Tom Sietsema, the longstanding food critic of The Washington Post, has been sharing his culinary insights for nearly a quarter-century. In his latest dining guide, “26 Best New Restaurants in the DC Area“, he celebrates not only what’s fresh but also what’s truly worth your time and money. Among the four Maryland restaurants that earned a spot on his list, three hail from Montgomery County.
One standout is My Kabul, an Afghan restaurant nestled in Laurel, Maryland. Family-owned and deeply steeped in Afghan heritage, it promises to transport diners with authentic flavors and the enticing aromas of Afghanistan. Their story resonates with the resilience of newly arrived Afghan refugees.
Aventino, situated in Bethesda, boasts a lively ambiance and serves up traditional Roman fare curated by Chef Mike Friedman, a resident of Olney. From tantalizing antipasti to sumptuous pasta dishes, complemented by classic cocktails such as spritzes and negronis, Aventino offers a warm welcome to its guests.
In Takoma Park, Cielo Rojo has recently relocated and reopened its doors. Drawing inspiration from California, this eatery serves up a delightful fusion of traditional Mexican cuisine, featuring an array of tacos, enchiladas, quesadillas, and an assortment of small and large plates.
Owners David Perez and Carolina McCandless first met in 2012 at Gracias Madre, a vegan Mexican restaurant in San Francisco. McCandless has ties to the area, as she’s from Takoma Park and her parents own nearby Amano. Cielo Rojo opened in Takoma Park in 2019. The former location (7056 Carroll Ave) was converted into San Pancho Burritos, a fast-casual restaurant serving San Fransisco-style burritos.
Over in Wheaton, District Bistro introduces a fresh American dining concept centered on seasonality and local ingredients. Owner Pedro Matamoros emphasizes quality and locality in their menu offerings, which range from beef tartare to roasted duck and lamb bolognaise. Sharing its space with sister-restaurant Frank’s Burgers, District Bistro promises a culinary experience that highlights classic cocktails and contemporary cuisine.
Featured image courtesy @DistrictBistroWheaton on Instagram
