Robeks grand opening in Rockville this weekend
The California-based smoothie chain Robeks will open its 14th location in the Washington region on Saturday at Rockville’s Research Row.
Robeks will christen the new store with Sip, Sip, Hooray, a family-friendly celebration with activities and smoothie discounts.
Customers can come to 1403 Research Blvd. and get buy one, get one smoothies and juices, half-price acai bowls or 20% off their entire purchase.
Robeks was founded in 1996 and has more than 80 locations across the country. The menu focuses on healthy choices and clean eating, including two dozens smoothies geared toward performance, wellness and other goals.
Smoothie run about $4 to $6, depending on the size. Juices and bowls are a dollar or two more. Some items with added protein are higher.
Store franchisee Eion Callwood has been a fan of the brand for years, and jumped at the chance to operate the business.
“I share Robeks’ mission of providing our community with a flavorful and healthy option,” Callwood said in a statement.
Taste the World comes to Silver Spring
The 9th annual event will return to Fenton Village on Sunday with international cuisine from more than 30 restaurants, according to a county government news release.
Dozens of countries and five continents will be represented, lining Wayne, Georgia and Sligo avenues and Fenton Street with food options. They will provide appetizers and small plates for $3 to $5. The festival also features entertainment and family activities.
“There is something for everyone and all are welcomed to enjoy this not-so-hidden gem of Silver Spring,” Silver Spring Regional Services Center Director Reemberto Rodriguez said in a statement.
Event co-founder Karen Roper described it as a grassroots effort to promote 200 small businesses in the area, highlighting the Fenton Village community.
The festival will run from 1 to 5 p.m., rain or shine.
Chef of the Year hosts fundraiser in Bethesda
Recently-crowned top chef in the state Ashish Alfred will be raising money for Burtonsville-based nonprofit Christalis at his restaurant George’s Chophouse on Sunday.
The event includes food, drinks, door prizes and a silent auction. Registration is $15 beforehand and $20 at the door.
The auction is headlined by a weeklong stay at Martha’s Vineyard and a vacation to Cancun.
Christalis provides shelter, education and support to children in Uganda, and all proceeds from the event will go toward the group’s programs.
Silver adds more plant-based items
Executive Chef Ype Von Hengst continues to fill out the Silver American Brasserie menu with vegan and vegetarian options, with 10 more coming to the Bethesda and Washington, D.C., locations.
Dishes include cauliflower steak, edamame and white bean hummus, and a roasted vegetable salad.
As was the case for other recent menu updates, most of the changes were driven by patron feedback.
“Some of our customers want to cut back on the amount of meat they consume,” Von Hengst said in a statement. “Others are vegan or vegetarian and still others want to be able to enjoy a great angus cheeseburger or pickle-fried chicken sandwich. We’ve made sure that we have something for everyone.”
Charlie Wright can be reached at charlie.wright@moco360.media
