THE FOOD ISSUE
TAM MIE DISAYAWATHANA OF SISTERS THAI & FLO RE CAFÉ TYSONS
A Season to Savor
Food is more than sustenance; it is culture, artistry, and the thread that binds communities together. In this Food & Drink Issue, we’ve curated stories, flavors, and experiences that celebrate the season’s abundance and the visionaries who shape how we gather around the table.
Our journey begins at the farmers’ market, where the last flush of summer produce mingles with the first crisp signs of autumn. These markets remind us that food is most memorable when it connects us back to the land. Preparing gardens for colder months is part of this ritual, a reminder that each season asks us to both preserve and anticipate.
October is also rich in cultural meaning. We join our Jewish community in honoring the close of High Holidays, a time of reflection and renewal, and we proudly recognize Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrating the flavors and traditions that continue to shape our shared table.
These moments remind us that food is not only nourishment, it is heritage and memory.This issue also turns its gaze to the kitchens and places that bring us together. Erin Como shares her vibrant perspective on cooking, Wegmans tempts us with extraordinary cheeses, and The Grove Bar & Grill and Bar Angie elevate dining and cocktails.
A wave of new restaurants refreshes our scene, while local sweet shops remind us that no celebration is complete without something decadent. We also spotlight our Cover with the Sisters’ Group, whose hospitality embodies the way food and drink create belonging.
In these pages, you’ll find a celebration of flavor, craft, and community. Whether your joy comes from cooking at home, discovering a new restaurant, or savoring a glass raised among friends, may this season remind you of the richness found in both tradition and innovation. Here’s to savoring every bite, every sip, and every gathering—and honoring the cultures and celebrations that make October so meaningful.
KC COLE, PUBLISHER @POTOMACLIFESTYLEDC
October 2025
PUBLISHER
KC Cole | KC.Cole@CityLifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Anicia Juarez | Anicia.Juarez@CityLifestyle.com
EDITOR
Bianca Bain Villegas Bianca.BainVillegas@CityLifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Adam Taylor | Adam.Taylor@CityLifestyle.com
INTERNS
Hayley.Gottesman@CityLifestyle.com Jules.King@CityLifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Anicia Juarez, Marie Robey Wood, Debra Wallace, Hayley Gottesman, Jules King, Elizabeth McKinley
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Dr. Ceylon Mitchell of M3 Mitchell Media & Marketing, Kalorama Photography, John Rorapaugh
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
Proverbs 3:5-6
inside the issue
Sisters Thai, founded by Sumontita “Tammie” Disayawathana, has grown into a family of restaurants collectively known as Sisters Group. It has five locations: Old Town Fairfax, Merrifield’s Mosaic District, Old Town Alexandria, Cabin John, and Tysons.
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
On August 3rd, the RAMMYS awards presented by the Restaurant Association (RAMW) to honor excellence in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area’s restaurant and foodservice community. 1-3: The RAMMYS 2025 Winners 5: Lorena Reyes, 2025 RAMMYS Manager of the Year, Founding Farmers 6: The RAMMYS 2025 7: Food demonstrations at the RAMMYS 2025
Lesley A. Moss, Esq. Principal Licensed MD,DC,VA& FL
Steven H. Oram, Esq. Principal Licensed MD & DC
Twenty years ago, Lesley Moss and Steve Oram set forth on a path to build a uniquely different estate planning boutique law firm. The objective was to have a law firm dedicated to personal service which delivered high level technical expertise. With the help and support of many financial service professionals, insurance executives, and most importantly our clients, a law firm grew while maintaining the initial objectives. The law firm now proudly boasts four lawyers practicing in Maryland, Virginia, Florida, and the District of Columbia and routinely representing clients for their personal Estate Planning as well as Probate and Estate Administration.
