While Starbucks customers in the Westbard area were left stewing over limited hours and locked doors due to renovations, caffeine fiends were exhilarated at Bethesda's newest Starbucks: at Westfield Montgomery Mall.
Eager customers lined up for the first time for their favorite beverages and food items.
Now join me for a virtual tour of Bethesda's newest Starbucks, which many mall patrons have been asking for over the years:
Remember the images Aroma Espresso Bar unveiled of their future outdoor dining area at Westfield Montgomery Mall? The initial work is getting underway, as you can see in these photos.
Part of a general overhaul of this existing mall entrance by Westfield, the outdoor patio is going to be a great place to hang out during good weather.
The wall in front of the future Aroma Espresso Bar in Westfield Montgomery Mall in Bethesda has been removed. Shoppers passing by are getting their first look at Aroma's sleek interior. But the first coffee from the Israeli version of Starbucks won't be poured before late next week.
An Aroma spokesperson says they are targeting Saturday, February 9 as the opening date. But stay tuned, as that could change.
Aroma Espresso Bar, which finally acquired its liquor license last week, says its planned January 28 opening is being delayed.
A spokesperson said the new coffee bar and eatery - the Israeli equivalent of Starbucks - now plans to open on February 5 or 6.
Aroma is located in Bethesda at Westfield Montgomery Mall.
Here's a second hot beverage recommendation for you today - and this one's French, too!
Now at the Bethesda McDonald's on River Road, McDonald's French Vanilla Latte. Watch my video review to find out how it has changed with the new syrup and new espresso blend.
A spokesperson for the future Aroma Espresso bar has confirmed the upscale Bethesda coffee shop is now approved for a liquor license from Montgomery County.
The license had initially been held up by the county over vague concerns regarding keeping alcohol out of the hands of minors. Strangely, the liquor board quickly approved a similar license for the Bethesda Row Cinema, where there will be far less ability to stop underage drinkers than Aroma.
In any case, Aroma now hopes to be ready to serve beer and wine when it opens on January 28 at Westfield Montgomery.
Bethesda may be days away from the opening of the first Aroma Espresso Bar in the DC area. As you remember, Aroma is essentially the equivalent of Starbucks in Israel. But unlike Starbucks, Aroma will also have beer and wine on the menu.
The store says their original December 15 target opening date may slip by a few days, due to unexpected delays.
While we're waiting, here are a few images of what the finished Aroma will look like:
