The Grove recalibrates for today's economy at Cabin John Village

The Grove has undergone the second revamping of its concept since the Common Plate Hospitality Group first signed a lease at Cabin John Village about a year ago. Initially envisioned as a Belgian restaurant, by the time it opened in the December, the cuisine had shifted to the Mediterranean. It was positioned as upscale fine dining. But it just closed for a few days, and has now reopened with changes to the menu and dining room.

Most noticeable are the additions of the words "Bar & Grill" to the restaurant's name, and the flatscreen televisions now showing live sporting events around the bar. It looks like prices on the menu have been reduced. The cuisine is now American, with a number of dishes inspired by a body of water much closer to home: the Chesapeake Bay. Burgers, crab cakes, chicken, pasta dishes, and seafood - including Maryland favorite rockfish - are slightly more reasonable in price, as well.

There seemed to be a good crowd on hand for one of the first nights under the new concept. The Grove has broadened its appeal, and can now attract more of a neighborhood, family target audience. Every shopping center needs a restaurant like this, where even the pickiest members of the group can find something on the menu that doesn't break the bank - in relative terms. This is Potomac, after all.