business monthly
Judith A. Lese Breast Cancer Foundation At Kendra Scott
Bethesda Row
Oct 3-5th 2025 10am-8pm. Mention the Judith A. Lese Breast Cancer Foundation when shopping at Kendra Scott Bethesda Row October 3rd through 5th. Kendra Scott will donate 20% of the event sales to benefit the Judith A. Lese Breast Cancer Foundation. Don’t forget to mention the foundation for them to benefit! Ready, set, shop! Shop online promo code GIVEBACK-JIBZX
AROUND TOWN
& The Newest Flavors in the Area
ARTICLE BY ANICIA JUAREZ
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
October 2nd
WHEATON FARMERS MARKET
Evans Neighborhood Park, Wheaton, MD
Celebrate the harvest season at this bustling community market, held every Thursday in October from 3–7 PM. You'll find fresh local produce, artisan breads, baked goods, and small-batch jams, perfect for anyone who loves farm-to-table freshness. The relaxed, family-friendly vibe makes it a great spot to grab a snack, chat with local growers, and soak in the fall spirit. visitmontgomery.com/events
October 2nd
CLARKSBURG FARMERS MARKET
Clarksburg Yard, Clarksburg, MD
Don’t miss the final weeks of this charming suburban market, open Thursdays through October. Enjoy fresh vegetables, seasonal baked treats, and warm apple cider from
passionate local makers. It's a casual but curated experience where visitors can shop, dine, and mingle with vendors who know their harvests by heart. Bonus: Live acoustic sets and pop-up food stalls keep things festive. visitmontgomery.com/events
October 4th
TASTE OF BETHESDA
Bethesda Row, Bethesda, MD
Experience the best of Bethesda’s restaurant scene in a single afternoon. This open-air festival features tastings from more than 50 local eateries, covering everything from sushi to crepes. Live music on multiple stages and family activities round out the offerings. Get there early, it draws a crowd. bethesda.org
October 4th
POWHATAN’S FESTIVAL OF THE GRAPE
Historic Courthouse Green, Powhatan, VA
Just over two hours from Potomac, this award-winning festival features over 30
Virginia wineries, food trucks, live bands, and boutique shopping. Sip cabernets and chardonnays under the fall leaves while enjoying wood-fired pizza, barbecue, and sweet Southern desserts. It’s a day-long indulgence worth the drive, perfect for groups looking to toast the season with flair. www.powhatanwinefestival.com
October 5th
TAKOMA PARK STREET FESTIVAL
Carroll Avenue, Takoma Park, MD
This iconic street fair blends community charm with serious culinary delights. With over 185 booths, visitors can sample street eats from empanadas to Korean fried chicken. Multiple live music stages and a family zone make it fun for all ages. It’s walkable, vibrant, and packed with small-town energy in the best way. mainstreettakoma.org/festival
October 6th
SILVER SPRING ARTS & CRAFTS FALL FAIR
Veterans Plaza, Silver Spring, MD
This evening street fair turns downtown Silver Spring into a lively art and food mecca. Discover fall-inspired crafts and artisan goods while nibbling on gourmet donuts, empanadas, and international street food. With the plaza lit up and live music filling the air, it's a perfect after-work destination for casual foodies. eventbrite.com
October 7th
COCKTAILPRO – SPICED & STIRRED
National Harbor, MD
Join mixology lovers at this showdown where local bartenders compete to craft the best “spiced” fall cocktail. Guests sample each drink, cast their vote, and enjoy small bites along the way. Expect seasonal ingredients like cinnamon, cardamom, and apple shrub in every glass. nationalharbor.com/events
October 10th-12th
MOUNT VERNON FALL WINE FESTIVAL & SUNSET TOUR
Mount Vernon, VA
Held on the East Lawn of George Washington’s estate, this elegant festival pairs Virginia’s finest wines with breathtaking views of the Potomac River. Each evening ends with a candlelit tour of the mansion. Bring a picnic blanket and savor the sunset with a glass of Chardonnay in hand. mountvernon.org/winefest
October 11th
POTOMAC DAY 2025: ANNUAL COMMUNITY FESTIVAL
9812 Falls Road, Potomac, MD
The much-loved, community festival hosted by the Potomac Chamber of Commerce is a celebration which brings together residents, businesses, and families in a spirited day of Fall fun. Expect a lively parade, business fair booths, a classic car show, petting zoo, and kids’ festival with rides and games. Rain or shine, the event fosters community pride, enjoyment, and connection under Maryland’s crisp October skies.
October 11th-12th
VIRGINIA WINE & GARLIC FESTIVAL Amherst, VA
A deliciously unusual pairing, this fest celebrates the bold flavors of Virginia wine and farm-fresh garlic. Expect garlic ice cream, garlicky crab cakes, and robust reds to wash it all down. Add in live bluegrass, craft booths, and mountain views, and it’s a full-sensory weekend retreat. rebeccaswish.com/wineandgarlic
October 12th
OKTOBERFEST IN KENTLANDS
Bohrer Park, Gaithersburg, MD
Live oompah music, authentic bratwursts, soft pretzels, and locally brewed beer? Yes,
please. Oktoberfest at Bohrer Park is a can’t-miss fall staple. This free, family-friendly event also features mead tastings, cider vendors, and a huge crafts market. Plus, shuttle service from satellite lots makes it stress-free. gaithersburgmd.gov/oktoberfest
October 17th-19th
HARVEST FEST AT DROUMAVALLA FARMS WINERY Leesburg, VA
Celebrate the grape harvest with wine flights, autumnal charcuterie boards, and scenic strolls through the vineyard. Local artisans and food trucks round out the day, offering everything from lavender jams to harvest empanadas. It’s cozy, uncrowded, and perfect for a fall date or friend group outing. droumavalla.com
October 26th
HARBOR HALLOWEEN
National Harbor, MD
This family-friendly Halloween celebration blends spooky and sweet with trick-or-treating, a pet costume parade, live entertainment, and delicious fall-themed treats from local vendors. With waterfront views and festive energy, it’s a top pick for foodies and families alike. nationalharbor.com/events
THE GROVE BAR & GRILL
Savor the Season with the Areas
Newest Restaurants
Potomac and Potomac Village culinary landscape is becoming increasingly vibrant, with openings that range from cozy gastropubs to Mediterranean concepts and even a new bakery favorite.
DUKE’S GROCERY
A beloved D.C. gastropub made its debut in Potomac Village, taking over the former Lock 72/Tavern space. Known for its playful British charm, the restaurant boasts leather booths, a copper-top bar, and iconic dishes like burgers, oversized sandwiches, crispy fries, and white-truffle mac-and- cheese. Currently open for dinner, Duke’s plans to expand with happy hour, lunch, and weekend brunch.
