Pizza Nights at Calleva Farm Dirty Dinner Farm to Table (July 31) Farm & Forest Cubs (Preschool) Markoff’s Haunted Forest Christmas at Calleva Farm

AWARD WINNING ADVENTURE CAMPS

calleva.org YEAR-ROUND ADVENTURES

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Visit your neighborhood spirits, wine & beer store for all your celebration needs.

HAMPDEN LANE 4920 Hampden Lane Bethesda, MD 20814 (240) 773-2006

BETHESDA LOCATIONS

WESTWOOD 5432 Westbard Avenue Bethesda, MD 20814 (240) 773-2024

ASPEN HILL

FLOWER

POTOMAC

13661-13665 Connecticut Avenue Silver Spring, MD 20906 (240) 773-2009

8706-B Flower Avenue Silver Spring, MD 20901 (240) 773-2056

10132 River Road Potomac, MD 20854 (240) 773-2020

BURTONSVILLE

GOSHEN CROSSING

SENECA MEADOWS

15620 Old Columbia Pike Burtonsville, MD 20866 (240) 773-2007

20004-2008 Goshen Road Gaithersburg, MD 20879 (240) 773-2017

20680 Seneca Meadows Parkway Suite A-2, Germantown, MD 20876 (240) 773-2022

CABIN JOHN

KINGSVIEW

11301 Seven Locks Road Potomac, MD 20854 (240) 773-2005

18323 Leaman Farm Road Germantown, MD 20874 (240) 773-2014

CLARKSBURG VILLAGE

LEISURE WORLD

12051 Chestnut Branch Way, Suite C-1 Clarksburg, MD 20871 (240) 773-2011

3824-26 International Drive Silver Spring, MD 20906 (240) 773-2015

CLOVERLY

MONTROSE

723 Cloverly Avenue Silver Spring, MD 20905 (240) 773-2010

12015-B Rockville Pike Rockville, MD 20852 (240) 773-2003

WHEATON

DARNESTOWN

MUDDY BRANCH 866 Muddy Branch Road Gaithersburg, MD 20878 (240) 773-2057

OLNEY

300 N Washington St. Rockville, MD 20850 (240) 773-2027

17825 Georgia Avenue Olney, MD 20832 (240) 773-2019

FALLSGROVE

POOLESVILLE

14937E Shady Grove Road Rockville, MD 20850 (240) 773-2018

19710-D Fisher Avenue Poolesville, MD 20837 (240) 773-2016

@ABSMontgomeryCounty

061.21 ABS_BethMag_Ad_26 Locations_May21_final.indd 1 Full page ad template.indd 1

WALNUT HILL 16535 S. Frederick Road Gaithersburg, MD 20855 (240) 773-2004 11405 - 11407 Georgia Avenue Wheaton, MD 20902 (240) 773-2025

12155 Darnestown Road Gaithersburg, MD 20878 (240) 773-2028

DOWNTOWN ROCKVILLE

SILVER SPRING 8715 Colesville Road Silver Spring, MD 20910 (240) 773-2021

WHITE OAK 11239 New Hampshire Avenue Silver Spring, MD 20904 (240) 773-2026

@ABSMoCo | www.montgomerycountymd.gov/ABS

5/12/21 5:53 PM 5/14/21 11:17 AM

dining

A Hot Mess Pizza at Frankly...Pizza! in Kensington.

PHOTO BY STACY ZARIN GOLDBERG

THE BETHESDA AREA HAS A thriving restaurant scene. Downtown Bethesda alone boasts nearly 200 places to dine out. And the rest of Montgomery County has hundreds more restaurants. The options range from fine dining to neighborhood gathering spots and every ethnic cuisine imaginable.

Prefer to eat in? There are plenty of pick-up and delivery options available.

Some restaurants offer family-style meal packs, including the $50 Brunch to Go at Potomac’s Founding Farmers, which offers a choice of eggs, baked goods

and salads, and the $55 Adventure Dinner at All Set in Silver Spring with a selection of barbeque favorites, sides and cornbread or biscuits.

For locals who like to do it themselves, the ingredients for almost every conceivable dish can be found at the wide variety of area food markets, ranging from the natural foods grocery store Dawson’s Market in Rockville to family-owned neighborhood establishments such as MOM’s Organic Market in Rockville and Gaithersburg to national chains including Giant, Safeway,

Trader Joe’s, Harris Teeter and Whole Foods.

And then there are the farmers markets operating throughout the county. Check out our list on page 104 in the Things To Do section.

In this section, you’ll find Bethesda Magazine readers’ favorite places to eat and drink. During the coronavirus pandemic, some eateries temporarily closed, while others shut down permanently. Before heading out to a dining destination, it may be best to call ahead to check its status.

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READERS’ CHOICES FOR

BEST FOOD & DRINK Every year in its January/February issue, Bethesda Magazine publishes its “Best of Bethesda” picks. Here are some of the readers’ picks for favorite restaurants for 2020 and 2021. The winner is listed first, followed by the runners-up.

Barrel and Crow Duck Duck Goose RESTAURANT IN CHEVY CHASE (Readers’ Pick, 2021)

La Ferme Lia’s Clyde’s The Capital Grille Sushiko RESTAURANT IN GAITHERSBURG/NORTH POTOMAC (Readers’ Pick, 2021)

Coastal Flats Il Porto

RESTAURANT YOU MISSED MOST DURING THE PANDEMIC

CAVA Mezze Gregorio’s Trattoria

(Readers’ Pick, 2021)

Woodmont Grill Raku Mon Ami Gabi Uncle Julio’s Rio Grande Cafe O’Donnell’s Market Olazzo Duck Duck Goose Gringos & Mariachis TAKEOUT DURING THE STAY-AT-HOME ORDER

NEW RESTAURANT

(Readers’ Pick, 2021)

Black Market Bistro Frankly…Pizza!

The Dish & Dram K Town Bistro Continental Pizza RESTAURANT IN NORTH BETHESDA/ ROCKVILLE

(Readers’ Pick, 2021)

(Readers’ Pick, 2021)

Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza Cubano’s Flower Child Julii Sisters Thai Matchbox - Bethesda Little Beet Table Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant Casa Oaxaca

Summer House Santa Monica Seasons 52 CAVA Mezze Julii Il Pizzico Matchbox Clyde’s Tower Oaks Lodge RESTAURANT IN POTOMAC

RESTAURANT IN BETHESDA

MoCo’s Founding Farmers Renato’s at River Falls O’Donnell’s Market Gregorio’s Trattoria Hunter’s Bar and Grill Normandie Farm

(Readers’ Pick, 2021)

O’Donnell’s Market MoCo’s Founding Farmers Uncle Julio’s Rio Grande Cafe Raku Fish Taco Moby Dick House of Kabob

RESTAURANT IN GARRETT PARK/ KENSINGTON

(Readers’ Pick, 2021)

Raku Woodmont Grill Mon Ami Gabi Olazzo

(Readers’ Pick, 2021) PHOTO BY ATRI WEE

O’Donnell’s Market: Best Takeout During the Stay-at-Home Order, Best Crabcake and Best Place to Buy Fish

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RESTAURANT IN SILVER SPRING

RESTAURANT WITH BEST WINE LIST

PLACE TO BUY FISH

(Readers’ Pick, 2021)

(Readers’ Pick, 2021)

(Readers’ Pick, 2021)

All Set Restaurant & Bar Mi Rancho El Sapo Cuban Social Club Urban Butcher (temporarily closed) Parkway Deli & Restaurant Pacci’s Trattoria & Pasticceria Cubano’s

Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant Mon Ami Gabi Black’s Bar & Kitchen

O’Donnell’s Market The Market at River Falls Pescadeli

LATE-NIGHT EATS

PLACE TO BUY BEER

(Readers’ Pick, 2021)

(Readers’ Pick, 2021)

Silver Diner Tastee Diner Dog Haus Biergarten Caddies on Cordell Silver

Rodman’s Downtown Crown Wine and Beer Dawson’s Market Gilly’s Craft Beer & Fine Wine

RESTAURANT IN UPPER NW D.C. (Readers’ Pick, 2021)

Millie’s Macon Bistro & Larder Maggiano’s Little Italy I’m Eddie Cano Buck’s Fishing & Camping

PLACE TO BUY BREAD ACAI BOWLS

(Readers’ Pick, 2021)

(Readers’ Pick, 2021)

Fresh Baguette Great Harvest Bread Co. Spring Mill Bread Co. Breads Unlimited

Playa Bowls Henry’s Sweet Retreat

NEIGHBORHOOD RESTAURANT (Readers’ Pick, 2021)

CRABCAKE

Wild Tomato O’Donnell’s Market Millie’s Sal’s Italian Kitchen Frankly…Pizza!

Gregorio’s Trattoria

(Readers’ Pick, 2021)

SPECIAL OCCASION RESTAURANT

DESSERTS

(Readers’ Pick, 2021)

(Readers’ Pick, 2021)

La Ferme Ruth’s Chris Steak House The Capital Grille Old Angler’s Inn

Henry’s Sweet Retreat O’Donnell’s Market The Cheesecake Factory Georgetown Cupcake Tout de Sweet Pastry Shop Praline Bakery & Bistro

BRUNCH

O’Donnell’s Market The Market at River Falls Clyde’s Pescadeli Bethesda Crab House

(Readers’ Pick, 2021)

MoCo’s Founding Farmers Silver Summer House Santa Monica MOST KID-FRIENDLY RESTAURANT

SALADS (Readers’ Pick, 2021)

Sweetgreen Chopt CAVA Mezze

(Readers’ Pick, 2021)

Uncle Julio’s Rio Grande Cafe Silver Diner Silver HAPPY HOUR

SMALL PLATES (Readers’ Pick, 2021)

CAVA Mezze Botanero Guardado’s

(Readers’ Pick, 2021)

Gringos & Mariachis Caddies on Cordell Black’s Bar & Kitchen RESTAURANT WITH BEST BEER SELECTION (Readers’ Pick, 2021)

World of Beer Owen’s Ordinary Mussel Bar & Grille Yard House Dog Haus Biergarten

GOURMET MARKET (Readers’ Pick, 2021)

Balducci’s The Market at River Falls Dawson’s Market Whole Foods Market Potomac Grocer Grosvenor Market ORGANIC MARKET (Readers’ Pick, 2021)

MOM’s Organic Market Whole Foods Market Dawson’s Market

OVERALL RESTAURANT (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

Woodmont Grill MoCo’s Founding Farmers Mon Ami Gabi Jaleo Raku True Food Kitchen Duck Duck Goose NEW RESTAURANT (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

Julii Cooper’s Hawk Lotus Grill & Bar Nada El Sapo Cuban Social Club Casa Oaxaca NEW FAST-CASUAL RESTAURANT (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

Flower Child Kuya Ja’s Lechon Belly Prima CHEF/RESTAURATEUR (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

José Andrés (Jaleo/ThinkFoodGroup) Francis Otoo (Fransar Catering Services) Ashish Alfred (Duck Duck Goose) RESTAURANT WITH BEST DECOR (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

Summer House Santa Monica Gringos & Mariachis Terrain Cafe Clyde’s Tower Oaks Lodge Julii

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5/11/21 10:31 AM

dining MEXICAN RESTAURANT (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

Uncle Julio’s Gringos & Mariachis Guapo’s El Mariachi Mi Rancho Villa Maya MIDDLE EASTERN RESTAURANT (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

RESTAURANT WITH BEST SERVICE (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

Woodmont Grill Mon Ami Gabi The Capital Grille Duck Duck Goose La Ferme

CAVA Mezze Moby Dick House of Kabob Bacchus of Lebanon Yekta The Big Greek Cafe RAMEN (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

PRIVATE DINING ROOM (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

The Capital Grille Ruth’s Chris Steak House Seasons 52 Morton’s, The Steakhouse Mon Ami Gabi

JINYA Ramen Bar Akira Ramen & Izakaya Maki Ren’s Ramen RESTAURANT FOR VEGETARIAN DISHES (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

BURGER (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

Woodmont Grill Clyde’s (Chevy Chase) Quarry House Tavern Caddies on Cordell INDIAN RESTAURANT (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

Kadhai Passage to India Bombay Bistro Tandoori Nights Spice Xing Commonwealth Indian

True Food Kitchen Flower Child Vegetable Garden SUSHI (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

Raku Sushiko Hanaro Restaurant & Lounge Maki Maki Yuraku Japanese Restaurant Yirasai Sushi Sushi Damo TACOS (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

ITALIAN RESTAURANT (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

Olazzo Il Pizzico Mamma Lucia Pines of Rome Gregorio’s Trattoria Trattoria Sorrento LOCAL PIZZA (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

Frankly...Pizza!

Pizzeria Da Marco Inferno Pizzeria Napoletana Alatri Bros.

Potomac Pizza

Fish Taco Gringos & Mariachis Taco Bar Nada Uncle Julio’s THAI RESTAURANT (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

Tara Thai Bangkok Garden Sala Thai Sisters Thai Ruan Thai

CRAFT COCKTAILS (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

MoCo’s Founding Farmers Barrel + Crow Duck Duck Goose Julii Jaleo HAPPY HOUR (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

Dawson’s Market Tommy Joe’s Caddies on Cordell Gringos & Mariachis Ruth’s Chris Steak House Black’s Bar & Kitchen INDEPENDENT COFFEE SHOP (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

Clove & Cedar Coffeebar Quartermaine Coffee Roasters Car Wash Coffee Dawson’s Market Java Nation Black Lion Café Kaldi’s Social House LOCAL BREWERY (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

7 Locks Brewing Rock Bottom Restaurant & Brewery Denizens Brewing Co. The Brookeville Beer Farm Waredaca Brewing Company True Respite Brewing Co. MOST ROMANTIC RESTAURANT (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

La Ferme Old Angler’s Inn Duck Duck Goose Mon Ami Gabi OUTDOOR DINING (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

Old Angler’s Inn Millie’s Summer House Santa Monica Mon Ami Gabi Bacchus of Lebanon Caddies on Cordell RESTAURANT FOR EATING AT THE BAR (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

Woodmont Grill Black’s Bar & Kitchen

BRUNCH (Readers’ Pick, 2020)

MoCo’s Founding Farmers Silver Summer House Santa Monica

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DINING GUIDE

CHECK OUT THE ONLINE VERSION OF THE DINING GUIDE AT BETHESDAMAGAZINE.COM LISTINGS ARE CURRENT AS OF MAY 2021

BETHESDA AJI-NIPPON 6937 Arlington Road, 301-654-0213. A calm oasis on a busy street, where chef Kazuo Honma serves patrons several kinds of sushi, sashimi, noodle soups, teriyaki and more. Try a dinner box, which includes an entree, vegetables, California roll, tempura and rice. L D $$

ALATRI BROS. (EDITORS’ PICK) 4926 Cordell Ave., 301-718-6427, alatribros.com.

The folks behind Olazzo and Gringos & Mariachis bought Mia’s Pizzas and revamped it with a new name and decor. They kept the Naples-style pies that come from a wood-burning oven, but added small plates and healthy options. Sit in the cheery dining room with green, gray and white accents or under an umbrella on the patio.  L D $$

&PIZZA 7614 Old Georgetown Road, 240-800-4783, andpizza.com. Create your own designer pizza from a choice of two crusts (both are vegan and one is also gluten-, soy- and dairy-free), three cheeses (including a vegan option) and five sauces or spreads. Toppings for the thin, crispy crusts range from the usual suspects to Beyond Meat sausage and tater tots. This location of the hip, fast-casual chain has limited seating. L D $

ANTHONY’S COAL FIRED PIZZA 7776 Norfolk Ave., 240-781-6943, acfp.com. A fullservice restaurant in Woodmont Triangle serving coal-fired pizzas and other Italian fare, Anthony’s is part of a Florida-based chain. The corner restaurant includes a large bar area with TVs. Voted “Best New Restaurant” by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2021. ❂ L D $

BACCHUS OF LEBANON (EDITORS’ PICK) 7945 Norfolk Ave., 301-657-1722, bacchusoflebanon.com. This friendly and elegant Lebanese staple has a large, sunny patio that beckons lunch and dinner patrons outside when the weather is good to try garlicky hummus, stuffed grape leaves, chicken kabobs, veal chops and dozens of small-plate dishes. ❂ L D $$

BANGKOK GARDEN 4906 St. Elmo Ave., 301-951-0670, bkkgardenbethesda.com. This real-deal, familyrun Thai restaurant turns out authentic cuisine, including curries, soups and noodle dishes, in a dining room decorated with traditional statues of the gods. L D $

THE BARKING DOG 4723 Elm St., 301-654-0022, barkingdogbar.com. A fun place for young adults, with drink specials nearly every night and bar food such as quesadillas and burgers. Karaoke night is held weekly. ❂ L D $

BARREL AND CROW 4867 Cordell Ave., 240-800-3253, barrelandcrow. com. Contemporary regional and southern cuisine served in a comfortable setting with charcoal gray banquettes and elements of wood and brick. Menu highlights include Maryland crab beignets, shrimp and grits and roasted trout. ❂ R L D $$

BENIHANA 7935 Wisconsin Ave., 301-652-5391, benihana. com. Experience dinner-as-theater as the chef chops and cooks beef, chicken, vegetables and seafood tableside on the hibachi. This popular national chain serves sushi, too. The kids’ menu includes a California roll and hibachi chicken, steak and shrimp entrees. J L D $$

BETHESDA CRAB HOUSE 4958 Bethesda Ave., 301-652-3382. In the same location since 1961, this casual, family-owned dining spot features jumbo lump crabcakes, oysters on the half shell and jumbo spiced shrimp. Extra large and jumbo-sized crabs available year-round; call ahead to reserve. ❂ L D $$

BETHESDA CURRY KITCHEN 4860 Cordell Ave., 301-656-0062, bethesda currykitchen.com. The restaurant offers lunch buffet and Southern Indian vegan specialties, served in a spare and casual setting. There are plenty of choices from the tandoor oven, as well as vegetarian, seafood and meat curries. L D $$

BGR: THE BURGER JOINT 4827 Fairmont Ave., 301-358-6137, bgrtheburgerjoint.com. The burgers are good and the vibe is great. Protein choices include beef, chicken and Beyond Meat. Pick your own toppings or choose from a handful of selected combos, such as the Wagyu Wellington, with caramelized onions, roasted mushrooms, black truffles, blue cheese and BGR’s mayonnaise-horseradish “mojo” sauce. ❂

JLD$

Key Price designations are for a threecourse dinner for two including tip and tax, but excluding alcohol. $ up to $50 $$ $51-$100 $$$ $101-$150 $$$$ $151+ Outdoor Dining b  Children’s Menu B Breakfast R Brunch L Lunch D Dinner

BISTRO PROVENCE (EDITORS’ PICK) 4933 Fairmont Ave., 301-656-7373, bistroprovence. org. Chef Yannick Cam brings his formidable experience to a casual French bistro with a lovely courtyard. The Dinner Bistro Fare, served daily from 5 to 6:30 p.m., offers a choice of appetizer, main course and dessert for $35. ❂ R L D $$$

BLACK’S BAR & KITCHEN (EDITORS’ PICK) 7750 Woodmont Ave., 301-652-5525, blacksbarandkitchen.com. Customers count on the impeccable use of fresh and local ingredients and enjoy dining on the expansive patio. The bar draws crowds for happy hour. ❂ R L D $$$

BRICKSIDE FOOD & DRINK 4866 Cordell Ave., 301-312-6160, brickside bethesda.com. Prohibition-era drinks meet Italian bar bites and entrees. Dishes range from fried pork and waffles to short ribs. Try one of the colorfully named punches, which include Pink Murder Punch and Snow Cone Punch. ❂ R L D $$

CADDIES ON CORDELL

THE BIG GREEK CAFE 4806 Rugby Ave., 301-907-4976, biggreekcafe. com. Owned by the Marmaras brothers, the cafe serves Greek specialties, including a top-notch chicken souvlaki pita. L D $

4922 Cordell Ave., 301-215-7730, caddieson cordell.com. Twentysomethings gather at this golfthemed spot to enjoy beer and wings specials in a casual, rowdy atmosphere that frequently spills onto the large patio. ❂ J R L D $

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CASA OAXACA 4905 Fairmont Ave., 240-858-6181, casaoaxacamd.com. The focus is on tacos at this family-owned Mexican restaurant, but you’ll also find fajitas, salads, quesadillas and more on the menu.

There’s an indoor bar and an outdoor beer garden.

