Matchbox promotes Brunchbox at future Bethesda Row location

Matchbox, which as I reported a while back will take over the vacant American Tap Room space at Bethesda Row, is promoting its Brunchbox weekend brunch on new "Coming Soon" window signage installed a few days ago. It describes Brunchbox as an "unlimited small plates brunch."

From looking at the menu, it's more diverse than what you expect from the restaurant best known for pizza and sliders. Matchbox has begun rolling out this new brunch concept at its D.C. area locations only recently, and it is bound to be popular in Bethesda.

ROOF BETHESDA TO ADD BRUNCH AND LUNCH HOURS THIS MONTH (PHOTOS)

 

Bethesda's much-talked-about rooftop restaurant, Roof, is about to launch the most scenic brunch and lunch in town. Brunch with Woodmont Triangle views will launch this Saturday, January 25, at 10:00 AM.

Next, the restaurant will add lunch hours, starting at 11:00 AM on Thursday, January 30. Previously, Roof has been opening at 4:30 PM.

By the way, the Washington Post's guide to best brunches last Friday was another example of either their usual anti-Bethesda bias, or ignorance. They listed not one brunch spot in Bethesda! Have they been to Bethesda recently? Maybe they should book a table for Day One of brunch at Roof.

CESCO ADDS UNLIMITED LIQUID BRUNCH BAR THIS SUNDAY

This Sunday, Cesco Osteria on Woodmont Avenue launches a revamped brunch menu.  The restaurant is also adding a $20 "Unlimited Liquid Brunch Bar," featuring prosecco, vodka and juices.  The new menu will focus on Italian brunch classics, as well as house-made pastries.

Brunch will be served between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM.

MAN-MOSAS, BACON AND LOBSTER: FATHER'S DAY AT BETHESDA ROW

Here are two of the best Father's Day brunch menus in town; they might even make up for giving a tie as a gift!

Forget the bottomless mimosas that make girls-brunch-out go by faster.  American Tap Room is offering the testosterone-friendly Man-mosa as its featured adult refreshment.

At Uncle Julio's, the magic words "bacon" and "lobster" will hit a home run faster than Bryce Harper.

Bethesda Row is the place to be for Father's Day, and don't forget about the Bethesda Central Farm Market from 9-1 today at Bethesda ES.

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.

MOTHER'S DAY IN BETHESDA

Have you been caught without plans for Mother's Day brunch or dinner in downtown Bethesda?

Robert Dyer @ Bethesda Row to the rescue!

al fresco

There's good news and bad news.  But what if I told you the bad news is actually good news, too?

The good news is that Redwood on Bethesda Lane is having a great Mother's Day Brunch.  The bad news is that they've sold out.  But wait!

Redwood is going to seat as many walk-ins as possible on the patio on Bethesda Lane!  Which will actually be better than dining indoors, if it doesn't rain.  So stop by on Sunday!  $34 adults, $15 kids.

Redwood is also serving Mother's Day dinner, so give them a call!

Redwood, 7121 Bethesda Lane.  301-656-5515.

delicioso

Check out my post about Uncle Julio's Plato de Madre special, for a Mother's Day feast of salmon, shrimp and crab!

voyage to the mediterranean

Lebanese Taverna at Bethesda Row is offering a Unlimited Mezza Brunch and pastry table from 11-4 Sunday.  $29.95 adults, $12.95 kids under 12.

gluten-free

Yes, there is a gluten-free Mother's Day menu available at Lilit Cafe!

buon appetito

Cesco Osteria's  Chef Francesco Ricchi has created a Mother's Day brunch buffet inspired by Tuscany.

Cesco Osteria, 7401 Woodmont Avenue. 301.654.8333.

