Moby Dick, the well-known Persian kabob chain, has officially confirmed its inclusion in the Kensington Shopping Center, joining other popular establishments such as Five Guys, Chipotle, Java Nation, and more. The new location will be situated at 4233D Howard Ave, taking over the space currently occupied by the Tumbleweed pop-up.
Notably, Moby Dick has been expanding its presence, recently opening its 26th restaurant overall and the 7th in Montgomery County, specifically in North Bethesda. This latest addition aligns with the chain’s commitment to growth, as it has also committed to becoming a part of the redeveloped Burtonsville Crossing shopping center.
Founded by Mike Daryoush, who emigrated from Iran in 1975, Moby Dick had humble beginnings as a small sandwich shop in Bethesda, Maryland, established in 1987. Initially offering a limited Middle Eastern menu, Daryoush transitioned to a Persian menu in 1989 and introduced a clay oven. The restaurant’s name pays homage to one of the prominent kabob joints in Tehran, located near the American Embassy during the Shah’s era, known as Moby Dick due to the owner’s fondness for the book. Unfortunately, Mike Daryoush passed away on May 9, 2019, shortly after celebrating the chain’s 30th anniversary. Despite this loss, Moby Dick continues to thrive and expand, carrying forward the legacy established by its founder.
“The Moby Dick House of Kabob story is not unlike many other great ‘realize the American dream’ stories: have an idea, work hard to make it happen, create value for others, and your idea matures into a successful venture. Through it all, Moby Dick continues to be unyielding in the belief of “never cutting corners.” This is the inspiration behind the kabobs, gyros, falafel, baklava, and our other food items with the character that you love and crave.”
Featured image courtesy of @MobyDickKabob