❂ J L D $$ CAVA

7101 Democracy Blvd., Suite 2360 (Westfield Montgomery mall), 301-658-2233; 4832 Bethesda Ave., 301-656-1772; cava.com. The guys from CAVA Mezze restaurant have created a Greek version of Chipotle. Choose the meat, dip or spread for a pita, bowl or salad. House-made juices and teas provide a healthful beverage option. ❂ (Bethesda Avenue location) L D $

CESCO OSTERIA 7401 Woodmont Ave., 301-654-8333, cesco-osteria.com. Longtime chef Francesco Ricchi turns out Tuscan specialties, including pizza, pasta and focaccia in a big, jazzy space. Stop by the restaurant’s Co2 Lounge for an artisan cocktail before dinner. ❂ L D $$

CHEESY PIZZI 8021 Wisconsin Ave., 240-497-0000, cheesypizzibethesda.com. In addition to the standard offerings of a pizza joint, this spot (formerly Pizza Tempo under different owners) has sandwiches and boat-shaped Turkish pizza known as pide. L D $

CHEF TONY’S 4926 St. Elmo Ave., 301-654-3737, cheftonysbethesda.com; 5225 Pooks Hill Road (The Promenade), 240-858-6735, cheftonyspromenade.com. Chef-owner Tony Marciante focuses on Mediterranean fare, offering dishes ranging from fish and seafood to chicken, steak and pasta. Desserts include cannoli, cheesecake and tiramisu. J R (St. Elmo Avenue location only) L (St. Elmo Avenue location only)

D $$

CHERCHER ETHIOPIAN 4921 Bethesda Ave., 301-652-6500, chercherrestaurant.com. The second branch of a D.C. Ethiopian spot, this restaurant and bar took over the space housing Suma. The decor is moderncontemporary and the menu features dishes—from beef to vegan—served on one large platter, meant for sharing, and Ethiopian wine. L D $

CHIKO 7280 Woodmont Ave., 301-968-0053, chikodc. com. The name of this fast-casual outpost of a D.C.-based chain is a combination of Chinese and Korean, and so is its menu. Entrees are priced at $15-$20 and include Orange-ish Chicken and Cumin Lamb Stir Fry. Appetizers include Crispy Chicken Spring Rolls and Wok-Blistered Green Beans. ❂

J D $$

CITY LIGHTS OF CHINA 4953 Bethesda Ave., 301-913-9501, bethesdacitylights.com. Longtime Chinese eatery serves familiar Sichuan and Beijing fare, including six types of dumplings and seven handmade noodle dishes. Red walls and chocolate-colored booths give the place a sharp look. L D $$

THE CORNER SLICE 7901 Norfolk Ave., 301-907-7542, thecornerslice. net. New York-style pizza, available by the slice or as a 20-inch pie. Specialty pizzas include the spinachartichoke white pie with ricotta, mozzarella and parmesan and the Buffalo Chicken Pie with blue cheese and hot sauce. ❂ L D $

CUBANO’S 4907 Cordell Ave., 301-347-7952, cubanosrestaurant.com. Find authentic Cuban cooking with dishes such as ropa vieja (shredded beef in onions, peppers and garlic) and fried plantains. L D $$

DOG HAUS BIERGARTEN 7904 Woodmont Ave., 301-652-4287, bethesda. doghaus.com. This fast-casual California-based chain serves hot dogs, sausages, burgers and chicken sandwiches. The hot dogs are all beef and hormone- and antibiotic-free. The industrial-chic space includes picnic tables, TVs, a bar and more than two dozen beer choices. J L D $

DON POLLO 10321 Westlake Drive, 301-347-6175; donpollogroup.com. Juicy, spiced birds and reasonable prices make this Peruvian chicken eatery a go-to place any night of the week. Family meals that serve four or six people are available.

❂LD$

DUCK DUCK GOOSE (EDITORS’ PICK) 7929 Norfolk Ave., 301-312-8837, ddgbethesda. com. Thirty-five-seat French brasserie owned by chef Ashish Alfred. Small plates include steak tartare, and squid ink spaghetti with Manila clams and Fresno chilies. Among the entrees, look for updates of French classics, such as dry-aged duck with Bing cherries, and halibut with scallop mousse and puff pastry. ❂ L D $$

FISH TACO 7251 Woodmont Ave., 301-652-0010; 10305 Old Georgetown Road (Wildwood Shopping Center), 301-564-6000, fishtacoonline.com. This counterservice taqueria features a full roster of seafood as well as non-aquatic tacos, plus margaritas and other Mexican specialties. Voted “Best Tacos” by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2020. J L D $

FLOWER CHILD 10205 Old Georgetown Road, 301-664-4971, iamaflowerchild.com. A fast-casual restaurant that’s part of a national chain, Flower Child has an emphasis on vegetarian eating (grain-based bowls, vegetable plates, salads) but also offers protein add-ons such as chicken, salmon and steak. Voted “Best New Fast-Casual Restaurant” by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2020. ❂ L D $

GARDEN GRILLE & BAR 7301 Waverly St. (Hilton Garden Inn), 301-6548111. Aside from a breakfast buffet featuring cooked-to-order omelets, waffles, fruit and more, the restaurant offers an extensive menu, from burgers to pasta dishes. J B D $$

GREGORIO’S TRATTORIA 4611-A Sangamore Road, 301-347-6830, gregoriostrattoria.com. Proprietor Greg Kahn aims to make everyone feel at home at this family-owned restaurant serving a hit parade of traditional Italian favorites, with all the familiar pasta, pizza, chicken,

veal and seafood dishes; the gluten-free menu offers pizza, cheese ravioli and quinoa pastas. ❂

J L D $$

GRINGOS & MARIACHIS (EDITORS’ PICK) 4928 Cordell Ave., 240-800-4266, gringosandmariachis.com. The owners of the popular Olazzo Italian restaurants in Bethesda and Silver Spring trade in the red sauce for salsa at this hip taqueria with edgy murals and plenty of tequila.

Voted “Best Happy Hour” by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2021. L D $

GUAPO’S RESTAURANT 8130 Wisconsin Ave., 301-656-0888, guapos restaurant.com. This outpost of a local chain has everything you’d expect: margaritas and chips galore, as well as a handful of daily specials served in festive Mexican surroundings. Perfect for families and dates. J R L D $

GUARDADO’S 4918 Del Ray Ave., 301-986-4920, guardados.com.

Chef-owner Nicolas Guardado, who trained at Jaleo, opened this hidden gem devoted to Latin-Spanish cooking in 2007 and has developed a following with tapas specialties like shrimp and sausage, stuffed red peppers and paella. J L D $

HANARO SUSHI 7820 Norfolk Ave., 301-654-7851, hanarosushi. com. The restaurant’s modern dark woods combined with a light-filled dining room brighten its corner location, and the menu includes sushi and Asian fusion main courses such as pad Thai and galbi (Korean ribs). The bar offers a daily happy hour. ❂ L D $$

HAWKERS ASIAN STREET FOOD 7117 Bethesda Lane, 240-203-8135, eathawkers. com. This Bethesda Row branch of a Florida-based chain features bright decor with neon signs for a fun vibe reminiscent of an Asian street. The menu stars small plates such as baos (buns filled with chicken or pork belly), chicken dumplings, wontons, beef and chicken skewers, wings and coconut shrimp.

There are also rice and noodle dishes, and lighter vegetable-based eats, such as green papaya and shrimp salad, edamame and five-spice green beans.

❂LD$

HIMALAYAN HERITAGE 4925 Bethesda Ave., 301-654-1858, himalayanheritagebethesda.com. The menu includes North Indian, Nepali, Indo-Chinese and Tibetan cuisines, featuring momos (Nepalese dumplings), Indian takes on Chinese chow mein and a large selection of curry dishes. L D $

HOUSE OF FOONG LIN 4613 Willow Lane, 301-656-3427, foonglin.com.

The Chinese restaurant features Cantonese, Hunan and Sichuan cuisine, including chef’s recommendations, low-fat choices and lots of traditional noodle dishes. L D $$

HOUSE OF MILAE 4932 St. Elmo Ave., 301-654-1997. The Kang family, who own Milae Cleaners in Bethesda, bring simple Korean dishes to their first food foray. Chef “M&M” Kang prepares home-style fare such as bulgogi, galbi and bibimbap. The kids’ menu has one item: spaghetti, made from the recipe of owner

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Thomas Kang’s former college roommate’s mother.

JLD$

THE IRISH INN AT GLEN ECHO 6119 Tulane Ave., 301-229-6600, irishinnglenecho. com. This historic tavern has been a family home and a biker bar, but its incarnation as the Irish Inn has been delivering smiles and hearty food since 2003.

Traditional Irish music on Monday nights, The 19th Street Band or other live music on Wednesday nights and live jazz on Sunday nights. ❂ J R L D $$

JETTIES 4829 Fairmont Ave., 301-769-6844, jettiesdc. com. The only suburban location of the popular Nantucket-inspired sandwich shop, which has five restaurants in Northwest Washington, D.C. Aside from the signature Nobadeer sandwich (roasted turkey and stuffing with cranberry sauce and mayonnaise on sourdough), look for large salads and an innovative children’s menu. ❂ J L D $

KADHAI (EDITORS’ PICK) 7905 Norfolk Ave., 301-718-0121, kadhai.com.

This popular Indian restaurant formerly known as Haandi serves a variety of traditional chicken, lamb and seafood dishes, plus rice and vegetarian dishes and a selection of breads. An extensive lunch buffet is offered daily. ❂ L D $$

LA PANETTERIA

MAKI BAR

4921 Cordell Ave., 301-951-6433, lapanetteria. com. La Panetteria transports diners to a quaint Italian villa with its impeccable service and Old World atmosphere, serving Italian and Argentinian dishes, such as homemade pasta, pizzas and Argentinian meats. There are vegan options on the menu. L D $$

LE PAIN QUOTIDIEN 7140 Bethesda Lane, 301-913-2902; 10217 Old Georgetown Road (Wildwood Shopping Center), 240-752-8737, lepainquotidien.com. New Yorkbased Belgian-born bakery/restaurant chain with farmhouse vibe, featuring organic breads, European breakfast and dessert pastries, savory egg dishes, soups, Belgian open-faced sandwiches, entree salads, wine and Belgian beer by the bottle. ❂ J B

RLD$

LUKE’S LOBSTER 7129 Bethesda Lane, 301-718-1005, lukeslobster. com. This upscale carryout features authentic lobster, shrimp and crab rolls; the seafood is shipped directly from Maine. Try the Taste of Maine, which offers all three kinds of rolls, plus two crab claws. ❂ L D $

6831 Wisconsin Ave. (Shops of Wisconsin), 301907-9888, makibarbethesda.com. This tiny 30-seat Japanese restaurant and sushi bar offers 60-plus kinds of maki rolls, categorized as Classic (tuna roll), Crunch Lover (spicy crunch California roll) and Signature (eel, avocado, tobiko, crab), along with sushi, sashimi, noodle bowls and rice-based entrees. L D $$

MAMMA LUCIA 4916 Elm St., 301-907-3399, mammalucia restaurants.com. New York-style pizza dripping with cheese and crowd-pleasing red sauce, and favorites like chicken Parmesan and linguini with clams draw the crowds to this local chain. Gluten-free options available. ❂ L D $$

MATCHBOX 7278 Woodmont Ave., 240-465-0500, matchboxrestaurants.com. At this local chain, look for mini-burgers, a “ginormous meatball” appetizer and thin-crust pizza with toppings, including herbroasted chicken, roasted mushrooms, fire-roasted red peppers and Spanish onions. ❂ J R L D $$

MEDIUM RARE 4904 Fairmont Ave., 301-215-8739, mediumrarerestaurant.com. A prix fixe menu that comes with bread, salad, steak and fries is the

NOT YOUR TYPICAL GROCER • Best place to buy beer • Best organic market • Best gourmet market

dawsonsmarket.com 225 N WASHINGTON ST. ROCKVILLE, MD 20850 | (240) 428-1386

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sole option at this small chain outpost (there are two Medium Rares in D.C.). Desserts cost extra.

Weekend brunch also features a prix fixe menu.

D $$

MOMO CHICKEN & GRILL 4862 Cordell Ave., Bethesda, 240-483-0801, usmomo.com. Skip the breasts, and head for the wings or drumsticks at Bethesda’s first Korean fried chicken spot. Options such as seafood pancakes, bulgogi and bibimbap are part of the extensive offerings, all served in a hip space with framed record albums gracing the walls. ❂ J L D $$

MON AMI GABI (EDITORS’ PICK) 7239 Woodmont Ave., 301-654-1234, monamigabi. com. Waiters serve bistro classics such as escargot, steak frites and profiteroles in a dark and boisterous spot that doesn’t feel like a chain. Live jazz Thursday nights. Voted “Best Restaurant Wine List” by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2019. ❂ J

R L D $$

MORTON’S, THE STEAKHOUSE 7400 Wisconsin Ave., 301-657-2650, mortons. com. An ultra-sophisticated steak house serving pricey, large portions of prime-aged beef and drinks.

The restaurant is known for a top-notch dinner experience but also offers lunch and a bar menu.

L D $$$

MUSSEL BAR & GRILLE 7262 Woodmont Ave., 301-215-7817, musselbar. com. Kensington resident and big-name chef Robert Wiedmaier serves his signature mussels, plus wood-fired tarts, salads and sandwiches. Wash them all down with a choice of 40 Belgian beers. ❂

R L D $$

NOT YOUR AVERAGE JOE’S 10400 Old Georgetown Road, 240-316-4555, notyouraveragejoes.com. This Massachusettsbased chain’s moderately priced menu offers burgers, big salads and stone-hearth pizzas, plus entrees including Anything But Average Meatloaf. ❂

J L D $$

OLAZZO (EDITORS’ PICK) 7921 Norfolk Ave., 301-654-9496, olazzo.com.

This well-priced, romantic restaurant is the place for couples seeking red-sauce classics at reasonable prices. Founded by brothers Riccardo and Roberto Pietrobono, it was voted “Best Italian Restaurant”

by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2020. ❂ L D $$

THE ORIGINAL PANCAKE HOUSE 7700 Wisconsin Ave., Store D, 301-986-0285, ophrestaurants.com. Along with the classic flapjacks on this chain’s menu, you’ll find flavorpacked items such as apple pancakes with a cinnamon sugar glaze. And it’s not just pancakes to pick from: The restaurant serves a variety of waffles, crepes, eggs and omelets. J B L $

PASSAGE TO INDIA (EDITORS’ PICK) 4931 Cordell Ave., 301-656-3373, passagetoindia. info. Top-notch, pan-Indian fare by chef-owner Sudhir Seth, with everything from garlic naan to fish curry made to order. ❂ R L D $$

PAUL 4760 Bethesda Ave., 301-656-3285, paul-usa.com. Fifth-generation, family-owned French bakery becomes an international chain,

with locations in close to 35 countries. Aside from breads and pastries, look for soups, sandwiches and quiche. ❂ B L D $

PICCOLI PIATTI PIZZERIA 10257 Old Georgetown Road (Wildwood Shopping Center), 240-858-6099, piccolipiattipizzeria.com.

The owner of local chains Fish Taco and Don Pollo opened this full-service Italian concept in the former Oakville Grille spot. Specializing in 12-inch Neapolitan-style pizzas, the restaurant also sells sandwiches, salads, small plates and pasta dishes.

❂ L D $$

PINES OF ROME 4918 Cordell Ave., 301-657-8775. Longtime Italian restaurant, formerly on Hampden Lane, still serves traditional pasta, pizza, fish and seafood at prices that are easy on the wallet. The white pizza is a hit, and don’t forget the spaghetti and meatballs. L

D$

PIZZERIA DA MARCO (EDITORS’ PICK) 8008 Woodmont Ave., 301-654-6083, pizzeriadamarco.net. Authentic Neapolitan pizzas fired in a 900-degree Italian brick oven range from the Siciliana with eggplant confit and black olives to the Solo Carne with sausage, pepperoni and salame. Salads, antipasti and calzones available, too. ❂ L D $

POKE DOJO 7110 Bethesda Lane, 240-696-0990, pokedojo. com. The owners of Bethesda’s Hanaro Sushi opened this poke place at Bethesda Row. The menu includes a handful of signature bowls, or you can build your own from the raw fish, rice and toppings offered. L D $

POSITANO RISTORANTE ITALIANO 4940-48 Fairmont Ave., 301-654-1717, epositano.com. An authentic Italian, family-run restaurant popular for private events, large and small. Colorful rooms are decorated with Italian landscapes, copper pots and hanging plants, and the outdoor patio is one of the most beautiful in the county. ❂ L D $$

PRALINE BAKERY & BISTRO 4611 Sangamore Road, 301-229-8180, praline-bakery.com. This sunny restaurant offers a tempting bakery takeout counter, full dining service and a patio. The food, which includes chicken pot pie and pralines, is French with an American accent.

❂ J B R L D $$

Q BY PETER CHANG (EDITORS’ PICK) 4500 East West Highway, 240-800-3722, qbypeterchang.com. Notable chef Peter Chang’s high-end flagship restaurant offers traditional Chinese dishes in an attractive, modern space.

Peking duck, double-cooked pork belly and other authentic Sichuan cuisine are served, and some dishes are “ultimate spicy” for brave palates. Dim sum is available. ❂ J L D $$

RAKU (EDITORS’ PICK) 7240 Woodmont Ave., 301-718-8680, rakuasiandining.com. Voted “Best Sushi” by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2020 and “Best Restaurant in Bethesda” in 2021, this casual restaurant has bamboo walls that do little to dampen the noise, but the menu satisfies with

everything from sushi to kung pao chicken. ❂ L

D $$

RICE PADDIES GRILL & PHO 4706 Bethesda Ave., 301-718-1862, ricepaddiesgrill.com. This cute copper-and-green eat-in/carryout makes quick work of Vietnamese favorites such as pork, beef and vegetable skewers infused with lemongrass and the classic beef noodle soup known as pho. L D $

ROCK BOTTOM RESTAURANT & BREWERY 7900 Norfolk Ave., 301-652-1311, rockbottom. com. India Pale Ales and specialty dark brews are among the award-winning beers crafted in-house at this cavernous yet welcoming chain, which offers a vast menu. The burgers are the real deal. ❂ J

L D $$

RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE 7315 Wisconsin Ave., 301-652-7877, ruthschris. com. A dark and clubby feel makes this elegant chain popular with families as well as the happyhour crowd. Don’t skip the fresh seafood choices, which include Caribbean lobster tail and barbecued shrimp. D $$$

SALA THAI 4828 Cordell Ave., 301-654-4676, salathaidc. com. This Thai mainstay cooks the classics and offers diners a nearly panoramic view of Woodmont Avenue through huge, curved windows. Live jazz Friday and Saturday evenings. L D $$

SAPHIRE CAFÉ 7940 Wisconsin Ave., 301-986-9708. A relaxing spot for tasting everything from Maryland-style crab soup to Argentine skirt steak, Saphire pumps it up a notch on Friday and Saturday nights with drink specials and DJs. Tiki bar open Wednesdays through Saturdays. ❂ L D $

SATSUMA 8003 Norfolk Ave., 301-652-1400, satsumajp. com. Bethesda’s first yakiniku (Japanese barbecue) restaurant has built-in grills at each table. Diners select a cut—short rib, chuck rib, skirt or tongue— and prepare it themselves. There’s also an extensive sushi and sashimi menu, as well as interesting cooked dishes. L D $$

SILVER (EDITORS’ PICK) 7150 Woodmont Ave., 301-652-9780, eatatsilver. com. Upscale, tonier version of the homegrown Silver Diner chain, with modern takes on American classics and an emphasis on healthy, local and organic ingredients. Sleek interior takes its cue from the 1920s. ❂ J B R L D $$

SMOKE BBQ BETHESDA 4858 Cordell Ave., 301-656-2011, smokebbq.com.

Pulled pork, beef brisket, smoked chicken, ribs and all the fixin’s, plus starters including smoked tomato soup and fried pickles served in a friendly, casual space. J L D $

SWEETGREEN 4831 Bethesda Ave.301-654-7336, sweetgreen. com. The sweetgreen fast-casual chain—with its focus on local and organic ingredients— concentrates on salads (devise your own, or pick from a list) and soups. Look for eco-friendly decor

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St.Veg 100% Plant-Based and a healthy sensibility. Voted “Best Salads” by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2021. ❂ L D $

TAKO GRILL 4914 Hampden Lane (The Shoppes of Bethesda), 301-652-7030, takogrill.com. Longtime, popular sushi destination relocated to the space formerly occupied by Hinode Japanese Restaurant. Look for the same traditional sushi menu, plus some new options, such as griddle-cooked teppanyaki at lunch, and more varieties of yakitori at dinner. L

D $$

TARA THAI 7101 Democracy Blvd. (Westfield Montgomery mall), 301-657-0488, tarathai.com. Thai cuisine goes high style at Bethesda Magazine readers’ pick for “Best Thai Restaurant” in 2020. With colorful murals of ocean creatures looking on, diners can try dishes ranging from mild to adventurous. L D $$

TASTEE DINER 7731 Woodmont Ave., 301-652-3970, tasteediner. com. For 80 years, this crowd-pleasing if slightly sagging spot has served up everything from breakfast to burgers to blue-plate specials such as steak and crabcakes to crowds of loyal customers.

Open 24 hours. J B L D $

TIA QUETA 4839 Del Ray Ave., 301-654-4443, tiaqueta.com.

