On Saint Elmo to open in former Union Jack's space in Bethesda

On Saint Elmo, a restaurant and lounge, is taking over the vacant nightclub space formerly home to Union Jack's and TAPP'D at 4915 St. Elmo Avenue. This story has been developing since last May, when the space was leased to a mystery tenant. By July 2022, demolition of the interior of TAPP'D was underway, as well as what would be a lengthy interior fit-out for the new establishment. Now I can report the mystery tenant is On Saint Elmo. If you are familiar with any of the previous tenants here, you know the interior space is huge, so there is great potential for a successful nightspot at this location.

March 2023 construction progress

March 2023

Watch Union Jack's Bethesda get smashed to bits (Video/photos)

The destruction of Union Jack's is underway on St. Elmo Avenue in downtown Bethesda. Sledgehammer-wielding men whaled away at the interior yesterday, surrounded by piles of debris. British memorabilia still adorning the walls created a surreal scene. Union Jack's closed last weekend.

UNION JACK'S MAY BE UP FOR SALE IN BETHESDA, COLUMBIA, ANNAPOLIS

EXCLUSIVE

Bethesda's popular British pub may be up for sale, and the new owner would be free to change its theme away from the UK. While I've been hearing rumors from sources regarding the future of Union Jack's on St. Elmo Avenue for several months, I spotted a Craigslist ad that certainly raises questions.

The rub is that the public will not likely know of the sale until it happens; the seller is requiring confidentiality agreements to keep the sale private. However, the ad gives away enough detail to suggest the Union Jack's in Bethesda, Columbia and Annapolis are all up for sale.

First, the chain happens to have locations in all three towns. Second, Union Jack's has billiards and darts, as mentioned in the ad. "Game watching?" Check. "Late night DJ?" Check.

Is there any other chain bar meeting that description, with locations in all three locales? There is definitely no official announcement regarding the sale. But the writer of the ad gave us TMI to keep it secret.

The asking price for the 3-unit business is $2.75 million. And the ad says "Buyer can develop his/her own concept," so it would be up to the new owner whether the British theme stays or goes.

A Ballston location already closed earlier this year. But a new Union Jack's is still planned to open at Washingtonian Center in Gaithersburg.

The Bethesda location is ample in size, and in a great spot, with the Bainbridge Bethesda luxury apartment tower coming online early next year. Its space was formerly known as The Shark Club.

FREE PINT TOAST TO WILLIAM, KATE AND THE ROYAL BABY AT UNION JACK'S BETHESDA WITH THIS COUPON TODAY

Bethesda residents who are just bursting with excitement over The Royal Baby will want to attend a special event right here in downtown Bethesda today.

Use this coupon between 4-9 PM tonight at Union Jack's Bethesda, and get a FREE pint of Bass or Strongbow Cider to toast William, Kate and the future king.

Bring all of your royal family and British history knowledge to bear on the British pub's Guess the Baby's Name prize raffle.

And get 25% off all British items on the menu, like Fish and Chips.

There will also be special prices on all British pints, and select British bottles.

BETHESDA MARCH MADNESS SPECIALS - BETHESDA BARS NCAA TOURNAMENT

March Madness is here in Bethesda.

Brickside Food and Drink will open at noon today, and have food and drink specials. They also have a 160" HD screen, and 5 51" screens to watch all the games.

Meanwhile, Union Jack's Bethesda has 25 screens, $10 pitchers of Miller Lite or Yuengling, and their famous $2 College Can Roulette.

WHERE TO WATCH CAPITALS GAME IN BETHESDA TONIGHT

There's only one official Washington Capitals game watch location in Bethesda - Union Jack's on St. Elmo Avenue.

Stop by tonight when the Capitals open the NHL season against the Tampa Bay Lightning at 7 PM.

With the game on over a dozen flatscreens, and on 2 giant projection screens with theater sound, it's the next best thing to being at the game.

Enjoy $3 Coors Light and $4 Blue Moon.

There will also be prize giveaways all night, including 2 tickets to the Capitals home opener against the Winnepeg Jets!