THE LADY VINTNER CHARCUTERIE AND WINE BAR
Rockville’s chic new self-serve wine bar at 42 Maryland Avenue redefines the art of wine appreciation, blending heritage with a modern vibe. Sip, savor, and explore curated wines by the glass or bottle. Discover your perfect pour today!
Nestled in Cabin John Village, The Grove offers modern American cuisine in a family-friendly and stylish setting. A local mainstay, it provides everything from brunch and happy hour to weekend specials, live music, and private event services.
Readers’ Choice Winners
MYKONOS RESTAURANT
A fresh location of Rockville’s Greek staple, Mykonos, is set to open in Cabin John Village. Making its debut in June, this new spot showcases an open kitchen, a horseshoe-shaped indoor/outdoor bar, and imported interior details from Greece. The menu is robust with traditional and modern takes and flavors from the mediterranean.
GREGORIO’S TRATTORIA PARK POTOMAC
Gregorio’s Trattoria proudly opened its newest location at Park Potomac on September 9, 2025. With its inviting outdoor dining area, this fourth location joins others in Potomac (Cabin John Village), Bethesda (Sumner Place), and Reston (North Point Village), continuing the family-owned restaurant group’s tradition of excellence.
DOK KHAO
A Southern Thai concept opened in July at Chevy Chase Lake. The restaurant offers coffee, tea, desserts starting mid-morning, and authentic Thai dishes for lunch and dinner.
BETHESDA BAGELS (NEW LOCATION)
The Bethesda Bagels establishment is open at Cabin John Village at 7951-A Tuckerman Lane, and bringing their beloved bagels even closer to Potomac residents.
ELENA JAMES ALL DAY
A versatile, all-day café-restaurant at 8551 Connecticut Avenue, nestled within the Ritz-Carlton Residences. From breakfast and lunch counter service featuring pastries, soups, and sandwiches, to an elevated dinner experience with pastas, pizzas, duck wings, and inventive cocktails, the menu reflects playful, polished comfort food crafted by partners Colin McClimans and Danilo Simic. Open since December 2024.
CAVA MEZZE GROUP’S NEW CONCEPT
The founders of Cava Mezze have taken over the former Renato’s space in Potomac Place, introducing an Italian-inspired concept. This marks an exciting expansion of the best of Italian and Mediterranean flavors to the Potomac dining scene.
OSTERIA DIVINA
Also planned for the Chevy Chase Lake development, this traditional Italian-style eatery combines classic dishes with a modern Osteria style. It will feature a curated wine list, crafted cocktails, seafood, prime meats, and artisanal pasta. Coming soon!
BIRD SONG
A new modern Thai restaurant in Chevy Chase, D.C., opened in May under Chef Kitima Boonmala (known for her pop-up Toh Roong). The menu roams beyond the familiar, featuring specialties like spicy boat noodle soup, fried chicken khao soi, garlic-oil tossed sen lek noodles, and street food inspired dumplings, eschewing pad Thai for creative regional fare.
RAISING the Bar
How Sisters Group is Redefining D.C.’s Culinary Scene
Photo by Dr. Ceylon Mitchell, M3 Mitchell Media & Marketing
ARTICLE BY ELIZABETH MCKINLEY | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
In the dynamic world of Washington, D.C.’s food scene, some restaurants come and go, but a select few leave a lasting impact that reshapes the local culinary landscape. For over a decade, Sisters Thai, founded by Sumontita “Tammie” Disayawathana, has been one of those rare establishments. Starting in 2013 as a cozy, thoughtfully designed café in Old Town Fairfax, it has grown into a family of restaurants collectively known as Sisters Group. Today, with five vibrant locations—Old Town Fairfax, Merrifield’s Mosaic District, Old Town Alexandria, Cabin John, and Tysons—and the latest venture, Oasis: The Listening Bar, the brand remains both rooted in authenticity and ever-evolving.
Oasis, which opened recently in Arlington, is Tammie’s most daring project yet. Unlike other restaurant concepts, it is a multi-sensory experience—a cocktail lounge, a music haven, and an intimate dining spot all in one. Already receiving accolades from The Washington Post and Washingtonian, Oasis captures Tammie’s vision of creating spaces that evoke emotion. From curated playlists and acoustically rich interiors to a globally inspired menu, Oasis invites guests to relax, connect, and savor each moment fully.
Meanwhile, Sisters Thai remains at the core of the group’s identity. Led by Chef Prasert Limsumang, it delivers traditional Thai cuisine infused with modern flair. Known for consistency and warm hospitality, each location feels like a welcoming “living room café,” where every detail, from décor to service, tells a story. This dedication to authenticity has fostered a loyal clientele that values more than just the food, it’s about the experience.
CONTINUED >
OASIS
Earlier this year, FSR Magazine named Sisters Thai one of America’s Top 50 Independent Restaurants of 2025. Tammie was featured on the cover, celebrated for her inspiring journey from visionary founder to industry leader. Her unwavering commitment to independence, keeping the brand family-owned and operated, has preserved the personal touch, ensuring each location maintains its heart and quality without outside influence.