This longtime family and happy-hour favorite offers authentic Mexican food such as moles and fish dishes, as well as the usual Tex-Mex options. Drink menu includes American and Mexican beers. ❂ J

L D $$

TIKKA MASALA 4929 Elm St., 301-312-8191. Named after the classic curry recipe, Tikka Masala serves its namesake dish with a choice of four proteins— chicken, shrimp, lamb and paneer (cheese). Other classic Indian meat dishes and vegetarian entrees (including chickpea curry and cauliflower vindaloo) are also on the menu. L D $$

TOMMY JOE’S 7940 Norfolk Ave., 301-654-3801, tommy-joes. com.This Bethesda institution is now in the space formerly housing Urban Heights. The second-floor, window-filled corner location suits its sports bar persona, and the vast rooftop is ideal for outdoor drinking and snacking. Fare includes wings (Pohostyle, grilled and smoky, are a good option), burgers, crabcakes and ribs. Chunky brisket chili, on its own or on nachos, is a winner.

❂ L D $$

TRATTORIA SORRENTO (EDITORS’ PICK) 4930 Cordell Ave., 301-718-0344, trattoriasorrento. com. This family-run Italian favorite offers homemade pastas, baked eggplant and fresh fish dishes. Half-price bottles of wine on Wednesdays.

D $$

TRUE FOOD KITCHEN (EDITORS’ PICK) 7100 Wisconsin Ave., 240-200-1257, truefoodkitchen.com. Health-focused chain prides itself on serving fresh ingredients and features an open kitchen. The eclectic, multicultural menu changes from season to season, and includes sandwiches, salads and pizza. Beer, wine and freshfruit and vegetable cocktails are also available.

Voted “Best Restaurant for Vegetarian Dishes” by

Homestyle Cooking From Scratch

Bethesda Magazine readers in 2020.

❂ R L D $$

URBAN PLATES 7101 Democracy Blvd. (Westfield Montgomery mall), 301-690-9540, urbanplates.com. The fastcasual chain’s wide-ranging menu includes salads, soups, sandwiches, entrees such as grass-fed steak and striped sea bass, plus seasonal items.

Meals are offered at stations—customers grab a plate and get in their desired line where chefs serve the made-from-scratch dishes. J L D $

UNCLE JULIO’S 4870 Bethesda Ave., 301-656-2981, unclejulios. com. Loud and large, this Tex-Mex eatery packs in families and revelers fueling up on fajitas, tacos and more. Kids love to watch the tortilla machine. Voted “Best Mexican Restaurant” by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2020 and “Most Kid-Friendly Restaurant” in 2021. ❂ J R L D $$

VIRRAAJ FINE INDIAN CUISINE 4914 Cordell Ave., 301-906-8425, virraaj.com. The Indian fusion-style dishes at this Woodmont Triangle restaurant range from vegetarian entrees such as Paneer Makhan Masala (cottage cheese cubes in a tomato cream sauce) and Maa Ki Dal (creamy black lentils) to meat-based dishes like Lamb Vindaloo (with a spicy curry sauce) and Murgh Tikka Masala (boneless grilled chicken sauteed in a creamy tomato sauce). ❂ L D $$

14929 Shady Grove Rd. Rockville, MD (301) 605-7511

www.stveg.com

WANG DYNASTY 4929 Bethesda Ave., 301-654-1188, wangdynastybethesda.com. A mix of dishes from Shanghai and Taiwan—sweet and sour chicken, crispy shrimp with minced pork, Peking duck, panfried noodles with beef—fill the long menu at this Chinese restaurant in the space that housed Shanghai Village. Weekend dim sum is offered. R

60th

L D $$

WILDWOOD KITCHEN (EDITORS’ PICK) 10223 Old Georgetown Road (Wildwood Shopping Center), 301-571-1700, wildwoodkitchenrw.com. Chef Robert Wiedmaier’s attractive neighborhood bistro serving fresh and light modern cuisine. Entrees range from Amish chicken with a scallion potato cake to grilled Atlantic salmon with creamy polenta. L D $$

WOODMONT GRILL (EDITORS’ PICK) 7715 Woodmont Ave., 301-656-9755, hillstone. com. Part of the Houston’s chain, the eatery offers such classics as spinach-and-artichoke dip and its famous burgers, but also house-baked breads, more exotic dishes, live jazz and a granite bar. Voted “Best Overall Restaurant,” “Restaurant With Best Service” and “Best Burger” by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2020, and “Restaurant You Missed Most During the Pandemic” in 2021. ❂ L

D $$$

WORLD OF BEER 7200 Wisconsin Ave., 240-389-9317, worldofbeer. com. Craft beer-focused tavern chain offers 50 brews on tap rotating daily and hundreds of bottled options. Food is classic pub fare, including hamburgers, wings and bratwurst sandwiches, as well as flatbreads and salads. Voted “Restaurant With Best Beer Selection” by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2021. ❂ J R L D $

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CABIN JOHN FISH TACO 7945 MacArthur Blvd., 301-229-0900, fishtacoonline.com. See Bethesda listing. ❂ J L

D$

SAL’S ITALIAN KITCHEN (EDITORS’ PICK) 7945 MacArthur Blvd., 240-802-2370, salsitaliankitchen.net. Persimmon and Wild Tomato owners Damian and Stephanie Salvatore replaced their Asian concept Indigo House with a return to their roots. Find traditional Italian fare, such as bruschetta, risotto balls, Caprese salad, meatball subs, fettuccine Alfredo, chicken cacciatore and shrimp scampi. ❂ L D $$

WILD TOMATO (EDITORS’ PICK) 7945 MacArthur Blvd., 301-229-0680, wildtomatorestaurant.com. A family-friendly neighborhood restaurant from Persimmon owners Damian and Stephanie Salvatore, serving salads, sandwiches and pizza. Voted “Best Neighborhood Restaurant” by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2021. ❂ J L D $

Occasion Restaurant” by readers in 2021. ❂ R

L D $$$

LIA'S 4435 Willard Ave., 240-223-5427, chefgeoff.com. Owner Geoff Tracy focuses on high-quality, low-fuss modern Italian-American fare at this modern space with a wine room. Pizzas, house-made pastas and fresh fish please business lunchers and dinner crowds. ❂ J R L D $

MANOLI CANOLI RESTAURANT 8540 Connecticut Ave., 301-951-1818, manolicanoli.com. Italian and Greek specialties abound at a fun family eatery that features a large prepared foods section, dishes made with olive oil from owner Stavros Manolakos’ family farm in Greece and homemade mozzarella on pizza and subs. ❂ J L D $

CHEVY CHASE

MEIWAH RESTAURANT 4457 Willard Ave., 301-652-9882, meiwah restaurant.com. This modern restaurant on the second floor of a Friendship Heights office building offers top-quality Chinese dishes that are hard to beat. There’s also a sushi bar with an extensive menu. A fountain sparkles on the outdoor patio. ❂ L D $$

ALFIO’S LA TRATTORIA

MOBY DICK HOUSE OF KABOB

4515 Willard Ave., 301-657-9133, alfios.com.

This Northern Italian classic on the first floor of The Willoughby of Chevy Chase Condominium has been feeding families and casual diners for more than 30 years. Look for traditional pasta, veal and chicken dishes (plus pizza), served in an Old World environment. J L D $$

THE CAPITAL GRILLE 5310 Western Ave., 301-718-7812, thecapitalgrille.com. The upscale steak-house chain, known for its He-Man-sized portions and extensive wine list, is located in The Shops at Wisconsin Place. Entrees also include chicken, lamb chops, salmon and lobster. Voted “Best Private Dining Room” by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2020. L D $$$$

CLYDE’S 5441 Wisconsin Ave., 301-951-9600, clydes. com. The popular restaurant features a frequently changing menu of American favorites and a collection of vintage airplanes and cars, as well as a model train running on a track around the ceiling.

❂ J R L D $$ DON POLLO

7007 Wisconsin Ave., 301-652-0001, donpolloonline.com. See Bethesda listing. L D $

LA FERME (EDITORS’ PICK) 7101 Brookville Road, 301-986-5255, lafermerestaurant.com. This charming Provencestyle restaurant serving classic French cuisine is a popular choice for an intimate dinner. Cognac Le Bar at La Ferme, a bar within the restaurant, opened in fall 2016. The bar serves small plates and cocktails. Voted “Best Romantic Restaurant”

by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2020 and “Best Restaurant in Chevy Chase” and “Best Special

7023 Wisconsin Ave., 301-654-1838, mobyskabob. com. This kabob takeout/eat-in mainstay was one of the first kabob places in the area. It makes its own pita bread. The menu includes a variety of salads and vegetarian sandwiches and platters. L D $

PERSIMMON (EDITORS’ PICK) 7003 Wisconsin Ave., 301-654-9860, persimmonrestaurant.com. Owners Damian and Stephanie Salvatore’s popular restaurant offers casual fare from salads to sandwiches to meat and seafood entrees in a bistro setting featuring a lively bar, cozy booths and bright paintings on the walls.

❂ R L D $$ POTOMAC PIZZA 19 Wisconsin Circle, 301-951-1127, potomac pizza.com. This cheery, casual dining room provides a break from the ultra-posh shopping surrounding it. In addition to pizza, subs and pastas are popular.

Beer and wine available. ❂ J L D $

SUSHIKO (EDITORS’ PICK) 5455 Wisconsin Ave., 301-961-1644, sushiko restaurants.com. Known as one of the Washington, D.C., area’s most respected sushi restaurants, Sushiko offers a wide range of sushi and other dishes. Kōbō, a restaurant within the restaurant, allows eight people to dine on 12- to 15-course tasting menus. ❂ L D $$

TAVIRA 8401 Connecticut Ave., 301-652-8684, tavira restaurant.com. Fish stews and several versions of bacalhau (salted cod) figure prominently on the menu of this intriguing Portuguese restaurant, which manages to be charming and attractive despite its location in an office building basement. L D $$

GAITHERSBURG/ NORTH POTOMAC &PIZZA 258 Crown Park Ave. (Downtown Crown), 240-4998447, andpizza.com. See Bethesda listing. ❂ L

D$

ASIA NINE 254 Crown Park Ave. (Downtown Crown), 301-3309997, asianinemd.com. Pan Asian restaurant with a first location in Washington, D.C.’s Penn Quarter offers dishes from Vietnam, China, Thailand and Japan. Specialties include grilled lamb chops served with mango-soy coulis and miso honey duck breast drizzled with a sake butter sauce. R L D $$

ATHENS GRILL 9124 Rothbury Drive, 301-975-0757, athensgrill. com. This casual, friendly, family-run restaurant specializes in authentic Greek cooking, using recipes handed down through generations.

Specialties such as rotisserie chicken, chargrilled salmon with a lemon dill sauce and lamb kabobs are cooked on a hardwood grill. L D $

BARKING MAD CAFE 239 Spectrum Ave., 240-297-6230, barkingmadcafe.com. Cooking from a wood hearth and selecting vegetables, herbs and edible flowers from its aeroponic (grown in air/mist but without soil) organic garden, Barking Mad Cafe has a corner spot in Watkins Mill Town Center. Look for madefrom-scratch brunch, lunch and dinner sweets and savories, such as breakfast pizza, watermelon salad and farro salad.

❂ R L D $$

BGR: THE BURGER JOINT 229 Boardwalk Place (Rio), 301-569-7086, bgrtheburgerjoint.com. See Bethesda listing.

❂JLD$

BONEFISH GRILL 82 Market St., 240-631-2401, bonefishgrill. com. While fresh fish cooked over a wood fire is the centerpiece of this upscale Florida chain, the steaks, crab cakes and specialty martinis make it a fun option for happy hour and those with hearty appetites. R L D $$

BREWS & BARRELS BOURBON BAR AND GRILL 625 Center Point Way, 240-912-7736, brewsbarrels. com. With rustic chic decor, this Kentlands spot serves burgers, sandwiches, fish and chips, baby back ribs and pan-seared scallops alongside craft beer, whiskies and cocktails. J D $$

BUCA DI BEPPO 122 Kentlands Blvd., 301-947-7346, bucadibeppo. com. The Kentlands outpost of this national chain serves huge, family-style portions of Italian specialties from fresh breads to antipasti and pasta dishes amid a sea of Italian kitsch. Desserts include Italian Creme Cake and tiramisu. J L D

$$

CAVA 213 Kentlands Blvd., 301-476-4209, cava.com.

See Bethesda listing. ❂ L D $

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CHENNAI HOPPERS 136 Paramount Park Drive (Spectrum Town Center), 240-813-0061, chennaihoppers.com. The South Indian dishes here are made with creative twists, including the Kozhi Lollipop (chicken wings that are battered and fried, then tossed with a sauce, onions and peppers) and Madras Ilai Meen Varuthathu (fish in a red sauce and coconut oil, wrapped in banana leaf and pan seared). ❂ L D $$

CINCO DE MAYO 640 Center Point Way, 240-261-4349, cincodemayorest.com. Part of a small chain, this Kentlands restaurant serves Mexican fare, including quesadillas, tacos, grilled chicken, steak, burritos and fajitas. ❂ L D $$

COAL FIRE 116 Main St., 301-519-2625, coalfireonline.com.

Homemade crusts fired by coal and topped with your choice of toppings and three different sauces: classic, spicy and signature, which is slightly sweet with a hint of spice. Salads, sandwiches and pasta also available, plus a full bar. ❂ L D $

COASTAL FLATS 135 Crown Park Ave. (Downtown Crown), 301869-8800, greatamericanrestaurants.com. First Maryland locale for Great American Restaurants, a

Fairfax-based chain. Seaside-inspired decor extends to the menu, which offers lobster and shrimp rolls, fried grouper and Key lime pie. Steaks, pasta and burgers also served. Voted “Best Restaurant

DON POLLO

in Gaithersburg/North Potomac” by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2021. ❂ J R L D $$

FIREBIRDS WOOD FIRED GRILL

COPPER CANYON GRILL 100 Boardwalk Place (Rio), 240-631-0003, ccgrill. com. Large portions of American classics such as salads, ribs and rotisserie chicken prepared with seasonal ingredients at family-friendly prices are the bill of fare at this spacious and casual chain restaurant. J L D $$

DOGFISH HEAD ALEHOUSE 800 W. Diamond Ave., 301-963-4847, dogfishalehouse.com. The first Maryland outpost of the popular Rehoboth Beach brewpub, the restaurant is packed with revelers and families clamoring for the Dogfish Head brews, burgers, pizzas and ribs. Check out the burger of the week.

❂ J L D $$ DOG HAUS BIERGARTEN 644 Center Point Way, 240-690-6090, kentlands. doghaus.com. See Bethesda listing. L D $

9083 Gaither Road, 301-990-0981, donpollogroup. com. See Bethesda listing.

❂LD$ 390 Spectrum Ave., 301-284-1770, gaithersburg. firebirdsrestaurants.com. Part of a chain, this restaurant in the Watkins Mill Town Center cooks steaks and seafood over a wood-fired grill. Designed to look like a Colorado lodge, the eatery tends toward classic fare for entrees (surf-and-turf, salmon, burgers) and dessert (chocolate cake, Key lime pie, carrot cake). ❂ J L D $$

GUAPO’S RESTAURANT 9811 Washingtonian Blvd., L-17 (Rio), 301-9775655, guaposrestaurant.com. See Bethesda listing.

❂JRLD$ HERSHEY’S RESTAURANT & BAR 17030 Oakmont Ave., 301-948-9893, hersheysatthegrove.com. Fried chicken that tastes like it was made by an aproned elder is served up in a clapboard building constructed in 1889. Besides the fab fried chicken, Hershey’s serves up warm rolls, inexpensive prices and live music. ❂ J B R

L D $$

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IL PORTO 245 Muddy Branch Road, 301-590-0735, ilportorestaurant.com. A classic red-sauce menu, elegant murals of Venice and an authentic thin-crust pizza are hallmarks of this friendly, unfussy Italian restaurant tucked in the Festival Shopping Center.

Fried calamari and the white pizza are among customer favorites. ❂ L D $

INFERNO PIZZERIA NAPOLETANA (EDITORS’ PICK) 12207 Darnestown Road, 301-963-0115, inferno-pizzeria.com. Tony Conte, former executive chef of Washington, D.C.’s Oval Room, goes casual with his first restaurant, an authentic Neapolitan pizzeria offering sophisticated toppings such as shaved truffles and garlic confit. Cozy dining room seats 39, with a tiled, wood-burning pizza oven as the centerpiece. D $$

IXTAPALAPA TAQUERIA 411 N. Frederick Ave., 240-702-0217, ixtataqueria. com. The owners of Taco Bar (in a Gaithersburg gas station) serve Mexican street food at this fastcasual spot. Pick a protein to go on corn tortillas, then head to the fixings bar. Or try a taco that comes already topped (the alambre with bacon, grilled onions and red peppers and Oaxaca cheese is good). ❂ L D $

KENAKI SUSHI 706 Center Point Way, 240-224-7189, kenakisushi. com. This sushi counter at Kentlands Market Square offers what the owners call a “modern take on traditional sushi.” Experiment with the Black Magic roll, which comes with truffle oil and black sushi rice. Lunch is more informal, but at dinner there’s full service. L D $

LANZHOU HAND PULL NOODLE 3 Grand Corner Ave. (Rio), 240-403-7486, handpullnoodle.com. The made-to-order noodles (choose hand-pulled or knife-sliced) at this fastcasual spot are served in soups and stir-fries with beef, chicken, duck and other proteins. Rice dishes, dumplings and pork buns are also available. L

D$

THE MELTING POT 9021 Gaither Road, 301-519-3638, themeltingpot. com. There’s nothing like dipping bits of bread, vegetables and apples into a communal pot of hot cheese to get a date or a party started. The Melting Pot chain also offers wine, oil or broth to cook meat tableside and chocolate fondue for dessert. J D

$$

MOBY DICK HOUSE OF KABOB 105 Market St., 301-978-7770, mobyskabob.com.

See Chevy Chase listing. L D $

MOD PIZZA 145 Commerce Square Place, 240-552-9850, modpizza.com. The Bellevue, Washington-based chain offers design-your-own fast-casual pies (hence, Made on Demand, or MOD). Pizzas, cooked at 800 degrees for three minutes, can be topped with a choice of nearly 40 sauces, cheeses, meats, spices and veggies. ❂ L D $

NOT YOUR AVERAGE JOE’S 245 Kentlands Blvd., 240-477-1040, notyouraveragejoes.com. See Bethesda listing. ❂

J L D $$

OLD TOWN POUR HOUSE 212 Ellington Blvd. (Downtown Crown), 301-9636281, oldtownpourhouse.com. One of the eateries from Chicago’s Bottleneck Management restaurant company, this place features more than 90 local and international brews on tap. Classic American cuisine is served in a setting with copper-inlaid bars and high ceilings. ❂ L D $$

PALADAR LATIN KITCHEN & RUM BAR 203 Crown Park Ave., 301-330-4400, paladarlatinkitchen.com. This Cleveland-based chain covers the spectrum of Latin cuisine, with dishes from Cuba, the Caribbean and Central and South America. From Brazil, there’s feijoada stew; from Cuba, ropa vieja; and from Jamaica, jerk chicken. Bar selections include 50 varieties of rum, 15 tequilas and six types of mojitos.

❂ J R L D $$

QUINCY’S BAR & GRILLE 616 Quince Orchard Road, 301-869-8200.

Energetic neighborhood pub with a sports bar atmosphere, Quincy’s also has an extensive menu with wings, pizza, build-your-own burgers and chicken sandwiches, plus entrees including Guinness-braised brisket. Live music is also a big draw. L D $

RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE 106 Crown Park Ave. (Downtown Crown), 301-9901926, ruthschris.com. See Bethesda listing. D

$$$

SILVER DINER 9811 Washingtonian Blvd. (Rio), 301-321-3530, silverdiner.com. This branch of the trendy diner includes a full bar and brasserie-style interior. The latest food trends (think quinoa coconut pancakes) share company on the enormous menu with diner staples such as meatloaf and mashed potatoes.

Voted “Best Late-Night Eats” by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2021. ❂ J B R L D $$

SIN & GRIN 353 Main St., 301-977-5595, singrintacos.com.

Located in the heart of Kentlands Market Square, Sin & Grin is a fast-casual restaurant owned and operated by the Hristopoulos family, which also runs Vasili’s Kitchen. Pick from eight tacos, rotisserie chicken and an assortment of Mexican cuisine. L D $

TANDOORI NIGHTS 106 Market St., 301-947-4007, tandoorinightsmd. com. The restaurant serves traditional Indian fare ranging from tandoori chicken, marinated in yogurt and spices, to a biryani flavored with saffron, nuts and raisins. ❂ L D $

TARA THAI 9811 Washingtonian Blvd., L-9 (Rio), 301-9478330, tarathai.com. See Bethesda listing. ❂ L

D $$

TED’S BULLETIN 220 Ellington Blvd. (Downtown Crown), 301990-0600, tedsbulletin.com. First Maryland

location of the modern diner chainlet from the folks at Matchbox Food Group. Boozy milkshakes, homemade pop tarts and the Cinnamon Roll As Big As Ya Head (served weekends only) are among the specialties. ❂ J B R L D $$

TED’S MONTANA GRILL 105 Ellington Blvd. (Downtown Crown), 301-3300777, tedsmontanagrill.com. First Maryland location of billionaire and bison rancher Ted Turner’s restaurant chain, which uses bison as the showpiece in a humongous selection of dishes, including burgers, meatloaf, nachos and chili.

