The concept is still in the early planning stages, but the former Bubby’s deli at 4866 Cordell Avenue in Bethesda has a new tenant.
The space, which has had more turnovers than the Redskins’ Rex Grossman-led offense last season, will become an American bistro called Brickside Food & Drink.
Among the new owners is Andy Seligman, who also owns Grand Central, a restaurant and bar in Adams Morgan. Seligman used to live in Bethesda (and now lives a short distance away in Northwest Washington’s Cathedral Heights) and says he knows the area well.
The renovation priorities for Brickside start with making the façade of the building look more patron-friendly, Seligman said. “One of the problems is that it doesn’t send an inviting message. It’s cold and set back a little bit. We’d like to figure out a way to have some outdoor space for people to sit and eat and enjoy the [good] weather,” he said.
Designs are being drawn up to address those issues, while the interior will get a thorough redo, including a new kitchen, a long bar with ample seating, and a separated dining area.
As for the food, Seligman envisions a menu with twists on American classics, and with entrees in the $12 to $15 range. He says he wants Brickside to be a good value and affordable, and a place where people will feel “comfortable coming to in a suit after work, or in jeans and a T-shirt.”
The partners are shooting for a late fall opening; watch this space for updates.