BETHESDA CENTRAL FARM MARKET DEALS AND SPECIALS

Here's the latest news on today's Bethesda Central Farm Market, 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM, at Bethesda Elementary School on Arlington Road (Please park at Bethesda Library or St. Elmo Ave. Public Garage, if you can walk a block; otherwise park in the lot at Bethesda ES):

ASPARAGUS ASPARAGUS ASPARAGUS

Two different ways to cook the farm-fresh asparagus available this morning at BCFM:

Grilled, wrapped in prosciutto from Meatcrafters (also at the market!).

Then, Chef Frederik de Pue will perform a live demonstration at 11:00 AM, of his Asparagus a la Flamande!  You can pick up the main ingredients at the market (asparagus, Walnut Farms eggs) and make it at home.

Heirloom Kitchen specials today include Tomato-Leek Soup with white wine and fresh herbs, and Tomato Chutney for appetizers and recipes.

Pick up handcrafted cherrywood utensils and table ceramics for Mother's Day gifts - get your shopping out of the way before brunch today!

Once at the market, you're walking distance from brunch at restaurants like Chef Tony's, Guardado's, Rock Bottom, The Parva and many more!

Don't forget - BCFM is dog friendly, so bring man's (or woman's) best friend on a leash to the market.

Improve your health, and help preserve farmland in our region by keeping those John Deeres and Farmalls busy, when you fill up your bags with fresh, local produce today at BCFM.

Happy Sunday, locavores!

LILLY PULITZER FASHION SHOW IN BETHESDA

Cesco Osteria and Co2 Lounge chef Francesco Ricchi is finally making good on his promise that fashion models would hit the latter venue's runway.

"Warning," Ricchi advised in a blog post, "this event is going to be hot!"

But it's not a Victoria's Secret show.  Rather, it is an exclusive preview of the new Summer collection from Lilly Pulitzer, favorite of Jackie Kennedy, sorority sisters, Southern girls and preppy women everywhere.

Bethesda Row shoppers know that there is a Lilly Pulitzer Pink Palm boutique on Bethesda Lane.  Being a guy, I'd never even heard of Lilly Pulitzer, until the Pink Palm sculpture was erected on the sidewalk by Bethesda Lane.

This Sunday, May 6, from noon until 2:00 PM, DC area LP fanatics willing and able to fork over the hefty ticket price will enjoy not only the fashion show, but a special brunch prepared by the chef himself, a Bellini cocktail toast, a tasting of rose wines especially chosen for the summer season, a raffle ticket for a mystery Lilly gift, and a chance to purchase select Lilly summer pieces at a discount - before they are available to the public at The Pink Palm!  By the way, you're also supporting the wives and children of American soldiers, through the Thanks USA organization, which will benefit from your ticket purchase!

Order tickets online, and they will be $65 for adults, and $35 for those under 18.  Or you can pay $100 at the door on Sunday - if seats are still available.

It's certainly pricey, but a great event for Lilly aficionados, a Mother-Daughter brunch, or a chance to catch up with your sorority sisters while they're in town, etc., etc.

Get your tickets now, for a surprisingly rare event in downtown Bethesda - a fashion show.

Co2 Lounge, 7401 Woodmont Avenue. 301.654.8333.

The Pink Palm, 4867 Bethesda Avenue. 301.913.9191.

GUARDADO'S NOW

SERVING SUNDAY BRUNCH

Bethesda Tapas Restaurant Adds

Sabor de Espana to Downtown

Smorgasbord of Midday Options

Another Robert Dyer @ Bethesda Row Exclusive!!!

Guardado's on Del Ray Avenue is launching brunch hours today, by popular demand. You can be one of the first to try it. However, if you attended their special Easter Brunch last Sunday, you got a sneak preview, because the menu was virtually the same.

Restaurant co-owner Reyna Guardado said customers have been requesting brunch in great numbers, and "we listened to your request." Hence, today you will be able to enjoy brunch between 11:30 AM and 3:00 PM. Guardado's will also serve dinner from 5:00-9:00 PM tonight.

For those attending the Bethesda Central Farm Market this morning, Guardado's is not too far of a walk from Bethesda ES. Just cross Old Georgetown Road, and take it down to Del Ray, and turn right.