Soups, salads, American classics and spiked milkshakes also available at this saloon-style eatery. ❂ J L D $$

THAI TANIUM 657 Center Point Way, 301-990-3699, thaitaniumrestaurant.com. Authentic Thai food laced with lots of chilies and garlic as hot as you like. Try one of the Thai street food dishes, such as roasted pork with Thai herbed sweet sauce and noodle soups.❂ J L D $

UNCLE JULIO’S 231 Rio Blvd. (Rio), 240-632-2150, unclejulios.com.

See Bethesda listing. ❂ J R L D $$

VASILI'S KITCHEN 705 Center Point Way, 301-977-1011, vasilis kitchen.com. Tan and brown decor lends a cozy vibe to this 4,700-square-foot Kentlands restaurant.

The owners ran the popular Vasili’s Mediterranean Grill in another Kentlands location for more than a decade before closing it to focus on Vasili’s Kitchen.

The Mediterranean menu is heavy on seafood dishes. ❂ J D $$

YARD HOUSE 211 Rio Blvd. (Rio), 240-683-8790, yardhouse.com.

Part of a chain with locations in California, Illinois and Texas, this RIO Washingtonian Center spot is big: The 13,000-square-foot restaurant has more than 100 beers on draft, and more than 100 items on its menu, from poke nachos and Nashville hot chicken to Parmesan-crusted pork loin and gingercrusted salmon. ❂ J L D $$

YOYOGI SUSHI 317 Main St., 301-963-0001. yoyogisushi.wixsite. com/yoyogisushi. A no-nonsense neighborhood sushi place offering the familiar sushi, teriyaki, tempura and green tea or red bean ice cream. ❂

LD$

GARRETT PARK BLACK MARKET BISTRO (EDITORS’ PICK) 4600 Waverly Ave., 301-933-3000, blackmarketrestaurant.com. Sublime American bistro fare served in a restored Victorian building next to railroad tracks; the building once served as a general store and still houses a post office.

Entrees range from swordfish to a burger and pizza, including several vegetable options. Voted “Best Restaurant in Garrett Park/Kensington” by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2021. ❂ J R L D $$

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CRITTER CORNER

KENSINGTON THE BIG GREEK CAFE 5268 Nicholson Lane, 301-881-4976, biggreekcafe.com. See Bethesda listing. L D $

THE DISH & DRAM 10301 Kensington Parkway, 301-962-4046, thedishanddram.com. The owners of The Daily Dish in Silver Spring serve comfort food made with local ingredients in a 2,800-square-foot space in Kensington. Steak frites, Maryland crab soup, burgers and house-made desserts are on the menu. J R L D $$

FRANKLY…PIZZA! (EDITORS’ PICK) 10417 Armory Ave., 301-832-1065, franklypizza. com. Owner Frank Linn turns out high-quality pizza in a rustic brick-and-mortar restaurant. The menu offers wood-fired pies topped with home-cured meats and tomato sauce made from an 80-yearold family recipe. Wines and homemade sodas served on tap, too. Voted “Best Pizza” by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2020. ❂ L D $

JAVA NATION 10516 Connecticut Ave., 301-327-6580, javanation.com. There’s a brunch menu at this coffee shop tucked into a strip mall. Beer, wine and liquor are served, along with coffee that’s roasted on-site.

R L $$

K TOWN BISTRO 3784 Howard Ave., 301-933-1211, ktownbistro. com. Try filet mignon, duck breast à l’orange, chicken marsala and other classic continental dishes from this family-run eatery owned by Gonzalo Barba, former longtime captain of the restaurant in the Watergate Hotel. L D $$

KNOWLES STATION WINE & CO. 10414 Detrick Ave., Suite 100; 301-272-9080; knowlesstation.com. Part retail wine shop, part restaurant, part bar, this spot near the intersection of Knowles and Summit avenues features a short menu with meat and cheese plates, appetizers, salads and sandwiches (including grilled chicken, roast pork and crabcake). Find more than a dozen beers on draft and more than two dozen wines by the glass, plus lots of beer and wine to go. ❂ J L

D $$

NORTH BETHESDA/ ROCKVILLE A & J RESTAURANT (EDITORS’ PICK) 1319-C Rockville Pike, 301-251-7878, aj-restaurant. com. Northern dim sum is the specialty at this hard-to-find cash-only spot in the Woodmont Station shopping center. Warm-colored walls surround the crowd digging into thousand-layer pancakes and fresh tofu. R L D $

AKIRA RAMEN & IZAKAYA 1800 Rockville Pike, 240-242-3669, akiraramenizakaya.com. This minimalist Japanese

eatery serves house-made noodles and vibrant food such as a poke salad. The sleek establishment, located on the first floor of the Galvan at Twinbrook building, features an open kitchen and several variations of ramen to choose from. L D $

AL CARBÓN 200 Park Road, 301-738-0003, alcarbonrestaurant. com. Serving authentic Latin American fare across the street from the Rockville Metro station, this unassuming roadhouse has a loyal following for its arepas, empanadas, tapas and more. Try one of the natural juices including mango and tamarindo. ❂

Olde Towne Pet Resort 888-475-3580 www.oldetownepetresort.com We have over a decade of taking special care of your pet family as if they were one of our own.

BLD$

AL HA'ESH 4860 Boiling Brook Parkway (Randolph Hills Shopping Center), 301-231-0839, al-haesh.com.

Kosher Israeli grill serves vegetable and protein skewers (including chicken, lamb, beef, chicken livers and sweetbreads). All entrees come with small ramekins of salads (think curried chickpeas; marinated red cabbage; and balsamic marinated mushrooms). ❂ L D $$

AMALFI RISTORANTE ITALIANO 12307 Wilkins Ave., 301-770-7888, amalfirockville. com. A family-run, red-sauce Italian restaurant with specialties including white pizza and lasagna. Lots of antipasti choices, too. The gazebo is a charming spot to dine during the summer. J L D $$

AMICI MIEI RISTORANTE 6 N. Washington St., 301-545-0966, amicimieiristorante.com. Previously located at the Potomac Woods Plaza, this upscale Italian restaurant serves wood-fired pizzas, homemade pastas and creative salads. The new, smaller establishment is cozier than the last with a menu that changes twice a year. L D $

AMINA THAI RESTAURANT 5065 Nicholson Lane, 301-770-9509. Pleasant and bright, Amina Thai is run by a husband-andwife team and bills itself as the first Muslim Thai restaurant in the area, using only halal meats and serving familiar Thai dishes. Chef’s specials include pineapple fried rice and grilled salmon. L D $

&PIZZA 11626 Old Georgetown Road (Pike & Rose), 240621-7016, andpizza.com. See Bethesda listing. ❂

LD$

BANGKOK GARDEN THAI STREET EATS 891-D Rockville Pike (Wintergreen Plaza), 301545-2848, bkgrockville.com. This fast-casual spot offers Thai classics (drunken noodles, pad Thai, fried rice, and curries served with chicken or pork belly) alongside Thai street fare, such as a mussel omelet. L D $

BARONESSA ITALIAN RESTAURANT 1302 E. Gude Drive, 301-838-9050, baronessarestaurant.com. Pizzas made in a woodburning oven and more than two dozen Italian entrees star on the menu at this 100-seat stripmall restaurant. Trivia nights and kids pizza-making classes are offered. J R L D $$

BB.Q CHICKEN 9712 Traville Gateway Drive, 301-309-0962, bbqchickenrockville.com. This Korean chain uses

olive oil for frying its chicken, which you can order as whole, half, wings or boneless. Other Korean and fusion entrees and sides—including kimchi fried rice, calamari and fried dumplings—are on the menu too. There’s also a full bar. L D $

THE BIG GREEK CAFE 4007 Norbeck Road, 301-929-9760; 5268 Nicholson Lane, 301-881-4976, biggreekcafe.com.

See Bethesda listing. L D $

THE BLOCK FOODHALL & BAR 967 Rose Ave. (Pike & Rose), theblockfoodhall.com.

This Asian food hall is a sibling of an Annandale spot that helped launch the food hall trend. Find tacos, Korean barbecue, shaved ice cream and more from a half dozen stalls. The center of the space houses a bar with TVs. ❂ L D $

BOB'S SHANGHAI 66 305 N. Washington St., 301-251-6652. Dim sum and rice and noodle dishes are the specialties at this popular eatery offering Taiwanese, Shanghai and Sichuan cuisine. It’s also one of the area’s top destinations for soup dumplings, where you can even watch the chefs making them in a glassenclosed booth. R L D $

BOMBAY BISTRO 98 W. Montgomery Ave., 301-762-8798, bombaybistro.com. Bombay Bistro opened in 1991 as one of the first Indian restaurants in the area to combine high style, reasonable prices and a fresh take on traditional Indian, and it has been packed ever since. House specialties include tandoori lamb chops and shrimp and scallops masala. J L D

$$

BONCHON CHICKEN 107 Gibbs St., Unit A (Rockville Town Square), 301637-9079, bonchon.com. International fried chicken franchise with Korean roots serves up wings, drumsticks and strips with soy-garlic or spicy hot garlic sauce, plus other traditional offerings such as bulgogi, bibimbap and scallion seafood pancakes.

LD$

BOTANERO 800 Pleasant Drive, Suite 160, 240-474-5461, botanerorockville.com. Located in the King Farm neighborhood, this small plates restaurant and wine bar features cuisine that changes seasonally.

Some recent offerings include a fig and prosciutto flatbread and quinoa grilled salmon. B L D $

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dining

CAVA 12037 Rockville Pike (Montrose Crossing), 240235-0627; 28 Upper Rock Circle, 301-200-5530; cava.com. See Bethesda listing. ❂ L D $

CAVA MEZZE (EDITORS’ PICK) 9713 Traville Gateway Drive, 301-309-9090, cavamezze.com. The dark and elegant CAVA Mezze offers small plates of everything from fried Greek cheese, octopus and orzo in cinnamon tomato sauce to crispy pork belly and macaroni and cheese. There are martini specials, too. Voted “Best Middle Eastern Restaurant” by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2020, and “Best Small Plates” by readers in 2021. ❂ R L D $$

CHINA BISTRO 755 Hungerford Drive, 301-294-0808. Extensive Chinese menu features many familiar favorites, but this is the place to go for dumplings. With tender dough wrappers and chock-full interiors, these beauties come 12 to an order and with 16 different filling choices. Fresh, uncooked dumplings are also available for carryout. L D $

CHINA GARDEN 11333 Woodglen Drive, 301-881-2800, chinagardenhg.com. The Cantonese restaurant moved from Rosslyn, Virginia, to the former Paladar Latin Kitchen & Rum Bar space. The lunch menu includes dim sum items (they are on a pushcart on weekends). L D $$

CITY PERCH KITCHEN + BAR 11830 Grand Park Ave. (Pike & Rose), 301-2312310, cityperch.com. Located above the entrance to the iPic Theaters at Pike & Rose, City Perch offers creative, seasonal American cuisine in a rustic, inviting space. The menu includes raw-bar selections, small plates, shareable salads and entree options such as grilled shrimp and Long Island duck. ❂ R L D $$$

CLYDE'S TOWER OAKS LODGE 2 Preserve Parkway, 301-294-0200, clydes.com/ tower. Here is Clyde’s version of a lodge in the mountains. Well-prepared food runs the gamut of American desires, from burgers to fish, plus a raw bar. Check out the twig sculpture spanning the ceiling of The Saranac Room. J R L D $$

COMMONWEALTH INDIAN 11610 Old Georgetown Road (Pike & Rose), 240833-3055. The owner of two Bollywood Bistro restaurants in Virginia opened this fine-dining spot that serves traditional Indian favorites such as curry chicken and butter chicken, along with fresh-baked bread and Indian salad. The bar has Indian-inspired cocktails and Indian beers and wines.

❂ R L D $$$

COOPER’S HAWK WINERY & RESTAURANT 1403 Research Blvd. (Research Row), 301-5179463, chwinery.com/locations/maryland/rockvillemd. Part of a national chain, this restaurant and winery lists which of its wines to pair with the contemporary American dishes on the sprawling menu (pasta, steak, seafood, burgers, 600-calorie or less dishes). There’s also a tasting room and a retail space. Voted "Restaurant With Best Wine List" by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2021. ❂ J

L D $$$

CSNY PIZZA 1020 Rockville Pike, 301-298-3650, csnypizza. wixsite.com/sneaksite. Carry out a New York-style pizza from this spot by the owners of Pizza CS. Their second Rockville location also offers six seats for guests to dine in, and serves whole pies, hot subs and pizza by the slice. L D $

DOMOISHI 201 E. Middle Lane, 301-666-6685, domoishi. com. This Rockville Town Center restaurant lets diners customize their bowls of ramen, and also sells poke and wings. The eatery shares an address with Pearl Lady, a bubble tea shop. L

D$

DON POLLO 2206 Veirs Mill Road, 301-309-1608, donpollogroup.com. See Bethesda listing. L D $

EAST PEARL RESTAURANT 838-B Rockville Pike, 301-838-8663, eastpearlrestaurant.com. Choose from many options of Hong Kong cuisine, including familiar dishes featuring chicken, beef, poultry, pork and even duck, as well as those for adventurous tastes.

Try the soups ranging from egg drop to seafood with bean curd. L D $

EL MARIACHI RESTAURANT 765-D Rockville Pike, 301-738-7177, elmariachirockville.com. Serving Tex-Mex and South American food in a bright, pleasant space made lively with colorful art. In addition to the usual enchiladas, tacos and burritos, look for Peruvian seafood and Cuban beef specialties. L D $

EL PATIO 5240 Randolph Road, 301-231-9225. This bustling cafe with pretty green umbrellas on the patio serves up the traditional meat-heavy dishes of Argentina, as well as pizzas and freshly made baked goods.

Look for mouth-watering empanadas, beef tongue and sausage specialties. ❂ J B L D $

EMA ROSSI PIZZERIA NAPOLETANA 5556 Norbeck Road, 240-669-9900, emarossipizzeria.com. Neapolitan-style pizza, cooked in a wood-burning oven, is the focus of this spot in Rockville’s Rock Creek Village Center. Also look for rigatoni with Bolognese sauce; Wagyu beef and veal meatballs in marinara sauce; deviled eggs with a sauce flavored with anchovies, capers, chives and pickles; and house-made gelato. ❂ L D $

FAR EAST RESTAURANT 5055 Nicholson Lane, 301-881-5552, fareastrockvillemd.com. Owned and operated by the same family since 1974, this classic Chinese restaurant greets customers with two royal stone lions out front and sticks to the familiar ChineseAmerican basics. Check out the daily specials and dim sum menu. L D $$

FARMSOOK 800 King Farm Blvd., 301-258-8829, farmsookthaikitchen.com. A tastefully modern dining room soaked in a soothing yellow light. The usual suspects are on the menu here, but chef’s suggestions include an intriguing broiled fish wrapped in banana leaf and stir-fried duck. L D

$$

FINNEGAN’S WAKE IRISH PUB 100 Gibbs St. (Rockville Town Square), 301-3398267, finneganswakerockville.com. Irish pub with a nice selection of bourbons, whiskeys and Irish beers and a very limited bar menu offering such fare as bangers and mash, poutine (french fries, gravy and cheese curds), a chicken club sandwich, fish and chips, wings and a burger. L D $

FLOR DE LUNA 11417 Woodglen Drive, 240-242-4066, flordelunamd.com. Latin American fare includes tamales and lomo saltado (a stir-fry of beef and peppers) at this 75-seat restaurant near Whole Foods Market. Tacos, nachos and quesadillas are also in the lineup. Finish off your meal with the tres leches (three milks) cake. ❂ J R L D $$

FOGO DE CHÃO 11600 Old Georgetown Road (Pike & Rose), 301841-9200, fogodechao.com. Part of an international chain, the Brazilian steakhouse offers cuts of meat—plus a salad and vegetable station—at allyou-can-eat prices.❂ R L D $$$

FONTINA GRILLE 801 Pleasant Drive, 301-947-5400, fontinagrille. com. A trendy spot with its curvy maple bar and wood-burning pizza oven, Fontina Grille is a favorite gathering place for the King Farm neighborhood.

Pizza, pasta and salads are the main attractions.

Three-dollar pasta dishes available on Monday nights and half-price bottles of wine on Tuesdays.

❂ J R L D $$ GYROLAND

1701-B3 Rockville Pike, 301-816-7829, gyrolandmd.com. Build-your-own salads, open-face and wrapped sandwiches, and other Greek choices star at this fast-casual spot near Congressional Plaza. For dessert, Gyroland serves loukoumades, a bite-size fluffy Greek doughnut soaked in hot honey syrup. L D $

GYUZO JAPANESE BBQ 33 Maryland Ave., Suite B (Rockville Town Square), 240-403-7670, gyuzobbq.com. Diners cook up their own meat using a small grill at their table here. The menu includes a variety of rice and noodle dishes, along with beef dishes such as Kalbi boneless short rib, sirloin, ribeye and filet mignon. Pork and poultry dishes include spicy pork belly and duck breast. L

D $$

HARD TIMES CAFÉ 1117 Nelson St., 301-294-9720, hardtimes.com.

Good American beer selections, hearty chili styles ranging from Cincinnati (cinnamon and tomato) to Texas (beef and hot peppers), and hefty salads and wings bring families to this Wild West-style saloon for lunch and dinner. L D $

HINODE JAPANESE RESTAURANT 134 Congressional Lane, 301-816-2190, hinoderestaurant.com. Serving traditional Japanese cuisine since 1992. All-you-can-eat lunch and weekend dinner buffet offers 40 types of sushi, 14 hot foods and a salad bar. Check out the patio with full bar service. L D $$

IL PIZZICO (EDITORS’ PICK) 15209 Frederick Road, 301-309-0610, ilpizzico. com. Setting aside the strip mall location and lack of pizza (il pizzico means “the pinch” in Italian),

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chef-owner Enzo Livia’s house-made pasta dishes, gracious service and extensive wine list of mainly Italian wines make even a weeknight meal feel special. L D $$

IRON AGE 1054 Rockville Pike, 301-424-1474, ironagekoreansteakhouse.com. Part of a small chain of all-you-can-eat Korean barbecue restaurants, this branch opened in 2012. Garlic pork belly, spicy chicken and beef brisket are among the dozen-plus offerings. There are two menu options (the pricier one includes a few more items, such as steak and octopus). J L D $$

JAVA NATION (EDITORS’ PICK) 11120 Rockville Pike, 301-836-6022, java-nation.com. An offshoot of a coffeeshop in Kensington, this Rockville Pike restaurant in the space that once housed Addie’s serves a fullservice menu of fish, oysters and other seafood.

There’s a 10-seat bar for beer, wine, liquor—and coffee. ❂ J R L D $$

JINYA RAMEN BAR 910 Prose St. (Pike & Rose), 301-816-3029, jinyaramenbar.com. A 74-seat eatery that’s part of a chain, Jinya serves 12 different types of ramen, ranging from the classic wonton chicken to a creamy vegan option. Try the Jinya Mini Tacos, which come with a choice of salmon poke, pork chashu and kimchee, or spicy tuna. Voted “Best Ramen” by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2020. J L D $

JOE’S NOODLE HOUSE 1488-C Rockville Pike, 301-881-5518, joesnoodlehouse.com. Chinese expats and many other customers consider the Sichuan specialties (soft bean curd with spicy sauce and hot beef jerky) among the area’s best examples of gourmet Chinese cooking. L D $

JULII (EDITORS’ PICK) 11915 Grand Park Ave. (Pike & Rose), 301-5179090, julii.com. A French Mediterranean bistro from the owners of CAVA, Julii looks like a glass box from the outside and serves fare such as salmon crudo, roasted bone marrow, crispy trout, New York strip au poivre and tableside nitrogen ice cream.

Voted “Best New Restaurant” by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2020. L D $$

KUSSHI 11826 Trade St. (Pike & Rose), 240-770-0355, kusshisushi.com. The owners of Hanaro Sushi, a Japanese restaurant in Bethesda, serve up similar sushi offerings here. A boat-shaped platter with 64 to 128 pieces of sushi or sashimi is a fun shareable option. L D $$

KUYA JA’S LECHON BELLY 5268-H Nicholson Lane, 240-669-4383, kuyajas. com. This fast-casual restaurant that started as a pop-up in the Rockville area specializes in serving lechon, a Filipino pork belly dish. Chef and owner Javier J. Fernandez, a native of the Philippines, shares the flavors of his home country through ricebowls, spiced wings and homemade pastries.

LD$

LA BRASA LATIN CUISINE 12401 Parklawn Drive, 301-468-8850, labrasarockville.com. A bold, yellow awning marks the unlikely industrial location of the popular

La Brasa. Customers rave about the rotisserie chicken, lomo saltado (Peruvian marinated steak), Salvadoran pupusas and Tres Leches. ❂ L D $

LA CANELA (EDITORS’ PICK) 141-D Gibbs St. (Rockville Town Square), 301-2511550, lacanelaperu.com. Sophisticated, modern Peruvian cooking shines in a regally furnished dining room in a yellow stucco building graced with curvy black ironwork. The menu includes artfully prepared seafood, pork, chicken and beef dishes. ❂ L D $

LA LIMEÑA GRILL 1093 Rockville Pike, 301-417-4922. An offshoot of nearby La Limeña Restaurant, this Peruvian eatery with a spacious patio serves several traditional seafood dishes, including Ceviche Mixto, an appetizer of lime-marinated tilapia served with glazed potatoes and crispy dried corn kernels.

