By Claire Linders
Montgomery County’s dining and shopping scene is constantly changing. From exciting new restaurant openings to local favorites closing shop, here’s a look at some of the biggest local changes this year.
Key takeaways
- Zoom out: New dining destinations are bringing fresh flavors to MoCo.
- Zoom in: Several longtime local favorite restaurants have closed their doors this year.
- More details: Reservations are recommended for new restaurants opening due to their growing popularity.
New spots to check out
Flavor Hive
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Foodies may already know Flavor Hive from social media, but now Montgomery County residents can experience its unique dining experience for themselves. The fast-casual concept has become viral for its customizable bowls, loaded fries and creative halal fusion menu.
- Address: 5568 Randolph Road, North Bethesda
- Hours: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-midnight Friday-Saturday; noon-10 p.m. Sundays
- Budget guide: $
Molly Tea
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Tea lovers flocked to Molly Tea’s first DMV location when it opened in Rockville in April 2026, with hundreds of customers lining up to try its signature jasmine-based beverages. The trendy shop offers a menu of floral teas and milk drinks that have generated plenty of buzz on social media.
- Address: 860 Festival St., Twinbrook Quarter, Rockville
- Hours: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday-Saturday
- Budget guide: $
Genki Wagyu Shabu House
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Genki Wagyu Shabu House is an all-you-can-eat Wagyu and hot pot concept, offering premium broths including Sukiyaki, Shabu Dashi, Tomato, Spicy Miso, Mushroom and Tom Yum that opened in June 2026. This marks the brand’s first Maryland location, sharing space with Molly Tea in Twinbrook Quarter.
- Address: 870 Festival St., Rockville
- Hours: 5-10 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Thursday; 5-11 p.m. Friday and Saturday
- Budget guide: $$
Quincy’s Golf & Social
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Quincy’s Golf & Social opened its doors in March 2026 and has quickly gained a following. The venue combines golf and dining, offering a unique experience for golf enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. With its interactive golf simulators and lively atmosphere, Quincy’s has become a popular spot for recreation, food and drinks.
- Address: 245 Kentlands Blvd., Gaithersburg
- Hours: 8 a.m.-midnight Sunday; 8 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday; 8 a.m.-11 p.m. Tuesday; 8 a.m.-midnight Wednesday-Saturday
- Budget guide: $$
Shiki Fusion
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Shiki Fusion opened at Westfield Montgomery Mall in April 2026, bringing a mix of Japanese-inspired dishes and fusion flavors to Bethesda. The restaurant offers a modern take on familiar favorites, giving diners a new spot to check out for lunch, dinner or a night out.
- Address: 7101 Democracy Blvd., Suite 3200, Bethesda
- Hours: 11:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Sunday; 11:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 11:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday
- Budget guide: $$$
Bittersweet goodbyes
Tako Grill
After more than two decades in Bethesda, Tako Grill closed its doors this year, according to The Moco Show. The longtime neighborhood favorite built a loyal following for its quality sushi and Japanese entrees, making it a disappointing loss for many regulars.
Meleket Ethiopian Restaurant
Meleket Ethiopian Restaurant was a longtime Montgomery County favorite, known for its authentic Ethiopian dishes and welcoming atmosphere. After serving the Montgomery Hills community for many years, the restaurant has closed its doors this year, making it a disappointing loss for many regulars according to Bethesda Today.
The Heights Food Hall
According to Bethesda Today, The Heights Food Hall has permanently closed. The downtown Wheaton destination brought together several local food vendors under one roof, giving diners a variety of cuisines in a single location. Its closure leaves a notable gap in Wheaton’s growing dining scene.
Solaire Social Food Hall
Solaire Social Food Hall has closed its doors, according to Source of the Spring. When Solaire opened in downtown Silver Spring, it brought together a variety of local vendors, offering everything from international dishes to sweet treats under one roof. Despite its ambitious vision and diverse dining options, the food hall ultimately closed after a relatively short run.
Gyroland
According to Store Reporter, Gyroland has closed its doors, but will continue to serve up fan favorites at its sister restaurant across the street. For years, Gyroland was a go-to spot for gyros, platters and Mediterranean favorites. Its closure disappointed many longtime customers who considered it one of Rockville’s hidden gems.