Innovation remains central to Sisters Group. Alongside Oasis, they’ve launched Flore Café at Tysons, offering a refined Thai-inspired afternoon tea with artisanal pastries and creative gelato flavors. Tammie describes Flore as “a celebration of the sweeter moments,” blending her signature design sensibility with culinary artistry.
For Tammie, success is about community and connection. Her journey proves that authenticity, passion, and integrity can thrive amid industry challenges. Twelve years on, Sisters Group is not just thriving, they are shaping the rhythm of D.C.’s dining scene, with Oasis leading the charge into new territory.
Escape to Oasis in Arlington, VA, where vibrant flavors and a stylish atmosphere come together. Whether you’re here to enjoy craft cocktails, share mezze with friends, or savor a leisurely brunch, Oasis offers something for every occasion. With warm hospitality and a lively setting, it’s the perfect destination to relax, connect, and indulge.”
Photo by Dr. Ceylon Mitchell, M3 Mitchell Media & Marketing
Cooking With Como
Home-cooking Charm Meets Chef Interviews, Recipes, Lifestyle Stories, and More
Erin Como invites you into her home kitchen with “What’s Cooking with Como,” a delicious blend of laid-back cooking, engaging chef conversations, local travel and lifestyle tips, and tasty restaurant recommendations. She brings authentic, accessible recipes to life with warmth and authenticity, echoing the joy of family Sunday dinners. Her platform welcomes all people to experience the love of food and connection.
Erin Como gained Emmy nomination recognition as a journalist and food and lifestyle content creator through her kitchen-based content that attracted many fans. Her brand, Cooking with Como, inspires viewers and listeners alike with easy-to-follow recipes, chef collabs, and lively conversations over a shared meal.
Each episode of her podcast and video series unfolds like a friendly dinner around the table. From top chefs and entrepreneurs to media personalities, guests join Erin in her home kitchen to cook together, swap stories, and serve up memorable moments, with recipes included on What's Cooking With Como. You can watch the show on YouTube and stream it on your favorite podcast platforms. Throughout her career, she has interviewed and cooked alongside numerous celebrity chefs. Erin learned the art of steak preparation from Wolfgang Puck and picked up a variety of techniques from Carla Hall. Gordon Ramsay’s energetic advice left a lasting impression, while her conversation with José Andrés explored international flavors. She’s also learned about bold, innovative dishes with Tobias Dorzon. Even radio and TV personality Joe Clair has pulled up a stool for Erin’s signature
ARTICLE BY ELIZABETH MCKINLEY PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
blend of food and banter on her "What's Cooking With Como" series in her home kitchen.
The comfort Erin creates reaches further than her famous features because she welcomes both Michelin-starred chefs and home cooks with equal hospitality. Audiences watch the show for more than just recipes because they enjoy the genuine, unedited moments when the hosts share laughter about accidents in the kitchen or spontaneous stories about their past or taste-testing experiences that bring back memories.
Her recipes are approachable yet inspired, from weeknight pastas to crowd-pleasing appetizers. The show includes segments about local lifestyle, travel, and restaurant highlights, which provides viewers with more than just instructions because it shows them the essence of the place and community.
Erin believes food is a universal language. “Cooking together breaks down walls,” she says. “It’s about joy, creativity, and the people you share it with.” Through What’s Cooking with Como, Erin invites us all into that conversation, one delicious episode at a time.
Erin Como and Gordon Ramsay
Q&A:
1. What’s your go-to “I only have 15 minutes” dinner?
Eggs and noodles- It's the first dish I learned how to cook when I was 10 years old- it's my great grandma's recipe- it's like a carbonara for kids. Here's the recipe!
Cook Linguine al dente. In a frying pan add olive oil, some minced garlic, and the pasta, add 3 eggs and scramble the eggs into the pasta- add salt, pepper, parmesan cheese and top with crushed red pepper- easy and delicious!
2. If your kitchen had a theme song, what would it be? Fly Me To The Moon- Frank Sinatra
3. What’s the most “oops” cooking moment you’ve had on camera or off?
Once I knocked a full glass of champagne over on live TV, but my personal "oops" moment- I over cooked chicken parm during a dinner party I was hosting because I didn't time the dishes correctly- lesson learned! Luckily, I always cook too much and we had plenty of homemade fettuccine, meatballs, and other apps and sides!
4. Choose between pasta, tacos, and dessert for your entire existence. Pasta!
5. Which ingredient would you smuggle onto a deserted island? Parmesan cheese.
Erin Como and Wolfgang Puck
Erin Como
The Grove Bar & Grill
A LOCALLY-OWNED RESTAURANT THAT AIMS TO PLEASE
ARTICLE BY MARIE ROBEY WOOD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN RORAPAUGH
The owners and staff of The Grove believe in listening to their customers – and listen they did when designing their restaurant.
Located at 7747 Tuckerman Lane in the Cabin John Village shopping center, its unique exterior façade is a hard-to-miss lush artificial green wall.