The Chicha Morada, a sweet corn-based drink, pairs nicely with authentic and tender braised-beef entrees. ❂ J L D $$

LA LIMEÑA RESTAURANT 765 Rockville Pike, 301-424-8066, lalimena restaurant.com. Diners can choose dishes such as beef hearts, tripe and homemade pastries in this tiny but well-appointed eatery. Desserts include passion fruit mousse and vanilla flan. And of course, there’s rotisserie chicken to go. L D $

LEBANESE TAVERNA CAFÉ 115 Gibbs St. (Rockville Town Square), 301-3098681, lebanesetaverna.com. A casual and pleasant family spot for lunch or dinner, the cafe is a more casual offshoot of the local Lebanese Taverna chain, serving hummus, pita, falafel, lamb kabobs, salmon and chicken. ❂ J L D $

LEBTAV 1605 Rockville Pike, 301-468-9086, lebtav. com. LEBTAV has a shorter menu than its fastcasual sibling Lebanese Taverna Café. You’ll find sandwiches, bowls, hummus, falafel, chicken and lamb kabobs. L D $

MAMMA LUCIA 12274-M Rockville Pike, 301-770-4894; 14921-J Shady Grove Road, 301-762-8805; mammaluciarestaurants.com. See Bethesda listing.

❂ L D $$

MATCHBOX 1699 Rockville Pike, 301-816-0369, matchboxrestaurants.com. See Bethesda listing. ❂

J R L D $$ MISSION BBQ

885 Rockville Pike, 301-444-5574, mission-bbq. com. This outpost of a national chain, known for its support of U.S. military troops and veterans, serves its barbecue—including brisket, ribs and pulled pork—alongside a slew of add-your-own sauces.

Come for lunch and stay to recite the national anthem at noon. J L D $

MOBY DICK HOUSE OF KABOB 14929-A Shady Grove Road, 301-738-0005, mobyskabob.com. See Chevy Chase listing. L D $

MOD PIZZA 12027 Rockville Pike, 301-287-4284. modpizza. com. See Gaithersburg/North Potomac listing. ❂

LD$

MOSAIC CUISINE & CAFÉ 186 Halpine Road, 301-468-0682, mosaiccuisine. com. A diner with a soft European accent. Try the fresh Belgian waffles for breakfast. For those with hefty appetites, the waffle sandwiches are worth the trip, but don’t overlook the homemade soups or light dinner entrees. J B R L D $$

MYKONOS GRILL 121 Congressional Lane, 301-770-5999, mykonosgrill.com. An authentic Greek taverna with whitewashed walls with Mediterranean blue accents on a busy street, Mykonos Grill turns out legs of lamb and fresh seafood expected at any good Greek restaurant. ❂ L D $$

NADA 11886 Grand Park Ave. (Pike & Rose), 301-7714040, eatdrinknada.com/n-bethesda. Part of a small national chain, Nada serves street tacos with fillings such as caramelized cauliflower, fried tofu and pork carnitas. The brief menu also includes soups, salads and a fajita plate. Margaritas and seasonal cocktails are available. R L D $$

NAGOYA SUSHI 402 King Farm Blvd., Suite 130, 301-990-6778, nagoyasushirockville.com. Cheery yellow walls decorated with shelves of Japanese knickknacks greet customers who come for the large selection of sushi at this unassuming sushi spot in King Farm.

L D $$

NIWANO HANA JAPANESE RESTAURANT 887 Rockville Pike, 301-294-0553, niwanohana. com. Clean Asian decor and elegant wooden screens greet diners at this friendly and busy sushi spot located in Wintergreen Plaza. There are the usual sushi rolls, plus creative options such as a Spicy Scallop Roll with mayonnaise and chili peppers, noodle dishes, teriyaki and yakitori.

L D $$

THE ORIGINAL PANCAKE HOUSE 12224 Rockville Pike, 301-468-0886, ophrestaurants.com. See Bethesda listing. This location stays open until 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. J B L D $

OWEN’S ORDINARY (EDITORS’ PICK) 11820 Trade St. (Pike & Rose), 301-2451226, owensordinarymd.com. This Americanstyle restaurant, barroom and beer garden from Neighborhood Restaurant Group boasts 50 rotating drafts and more than 150 types of bottled beer. The 175-seat restaurant serves salads, burgers, pork, seafood and fondue entrees, and those looking to grab a drink can make the most of the space’s 60seat beer garden. R L D $$

PETER CHANG (EDITORS’ PICK) 20-A Maryland Ave. (Rockville Town Square), 301838-9188, peterchangarlington.com. Chef Peter Chang’s Sichuan specialties are showcased in an apricot-walled dining space. Garnering a cult-like following over the years, Chang is best known for dishes such as dry-fried eggplant, crispy pork belly and duck in a stone pot. L D $$

PHO 75 771 Hungerford Drive, 301-309-8873. The restaurant is one of the Washington area’s favorite spots for the Vietnamese beef noodle soup known as pho. Soup can be customized with bean sprouts,

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Thai basil, chilies, lime, and hot and hoisin sauces.

Beverages include interesting options such as Iced Salty Pickled Lemon Juice. L D $

PHO HOA BINH 11782 Parklawn Drive, 301-770-5576. This pleasant pho restaurant offers the full gamut of variations on the beef noodle soup, plus about a dozen grilled entrees. The Adventurer’s Choice features “unusual” meats, including tendon, tripe and fatty flank. The Vietnamese iced coffee is divine. L D $

PHO NOM NOM 842 Rockville Pike, 301-610-0232, phonomnom. net. As the name suggests, the specialty is pho, but there are also grilled dishes, noodles and the Vietnamese sandwich known as banh mi. House specials include Vietnamese beef stew and pork and shrimp wontons. L D $

PHOLUSCIOUS VIETNAMESE GRILL 10048 Darnestown Road, 301-762-2226, pholuscious.com. This casual restaurant and bar is home to traditional Vietnamese cooking, with fresh ingredients, minimal use of oil and many herbs and vegetables. The menu features pho, noodle dishes, rice plates and lots of protein dishes. Beverages include bubble tea, smoothies, beer and wine. L

D $$

PIKE KITCHEN 1066 Rockville Pike, 301-603-2279, pikekitchen. com. The 6,200-square-foot, 100-seat Asian food hall at the Edmonston Crossing shopping center includes eateries dishing up Vietnamese banh mi sandwiches, pho, poke, ramen, bibimbap and more.

❂LD$

POTOMAC PIZZA 9709 Traville Gateway Drive, 301-279-2234, potomacpizza.com. See Chevy Chase listing.

❂JLD$ POYOTECA

14921 Fallsgrove Blvd., 240-386-8234, poyoteca. com. Peruvian rotisserie chicken is the signature item here, in quarter, half or whole portions. You’ll also find burritos, a handful of salads, and bowls of rice with chicken and other toppings. J L D $

QUINCY’S SOUTH BAR & GRILLE 11401 Woodglen Drive, 240-669-3270, quincyssouth.com. See Gaithersburg/North Potomac listing. ❂ L D $

SADAF HALAL RESTAURANT 1327-K Rockville Pike, 301-424-4040. An elegant alternative to the run-of-the-mill kabob places dotting Rockville Pike, Sadaf is pristine, with lace curtains and glass mosaic tiles in front. In addition to kabobs, it offers Persian curries and fish dishes.

❂JLD$

SAM CAFÉ & MARKET 844 Rockville Pike, 301-424-1600, samcafemarket. com. Fill up on the kitchen’s juicy skewered meats or interesting entrees, including pomegranate molasses stew and marinated grilled salmon, then have a gelato and check out the hookahs. ❂ L

D$

SEASONS 52 11414 Rockville Pike, 301-984-5252, seasons52. com. A fresh, seasonal menu featuring items under

475 calories. Choose from flatbreads including Blackened Steak & Blue Cheese and Grilled Garlic Pesto Chicken to entree salads to meat and seafood dishes. Nightly piano music. ❂ L D $$

SHANGHAI TASTE 1121 Nelson St., 301-279-0806. Co-owner and chef Wei Sun, a Shanghai native, specializes in preparing three different flavors of soup dumplings at this small restaurant in a strip mall. The menu also includes traditional Chinese-American dishes, such as General Tso’s chicken and fried rice. L

D$

SHEBA RESTAURANT 5071 Nicholson Lane, 301-881-8882, sheba rockville.com. The menu features authentic Ethiopian cuisine with lots of vegetarian and vegan options. House specialties include Dulet Assa, chopped tilapia mixed with onion, garlic and jalapeno and served with a side of homemade cheese. L D $

SICHUAN JIN RIVER 410 Hungerford Drive, 240-403-7351, sichuanjinrivermd.com. Customers find terrific Sichuan cuisine served in a no-frills setting. Take the plunge and try something new with the authentic Chinese menu, including 23 small cold plates. L

D$

SILVER DINER 12276 Rockville Pike, 301-770-2828, silverdiner. com. Customers flock to this trendy diner that still offers tableside jukeboxes. The latest food trends (think quinoa coconut pancakes) share company on the enormous menu with diner staples such as meatloaf and mashed potatoes. Voted “Best Late-Night Eats” by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2021. J B R L D $

SPICE XING 100-B Gibbs St. (Rockville Town Square), 301-6100303, spicexing.com. Chef and owner Sudhir Seth, who also owns Bethesda’s Passage to India, serves up small plates and dishes that reflect the history of culinary influences on India. Try the all-you-can-eat lunchtime buffet. ❂ J R L D $$

THE SPOT 255 N. Washington St., thespotdmv.com. This 6,200-square-foot, 200-seat Asian food hall, not far from Rockville Town Square, includes a handful of vendors, including Mian Pull Noodle (dumplings and noodle dishes), Poki DC (the Hawaiian-inspired raw fish dish called poke) and Alpaca Dessert (shaved snow ice and ice cream-filled waffle cones). L D $

STANFORD GRILL 2000 Tower Oaks Blvd., 240-582-1000, thestanfordgrill.com. From the Blueridge Restaurant Group, owner of Copper Canyon Grill restaurants, comes this 300-seat American eatery on the ground floor of an office building. Salads, burgers, steaks and seafood, plus sushi, with an eye toward high quality. ❂ R L D $$

STELLA BARRA PIZZERIA 11825 Grand Park Ave. (Pike & Rose), 301-7708609, stellabarra.com. Adjacent to its sister restaurant, Summer House Santa Monica, Stella Barra is an artisan pizzeria with a hip, urban vibe.

Look for crisp crusts with chewy centers topped with butternut squash and candied bacon or house-

made pork sausage and fennel pollen. Italian wines available. ❂ R D $$

ST. VEG 14929 Shady Grove Road, Unit M (Fallsgrove Village Center), 301-605-7511, stveg.com. With its focus on plant-based foods, this vegan fast-casual spot offers gluten-free, nut-free and soy-free options.

Fresh local and organic ingredients mean the menu can change, but look for cauliflower bites, tater tots, veggie burgers, and sandwiches packed with vegetables, along with bowls of rice, greens or whole wheat noodles with toppings that range from potatochickpea croquettes and braised tofu to pickled mustard greens and jicama. ❂ L D $

SUMMER HOUSE SANTA MONICA (EDITORS’ PICK) 11825 Grand Park Ave. (Pike & Rose), 301881-2381, summerhousesm.com. An airy, light and stunning space sets the scene for modern American cuisine with a West Coast sensibility.

Fare includes salads, sushi, tacos, sandwiches and steak frites. Do not miss the bakery counter. Voted “Best Restaurant in Rockville/North Bethesda”

by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2021, and “Restaurant With Best Decor” by readers in 2020.

❂ J R L D $$

SUPER BOWL NOODLE HOUSE 785 Rockville Pike, 301-738-0086, superbowlnoodlehouse.com. Look for a large variety of Asian noodle dishes in super-size portions, plus a wide selection of appetizers. Also, bubble tea and desserts, including Sweet Taro Root Roll and Black Sugar Shaved Ice. ❂ L D $

SUSHI DAMO 36-G Maryland Ave. (Rockville Town Square), 301340-8010, sushidamo.com. A slice of New York sophistication, this elegant restaurant offers sushi à la carte or omakase, chef’s choice, plus beef and seafood entrees and an impressive sake list.

L D $$

SUSHI HOUSE JAPANESE RESTAURANT 1331-D Rockville Pike, 301-309-0043, sushihouse1331.com. A tiny, plain restaurant serving a large selection of fresh sushi, including sushi and sashimi combinations. Lunch specials for under $7. It’s popular, so be prepared to wait.

L D $$

SUSHI OISHII 9706 Traville Gateway Drive, 301-251-1177, sushioishii.com. This charming sushi bar in the Traville Gateway Center offers friendly service and 24 specialty sushi rolls, bento boxes and a few grilled items, including beef, poultry and seafood teriyaki. L D $$

TAIPEI TOKYO 14921-D Shady Grove Road (Fallsgrove Village Center), 301-738-8813; 11510-A Rockville Pike, 301-881-8388; taipei-tokyo.net. These sister restaurants offer a sizable roster of Chinese, Japanese and Thai dishes. The Fallsgrove Village location is the younger and sleeker of the two, with full sit-down service. The older sister, opened in 1993, is more like a noodle shop/cafeteria. L D

$$

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TARA THAI 12071 Rockville Pike, 301-231-9899, tarathai.com.

See Bethesda listing. ❂ L D $$

TEMARI CAFÉ 1043 Rockville Pike, 301-340-7720. Deep-fried oysters, classic rice balls, ramen noodle soup, sushi and sashimi and comic books to peruse while you await your order set this Japanese restaurant apart from the rest. L D $$

THAT’S AMORE 15201 Shady Grove Road, 240-268-0682, thatsamore.com. This local chain focuses on familystyle portions of classic Neapolitan dishes such as lasagna and chicken Parmesan in a more elegant setting than might be expected. Good for groups and large families. J L D $$

TRAPEZARIA 11 N. Washington St., 301-339-8962, thetrapezaria. com. This down-to-earth and hospitable Greek/ Mediterranean restaurant serves top-notch and unfussy small plates and entrees. Choose among a variety of dips, vegetarian mezze, souvlaki, sausages and more-involved fish and lamb dishes.

Save room for the baklava. L D $$

URBAN BAR-B-QUE COMPANY 5566 Norbeck Road, 301-460-0050, urbanbarbq. com. Urban Bar-B-Que Company, a tiny joint run by a couple of local friends, has a winning formula and features finger-licking ribs, burgers and wings, plus salads, chili and smothered fries. Staff is friendly, too. J L D $

URBAN HOT POT 1800 Rockville Pike, 240-669-6710, urbanhotpot. com. On the first floor of the Galvan at Twinbrook building, this hot pot spot features a conveyor belt where food travels to diners. A prix fixe all-you-caneat menu allows you to create your meal at your table using one of the stationed iPads. Choose from a selection of noodles, vegetables and meat to add to a bowl of hot stock, then do it again if you’re still hungry. L D $$

VILLA MAYA 5532 Norbeck Road (Rock Creek Village Center), 301-460-1247. Here you’ll find all the traditional Mexican and Tex-Mex favorites from quesadillas to fajitas that are sure to please the whole family.

❂ R L D $$

THE WOODSIDE DELI 4 N. Washington St., 301-444-4478, thewoodsidedeli.com. Though the original location of the venerable Silver Spring eatery and caterer that dished up matzo ball soup from 1947 to 2019 closed, this location is still open. Choose from a wide selection of sandwiches, burgers and entrees.

There’s also a pickle bar. ❂ J B R L D $

WORLD OF BEER 196B East Montgomery Ave., 301-340-2915, worldofbeer.com. See Bethesda listing. ❂ J R

LD$

XI’AN GOURMET 316 N. Washington St., 301-875-5144, xian-gourmet.business.site. This casual diner prides itself on its comfort food. Named after an ancient city, Xi’an heavily features Sichuan and Shaanxi cuisines, after the chefs’ regional heritage. Go for

the Shaanxi cold steamed noodles or the Shanghai soup dumplings. L D $

YEKTA 1488 Rockville Pike, 301-984-1190, yekta.com.

Persian cuisine, including a selection of beef, chicken and lamb kabobs, is served in a beautiful dining room. Try a dessert such as frozen noodle sorbet or saffron ice cream. Check out the adjacent market after polishing off your kabob. L D $$

YUAN FU VEGETARIAN 798 Rockville Pike, 301-762-5937, yuanfuvegetarian.com. From tea-smoked “duck” to kung pao “chicken,” the whole menu is meatless, made from Chinese vegetable products. There is a large selection of chef’s specials, including Pumpkin Chicken with Mushrooms in a hot pot. L D $

POTOMAC

sampler of four grilled oysters—with ingredients such as coconut rum and cucumber relish— showcases the namesake item. ❂ J R L D $$

GRINGOS & MARIACHIS (EDITORS’ PICK) 12435 Park Potomac Ave., 301-339-8855, gringosandmariachis.com. See Bethesda listing.

❂D$

HUNTER’S BAR AND GRILL 10123 River Road, 301-299-9300, huntersbarandgrill.com. At this Potomac institution and popular English hunt-themed spot, try a big salad or hamburger for lunch and a traditional pasta dish or filet mignon for dinner with the family. ❂

J R L D $$

KING STREET OYSTER BAR 12435 Park Potomac Ave., 301-296-6260, kingstreetoysterbar.com. Part of a small local chain, this Park Potomac restaurant replaced Addie’s.

There’s a raw bar menu, plus cedar plank salmon, parmesan-crusted trout and crab cakes. ❂ L D

$$

LAHINCH TAVERN AND GRILL

ATTMAN’S DELICATESSEN 12505 Park Potomac Ave., 301-765-3354, attmansdeli.com. The menu at this branch of a landmark Baltimore deli offers the same legendary corned beef, pastrami and other deli specialties.

Third-generation owner Marc Attman is at the helm.

❂BLD$

BROOKLYN’S DELI & CATERING

7747 Tuckerman Lane (Cabin John Village), 240499-8922, lahinchtavernandgrill.com. The menu of this sister restaurant to The Irish Inn at Glen Echo commingles Irish standards (traditional sausage roll, shepherd’s pie, bangers and mash, lamb stew) with fare such as Alaskan halibut. Lahinch is a coastal town in Ireland’s County Clare. J R L D

$$$

1089 Seven Locks Road, 301-340-3354, brooklynsdelimd.com. From chopped liver to chicken soup, Brooklyn’s serves all the deli specialties, plus more. Think hot pastrami with coleslaw and Russian dressing on pumpernickel. ❂ J B L D $

CAVA 7991 Tuckerman Lane (Cabin John Village), 301200-5398, cava.com. See Bethesda listing. ❂ L

D$

LOCK 72 KITCHEN & BAR (EDITORS’ PICK) 10128 River Road, 301-299-0481, lock72.com.

Well-known chef Robert Wiedmaier’s RW Restaurant Group runs this upscale American pub (formerly called River Falls Tavern). Entrees include panroasted duck breast, crabcake, rockfish and New York strip steak. ❂ R L D $$

MOBY DICK HOUSE OF KABOB 9812 Falls Road, 240-660-2626, mobyskabob.com.

See Chevy Chase listing. L D $

ELEVATION BURGER 12525-D Park Potomac Ave., 301-838-4010, elevationburger.com. Fast-food burgers go organic and grass-fed at this Northern Virginia-founded chain. Veggie burgers, chicken sandwiches, grilled cheese and a BLT available, too. Shake flavors range from banana to Key lime and cheesecake.

❂LD$

GRAND FUSION CUISINE 350 East Fortune Terrace, 301-838-2862, grandfusionpotomac.com. Diners will find something for everyone seeking a taste of the Asian continent, a full sushi bar, and Chinese, Malaysian and Singaporean specialties. Chef’s specials include Crispy Eggplant in Spicy Orange Sauce and Double Flavored Shrimp. ❂ L D $

GREGORIO’S TRATTORIA 7745 Tuckerman Lane (Cabin John Village), 301296-6168, gregoriostrattoria.com. See Bethesda listing. J L D $$

THE GRILLED OYSTER CO. (EDITORS’ PICK) 7943 Tuckerman Lane (Cabin John Village), 301299-9888, thegrilledoystercompany.com. This Chesapeake-style seafood eatery features small plates, salads, sandwiches and entrees. The

MOCO’S FOUNDING FARMERS 12505 Park Potomac Ave., 301-340-8783, wearefoundingfarmers.com. Farm-inspired fare in a modern and casual setting; this is the sister restaurant to the phenomenally popular downtown D.C. Founding Farmers. Try the warm cookies for dessert. Voted “Best Craft Cocktails” and “Best Brunch” by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2020, and “Best Restaurant in Potomac” and “Best Brunch” by readers in 2021. ❂ B R L D $$

NORMANDIE FARM 10710 Falls Road, 301-983-8838, popovers.com.

