Presenting a preview of upcoming dining spots in Silver Spring, MD:
Roaming Rooster, a homegrown restaurant chain boasting 11 locations across the DC Metro region, is gearing up to unveil its third establishment in Montgomery County. Nestled at 8537 Georgia Ave., this new spot will occupy the former site of Flip’d by IHOP. Following its closure on June 1st, 2023, Flip’d by IHOP, which debuted in September 2022, ceased operations as part of IHOP’s decision to shutter all Flip’d locations. Roaming Rooster already boasts presence in Montgomery County with thriving venues in Pike & Rose and Gaithersburg, specializing in a delectable array of fried chicken offerings, ranging from sandwiches and tenders to wings and beyond. Their full menu can be seen here.
A glimpse into Roaming Rooster’s ethos, as per its website: “In early 2015, Roaming Rooster emerged in Washington, D.C. through the vision of a family with a revolutionary concept. Their brainchild? A food truck dishing out guilt-free fried chicken crafted from free-range, grain-fed, and antibiotic-free poultry, served fresh daily. The word quickly spread on social media about the tantalizing poultry fare, sparking a surge in demand. This prompted Roaming Rooster’s evolution from a lone food truck to a fleet of three, and eventually, a string of brick-and-mortar establishments. The singular distinction of being D.C.’s sole purveyor of scrumptious free-range chicken has catapulted Roaming Rooster into culinary stardom. Requests for catering, private events, and scheduled food truck appearances have inundated us from D.C. and the neighboring Maryland and Virginia areas. The rapid rise of Roaming Rooster in under a year can be attributed to a simple truth – the source of your food matters, and we embody that philosophy in every meal we serve.”
Featured image courtesy of @TasteMoCo
Punta Cana Tropical Grill, a fresh addition to Silver Spring’s culinary landscape, is set to infuse a taste of the Dominican Republic into the vibrant community. Taking over the premises formerly occupied by Tropics Ice Cream & Jerk at 9324 Georgia Ave, this new establishment brings a dynamic “fast food Dominican style” concept to the forefront.
Following the recent closure of Tropics Ice Cream & Jerk, the swift arrival of Punta Cana Tropical Grill signifies a seamless transition. The decision to seize this opportunity was driven by the proprietor’s keen insight into the area’s bustling thoroughfare. “As soon as I learned of the vacancy, I knew it was the perfect spot! With its bustling traffic, I’m confident people will flock here to savor our offerings. Silver Spring boasts a diverse community with an avid appetite for Dominican cuisine,” the owner affirms.
Recognizing the challenges of securing quality fare on-the-go, the concept of a fast-food Dominican carryout emerged as a solution. With Silver Spring serving as the owner’s hometown, the decision to launch here is deeply rooted in a commitment to serve the local community. Anticipated to open its doors in Spring 2024, the restaurant promises to deliver a tantalizing array of Dominican delicacies with efficiency and flair. Stay tuned for further updates as Punta Cana Tropical Grill gears up for its grand unveiling.
Image courtesy of @PuntaCanaTropicalGrill on Instagram
Chido’s Tex Mex Grill is set to inject its vibrant flavors into the heart of Downtown Silver Spring, taking over the former location of The Eleanor at 931 Ellsworth Dr. This expansion marks another chapter in Chido’s journey, which began with its inaugural establishment in Owings Mill, transforming a former Don Pablo’s location that shuttered its doors in 2009. The Owings Mill location temporarily closed amidst the uncertainties of the pandemic in 2020, opting not to renew its lease.
Meanwhile, Chido’s flagship location at 14600 Laurel Pl. in Laurel has flourished since its inception in 2016, poised to celebrate its 8th anniversary this June. Renowned for its innovative take on Tex-Mex cuisine, Chido’s boasts a menu brimming with beloved classics infused with their distinctive twist.
Visitors to the Laurel venue are treated to not only a standard Tex-Mex fare but also a weekend brunch menu and an extensive selection of beverages. Embodying the essence of authentic Mexican dining, Chido’s prides itself on crafting delectable dishes and libations prepared fresh daily. The restaurant fosters a welcoming, family-friendly ambiance, ensuring guests feel right at home with every visit. With a commitment to culinary excellence and impeccable service, Chido’s Tex-Mex Grill promises an unforgettable dining experience for all who walk through its doors.
Taco Bell Cantina is set to make its debut later this month at 8662 Colesville Road, positioning itself adjacent to the Fillmore Silver Spring and directly across from Ellsworth Place. This eagerly anticipated addition will occupy the former premises of Pollo Campero, which bid farewell in late 2021.
With its eclectic mix of operating hours, Taco Bell Cantina offers a dynamic dining experience, often extending service into the late hours, typically from 7 am to 2 am (though specific hours may vary by location). Renowned for its energetic atmosphere and cutting-edge technological advancements such as kiosks and digital menu boards, the Cantina concept introduces an array of alcoholic beverages to complement its signature Taco Bell offerings.
Guests can expect a diverse selection of libations, including beers, wines, sangria, and Twisted Freezes, tailored to suit every palate. While the exact drink menu may vary from one location to another, each Taco Bell Cantina promises a fusion of familiar favorites and innovative twists, adding an extra layer of excitement to the traditional Taco Bell experience.
Outback Steakhouse is gearing up to unveil its third Montgomery County location this spring, nestled within the bustling hub of Ellsworth Place in Downtown Silver Spring. Occupying the former home of Not Your Average Joe’s at 8661 Colesville Rd, this Australian-themed casual dining chain is set to bring its signature flavors to the local dining scene.
While Outback Steakhouse boasts an international presence, its roots intertwine with the local community through one of its founders, Chris T. Sullivan. A distinguished alumnus of Blair High School, Sullivan’s ties to the area run deep. He spent his formative years attending Takoma Park Middle School before pursuing studies in business and economics at the University of Kentucky, graduating in 1972. Following his tenure as a restaurant manager at Steak & Ale, Sullivan, alongside his partners, laid the foundation for the first Outback location in 1988.
Under Sullivan’s guidance, Outback Steakhouse burgeoned into a global phenomenon, with over 900 restaurants spanning the globe. The chain’s success paved the way for the expansion of Sullivan’s portfolio to include esteemed brands like Carrabba’s and Bonefish, alongside various hospitality ventures. Notably, Sullivan has held pivotal roles such as CEO and president of OSI Restaurant Partners, the very entity he helped establish. Presently, he contributes his expertise as a board member at Bloomin’ Brands, perpetuating his legacy of culinary innovation and community engagement.
Image courtesy of Outback Steakhouse