According to Managing Partner Andrew Kreisberg, “We want to be a restaurant focused on Potomac and surrounding areas, a place where you can bring friends and family for a casual dinner or a special corporate or family celebration.” Besides Kreisberg its partners include Larry Walston and Chad Sparrow, who is also the Grove’s executive chef.
According to Sparrow, they keep adjusting their selections as they listen to their clientele’s feedback. This has resulted in a unique array of offerings including:
Happy Hour seven days a week which offers beer and cocktails and special happy hour “bites” such as wings, fried chicken sliders and steak and cheese eggrolls. Make sure to try out the Potomac Lifestyle Cocktail, which is served here.
Special days throughout the week: Monday is Kids Eat Free – By purchasing one adult entrée customers can get up to two
complimentary kids’ meals, (children 12 and under, dine-in only). Tini Tuesdays means enjoying classic house gin or vodka martinis for just $6. Wednesday offers diners a tender, house-roasted prime rib, weighing 10 ounces or 15 ounces - from 5 pm until closing. Thursday’s happy hours extend from 5 to 8 pm (other weekday happy hours run from 3 to 6, and weekends from 3 to 5), while local musicians such as Jay Byrd entertain customers. Saturday and Sunday – and holidays — are brunch days. From 11 am to 3 pm diners can enjoy bottomless mimosas and chicken and waffles, with Belgian waffles drizzled with hot honey. Everything is made from scratch! There is even a mini brunch menu for the kids.
Of course, the centerpiece of any eating establishment is its food and the Grove has some real crowd-pleasers. This writer was treated to their mouth-watering burger which includes a burger sitting on lettuce, white cheddar and smoked aioli, tucked inside a brioche bun. And don’t forget the Grove’s famous ferris wheel fries where individual flavors include classic, old bay, and salt-n-vinegar. The Grove also offers vegetarian options.
Hosting something special? The Grove offers a private seating area facing a decorated space and customizable catering. Mel Woodham CONTINUED >
Managing Partners Andrew Kreisberg, Larry Walston & Chad Sparrow
Home of The Must Try Potomac Lifestyle Cocktail!
is the Grove’s private events manager who works closely with corporations or individuals planning a unique event. The Grove has hosted everything from baby showers, special birthday parties and receptions, to company holiday parties. A special event for the Real Housewives of Potomac took place here and a fashion show is planned for Fall.
Besides eating in the dining room customers can order take out or delivery. Contact info@thegrovemd.com or call 240-386-8369 for more information.
MarieRobeyWood
- Author, Journalist , Writer
About Marie Robey Wood:
Marie Robey Wood is a 7th generation Washingtonian who grew up in Kensington, Maryland. Marie and her husband Bill raised their four children in the Bethesda/Chevy Chase area. Marie has been a contributing writer for Potomac Lifestyle for five years. Prior to that she has worked as a speechwriter for the government, as a freelance writer, and as the executive director for the Yellow Ribbon Fund. She is active in Blessed Sacrament Church DC, in the Capital Speakers Club, and in three book clubs. She enjoys traveling, caring for her beloved golden doodle Holly, and going on adventures with her two grandchildren: George, ten, and Helen, eight.
BarAngie
ARTICLE BY ELIZABETH MCKINLEY
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Where New York Eatery Meets European Elegance
The vibrant restaurant group behind Dupont Circle’s beloved Greek restaurant Balos is thrilled to announce the opening of its latest culinary venture, Bar Angie.
This chic day-to-night bistro draws inspiration from classic New York eateries while infusing a touch of European elegance, promising to be a new go-to destination for unforgettable dining experiences.
Conceived by native New Yorkers Stefanos Vouvoudakis, Tom Tsiplakos, and Joe Ragonese, Bar Angie serves a diverse menu rich with hearty, classic bistro favorites. Guests can indulge in dishes like the decadent Wagyu French Dip, little neck pasta, and the creatively reimagined Caesar Salad with Fried Cream
Cheese Croutons. The highlight is the Angie Chop Martini—a tender, buttery pork chop crowned with flavorful toppings, embodying the spirit of indulgence.
At its heart, Bar Angie is a martini bar, showcasing an array of expertly crafted martinis, including the signature Angie’s Dirty Duo, along with an exclusive selection of espresso martinis from For Five Coffee Roasters. Each cocktail is thoughtfully designed to pair with the menu, enhancing both the dining and social experience.
With live music several nights a week, particularly jazz, Bar Angie aims to transport guests to the lively Parisian jazz clubs of today, creating an atmosphere of sophistication and fun. The soundtrack, combined with the hum of conversation and clink of martini glasses, sets the tone for evenings that feel both celebratory and intimate.
“Angie is all of us,” says Vouvoudakis. “She embodies the joy of savoring exquisite food and drinks, whether it’s a leisurely brunch or an evening with friends over martinis.”
From the welcoming brunch service to its latenight energy, Bar Angie offers an experience that evolves with the day. The interiors balance sleek, modern design with warm, intimate touches— think soft lighting, rich textures, and a lively bar that grows more electric as the evening progresses. A European-leaning wine list and rotating seasonal specials keep the menu dynamic, while approachable yet refined service makes it equally suited for casual lunches or celebratory nights out. With bold flavors, vibrant spirit, and a commitment to hospitality, Bar Angie is poised to become a true neighborhood staple in Washington, D.C.