This fine-dining French restaurant, open since 1931, strives to preserve its classical heritage while embracing new traditions. Dinner entrees run from seafood to beef and lamb. The restaurant offers quick service, a casual cafe option and a violinist at afternoon tea. ❂ J R L D $$

O’DONNELL’S MARKET 1073 Seven Locks Road, 301-251-6355, odonnellsmarket.com. This market, from the family that ran O’Donnell’s restaurants in Montgomery County for decades, features a 10-seat bar for lunch and happy hour. The menu includes a raw bar, salads and many O’Donnell’s classics, among

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them a lump-filled crabcake sandwich, salmon BLT, seafood bisque and crab gumbo. Voted “Best Takeout During the Stay-at-Home Order,” “Best Crabcake” and “Best Place to Buy Fish” by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2021. ❂ L $

OLD ANGLER’S INN 10801 MacArthur Blvd., 301-365-2425, oldanglersinn.com. Open since 1860 and known for its refined American food and beautiful fireplaces and grounds, it features live music on weekends.

Signature cocktails include hard cider sangria and a pumpkin pie martini. Voted “Best Outdoor Dining”

by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2020. ❂ R L

D $$$

POTOMAC PIZZA 9812 Falls Road, 301-299-7700, potomacpizza. com. See Chevy Chase listing. J L D $

QUINCY’S 1093 Seven Locks Road, 240-500-3010, quincyspotomac.com. See Gaithersburg/North Potomac listing. L D $

RENATO’S AT RIVER FALLS 10120 River Road, 301-365-1900, renatosatriverfalls.com. The Italian restaurant offers fish dishes among its menu of pastas and classics such as penne with eggplant, and chicken parmigiana. Traditional Italian desserts include tiramisu, profiteroles, and cannolis. ❂ J L D $$

SISTERS THAI 7995 Tuckerman Lane (Cabin John Village), 301299-4157, sisterscabinjohn.com. The owners of a Thai restaurant and bakery in Virginia serve classic Thai dishes in a setting that mixes several decor styles (one room has a fireplace and looks like a living room filled with books). A dessert counter offers coffee and tea drinks along with ice cream, snow ice and other treats. ❂ L D $$

SUGO OSTERIA 12505 Park Potomac Ave., 240-386-8080, eatsugo.com. This stylish spot starts you off with honey-thyme butter on rustic bread. The menu focuses on Italian small plates, meatballs, sliders, pizza and pasta. Chef specialties include blue crab gnocchi and charred octopus. ❂ R L D $$

TALLY-HO RESTAURANT 9923 Falls Road, 301-299-6825, tallyhorestaurant. com. A local fixture since 1968, the eatery serves an expansive diner-style menu with Greek and Italian specialties. Choose from options ranging from burgers and deli sandwiches to pizza, calzones and dinner entrees. ❂ J B L D $

AMINA THAI 8624 Colesville Road, 301-588-3588. See North Bethesda/Rockville listing. L D $

&PIZZA 8455 Fenton St., andpizza.com. See Bethesda listing. L D $

ASTRO LAB BREWING 8216 Georgia Ave., 301-273-9684, astrolabbrewing.com. A menu of about a dozen items—including handheld savory pies, a sausage roll and a hummus platter—are served in the downtown Silver Spring brewery’s taproom. Grab one of the hop-forward beers brewed on-site to sip at the communal tables or on the patio. ❂ J L

D$

AZÚCAR RESTAURANT BAR & GRILL 14418 Layhill Road, 301-438-3293, azucarrestaurant.net. The name means sugar, and it fits: The colorful Salvadoran spot is decorated in bright purple and orange with Cubist-style paintings.

The pork-stuffed corn pupusas are stars. Also look for more elegant dinners, including fried whole trout.

L D $$

BETE ETHIOPIAN CUISINE 811 Roeder Road, 301-588-2225, beteethiopia. com. Family-run Ethiopian restaurant with a modest dining room but some exemplary cooking. Don’t miss the vegetarian sampler, and in nice weather, opt for eating outside in the lovely, shaded back patio. ❂ J B L D $$

THE BIG GREEK CAFE 8213 Georgia Ave., 301-587-4733, biggreekcafe. com. See Bethesda listing. L D $

CAVA 8515 Fenton St., 301-200-8666, cava.com. See Bethesda listing. ❂ L D $

COPPER CANYON GRILL 928 Ellsworth Drive, 301-589-1330, ccgrill.com.

See Gaithersburg listing. ❂ J R L D $$

CRISFIELD SEAFOOD RESTAURANT 8012 Georgia Ave., 301-589-1306, crisfieldseafood.com. With its U-shaped counter and kitschy, oyster-plate-covered walls, this landmark seafood diner has customers lining up for the Eastern Shore specialties such as oysters and crabmeat-stuffed lobster that it has served since the 1940s. L D $$

CUBANO’S 1201 Fidler Lane, 301-563-4020, cubanos restaurant.com. See Bethesda listing. ❂ L D $$

THE DAILY DISH

SILVER SPRING ALL SET RESTAURANT & BAR 8630 Fenton St., 301-495-8800, allsetrestaurant. com. American cuisine with a focus on New England specialties. Look for clams, oysters and lobster, plus crabcakes, and beef and vegetarian options.

Voted “Best Restaurant in Silver Spring” by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2021. ❂ J R L

D $$

8301 Grubb Road, 301-588-6300, thedailydishrestaurant.com. A neighborhood favorite serving seasonally inspired, locally sourced comfort food, including bar bites and brunch dishes. Fullservice catering is available, too. ❂ J R L D $$

DENIZENS BREWING CO. (EDITORS’ PICK) 1115 East West Highway, 301-557-9818, denizensbrewingco.com. The bright-orange building houses Montgomery County’s largest brewery, featuring core beers and seasonal offerings, along with drafts from other regional breweries. Menu of snacks, sandwiches and salads includes vegetarian

options. There is a large outdoor beer garden and indoor seating overlooking the brewery. ❂ D $

DISTRICT TACO 1310 East West Highway, 240-531-1880, districttaco.com. This branch of a local chain of eateries that grew out of a food truck serves fastcasual fare, from egg-filled tacos for breakfast to quesadillas, burritos and tacos for later in the day.

❂JBLD$ DON POLLO

12345 Georgia Ave., 301-933-9515; 13881 Outlet Drive, 240-560-7376, donpollogroup.com. See Bethesda listing. L D $

EL AGUILA RESTAURANT 8649 16th St., 301-588-9063, elaguilarestaurant. com. A cheery bar and generous plates of TexMex favorites such as enchiladas and Salvadoran seafood soup make this eatery popular with families and others looking for a lively night out. ❂ L D $

EL GAVILAN 8805 Flower Ave., 301-587-4197. The walls are bright, the music’s upbeat, the margaritas are fine and the service is friendly. The usual Tex-Mex fare is here, as well as Salvadoran specialties such as tasty cheese- or pork-filled pupusas. J L D $

EL GOLFO 8739 Flower Ave., 301-608-2121, elgolforestaurant. com. Friendly, home-style Latin service is the hallmark, as attested to by the many Salvadorans who stop in for lunch and dinner. Pupusas, soups and beef dishes such as carne asada as well as more adventurous choices can be found in the charming, raspberry-colored dining room.

❂JRLD$

EL SAPO CUBAN SOCIAL CLUB (EDITORS’ PICK)

8455 Fenton St., 301-326-1063, elsaporestaurant. com. Cuban specialties are the focus at this restaurant from owner and chef Raynold Mendizábal, who also owns Urban Butcher in Silver Spring. Small bites such as empanadas and cod croquettes are on the menu with dishes that Cuba is known for, including the beef entree ropa vieja and puerco asado (roasted pork). L D $$$

FENTON CAFÉ 8311 Fenton St., 301-326-1841, fentoncafesilverspring.com. An out-of-the-way crêperie serving 31 kinds of sweet crêpes and 16 varieties of savory crêpes. Savory versions range from cheese and ham to roasted eggplant with zucchini, bell pepper, sundried tomato, garlic and onion. B L D $

FIRE STATION 1 RESTAURANT & BREWING CO. 8131 Georgia Ave., 301-585-1370, firestation1md. com. A historic firehouse made over as an eatery serves 21st-century pizza, sandwiches, meat, seafood and vegetarian entrees. Try the Cuban sandwich with seasoned pork, chipotle mayo, Dijon mustard, pickles and Swiss cheese on a ciabatta roll. L D $

GHAR-E-KABAB 944 Wayne Ave., 301-587-4427, gharekabab.com.

This spot offers a mix of authentic Indian and Nepali cuisine. From Indian staples such as chicken tikka masala and lamb curry to Nepalese appetizers

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such as furaula (vegetable fritters) and cho-e-la (marinated duck), there are a variety of South Asian flavors. J L D $$

THE GREEK PLACE 8417 Georgia Ave., 301-495-2912. Here are big portions of better-than-average food at reasonable prices. The bifteki pita sandwich, a seasoned ground lamb and beef patty with tzatziki, tomatoes and red onions, is especially good. L D $

ITALIAN KITCHEN 8201 Fenton St., 301-588-7800, italiankitchenmd. com. Casual, attractive pizzeria with bar seating also turns out homemade sandwiches, calzones, salads and pasta dishes. L D $

JEWEL OF INDIA 10151 New Hampshire Ave., 301-408-2200, jewelofindiamd.com. Elegant decor and excellent northern Indian cuisine make this shopping center restaurant a real find. Diners will find a good selection of curries, and rice and biryani dishes. L

D $$

KAO THAI 8650 Colesville Road, 301-495-1234, kaothairestaurant.com. This restaurant turns out top-notch curries, noodle dishes and vegetarian options, plus house specialties, such as Siam Salmon with Spicy Thai Basil Sauce and Thai Chili Tilapia. Dishes are cooked medium spicy. ❂ L D

$$

KOITÉ GRILL 8626 Colesville Road, Silver Spring, 240-8477016, ordering.app/koitegrill/koitegrill. A sisterand-brother chef team helm the kitchen at this Senegalese restaurant. Look for charcoal-grilled lamb dibi, chicken yassa and Senegal’s national dish, thieboudienne, which means “rice with fish.”

L D $$

LA CASITA PUPUSERIA & MARKET 8214 Piney Branch Road, 301-588-6656, lacasitapupusas.com. Homemade pupusas, tamales and other Salvadoran specialties are available, plus a full breakfast menu and a small selection of grocery items. B L D $

LA MALINCHE 8622 Colesville Road, 301-562-8622, lamalinchetapas.com. Diners will find an interesting selection of Spanish and Mexican tapas, plus a full Saturday and Sunday brunch featuring huevos rancheros, variations of tortillas Espanola and more. R L D $$

LANGANO ETHIOPIAN RESTAURANT 8305 Georgia Ave., 301-563-6700, langano restaurant.com. Named for the popular Ethiopian vacation spot, Lake Langano, this longtime restaurant offers fine Ethiopian cuisine such as doro wat (spicy chicken stew) and tibs (stewed meat) in a cozy white- and red-accented dining room. Lunch specials on weekdays. L D $

LEBTAV 8535 Fenton St., 301-588-1192, lebtav.com. See Rockville listing. ❂ L D $

LOCAVINO 8519 Fenton St., 301-448-1819, locavino.com. In the space that overlooks Veterans Plaza and that once housed Adega Wine Cellars & Cafe, this wine

bar focuses on local wines and beer but includes offerings from other regions. Salads, burgers, sandwiches, pasta and flatbreads fill the menu. L

D$

LUCY ETHIOPIAN RESTAURANT 8301 Georgia Ave., 301-589-6700. The authentic Ethiopian menu here includes beef and lamb plates, such as kitfo (raw beef) sandwiches and boneless braised yebeg alicha (Ethiopian mild lamb stew).

The interior is decorated with Ethiopian-inspired art and features a full bar. L D $

MAMMA LUCIA 1302 East West Highway, 301-562-0693, mammaluciarestaurants.com. See Bethesda listing. ❂ L D $$

MANDALAY RESTAURANT & CAFÉ 930 Bonifant St., 301-585-0500, mandalay restaurantcafe.com. The modest dining room is packed most evenings with families and large groups who come for the Burmese food, a cross between Indian and Thai. L D $

MATCHBOX 919 Ellsworth Drive, 240-247-8969, matchboxrestaurants.com. See Bethesda listing.

❂ J R L D $$

MCGINTY’S PUBLIC HOUSE 911 Ellsworth Drive, 301-587-1270, mcgintys publichouse.com. Traditional Irish pub and restaurant features corned beef and cabbage, live music and dancing. Early-bird special, three-course menu for $15, from 5 to 7 p.m. ❂ J R L D $$

MELEKET 1907 Seminary Road, 301-755-5768, meleketrestaurant.com. This family-owned, Ethiopian-Italian restaurant serves classic vegetarian, beef and chicken Ethiopian plates, alongside Italian entrees such as pesto pasta with chicken. For breakfast, try a traditional Ethiopian dish of kinche (a buttery grain porridge) or firfir (bread mixed with vegetables in a red pepper sauce). B L D $

MI RANCHO 8701 Ramsey Ave., 301-588-4872, miranchomd. com. You'll find a boisterous party atmosphere every night at a place where customers can count on standard Tex-Mex fare at good prices. The outdoor patio, strung with colorful lights, is the place to be in nice weather. ❂ L D $

MIX BAR & GRILLE 8241 Georgia Ave., #200, 301-326-1333, mixbargrille.com. Modern American bistro with charcuterie and cheese plates, brick-oven flatbreads, ceviche and other light fare. Look for lots of wines by the glass and beers on tap. ❂ J

R L D $$

MOD PIZZA 909 Ellsworth Drive, 240-485-1570, modpizza.com.

See Gaithersburg/North Potomac listing. ❂ L D $

PACCI’S TRATTORIA & PASTICCERIA 6 Old Post Office Road, 301-588-0867, paccistrattoria.com. Diners will find a range of classic Italian dishes, including homemade meatballs and sausage. L D $$

PARKWAY DELI & RESTAURANT 8317 Grubb Road, 301-587-1427, theparkwaydeli. com. Parkway features a bustling back dining room that makes this popular spot so much more than a deli. Longtime waitresses greet regular customers and kids with hugs during busy weekend breakfasts.

All-you-can-eat pickle bar. ❂ B L D $

PHO TAN VINH 8705-A Colesville Road, 301-588-8188, photanvinh. com. A family-owned Vietnamese restaurant, Pho Tan Vinh was opened in 2014 by Tiffany Chu, who sought the traditional food she ate in her youth.

She and her chef mother serve emergent classics such as pho and put their own spin on items such as the Tan Vinh special, a “deconstructed” banh mi sandwich. L D $

PLNT BURGER 833 Wayne Ave. (Whole Foods Market), 301-6089373, plntburger.com. This vegan fast-casual eatery within Whole Foods Market serves cooked-to-order plant-based Beyond Meat burgers, fries and softserve dairy-free ice cream. ❂ J L D $

PORT-AU-PRINCE AUTHENTIC HAITIAN CUISINE 7912 Georgia Ave., 301-565-2006, paphaitiancuisine.com. The eatery serves a small menu of Haitian fare: five appetizers, five entrees (plus an entree salad) and two desserts. Chicken wings, fritters, whole red snapper, fried turkey and legume casserole are among the highlights. A Sunday brunch buffet draws crowds. R D $$

QUARRY HOUSE TAVERN (EDITORS’ PICK) 8401 Georgia Ave., 301-844-5380, facebook. com/quarryhouse. Closed for nearly three years after a fire, this basement-level dive bar reopened in its original space. The inside holds the same 1930s-era feel as the original bar, and burgers and Tater Tots are still on the menu. D $

SAMANTHA’S 631 University Blvd. East, 301-445-7300, samanthasrestaurante.com. This white-tablecloth, Latin-Salvadoran spot in an industrial neighborhood is popular because of its welcoming attitude toward families with young children. The steak and fish specialties are good. L D $$

SILVER STRINGS 8630 Colesville Road, 301-587-0596, silverstringsonline.com. Serving classic American food in downtown Silver Spring, this spot features live music in the evenings by mostly jazz, blues and classic rock musicians. ❂ L D $$

THE SOCIETY RESTAURANT & LOUNGE 8229 Georgia Ave., 301-565-8864, societyss. com. A sleek and modern atmosphere catering to a nightlife crowd, Society offers fare with a Caribbean accent. Check out the rooftop seating and daily drink specials, which include $25 beer buckets. ❂ L D $$

SPICE STREET 8242 Georgia Ave., 301-755-6144, spicestreetmd. com. In the bottom of the Solaire apartments, this spot serves Indian street food and other dishes.

Expect tandoori chicken and shrimp, minced lamb kabobs, scallops in coconut sauce, and a crab and cauliflower entree with mild spices. L D $$

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dining

SUSHI JIN NEXT DOOR 8555 Fenton St., 301-608-0990, sushijinnextdoor. com. The eatery is spare, clean and modern, and offers terrific udon noodle soup and impeccable raw fish. Choose from 11 appetizers and seven soups and salads. L D $$

SWEETGREEN 8517 Georgia Ave., 301-244-5402, sweetgreen. com. See Bethesda listing. L D $

SWEET SWEET KITCHEN 904 Bonifant St., 301-244-5906. With its roots as a food truck, this spot that focuses on fare from Jamaica and Sierra Leone serves egusi stew, oxtails and other dishes. L D $

TACOS, TORTAS & TEQUILA 8407 Ramsey Ave., 301-755-6132, tttrestaurant. com. Also called TTT, this fast-casual spot focuses on quesadillas, tortas and tacos—carne asada, garlic shrimp and house-made chorizo among them.

There’s a full-service bar and an outdoor patio.

❂BLD$

TASTEE DINER 8601 Cameron St., 301-589-8171, tasteediner. com. See Bethesda listing. ❂ J B L D $

THAI AT SILVER SPRING 921-E Ellsworth Drive, 301-650-0666, thaiatsilverspring.com. The Americanized Thai food is second to the location, which is superb for people-watching on the street below. A modern and stylish dining room with a hip bar in bold colors and good service add to the appeal. ❂ L D $$

VEGETABLE GARDEN 3830 International Drive (Leisure World Plaza), 301598-6868, vegetablegarden.com. The popular vegan, vegetarian and macrobiotic Asian restaurant features a wide variety of eggplant and asparagus dishes, plus vegetarian “beef,” and “chicken” dishes often made with soy and wheat gluten. L D $$

VICINO RISTORANTE ITALIANO 959 Sligo Ave., 301-588-3372, vicinoitaliano.com.

A favorite neighborhood red-sauce joint that hasn’t changed in decades, Vicino features some fine seafood choices in addition to classic pasta dishes.

Families are welcome. ❂ L D $$

UPPER NW D.C. THE AVENUE 5540 Connecticut Ave. NW, 202-244-4567, theavenuedc.com. A family-friendly neighborhood restaurant and bar with dishes such as crab pasta, poutine, burgers and baby back ribs. Fun decor includes classic posters and a giant magnetic scrabble board. ❂ J B L D $$

BLUE 44 5507 Connecticut Ave. NW, 202-362-2583, blue44dc.com. The menu features classic American favorites infused with the flavors of Italy and France, including ratatouille, pork schnitzel and bouillabaisse. ❂ J R L D $$

BUCK’S FISHING & CAMPING (EDITORS’ PICK) 5031 Connecticut Ave. NW, 202-364-0777,

bucksfishingandcamping.com. Diners can enjoy a seasonal menu that changes daily, and offers hip takes on comfort food such as roast chicken (locally raised) in an artsy-chic setting. D $$$

CAFÉ OF INDIA 4909 Wisconsin Ave. NW, 202-244-1395, cafeofindiadc.com. Here’s a cute corner cafe with two levels of dining and an extensive menu that includes vegetarian and tandoori entrees, dosas, samosas, tikkas, curries and kabobs. ❂ L D $$

COMET PING PONG (EDITORS’ PICK) 5037 Connecticut Ave. NW, 202-364-0404, cometpingpong.com. Landmark fun spot where you can play Ping-Pong or admire local art while you wait for your wood-fired pizza. Choose from more than 30 toppings to design your own pie. ❂ R L D $

DECARLO’S RESTAURANT 4822 Yuma St. NW, 202-363-4220, decarlosrestaurant.com. This is a family-owned neighborhood staple, with a traditional Italian menu and upscale/casual atmosphere. Signature dishes include agnolotti, veal scallopini, broiled salmon and hand-made pasta. ❂ L D $$

GUAPO’S RESTAURANT 4515 Wisconsin Ave. NW, 202-686-3588, guaposrestaurant.com. See Bethesda listing.