So head straight to the official headquarters of the Washington Capitals in Bethesda for every game, at Union Jack's.

FREE PINT OF BEER AT UNION JACK'S BETHESDA WITH THIS COUPON!

Enjoy a FREE pint of domestic beer today or Sunday before 9 PM, at Union Jack's Bethesda!

Just print out this coupon!

WHERE TO WATCH REDSKINS VS. BEARS PRESEASON GAME IN BETHESDA TONIGHT

Go out tonight, or watch the Redskins game?  Dilemma solved!

Head to Union Jack's Bethesda, where you can watch RG III destroy the Chicago Bears on his way to the Super Bowl, tonight at 8:00.

Over 20 flatscreen TVs, plus giant projection screens and theater-quality sound.

Get there early, and enjoy tonight's dinner special:  All-you-can-eat Crab Legs!  For $19.95, you also get fresh corn-on-the-cob, roasted potatoes, and the chef's special Fiji Apple Slaw.

Will you be watching the game tonight?  Who are you picking to win?

Union Jack's, 4915 St. Elmo Avenue.  301-6-JACK-61.

WHERE TO WATCH 2012 LONDON OLYMPICS CLOSING CEREMONIES IN BETHESDA TONIGHT

Can it really be over?  It bloody well can, mate!

It seems like just yesterday that TV screens were filled with opening ceremonies, and now the 2012 London Olympic Games are ending tonight with a bang.  And the Spice Girls.

Where to watch the closing ceremonies in Bethesda?

Why, at Bethesda's British pub, Union Jack's!

Starting at 7 PM, over 20 HD flatscreens and projector TVs will be showing the London closing ceremonies, with full theater sound.

Enjoy actual British cuisine and beer while you watch.

How about a FREE pint of Bass?  Just print out this coupon, and bring it with you tonight!

FREE PINT OF BEER TONIGHT IN BETHESDA!!

I found FREE beer for you again!

Just print out this coupon, and redeem it at Union Jack's Bethesda tonight after 9 PM.

This time, you're getting a full pint!

FASHIONISTA DOG OWNERS HAVE A DOUBLE DATE SATURDAY IN BETHESDA

Was it Paris Hilton who started the craze where every fashionable woman had to have a dog - and usually one that could fit in a purse?

Whatever happened to Paris Hilton, anyway?

Ladies, if you love shopping at Bethesda Row, and spending quality time with (Girl's) Best Friend (a.k.a., your dog), you have a big day ahead of you in downtown Bethesda this Saturday!

Your first stop is Doggie Brunch between 11:30 AM and 2:00 PM on the patio at Union Jack's Bethesda.

Once girl and beast have satisfied their appetites, it's on to Urban Chic at 7126 Bethesda Lane!

Yes, your dog is allowed to join you at Urban Chic.

In fact, only those ladies with mutts in tow (or in handbags?) will get a 20% discount on all of their purchases.

If you don't have a dog, or are a cat person (Catwoman?), you can get the 20% discount by making a $20 donation to the Washington Animal Rescue League.

Everyone may want to consider making a $5 donation to WARL, because that will enter you in a contest to win a "chic mystery item" worth over $100.

Treats for dogs and people will be served, as will refreshing beverages.

So type this into your smartphone calendar now, ladies.

Your dog is going to be very disappointed if you miss this!

Arf!

DOGGIE BRUNCH EVERY SATURDAY IN BETHESDA!

Searching for a dog-friendly brunch spot in downtown Bethesda today?

Union Jack's Bethesda is launching its new Doggie Brunch today, and it will be held regularly every Saturday on their patio from 11:30 AM - 2:00 PM!

Bring your canine friend along, and he or she will enjoy FREE water and dog treats, contests, prizes, "Kiddie Pool" and the ability to order from a Doggie Menu.

Those of you on less than 4 legs will enjoy $10 *Bottomless* Mimosas, Bloody Marys and house wine.  And $2 domestic drafts.

So it's not like your dog is going to tie you to a parking meter while he goes inside to dine.  Not that you'd do that to him, right?

There will also be guest speakers, coupons and discounts from nearby pet businesses and vets.