DAVID DAVID BULITT BULITT
FASHION
SWEET IS
So Good
Sweet Findings in the DC Area
ARTICLE BY MARIE ROBEY WOOD
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
From boutique candy stores to cozy donut pop-ups to charming pastry shops, the metro area has something to satisfy every kind of sweet tooth!
Nothing Bundt Cakes
“A party without cake is just a meeting.” – Julia Child
After working twenty years in the corporate world, Verelyn Gibbs Watson fell in “love at first bite” with Nothing Bundt Cakes, leading her to open the brand’s first location in the DC metro area in 2016. The bakery caught on and Gibbs Watson now runs Nothing Bundt Cakes at four locations: Gaithersburg, Bethesda, Germantown and Rockville.
Known for their moistness and signature cream cheese frosting, each of her cakes come in the easy-to-recognize bundt shape. The cakes’ ten core flavors include red velvet, chocolate chocolate chip and white chocolate raspberry, plus seasonable flavors such a lemon raspberry or pumpkin spice.
Customers can choose from different size cakes – 8-inches or 10 inches, tiered options, and even individualized-sized cakes – bundtlets - and bite-sized – bundtinis.
Gibbs Watson believes strongly in supporting the community that includes career partnerships for individuals of differing abilities and opportunities for returning citizens, and giving back through donations and special events to schools and non-profits.
Being active in the community also involves board service. She is currently Chair of The Greater Bethesda Chamber of Commerce and a board member of The Upcounty Hub.
Services at Nothing Bundt Cakes include delivery, pickup, as well as corporate catering and custom gifting.
For information go to https://www.nothingbundtcakes.com.
Images Courtesy of Nothing Bundt Cakes
Owner Verelyn GibbsWatson
Chouquette Chocolates
Owner Sarah Dwyer
“Nine out of ten people like chocolate. The tenth person always lies.” – John Q. Tullius
Sarah Dwyer, owner of Chouquette Chocolates in Gaithersburg, is a perfect example of someone who followed her dream to live a bigger life. After working in finance for many years she moved to France IN 2009 and studied at the Le Cordon Bleu Pastry School in Paris. Inspired by European techniques and modern designs she was able to open Chouquette Chocolates in 2010.
Bradley Food and Beverage Store in Bethesda was the first to carry the chocolates, helping her get established in the area. Fifteen years later she a successful business where 2,000 retail stores carry her products, including shops in the U.S. Senate and the White House Historical Preservation Museum.
Dwyer’s love of chocolate started when she was young and would squish a bunch of Whitman chocolates together trying to find the caramel. Today the most popular chocolate she sells is the salted caramels. Dwyer’s chocolates are handcrafted with real ingredients. There are 16 other mouth-watering flavors are available, including a nod to Maryland – Old Bay!
Many of Chouquette's flavors are inspired by Dwyer’s love of travel – the lavender fields of France resulted in a delicious lemon-lavender caramel that brings her back to her visit to that spot.
Dwyer can design custom chocolates for weddings, anniversaries, high school and college graduations, even for memorial services. Her chocolates make sweet housewarming gifts, and themes range from the DC monuments to the Maryland flag and the cherry blossom festival.
Dwyer shares her love of chocolates by holding chocolate-making classes as well as open houses, including a chocolate party on November 14th in her Gaithersburg store where people can make some treats and pick up chocolates to bring home.
The ingredients are Fair Trade and Rainforest Alliance Certified Chocolate, gluten-free, soy-free, GMO free, with no corn syrup. They also employ individuals with differing abilities from Cornerstone and Sunflower Bakery. This policy, according to Dwyer, “is not a charity, it’s smart business”
Chouquette Chocolates is located at 7621 Rickenbacker Dr. Suite 500, Gaithersburg, MD 20879 | (301) 651-4442 | www.chouquette.us.
Donisima
“You can’t buy happiness but you can buy donuts – and that’s kind of the same thing.” - Anonymous
Step inside Donisima at The Square, located at 1850 K Street in downtown DC, and you’ll quickly realize that this is not your typical donut shop – it’s a modern pastry shop that takes the classic American donut and adds Latin flavors, culture, and history.
Founded during the pandemic by chef Miguel Guerra Jr., and his father, Miguel Guerra Sr., Donisima traces its roots to Medellin, Columbia, where the two first began crafting doughnuts using a slow-fermented brioche dough and boldly flavored fillings from native ingredients.
Favorite donut flavors include guava and cheese (the most popular), chocolate and hazelnut, and tropical flavors of mango and passion fruit. One unique donut comes from a popular Columbian desert called Arequipe, consisting of a sweet, caramelized milk- based filling. Seasonal flavors include an all-corn donut in the summer and, at the end of August, a piña colada donut.
Custom donuts can be ordered in advance for such celebrations as Mother’s Day and Valentine’s Day, graduations, and even weddings. For a special wedding treat Guerra will design donuts that match the wedding cake from photos that customers send him in advance. Football fans can order batches of donuts designed with their favorite team’s logos.