❂ R L D $$

I’M EDDIE CANO (EDITORS’ PICK) 5014 Connecticut Ave. NW, 202-890-4995, imeddiecano.com. A play on the way “Americano” is pronounced, I’m Eddie Cano is an Italian joint with nostalgic 1970s-themed decor. The standouts on executive chef James Gee’s menu include fried zucchini, spaghetti and meatballs, spaghetti with clams, escarole salad and eggplant parmigiana. D $$

JETTIES 5632 Connecticut Ave. NW, 202-364-2465, jettiesdc.com. See Bethesda listing. J L D $

LE CHAT NOIR 4907 Wisconsin Ave. NW, 202-244-2044, lechatnoirrestaurant.com. This cute, cozy neighborhood bistro is run by French restaurateurs, who cook traditional fare such as steak frites, bouillabaisse and braised lamb cheeks. R L D

$$

LE PAIN QUOTIDIEN 4874 Massachusetts Ave. NW, 202-459-9141, lepainquotidien.com. See Bethesda listing. ❂ J B

RLD$

LITTLE BEAST CAFÉ & BISTRO 5600 Connecticut Ave. NW, 202-741-4599, littlebeastdc.com. At this dinner spot on the corner of McKinley Street NW, find pizza cooked in a woodburning oven, sharable dishes such as Brussels sprouts, and entrees such as lamb ragu. ❂ D $$

MACON BISTRO & LARDER (EDITORS’ PICK) 5520 Connecticut Ave. NW, 202-248-7807, maconbistro.com. Southern and French cuisine converge at this airy, charming restaurant in the historic Chevy Chase Arcade. Appetizers include raclette and fried green tomatoes, and steak frites are offered alongside short ribs with grits for main courses. ❂ R L D $$

MAGGIANO’S LITTLE ITALY 5333 Wisconsin Ave. NW, 202-966-5500,

maggianos.com. The restaurant features oldstyle Italian fare that’s a favorite for large groups and private celebrations. Check out the signature flatbreads and specialty pastas, including lobster carbonara. J R L D $$

MASALA ART 4441-B Wisconsin Ave. NW, 202-362-4441, masalaartdc.com. Here is fine Indian dining featuring tandoor-oven specialties and masterful Indian spicing. Start off by choosing from a selection of nine breads and 17 appetizers. L D $$

MILLIE’S (EDITORS’ PICK) 4866 Massachusetts Ave. NW, 202-733-5789, milliesdc.com. This eatery in the Spring Valley neighborhood may be from up north—it’s the second location of a popular Nantucket restaurant—but its flavors are distinctly south-of-the-border. The menu offers coastal takes on tacos, quesadillas and salads that are as summery as the bright, nautical décor of the dining room. Voted “Best Restaurant in Upper Northwest D.C.” by Bethesda Magazine readers in 2021. ❂ J R L D $$

PARTHENON RESTAURANT 5510 Connecticut Ave. NW, 202-966-7600, parthenon-restaurant.com. This is a neighborhood eatery taken up a couple notches, with an extensive menu full of authentic selections familiar and exotic, including avgolemono (egg/lemon soup), tzatziki, moussaka, dolmades and souvlaki. ❂ L D $$

PETE’S NEW HAVEN STYLE APIZZA 4940 Wisconsin Ave. NW, 202-237-7383, petesapizza.com. The crunchy-crusted New Havenstyle pizzas can be topped with a choice of almost three dozen ingredients. There's also pasta, panini, salads and house-made desserts. ❂ J L D $

PIZZERIA PARADISO 4850 Massachusetts Ave. NW, 202-885-9101, eatyourpizza.com. An outpost of the small chain started by chef and owner Ruth Gresser, this Spring Valley spot has the same style of woodfired Neapolitan pizza as the original Paradiso that opened in D.C. in 1991. Try the Di Mare pizza, which has spicy garlic pesto, mussels, shrimp, spinach, red onions and Grana Padano cheese. ❂ L D $$

ROSEMARY BISTRO CAFE 5010 Connecticut Ave., NW, Washington, D.C., 202-506-5961, rosemarydc.com. At this French restaurant from the chef-owner of the nowshuttered Petits Plats, you’ll find a reliable bistro menu that includes onion soup, beef bourguignon, bouillabaisse, and tartare made with hand-chopped salmon, shallots, pickles, capers and sesame oil. ❂

J L D $$$

SATAY CLUB ASIAN RESTAURANT AND BAR 4654 Wisconsin Ave. NW, 202-363-8888, asiansatayclub.com. The restaurant prides itself on providing a comfortable/casual setting with a menu that spans Japanese sushi, Chinese moo-shi vegetables, Thai curries and Vietnamese spring rolls. L D $

WAGSHAL’S RESTAURANT 4855 Massachusetts Ave. NW, 202-363-5698, wagshals.com. Longtime popular deli expands grocery and carryout section, and adds a casual sit-down restaurant in the Spring Valley Shopping Center. Same high-quality fare, including the overstuffed sandwiches. L D $ n

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things to do

Paddle boats on the 6-acre lake at Rio in Gaithersburg

LOOKING FOR SOMETHING TO DO? Why not explore a nature trail, visit a historical site or stop by a farmers market to pick up a picnic before heading out to one of Montgomery County’s many parks and playgrounds?

Whatever you choose, there are plenty of options and places to play year-round.

PHOTO BY SKIP BROWN

Those who like the outdoors can enjoy county parks with man-made lakes, hiking trails and ball fields; hike in the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park; or ride on the historic Dentzel Carousel in Glen Echo Park. Nonprofit arts organizations also offer classes in the park buildings.

World-class drama, music and other arts and

entertainment are available at numerous locations throughout the county. The Music Center at Strathmore in North Bethesda, The Fillmore in Silver Spring, and several live theater stages, including Round House Theatre and Imagination Stage, are located within the Bethesda area.

Bethesda, Rockville, Silver Spring and Gaithersburg each sponsor many events and festivals each year, including summer concerts and movies, art shows and theatrical performances.

Many entertainment venues, closed during the coronavirus pandemic, look forward to welcoming back audiences and holding live events again. Check websites for closures before making plans.

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things to do

20 Great Things To Do Looking for something to do? You don’t have to travel far. Outdoor adventures, cultural experiences and activities for all ages and interests can be found within Montgomery County. Here are a few ideas:

STROLL THROUGH BROOKSIDE GARDENS

Windridge Vineyards

Brookside Gardens features formal gardens, beautiful plantings and peaceful ponds and streams on 50 acres in Wheaton Regional Park.

A paved path makes the award-winning public display garden a stroller-friendly destination.

Scenic stops along the trail include a stone labyrinth, Japanese Tea House, Reflection Terrace and Fragrance Garden.

Brookside Gardens, 1800 Glenallen Ave., Wheaton, montgomeryparks.org/parks-and-trails/ brookside-gardens/

SEE A CONCERT AT STRATHMORE

Musical performances at Strathmore range from those by world-class symphony orchestras to budding local talents. The campus includes the Music Center, a nearly 2,000-seat concert hall; the Mansion, which hosts smaller concerts, teas and art exhibitions; and outdoor concert spaces including the lawn and Patio Stage, a new addition in 2021.

5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda, strathmore.org

HIKE SUGARLOAF MOUNTAIN

TASTE THE FRUIT OF LOCAL VINES

TRY A CRAFT BEER AT A LOCAL BREWERY

KAYAK THE WATER TRAIL AT BLACK HILL REGIONAL PARK

With 15 miles of trails and breathtaking views from the top, Sugarloaf Mountain in Dickerson is a prime location for hiking. There are designated parking areas and several marked trails offering easy and steep approaches to the summit, which rises to 1,282 feet.

8 a.m. to sunset, $5 suggested donation, 7901 Comus Road, Dickerson, sugarloafmd.com

Montgomery County is home to nearly a dozen breweries, each creating its own crafted beers and offering visitors unique settings in which to sample them. Whether you’d like to kick back with an IPA at Waredaca Brewing Company located on a working horse farm in Laytonsville, or sip a crisp lager at Denizens Brewing Company’s urban beer garden in Silver Spring, you’ll find both farm and urban experiences available in the county.

Various locations, visitmontgomery.com/taste/ breweries

Take a trip to wine country by visiting one of the half a dozen wineries in the county. Some, like Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard and Windridge Vineyards, offer tastings in bucolic settings.

Others, including The Urban Winery of Silver Spring and Olney Winery, allow aspiring vintners to make their own wine.

Various locations visitmontgomery.com/wineries-2

Rent a kayak or bring your own and explore Black Hill Regional Park from a unique perspective. The Water Trail leads kayakers on a tour of the three creeks that flow together to form the 505-acre Little Seneca Lake at the heart of the park. Kayaks are available to rent from May through September.

20930 Lake Ridge Drive, Boyds, montgomeryparks.org/parks-and-trails/black-hillregional-park

Local theaters in Montgomery County have a strong reputation for staging thought-provoking and powerful performances. While theaters were closed during the COVID-19 pandemic, they found ways to continue to engage with audiences online. Bethesda’s Round House Theatre and Olney Theatre Center are well known for their dramas and musicals and Imagination Stage in Bethesda and Adventure Theatre in Glen Echo broaden kids’ horizons with their children’s performances.

Various locations

PADDLE BOATS AT RIO

Paddle boats take the form of colorful dragons, graceful swans and yellow ducklings at Gaithersburg’s Rio lakefront shopping center.

These character boats, as well as traditional paddle boats, are available to rent on weekends in the spring and summer. A visit to Rio, with its boardwalk, carousel, restaurants and movie theater, often feels like a mini vacation. $20-$30 per half hour, 9841 Washingtonian Blvd., Gaithersburg riolakefront.com/lakefrontfun

PHOTO COURTESY OF WINDRIDGE VINEYARDS BY ISABELLE CARBONELL

SEE A PLAY AT A LOCAL THEATER

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RIDE A MINIATURE TRAIN AT CABIN JOHN OR WHEATON REGIONAL PARKS

Hop aboard a miniature train that chugs through the forest at Cabin John or Wheaton regional parks. The trains at both locations have five passenger cars, but Wheaton’s includes one that is wheelchair accessible. A ride along the roughly 2-mile route at each park lasts 15 to 20 minutes.

Cabin John Regional Park, 7410 Tuckerman Lane, Bethesda; Wheaton Regional Park, 2002 Shorefield Road, Wheaton; montgomeryparks. org/trains

RIDE THE HISTORIC CAROUSEL AT GLEN ECHO PARK

The rides at Glen Echo Park, a one-time amusement park, have long been replaced by art studios and performance spaces that have taken residence in the Art Deco-style structures.

But the historic Dentzel Carousel, which turned 100 in 2021, is still operating. Visitors can ride the carousel from May through September. $5, 7300 MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo, glenechopark.org

STAY OVERNIGHT IN A LOCKHOUSE ON THE C&0 CANAL Learn the history of the C&O Canal firsthand by

spending a night in a lockhouse. Guests can rent the lockhouses, which were living quarters for lock keepers who operated locks on the canal in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The structures are restored with historic furnishings and décor and each tells the history of a different time period. $110-$160 per night, Canaltrust.org

PICK YOUR OWN PRODUCE

Head out to the farm and come home with your own hand-picked haul. In the spring, you can find strawberries, cherries, peaches and other crops available to pick at farms in the county.

Come back in the fall for apples and pumpkins.

Some farms also hold seasonal festivals, with hayrides, mazes and other family-friendly attractions.

Various locations

SEE THE ART AT GLENSTONE

Glenstone, a private museum in Potomac, offers a remarkable collection of modern and contemporary art, impressive architecture and nearly 300 acres of stunning landscape that includes rolling grassy meadows, shady woods and streams.

Glenstone, 12100 Glen Road, Potomac, free, reservations required, glenstone.org

BIKE THE CAPITAL CRESCENT TRAIL

One of the most popular bike trails in the area, the Capital Crescent Trail runs from Georgetown in Washington, D.C., through Bethesda to Silver Spring. The 11-mile trail was built on the former railbed of the B&O Railroad. Access the trail in downtown Bethesda and follow the path through leafy neighborhoods, over bridges and near streams. The trail is currently closed east of Bethesda for construction of the Purple Line. montgomeryparks.org/parks-and-trails/capitalcrescent-georgetown-branch-trails

ENJOY ICE SKATING YEAR-ROUND

The weather is no reason not to go ice skating in Montgomery County. During the winter, Rockville and Silver Spring host outdoor public skating rinks. For those who want to glide on the ice without braving the elements, Cabin John Ice Rink, Wheaton Ice Arena and Rockville Ice Arena offer public skating time, lessons and hockey leagues.

Cabin John Ice Rink, 10610 Westlake Drive, Rockville, montgomeryparks.org/parks-and-trails/ cabin-john-regional-park/cabin-john-ice-rink Wheaton Ice Arena, 11717 Orebaugh Ave., Wheaton, montgomeryparks.org/parks-and-trails/ wheaton-ice-arena Rockville Ice Arena, 50 Southlawn Court, Rockville, rockvilleicearena.com

Visit the county’s 93,000-acre Agricultural Reserve.

Stay, taste and shop at rio’s lakefront.

Take a self-guided craft beverage tour along the Tastemakers Trail.

Explore the C&O Canal National Historical Park.

Ge t Inspi re d!

Socialize @visitmoco

VisitMontgomery.com

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things to do SWING FROM THE TREES AT THE ADVENTURE PARK AT SANDY SPRING

WANDER THROUGH A SUNFLOWER FIELD

The sunflowers planted annually at the McKeeBeshers Wildlife Management Area in Poolesville are meant to attract game birds for hunting, but the fields also attract people who come from all over to see the acres of brilliant yellow flowers, which usually reach peak bloom in July.

16898-16500 River Road, Poolesville, dnr. maryland.gov

LEARN ABOUT SLAVERY IN MARYLAND AND THE UNDERGROUND RAILROAD Learn about the life of Josiah Henson, who escaped from slavery and became an abolitionist and conductor on the Underground Railroad, at the Josiah Henson Museum & Park. The museum and park are on the site of a plantation where Henson was enslaved. His story inspired the famous novel Uncle Tom’s Cabin by Harriet Beecher Stowe.

are

!

e m o lc

All

We

The Adventure Park at Sandy Spring

$4-$5, 11410 Old Georgetown Road, North Bethesda,montgomeryparks.org/parks-and-trails/ josiah-henson-park

MAKE A SPLASH AT THE GERMANTOWN SPLASHPARK

For little ones who want play in the water but aren’t yet confident swimmers, the Germantown SplashPark is the perfect choice for summer fun. The park features water-jet fountains, slides, a waterfall, water bucket drops and sprayers. Get your feet (or your whole body) wet without taking the plunge. Bonus: The park is adjacent to a mini-golf course. $5.50 for SplashPark, $4.50 for mini-golf, $8 for both, 18056 Central Park Circle, Boyds,

montgomeryparks.org/parks-and-trails/splashpark-mini-golf

EXPERIENCE A NEW CUISINE

With some of the most ethnically diverse cities and towns in the country located in Montgomery County, it’s no surprise that you can find just about any type of international cuisine here.

Chinese, Mexican, Indian, Cuban, Korean and Ethiopian are just a few of the options available.

Can’t make up your mind? Try a food hall, such as The Block in North Bethesda or The Spot or Pike Kitchen in Rockville. Each location offers collection of innovative Asian eateries all under one roof.

Various locations

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE ADVENTURE PARK AT SANDY SPRING

Buckle into a safety harnesses and make your way through obstacles such as rope ladders, suspended bridges and zip lines that range from 12 to 65 feet above the ground at The Adventure Park at Sandy Spring Friends School, a so-called aerial park offering 15 courses. $45-$56, 16701 Norwood Road, Sandy Spring, sandyspringadventurepark.org

Your Place

HEALTH & FITNESS

PRESCHOOL

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• Heated indoor & outdoor pools (open year round)

• Preschool for children 18 months-5 years

• Onsite swimming

• Virtual or in-person group exercise classes

• Various program options, 8:00 AM-5:30 PM

• Group size of 15 or fewer, including counselors

• New functional fitness area &

• Free family membership with full-day enrollment

• Sports, arts and technology options available

• Talented & dedicated staff

• Camp programming designed in strict compliance

dedicated outdoor fitness area

• Personal & small group training • Cardio & weight equipment • Racquetball & full-size basketball courts • Sports & swim classes

6125 Montrose Road | Rockville, MD 20852

• Open & welcoming environment • Outdoor classroom: fields, gardens, hills,

natural playscape, and more!

• Conveniently located in Rockville, near I-270

with Covid protocols

• Currently operating Covid Safe

virtual learning pods

• Packed with activities, friendship, ruach (spirit)

and adventure your child will love!

Visit benderjccgw.org to Find

Your Place

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A crowd enjoys a show at The Fillmore in Silver Spring.

music venues Whether you’re in the mood for jazz, classical or hip-hop, you don’t have to go far to hear great music BY MAURA MAHONEY

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE FILLMORE

AMP by Strathmore

AMP opened in March 2015 in Pike & Rose, a growing downtown area on Rockville Pike. Located a quick walk from the White Flint Metro, AMP hosts rock, blues, jazz, folk and R&B concerts, as well as live comedy shows. The club has about 250 seats in its 2,800-squarefoot concert space, but can accommodate up to 350 guests for standing shows. There’s also a sleek, modern space for private events—from weddings to corporate meetings—which features floor-to-ceiling windows that open up to Juliet balconies.

11810 Grand Park Ave., North Bethesda, 301-581-5100, www.ampbystrathmore.com

Bethesda Blues & Jazz Supper Club

The Bethesda Blues & Jazz Supper Club opened its doors in 2013 in the Bethesda Theater, a historic Art Deco movie palace on Wisconsin Avenue. With live entertainment several nights each week, the club features 300 seats for dinner and an additional 200 performance

seats, which go on sale when the dinner seats are sold out. Performances cover a wide variety of genres from blues and jazz to Motown, country, rock and comedy acts.

7719 Wisconsin Ave., Bethesda, 240-330-4500, www.bethesdabluesjazz.com

The Fillmore Silver Spring

The Fillmore opened in 2011 in downtown Silver Spring and quickly became one of the area’s most popular entertainment venues for live music and events. A spin-off of the legendary Fillmore in San Francisco, the hall recalls the original venue, with dark red velvet-covered walls decorated with rock posters and four crystal chandeliers hanging from 40-foot ceilings.

Performers range from rock and pop bands to R&B and hip-hop acts, and from electronic musicians to stand-up comedians.

8656 Colesville Road, Silver Spring, 301-960-9999, www.fillmoresilverspring.com

Strathmore

Strathmore provides multidisciplinary arts programming in The Mansion at Strathmore and The Music Center at Strathmore on its 15-acre site just north of the Capital Beltway in North Bethesda.

The Music Center, a 1,976-seat concert hall and education complex, opened in 2005. The venue presents 150 performances per year by major international folk, blues, pop, R&B, jazz, world and classical music and show tunes artists. Moreover, the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra presents several performances at the Music Center each year, and there are more than 75 music and art education classes each week.

5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda, 301-5815200 The Mansion consists of the 100-seat Dorothy M. and Maurice C. Shapiro Music Room, the Strathmore Tea Room, the Shop at Strathmore, the Gudelsky Concert Pavilion and Gazebo, and the first-floor galleries and Gudelsky Gallery Suite for Strathmore Fine Art. 10701 Rockville Pike, North Bethesda, 301-5815100, www.strathmore.org

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farmers markets

Whether you’re craving heirloom tomatoes, artisanal cheeses or you just want to stroll and browse, farm-fresh produce is never far away. Here’s a sampling of the markets in our area.

Bethesda Central Farm Market Open Sundays, 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

(January to February); open Sundays, 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (March-December).

7600 Arlington Road, Bethesda, bethesda.centralfarmmarkets.com

Derwood Farmers Market Open Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

(April 17 to Sept. 4, 2021).

16501 Redland Road, Rockville derwoodmarket.org

Forest Estates Farmers Market Open Saturdays, 9 a.m. to noon (May through November).

10000 Woodland Ave., Silver Spring (General Getty Park)

Casey Corner Farmers Market

Open Thursdays, 1 to 4 p.m. (year-round).

810 South Frederick Ave., Gaithersburg gaithersburgmd.gov/recreation/farmers-markets

Garrett Park Farmers Market

Kensington Farmers Market

Open Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. (year-round). Howard Avenue, Kensington (Kensington Train Station parking lot), explorekensington.com/farmers-market

Main Street Farmers and Artists Market

Open Saturdays, 9 a.m. to noon (year-round).

301 Main St., Gaithersburg (Kentlands Main Street Pavilion), gaithersburgmd.gov/recreation/farmersmarkets

Montgomery Farm Women’s Co-operative Market

Customers find everything from fresh soup to wooden cutting boards at the Bethesda Central Farm Market.

(June through October).

9801 Centerway Road, Montgomery Village (Christ the Servant Lutheran Church parking lot), mvfarmersmarket.com

(May through November).

Corner of Route 28 and Monroe Street, Rockville (Rockville Town Center), rockvillemd.gov/farmers

Olney Farmers & Artists Market

Shady Grove Farmers Market

Pike Central Farm Market

Silver Spring FRESHFARM Market

Open Sundays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. (year-round).

2801 Olney-Sandy Spring Road, Olney, olneyfarmersmarket.com

Inside market: Open Wednesdays and Fridays 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.

7155 Wisconsin Ave., Bethesda

Open Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

(Open April through November).