And save $5 with this coupon!!

If your dog enjoys being sociable, you may want to add Doggie Brunch to your calendar as a weekly outing.

I have just one question.  Will they replace the cops who are usually positioned across from Union Jack's at night with K9s for this event?

Union Jack's, 4915 St. Elmo Avenue, Bethesda.  301-652-2561.

TAPPING PARTY TONIGHT: NEWCASTLE SUMMER ALE AT UNION JACK'S BETHESDA!

Just what the doctor ordered for this heat and humidity:  a frosty mug of Newcastle Summer Ale!

Tonight at 6 PM at Union Jack's Bethesda, they're tapping just that.  Order one, and you'll get to keep the glass!  And in that glass, you will be able to put refills for only $2.

Representatives from Newcastle will be there to give out FREE samples, swag and prizes.

If you think this beer pairs well with summer foods, so does Union Jack's.  That's why, starting in June, they'll be offering a Newcastle Summer Menu.  Order any item off of it, and you'll get a frosty pint of Newcastle for only $3.

Union Jack's Bethesda, 4915 St. Elmo Avenue. 301-6-JACK-61.

MECHANICAL BULL RETURNS TO UNION JACK'S BETHESDA TONIGHT!!

The mechanical bull is on his way to Bethesda, to make his latest appearance at Union Jack's tonight!

Can you last 8 seconds on the bull?

That's Union Jack's standing challenge.

But whether you can do it or not, you'll still be getting $2 off craft beers, and 50 cent wings all night.

Don't forget your camera!

Bull rides are FREE and start at 9:00 PM tonight.

Union Jack's Bethesda, 4915 St. Elmo Avenue.  (301) 652-2561.

FREE DESSERT IN BETHESDA TONIGHT WITH THIS COUPON!!

Here's a special treat for my readers - a FREE dessert today until 9 PM tonight, at Union Jack's Bethesda:

CLICK HERE TO GET YOUR COUPON

Tell your friends, and make sure you are all following me on Twitter at @BethesdaRow for all the latest on what's happening in downtown Bethesda!

Union Jack's, 4915 Saint Elmo Avenue.  301-652-2561.

CINCO DE MAYO IN BETHESDA: THE BEST EVENTS

Cinco de Mayo is Saturday!  This is one of the most festive days of the year, all over the world.  And that includes Bethesda!

Primero, wherever you go, be ready to correct "that guy" who is going to announce this is Mexican Independence Day.  Cinco de Mayo is not Mexican Independence Day!  (That's actually September 16, by the way).  But what can you do with a guy who doesn't know the difference between El Grito and a Chipotle burrito?

Bueno.  Now on to the guide!

THE BEST

GUAPO'S

I'm picking Guapo's as the top spot, because they're doing more for Cinco de Mayo than any place I've heard from so far.

Saturday evening, they will have an actual mariachi band in the house.  The Budweiser Girls will be handing out giveaways and beer samples.  And a DJ will finish out el noche from 10 PM to close.

It sounds like an evening of not only genuine Mexican atmosphere, but also fun, and that's what Cinco de Mayo is really about, right?

Guapo's, 8130 Wisconsin Avenue.  301-656-0888.

DATE NIGHT

OK, so what if you aren't single, and your date isn't going to be favorably impressed by Budweiser Girls?  I have the solution:

PLAZA DEL SOL

The Gazette said that Plaza del Sol has the best Mexican food in downtown Bethesda.  Their chef is the former executive chef of Lauriol Plaza downtown.  You may have heard of it!

What makes it a great date night spot, is that they are having a live, flamenco performance by guitarist Miguelito, and dancer Ginette at 7:00 PM Saturday night.

Plaza del Sol, 4932 St. Elmo Avenue. 301-215-4199.

BEST OF THE REST

Now, a number of places are keeping quiet about their plans.  I'll try to keep you updated here, and on Twitter at @BethesdaRow as late news comes in.

For now, here are some I've heard from, and in other cases, I have to channel Carnac the Magnificent to guess, because they're not sharing!

