Partner Mark Moore calls Bethesda’s imminent Tyber Bierhaus “a cousin” of St. Arnold’s Mussel Bars, the two restaurants he co-owns in the District that offer 20 different kinds of mussels and a Belgian-heavy beer list.
That’s because his new restaurant, located in the former Box Bar and Grill space at 7525 Old Georgetown Road, and slated to open in about two weeks, will have related offerings, but will extend the Belgian family tree. German and Czech food and beer will be featured as well, further differentiating it from Bethesda’s Mussel Bar, only a few blocks away.
St. Arnold’s mussel menu will be pared down to about four or five of the most popular offerings for Tyber Bierhaus, and dishes such as wiener Schnitzel, bratwurst and Czech dumplings will join the line-up. “All the comfort foods,” Moore said.
St. Arnold’s popular salmon, burgers, wings and onion rings will also make the move.
Moore said Tyber Bierhaus will offer 20 Belgian, German and Czech beers on draft, dispensed via “a very unique draft system that comes out of the ceiling.” While the focus will be on draft beers, Tyber Bierhaus will also stock bottles of Miller Lite.
As for the décor, look for dark, heavy, weathered wood. But the space, which was totally gutted, save the bar (which was refurbished) won’t be “old or boring looking,” Moore promises.
Moore, who grew up in Montgomery County, opened St. Arnold’s Mussel Bar on 1827 Jefferson Street in Northwest Washington three years ago, and another location in Cleveland Park two years ago, with two partners.
As for the series of restaurants and bars that have come and gone at the Old Georgetown Road spot, Moore said he was “not a bit” concerned about the location. “We’re not going to take a place that has a curse on it,” he said, adding that the success of restaurants ultimately rests on good management.
Korean connection: According to two sources, the new restaurant taking the space of the old California Tortilla location at 4862 Cordell Avenue in Bethesda, will feature Korean, Japanese and other Asian fare. Watch this space for updates.
Farewell to Maggie’s: A note on Maggie’s Facebook page says “Hey loyal fans, friends and family. We regret to tell you that we are currently closed until further notice. Stay tuned and thanks for your support!” The restaurant and bar on 4914 Cordell Avenue was closed yesterday for the Super Bowl, which must have been a harbinger, since the popular gathering spot has more than 20 TV’s.