Customers need to go to Donisima’s web site – https://www.donisima.com – to order their choices and to arrange for pick-up or delivery.
Chef MiguelGuerra, Jr.
AS A WASHINGTONIAN TOP DENTIST AND THE FACE OF SMILE MAKEOVER,
Smiles of Chevy Chase is known for redefining the dental experience by blending advanced technology, personalized care, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Receive all your dental needs in one location with a team you can trust!
Located in the heart of Chevy Chase, our premier office is designed to provide a luxurious and comfortable environment where your oral health is our top priority. From general dentistry to cosmetic transformations, state-ofthe-art implant surgery, and expertise in sedation dentistry, we combine artistry and precision to create beautiful, healthy smiles that radiate confidence. Whether you’re here for a routine check-up, fillings, whitening, crowns, veneers, extractions, implants, Invisalign, laser-therapy for periodontal disease and Botox for TMJ discomfort, you’ll experience the perfect harmony of cutting-edge techniques, advanced technology, and compassionate care.
FAMILY-OWNED WEGMANS PROVIDES EXEMPLARY PRODUCTS AND CUSTOMER SERVICE
Let’s Talk Cheese
ARTICLE BY DEBRA WALLACE | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY WEGMANS FOOD MARKETS
THE CORE FOCUS OF MODERN ZEN LIES IN THE INTRICATE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN TEETH STRAIGHTENING AND AIRWAY HEALTH
As a second-generation orthodontist, Dr. Robles brings a unique blend of advanced cutting edge orthodontic expertise and holistic healing modalities to her practice. Her certifications in Reiki, Access Bars Consciousness, and Reconnective Healing underscore her commitment to enhancing both the outer and inner beauty of her patients.
Modern Zen Orthodontics delivers a one-of-a-kind experience where cutting-edge treatment meets a tranquil environment. Dr. Elizabeth Robles
prioritizes airway health as the foundation for overall well-being. She leverages innovative technology and techniques to help children, teenagers, and adults achieve optimal breathing and beautiful, functional smiles.
explained Cathy Gaffney, Wegman’s Vice President of Cheese and Deli, who has been with the company for 32 years.
The goal was to figure out how to bring these products across the pond and put them in the ideal environment where they could be successfully finished to the perfect level of ripeness. So, they built cheese caves in Rochester, with the help of a 25-member team.
The new cheese caves were opened in 2014. A short time later, 32-year Wegmans veteran, Mike Riley, became Wegmans’ Category Merchant, Olde World Cheese.
“Besides developing perfectly ripened cheeses,” Riley says, “we discovered that we could start making our own varieties, which resulted in many unique products (including brie and goat cheese) that you can only find at Wegmans.”
It took a couple of years to get the Wegmans’ supplier partners to understand what the company was trying to build, so they could work together on “the ripeness curve."
It was important that these partners know that the key to the success of this massive cheese endeavor, “was to understand what we were trying to do and develop, and to have them produce, package, and ship a product on a specific day every time, so we could finish that recipe here in the caves,” says Gaffney.
“Creating superior cheese products is a lot about partnerships,” Gaffney adds, “because we know that you're going to get a completely different experience with the level of quality that we're bringing to you.”
She adds that, “it doesn't matter whether we're selling a French Brie for brunch or Italian cheeses to prepare Sunday dinner. They're all very passionate, knowledgeable about what they're sharing. We want our folks in the stores to stay passionate and knowledgeable about the products they are sharing with our customers.”
Another important aspect of the extensive cheese process is a certification program for the Wegman teams to learn more
about the Italian Parmesan, which at its centerpiece is the proper “cracking” of the Parmesan wheel.
The wheels come in 80-pound pieces, and Riley says that since most customers prefer smaller chunks, “we literally crack the wheel, negotiate it instead of cutting it – and listen for the crunch – in the most minimally invasive way.”
“We feel that cheese evokes a good feeling; it can be an appetizer, in a charcuterie board, part of the main meal, or the centerpiece of lunch or dinner,” he adds. “Our mission statement is to bring to our customers the best cheeses from around the world.”
“One of the things we strive to do is to make great meals easier with non-cooking offerings. And that's something the Wegmans family has always asked us to do,” says Riley.
“I'm in the business of helping people, and in doing so, helping the stores carry that forward to people,” he adds. “So, my job is to go all around the world to find the best cheese possible and to understand local, national, and international trends, and try to bring those experiences back to our customers.”
Wegmans is a values-based family company that was founded by brothers Walter and John Wegman in Rochester, New York. In 1950, Robert Wegman (the second generation) became chairman until he died in 2006.
Today, Danny Wegman (third generation) serves as chairman, and Danny’s daughter, Colleen Wegman (fourth generation), is president and CEO, and his daughter, Nicole Wegman (fourth generation), is president of the Wegmans Brand.
“Everyone involved is dedicated to providing high-quality products and exemplary customer service,” says Riley, “in the same way as the previous generations.”
For more information, go to: Website: https://www.wegmans.com Address: 1590 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD. 20852
Cheese Caves Link: wegmans.com/cheese-caves
Ize’s Deli & Bagelry: Challah Bagel
HAYLEY
Eat Like a Local
MY TOP FIVE PICKS
Ize’s Deli & Bagelry has an influx of different bagels options ranging from French Toast to Everything to Jalapeno. Expect stacked breakfast sandwiches, hearty deli classics, and a warm, no-nonsense vibe.