UNCLE JULIO'S

Every day is Cinco de Mayo at Uncle Julio's at Bethesda Row!  So I'm surprised their marketing for Saturday simply says, "Beer.  Margaritas."

I guess that's enough for certain target audiences, but don't forget, they've got great food, patio dining and - of course - their famous Swirls!

Uncle Julio's, 4870 Bethesda Avenue.  301-656-2981.

UNION JACK'S

Specials from 4-9 PM:  $3 Coronas, $15 Corona buckets, $5 Margaritas.  You get the idea.

They'll also have Game 4 of the Capitals vs. the Rangers on at 12:30 PM.

Union Jack's, 4915 St. Elmo Avenue. 301-6-JACK-61.

TIA QUETA

This is a family-owned Mexican restaurant in Old Town Bethesda.  The most distinctive feature of the restaurant, is their rooftop patio, the only one in Bethesda besides the Doubletree hotel!

They celebrate Friday and Saturday, with special prices on appetizers and drinks.

Tia Queta, 4839 Del Ray Avenue.  301-654-4443.

CALIFORNIA TORTILLA

Caltort is making it a 48-hour affair, too!  Make any purchase Friday, May 4, or Saturday, May 5, and you will receive a coupon for a FREE TACO, which you can redeem between May 6-15, 2012!

California Tortilla, 4862 Cordell Avenue.  301-654-8226.

Feliz Cinco de Mayo from Robert Dyer @ Bethesda Row!

25 PEOPLE WILL GET A FREE PINT OF BEER TONIGHT AT 6:00

"ROCKING THE RED" WILL PAY OFF AT

UNION JACK'S BETHESDA TONIGHT

FOR CAPITALS GAME 3

Where to watch the Capitals game tonight in Bethesda?  Union Jack's on St. Elmo Avenue is the official Capitals playoff headquarters.

The first 25 people at the doors at 6 PM will win a FREE pint of beer, if they are wearing red or Capitals gear.

All those Rocking the Red will also receive a FREE stadium souvenir cup!

There will also be prizes and giveaways throughout the evening.  And $4 Blue Moons.

25 PEOPLE WILL GET A FREE PINT OF BEER AT UNION JACK'S BETHESDA TONIGHT AT 6!

ROCK THE RED FOR GAME 7 AND

GET A COLD ONE ON THE HOUSE

Another Robert Dyer @ Bethesda Row Exclusive!!!

Head to Bethesda's official Washington Capitals playoff game headquarters tonight at 6:00 PM:  if you're "Rocking the Red" with your wardrobe, and you're one of the first 25 through the door at 6:00, you'll get a FREE pint of beer.

The game will be on loads of TVs, including 3 100" projection screens!

They'll also have specials on Coors Light and Blue Moon.

For the real beer fanatic, they've just tapped Fuller's London Pride.  Yes, that is England's #1 selling premium ale.  It was named Champion Beer of Britain in 1979.  If Doctor Who's tardis materialized at Union Jack's, he would order a pint of London Pride.

Are you ready for Game 7?

THE BULL

IS BACK IN

BETHESDA!

Mechanical Bull Returns to Union Jack's

Another Robert Dyer @ Bethesda Row Exclusive!!!

The mechanical bull is back at Union Jack's Bethesda, tonight at 8 PM!!!

Union Jack's bets you can't stay on for 8 seconds - them there's fightin' words, pardner! Are you up to the challenge?

Take the bull by the horns, or just enjoy the entertainment as your fellow humans try to. But everyone will enjoy 50-cent wings, and $2-off all craft and specialty beers all night.

Union Jack's, 4915 St. Elmo Avenue.

ST. PRACTICE DAY

AT

UNION JACK'S BETHESDA

Are you ready to celebrate St. Patrick's Day? Do you need a warm up?

You're in luck! Union Jack's Bethesda is hosting a St. Practice Day from 4-10 PM tonight.

Specials include:

$3 Killian Irish Reds

$3 Lucky Charm Shooters

$4 Jamesons

50% off Car Bombs

From 10-11, all drinks are only $1!

But wait! Don't leave yet, because when the Power Hour is over, they are giving away a FREE tropical vacation!!