910 Rose Ave., North Bethesda, pike.centralfarmmarkets.com

Montgomery Village Farmers Market

Rockville Farmers Market

Open Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Open Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Open Wednesdays, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

(June through November).

Corner of Key West Avenue and Broschart Road, Rockville, milkladymarkets.org/shady-grove.html

Open Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

(January through March); open Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. (April to December).

Veterans Plaza, 1 Veterans Place, freshfarm.org

PHOTO BY DEB LINDSEY

Open Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. from April to November, except the Saturday after Thanksgiving; 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. January to March.

4600 Waverly Ave., Garrett Park garrettparkmd.gov

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Wheaton Regional Park is the home of Brookside Gardens, a 50-acre display garden that includes an indoor conservatory.

parks As the suburbs become more like cities, with dining, cultural and entertainment options close at hand, area residents can still enjoy the county’s parks. These are three of our favorites.

PHOTO BY DAVE GREBOWSKY

Cabin John Regional Park

Whether you want to take your toddler for a ride on a miniature train, glide around a full-service ice skating rink, or simply enjoy a picnic, the roughly 500-acre Cabin John Regional Park is a sure bet to fulfill your needs. The athletic area includes Shirley Povich Field, which seats 750 and is home to Bethesda Big Train baseball and the Georgetown University baseball team.

The other sports facilities include three lighted baseball fields, five softball fields (one lighted), four lighted tennis practice walls, nine lighted tennis courts, a peewee soccer field, four singlewall handball courts and one volleyball court.

The tennis center boasts six indoor tennis courts, and the skating rink is open year-round.

The many attractions include a dog park, a tai chi court, a campground and over 5 miles of hiking trails, playgrounds and picnic areas.

Locust Grove Nature Center, which offers educational programs for children and adults, is popular with families, as is the C.P. Huntington Miniature Train, which is available to carry visitors through the park during the season.

Hours: sunrise to sunset, year-round.

Please call or check website for permit information and availability, as well as for hours of the various facilities and features within the park.

7400 Tuckerman Lane, Bethesda, 301-495-2595, montgomeryparks.org

Rock Creek Regional Park/ Rock Creek Hiker-Biker Trail

Wheaton Regional Park

Visitors to Washington, D.C., are often struck by the magnificence of Rock Creek Park, a natural oasis that cuts through the city; but few may learn that, in fact, more than 70 percent of the creek is located in Maryland.

(The National Park Service maintains the parkland within the District, whereas the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission maintains it in Montgomery County.)

The Rock Creek Hiker-Biker Trail is an 18.6-mile hard-surface trail that starts in Rock Creek Regional Park in Derwood and continues along the stream valley all the way into Georgetown, where it meets the Potomac River. Rock Creek Regional Park is about 1,800 acres, and includes Lake Needwood and Lake Frank, where residents can fish and boat. There are playgrounds, a boat rental and snack bar, Meadowside Nature Center and lake tours on the Needwood Queen.

Hours: sunrise to sunset, year-round.

Please call or check website for permit information and operating hours of the facilities in the park.

6700 Needwood Road, Derwood, 301-948-5053, montgomeryparks.org

Like Cabin John Regional Park, Wheaton is a popular destination for residents and families who are looking to while away an afternoon. Board the C.P. Huntington Miniature Train or take a spin on the 1915 musical carousel, both of which operate weekends only in April and September and daily from May through August. Visitors can also fish at Pine Lake, play on the playground, or stretch their legs on 11 miles of hiking trails, biking and equestrian trails (4 miles of the park’s trails are hard-surfaced). Brookside Gardens, a 50-acre display garden, includes an indoor conservatory, and Brookside Nature Center provides educational activities and exhibits.

There are horse stables, which offer riding lessons and escorted trail rides; an ice rink; six outdoor tennis courts and six indoor ones; a covered sports field; four softball fields; two baseball fields; an outdoor basketball court; four handball courts; and a dog park.

Hours: sunrise to sunset, year-round.

Please call or check website for permit information and availability, as well as for hours of the various facilities and features within the park. Please note that there are three separate entrances into Wheaton Regional Park: 2000 Shorefield Road, Wheaton; 1800 Glenallen Ave., Wheaton; and 11717 Orebaugh Ave., Wheaton, 301-905-3045, montgomeryparks.org

For more information about county parks in the area, check out www.montgomeryparks.org

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run & jump

When the basement playroom just isn’t cutting it or you need to get the kids out of the house and the weather isn’t cooperating, these centers can provide hours of fun with options ranging from indoor playgrounds to music and dance classes.

BY MAURA MAHONEY

Busy Bees Busy Bees is an indoor playground catering to younger children—only those under 4 feet tall are allowed in. Its colorful space features large mobile setups, a balloon pit, swinging chairs and slides, and party rooms.

11 Wisconsin Circle, Bethesda, 240-396-6466, busybeeschevychase.com

school area with specially designed apparatus for children ages 5 and under. The gym offers classes for parent and child, preschoolers, kids ages 5-7 and 7-10, and tweens and teens (as well as adults). Check the website or call for open gym hours and regulations.

4956 Boiling Brook Parkway, Rockville, 301-770-2700, dynamitegc.com

Dynamite Gymnastics Center

Hill’s Gymnastics Training Center

Dynamite Gymnastics boasts a 15,000-squarefoot facility that features a designated pre-

Hill’s Gymnastics is run by Kelli Hill, who was inducted into the USA Gymnastics Hall of Fame

in 2005 and has trained Olympians including Dominique Dawes and Courtney Kupets.

Classes are available for toddlers through teens. Summer minicamps for preschoolers and kindergartners include tumbling and gymnastics activities, arts and crafts and games. Half- and full-day summer programs for children entering first through eighth grades include instruction on vaulting, uneven parallel bars, balance beam, floor exercise and trampoline.

7557 Lindbergh Drive, Gaithersburg, 301-840-5900, hillsgymnastics.com

PHOTO BY LAURA CHASE DE FORMIGNY

Playtime in the ball pit at Nook in Bethesda

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Kidville

Nook

Kidville offers a wide range of child development classes, including music, dance, gym, art and language, for babies through 6-year-olds. It also has a preschool alternative program, parent resources and a play space for members.

4825 Bethesda Ave., Bethesda, 301-656-5030, kidville.com

Nook is a 25,000-square-foot indoor play space designed for children ages 5 and under. It features a ball pit and play “nooks,” with different themes and toys, such as dress-up, train sets, toy cars and trucks, magnetic blocks and a play kitchen. There are also art tables with markers and playdough, plus a reading nook.

7025 Arlington Road, Bethesda, 240-512-2344, playatnook.com

Part of a chain, Sky Zone is an indoor trampoline park that features a variety of programs and attractions, including freestyle jumping and dodgeball. On Friday and Saturday nights, kids can enjoy a night out during Glow, an event available to ages 6 and older that tranforms Sky Zone using lasers, music and black light.

15813 Gaither Road, Gaithersburg, 202-792-8404, skyzone.com

Silver Stars Gymnastics

Zava Zone

My Gym My Gym’s classes incorporate music, dance, relays, games, gymnastics, sports and more, for children ages 6 weeks to 13 years. In addition to the weekly classes, My Gym offers camps, Parents’ Night Out and free play sessions.

5110 Ridgefield Road, Bethesda, 301-652-2820; Kentlands Market Square, 620 Center Point Way, Gaithersburg, 301-926-5969; Cabin John Village, 11325 Seven Locks Road, Potomac, 301-983-5300, mygym.com

Sky Zone

Silver Stars offers preschool and special-needs classes for children ages 18 months to 5 years, open gym hours and gymnastics classes for older children to teens. Kids’ Night Out is offered on select Saturdays.

2701 Pittman Drive, Silver Spring, 301-589-0938, gosilverstars.com

At Zava Zone, kids can jump on trampolines, challenge themselves on ninja warrior courses and play on ropes and giant slides. Attractions include a Warped Wall, Battle Beam, Parkour area and dodgeball. The indoor park offers something for all members of the family, even parents.

40 Southlawn Court, Rockville, 800-376-9282, zavazone.com

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things to do

get creative Young artists can learn a variety of skills during summer camps offered

by VisArts in Rockville.

BY REBECCA GALE

Washington, D.C., 202-362-3042, www.joyofmotion.org

914 Silver Spring Ave., Silver Spring, 301-588-2787, www.createartscenter.org

Maryland Youth Ballet

Montgomery County Recreation

This classical ballet studio in downtown S ​ ilver Spring offers dance classes​for young people ages 2 to 20​, as well as adults. Classes for younger children fill up quickly. The MYB Studio Company for young dancers between the ages of 15 and 20 helps bridge the gap between being a student and a professional. Dancers must audition or be invited to join.

Adult drop-in classes include Intro to Ballet, Floor Barre and Broadway Jazz; summer programs also are offered.

926 Ellsworth Drive, Silver Spring, 301-608-2232, www. marylandyouthballet.org

Ballet Petite

Artworks Fine Art Studio

When Whitman High School graduate Erin Johnson returned home after studying visual arts at Brown University, she recognized a need for art education in the area. Johnson opened Artworks, which offers art classes for ages 3 and older, 15 years ago in a historic home in downtown Bethesda. Teachers are trained in-house, and the focus is on classical drawing and painting, though the weeklong summer camps cover a variety of media, including clay and sculpture. Birthday parties also are available.

7740 Old Georgetown Road, Bethesda; 10020 Falls Road, Potomac, 301-656-0044, www.artworksclasses.com

Joy of Motion Dance Center

Joy of Motion opened in downtown Washington, D.C., over 40 years ago and has expanded to Bethesda and Friendship Heights. The studio offers a wide variety of dance classes for children beginning at age 2, including ballet, jazz, tap, hip-hop and modern. Students can audition for one of several youth dance companies or the award-winning Youth Dance Ensemble Program. Winter/spring classes culminate with a weekend recital in June.

Summer camps also are available, with full- or half-day programs, and several classes and workshops are offered for adults.

7315 Wisconsin Ave., Suite 180-E, Bethesda, 301-986-0016; 5207 Wisconsin Ave. NW,

Ballet Petite has offered creative ballet training for young children for two decades.

Founder Nancy Parenti developed “storydance” to allow kids ages 18 months to 6 years old to use their imagination while learning how to move. The studio also offers two performance companies and the Youth Performing Arts School. Hip-hop, lyrical, modern and adult dance classes are available, as well as camps and parties for kids.

Bethesda: Brookmont Church, 4000 Virginia Ave.; Pilgrim Lutheran Church, 5500 Mass Ave.; Little House at Westmoreland Hills Park, 5315 Elliott Road; Washington Episcopal School, 5600 Little Falls Parkway.

Potomac: Potomac United Methodist, 9908 S. Glen Road; Wayside Elementary, 10011 Glen Road; Geneva Day School, 11931 Seven Locks Road; Beth Shalom, 11825 Seven Locks Road.

Silver Spring: Evergreen Montessori School, 10700 Georgia Ave.; 301-229-6882, www. balletpetite.com

CREATE Arts Center

CREATE Arts Center’s mission is to bring art education and art therapy to the region while supporting underprivileged populations and those with special needs. CREATE offers art classes and parties for kids ages 2 to 16, offsite courses for at-risk youth, and art therapy for mentally ill adults and children. In addition to spring, summer and winter camp programs for kids ages 6 to 14, the center runs “No School Day” camps for students during scheduled school closings.

Montgomery County’s recreation department offers dozens of art classes for all ages, including painting, drawing, pottery and crafts.

Classes take place in community recreation centers throughout the county, though some are offered at public schools and private art studios.

Teachers are professional instructors who have a degree in their art specialty or extensive experience as an artist. Programming guides can be picked up at Montgomery County recreation facilities and public libraries, or viewed online.

Administrative office: 4010 Randolph Road, Silver Spring, 240-777-6840, www.montgomerycountymd.gov/rec

KID Museum

This innovative space provides hands-on learning that incorporates STEM, art and culture with creative and critical thinking skills. The museum serves 55,000 kids annually at its current home in the Davis Library in Bethesda. It also offers day and summer camps and monthly Cultural Days, which feature activities focused on a specific country. 6400 Democracy Blvd., Bethesda, 301897-5437, kid-museum.org

VisArts at Rockville

This nonprofit arts center, established in 1987, offers a variety of classes for adults and children, grades K-12, including ceramics, glass, painting, drawing, mosaics and mixed media. The Resident Artist Program attracts artists from the Washington, D.C., area, who may teach classes.

The summer camp at the VisArts studio features creative artistry programs such as woodworking, ceramics, mosaics and glass. Classes also are offered for special-needs students.

155 Gibbs St., Rockville, 301-315-8200, www.visartsatrockville.org

Culkin School of Traditional Irish Dance With four locations in the county, Sean Culkin and his team of teachers provide a series of Irish dancing programs for children and adults. Students have the choice of a yearlong commitment or a “Mini-Mester”—an introductory eight- to 10-week program. The figures program gives students the opportunity to dance in teams and compete locally, regionally and internationally. Hughes United Methodist Church, 10700 Georgia Ave., Silver Spring; Imagination Stage (Del Ray Studio), 4908 Auburn Ave., Bethesda; Rockville United Methodist Church, 112 W. Montgomery Ave., Rockville; Glen Echo/Annex, 7300 MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo Park; 301-593-9600, www.culkinschool.com

PHOTO BY VISARTS

Nine great places for budding artists or dancers

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the acting bug

Whether your child is a first-time theatergoer or an aspiring actor, these theaters provide performances and programs that capture the imagination BY MAURA MAHONEY Imagination Stage Nationally known, Imagination Stage is a multidisciplinary theater arts organization for young people that offers professional shows, afterschool programs and summer camps for children ages 3-18. The mission of Imagination Stage is to inspire creativity through theater and arts education programs that nurture, challenge and empower young people of all abilities. Imagination Stage reaches 110,000 children and families annually.

4908 Auburn Ave., Bethesda, 301-961-6060, imaginationstage.org

Adventure Theatre MTC and the ATMTC Academy Adventure Theatre (founded in 1951) and Musical Theater Center (founded in 1986) merged to form the Adventure Theatre Musical Theater

Center in 2012. The center reaches approximately 75,000 children, parents and teachers annually with award-winning stage adaptations of popular children’s literature, as well as classes, workshops, camps, student productions and a pre-professional program. Serving student actors of all skill levels and families from diverse communities, ATMTC aims to develop new generations of artists and inspire a lifelong love of theater. The theater in Glen Echo Park accommodates approximately 165 patrons with general seating.

7300 MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo, 301-634-2270; 837-D Rockville Pike (Wintergreen Plaza), Rockville, 301-251-5766, adventuretheatre-mtc.org

The Puppet Co. Playhouse at Glen Echo Park Using hand puppets, rod puppets, marionettes,

masks and costumed figures to stage both original stories and children’s classics, the Puppet Co. has been delighting its audiences since 1983. According to the Glen Echo Park website, The Puppet Co. Playhouse is “the only year-round theater between New York and Atlanta dedicated entirely to the art of puppetry.” Main Stage performances each have their own general age recommendation. Most are recommended for ages 3½ and older, although some are for 5 and older, depending on the length of the show (usually 45 minutes), amount and sophistication of dialogue, conflict level and perception of the villain, according to the theater’s website. Tiny Tots performances are designed for children ages 2 to 4.

7300 MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo, 301-634-5380, thepuppetco.org

Adventure Theatre MTC DC region’s pre-eminent musical theatre academy and nationally renowned family theatre PLAN YOUR VISIT! Visit our academy in Rockville or our theatre in Glen Echo.

From classes and educational programs for grades K–12 to exceptional professional shows, discover musical theatre with Adventure Theatre MTC!

Visit AdventureTheatreMTC.org for more information!

Box Office: 301.634.2270 | Academy: 301.251.5766 | info@atmtc.org

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things to do

play ball On any given weekend, the playing fields, rec centers and ice rinks of Montgomery County are filled with children, from preschoolers to teens. Their parents are there, too, toting spectator chairs, sunblock and extra water bottles. Here is a sampling of area sports organizations and leagues:

BASEBALL

Olney Boys and Girls Community Sports Association

SOCCER

301-229-2724, bccbaseball.com

301-570-3990, obgc.com/basketball

240-224-7363, bethesdasoccer.org

City of Gaithersburg Recreation Department

FOOTBALL

Bethesda-Chevy Chase Baseball

Germantown Football Association

301-258-6350, gaithersburgmd.gov/recreation/sports

leaguelineup.com/sgfa

Koa Sports

maplewoodfootball.org

301-229-7529, koasports.org/programs/baseball

Olney Boys and Girls Community Sports Association

Montgomery County Little League

301-570-3990, obgc.com/football

mclittleleague.org

Rockville Football League

Olney Boys and Girls Community Sports Association

rfl.cc

301-570-3990, obgc.com/baseball

Rockville Baseball Association of Montgomery County rbba.org

BASKETBALL

Maplewood Athletic Association

Bethesda Soccer Club

City of Gaithersburg Recreation Department 301-258-6350, gaithersburgmd.gov/recreation/sports

Montgomery Soccer Inc. (MSI) 301-762-4674, msisoccer.org

Olney Boys and Girls Community Sports Association 301-570-3990, obgc.com/soccer

silverspringsaints.website.siplay.com

Soccer Association of Montgomery

HOCKEY

301-528-1480, samsoccer.org

Silver Spring Saints

Montgomery Youth Hockey Association info@myha.org myha.org

SOFTBALL

City of Gaithersburg Recreation Department

City of Gaithersburg Recreation Department

LACROSSE

301-258-6350, gaithersburgmd.gov/recreation/sports

301-258-6350, gaithersburgmd.gov/recreation/sports

bethesdalacrosse.org

Montgomery Village Sports Association

City of Rockville Recreation Department 240-314-8620, rockvillemd.gov

Koa Sports 301-229-7529, koasports.org/basketball

Montgomery County Recreation Department

Bethesda Lacrosse Montgomery Village Sports Association mvsa.org/sports-we-offer/lacrosse

Olney Boys and Girls Community Sports Association 301-570-3990, obgc.com

Potomac Power potomacpowerlax.usl.la

240-777-6840, montgomerycountymd.gov/rec/thingstodo/ sports/youth_bball.html

mvsa.org/sports-we-offer/softball

Olney Boys and Girls Club Community Sports Association obgc.com/softball-1

VOLLEYBALL

City of Gaithersburg Recreation Department 301-258-6350, gaithersburgmd.gov/recreation/sports

Montgomery Village Sports Association mvsavbc.org

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5 favorite Playgrounds Here are our favorite spots for swinging, climbing, sliding and more.

BY STEPHANIE SIEGEL BURKE

Eye Spy Trains at Cabin John Regional Park

Cabin John Regional Park

PHOTO BY MARILYN STONE

A towering wood-carved totem pole greets visitors to the playground at Cabin John Regional Park. The expansive shady play area features equipment for both young children and older kids, including swings, tall and short slides and various climbing structures.

Little ones can “drive” a car, board a train or man a tractor, while big kids can whirl around a twirling maypole or climb a tower. There are also picnic tables and bathrooms at the playground and Cabin John’s miniature train is a short walk away.

7400 Tuckerman Lane, Bethesda

Wheaton Regional Park

Kids of all ages will find fun at the Adventure Playground at Wheaton Regional Park, which offers several unique features. Climbers can scale a wall, a huge mound and climbing nets, while thrill seekers can glide down three giant tube slides. In addition, there are swings and an area dedicated to younger children with a

sandbox and concrete animals. Take a ride on the carousel and miniature train nearby. The area also has picnic tables and bathrooms.

2000 Shorefield Road, Wheaton

South Germantown Recreational Park Towers, lookouts and swinging bridges await adventurous young princes and princesses at the South Germantown Recreational Park playground. The main attraction here is the castle play structure. There’s also a pirate ship with tunnels and slides, a climbing wall, a bike track and swings, including large disc swings that fit multiple children at once. You can find picnic tables and bathrooms here, too.

17920 Germantown Park Drive, Germantown

Hadley’s Playground Hadley’s Playground at Falls Road Local Park was designed to be accessible to children of all ages and abilities. Built with kids who use wheelchairs

or walkers in mind, the playground area is covered in a smooth rubbery surface so wheels can glide easily, and falls are cushioned. Three different play structures—a castle, a pirate ship and a frontier village—are all built with wheelchair accessible ramps. There is also a large pavilion with picnic tables.

12600 Falls Road, Potomac

Greenbriar Local Park

Two distinct areas make up the sunny playground at Greenbriar Local Park. An area for older kids features the towering Piedmont Play Fort structure, complete with a plank bridge, slides and rope ladders. The area also includes a tire swing and a mound covered in a bouncy surface material, perfect for climbing up and rolling down. The playground for younger children features Cap’n Crabby, a play structure designed to look like a fishing boat with a working periscope. A large pavilion with picnic tables sits between the two.

12525 Glen Road, Travilah

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picture show

A kayaker checks out the moon while paddling on the Potomac River near the Old Angler’s Inn on MacArthur Boulevard in Potomac.

The river is popular with kayakers of all skill levels.

PHOTO BY SKIP BROWN

FULL MOON RISING

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