Coffee Maman: Iced Americano
With its blue-and-white French country charm, maman feels like a cozy escape. The coffee is smooth, strong, and everything looks (and tastes) like it belongs on your Instagram feed.
Andy’s Pizza : Cheese Pizza Marble Slab Creamery: Cake Batter with Brownie Bites & Sprinkles
Andy’s Pizza is a DMV staple serving pizza by the slice as well as individual pies. The foldable, perfectly-burnt crust, sweet sauce, sitting area to sit and dine makes for the quintessential pizza experience.
Summer House Santa Monica: Chocolate Chip Cookie
With an adorable cookie bar set up, Summer House Santa Monica’s sweet treats have become a cult favorite. Oversized, cakey, and freshly baked, you can’t beat their chocolate chip cookie.
At Marble Slab you can customize your melty, delectable ice cream with mix-ins such as brownie bits, sprinkles, and candies. A nostalgic, colorful, and welcoming atmosphere only enhanced with their perfect playlist.
Grace Street Coffee Roasters: Cold Brew with Oat Milk
Known for its smooth cold brew and expertly crafted espresso drinks, Grace Street Coffee Roasters is a quiet oasis ideal for anyone seeking a minimalist coffee experience. Something as simple as a cold brew with milk is a delicacy.
Sarah’s Handmade Ice Cream: Lemon Poppyseed Shortbread & Oreo Lover
A local gem known for its nostalgic charm and rotating selection of house-made flavors, Sarah’s Handmade Ice Cream is the kind of spot where everyone finds a favorite. You could enjoy a classic scoop or a seasonal surprise with a buttery lemon shortbread on the side.
&Pizza: Lil Roni Pizza
Bethesda Bagels: Bacon, Egg & Cheese on Whole Wheat
Bethesda Bagels brings New York-style bagels to the DMV with all the flavors you could dream of. From bacon-egg-andcheese to lox and schmear, they’ve got your breakfast (and lunch) cravings covered.
With its oval-shaped pies and bold branding, &pizza always hits the spot. Whether you’re building your own or going for a fun crafted pie, this place is funky and exactly what you need after a long day.
The Baked Bear: Chocolate Chip Cookie
At The Baked Bear, dessert is customizable and over the top, in the best way. Pick a cookie (or brownie), ice cream, and toppings and walk away with a warm, cold, gooey masterpiece.
Hayley Gottesman
BRINGING YOUR HOUSEPLANTS INDOORS
ARTICLE BY ELIZABETH MCKINLEY
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
FROM TROPICAL PARADISE TO THE CONDITIONED INDOORS, GOOD EARTH GUIDES YOU THROUGH WINTERIZING YOUR PLANTS
You know that the Maryland summers are hot and humid, and while we want to dive indoors to the perfect 70 degrees, houseplants are yearning for the outside. Hot, sweaty, and humid is what they would keep their AC to, replicating the natural habitats of rainforests, bogs, and tropical paradises. Putting your houseplants in shady areas outdoors helps promote growth over the summer, but inevitably they will have to return inside. There are steps to ensure a smooth transition; spraying for bugs, lower light acclimation, and readjusting your watering schedule. The Good Earth experts, right here in Potomac, can help walk you through that!
01
BUGS STAY OUTSIDE
THE START OF COLD NIGHTS
Since houseplants are tropical, they thrive year-round outside in areas like Florida, but here in Maryland, we experience all of the seasons. Our nights can drop to 55 degrees, which means they can be damaged by the cold or frost. We start seeing colder temps in early October, so when the nights begin to get into the 50’s, it is time to plan hibernation.
Let’s do a wellness check, first. Bugs exist outside, and unfortunately anything in their territory is fair game. Fear not! We have products that are both for treatments and preventatives. We recommend spraying your plant with Neem Oil, or using Bonide Systemic Granules to make your plant unappetizing for bugs. Be sure to let your plants dry out adequately to prevent pesky fungus gnats.
03
DON’T BE SHOCKED ABOUT LIGHT
02
REDUCE YOUR WATERING
Plants go through dormancy, and bringing them indoors for the winter time initiates that. With less heat and light, their watering schedule will stretch longer. Also, you can take time off from fertilizing, and begin again in late winter or early spring, prepping them for their journey back to the wonderful humid outdoors next summer!
The humid outside is every houseplant’s ideal place, but of course our homes have walls and low light corners. Before hauling them in, let the plants adapt to shadier spots. First, bring them closer to the house, wait a few days, then place them in the brightest room of your home. Let them acclimate for a week, and then situate them in their indoor spot.
04
Handcrafted by Josef Brunner, our new Italian-style salami blends old-world tradition with artisanal excellence. Each flavor—Mild, Fennel, Calabrian Pepper, and Hot—is aged for a minimum of 12 weeks until it reaches peak flavor. Your new Rockville store has these exceptional salamis, delicious cheese pairings and everything else you need for effortless fall entertaining.