Click here to preview the menu! You'll find some Spanish classics, creative tapas, and a few traditional American breakfast items sprinkled in for the traditionalist. Que bueno.

BETHESDA

EASTER BRUNCH

GUIDE

All the Best Restaurants to Celebrate the

Holiday Weekend in Downtown Bethesda

Easter egg hunts. Candy. Honeybaked ham. Aside from religious services, did I forget something?

Easter brunch, of course! Maybe you forgot about it too, but fortunately you stopped by this blog just in time to find the best Easter brunches in Bethesda for 2012.

AMERICAN TAP ROOM 10 AM - 3 PM

7278 Woodmont Avenue, 301-656-1366

They haven't posted a menu as of this morning, but Chef Bobby Vickers is sure to have some creative surprises up his sleeve as always.

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REDWOOD Brunch 10 - 4, Dinner 5 - 10 PM

7121 Bethesda Lane, 301-656-5515, amanda@redwoodbethesda.com

Enjoy the fabulous setting of Bethesda Lane at either the Brunch buffet or a la carte Dinner.

Check if they still have a reservation.

Brunch will be $34 for adults, $15 for kids. Eggs benedict, custom-order omlettes, cornflake-crusted French toast, prime rib, glazed ham and house-made donut holes for dessert. Live jazz by George Oakley Trio.

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MON AMI GABI

7239 Woodmont Avenue, 301-654-1234

Easter in the City of Light - right here at Bethesda Row!

Mon Ami Gabi is pulling out all the stops. Classic Quiche Lorraine is joined by Vegetable Quiche and two crepes: shrimp and scallops, or creamy chicken and mushroom.

Not just french toast! Authentic *French* Toast! In vanilla or blueberry flavors.

For the adults, Build-Your-Own Bloody Mary bar and bubbly mimosas.

For the kids, a FREE take-home Easter basket of surprise treats!

To complete your Easter trip to France, stop by Le Pain Quotidien on Bethesda Lane, and pick up some of their Easter chocolates - imported directly from France! Can you find a Poisson d'Avril in there?

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LEBANESE TAVERNA

7141 Arlington Road, 301-951-8681

Maybe you'd rather set sail from the Riviera eastward in the Mediterranean, for a traditional Lebanese brunch. You can do that at Bethesda Row, too!

Lebanese Taverna, like Redwood, is offering a Brunch (11-4) and a dinner (4-9) Sunday. Brunch is $29.95 per person, dinner is a la carte.

Brunch will feature over 25 mezza plates. Kids get a small Easter basket with candy, stickers and other surprises.

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GUARDADO'S

4918 Del Ray Avenue, 301-986-4920

Prefer Spain? How about a traditional Spanish Easter brunch at Guardado's, one of the best-kept secrets in Bethesda.

Try the $15 Spanish Late Breakfast. What a bargain! Grilled Steak tapa with Corales sauce, Torrija, Fried Eggs and Guardado's special Home Fries.

Coffee or juice is included with each brunch entree. There are also salads, fresh ceviche, and tapas. Sides include the usual and the exotic (fried plantain).

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CESCO OSTERIA 11 AM - 10:30 PM

7401 Woodmont Avenue, 301-654-8333

They know how to celebrate holidays gastronomically in Italy! Cesco isn't portioning up the schedule; they're going large all day with an event they're calling Easter in Firenze. The cost is $40 for three selections from the prix fixe menu; $10 for the kids menu.

You could start with an octopus and shrimp salad, move on to the Lamb Rolatini or Involtini of veal, and bring things to a close with Tiramisu, Zuppa Inglese, Gelato ice cream, or Meringata from the Dessert menu.

Reserve your table today.

Happy Easter and Happy Passover to all!

And if you are celebrating Passover, call Mon Ami Gabi to ask about the Passover Dinner they're serving tonight at Bethesda Row.