Zinnia
Mrs. K’s Toll House closed in 2020 after 90 years of operation, and Takoma Beverage Co. co-owner Chris Brown took over the Silver Spring landmark. Brown has turned it into a multi-restaurant concept called Zinnia, which will soon include a lounge and fine dining restaurant on the first floor of the Tudor-style building. The tavern and the gardens—with a whimsical mix of tables, chairs and umbrellas—have been open since October. With many people still preferring to socialize outside, the 3-acre property offers plenty of space for enjoying shareable plates, Maryland brews and fun cocktails. Woolen blankets and portable firepits are available during colder months.
Zinnia, 9201 Colesville Road, Silver Spring, 301-704-6653, eatzinnia.com
King Street Oyster Bar
Local chainlet King Street Oyster Bar opened its first Montgomery County location in Park Potomac last winter, in the old Addie’s spot. The outdoor dining space, which seats 120 (80 in winter, when the patio is tented), quickly became popular. Retractable windows allow patrons inside and out to sip cocktails ($7 during happy hour) at the bar. The patio is covered and outfitted with heaters and fans, helping to make it more comfortable year-round. There are also plenty of TVs to keep sports fans happy as they nosh on fresh seafood.
King Street Oyster Bar, 12435 Park Potomac Ave., Potomac, 301-296-6260, kingstreetoysterbar.com
Hawkers Asian Street Food
The Bethesda outpost of Hawkers Asian Street Food, which opened in November 2020, is a great place to park it after shopping on Bethesda Row. The covered patio looks onto Bethesda Lane, and with storefronts up and down the street, it makes for excellent people-watching. Inside, the restaurant’s decor—neon signs, industrial finishes and a collage of Asian-inspired art—creates an impression of an urban Asian street. The atmosphere goes with the menu’s wide array of street food from countries such as South Korea, China and Malaysia.
Hawkers Asian Street Food, 7117 Bethesda Lane, Bethesda, 240-203-8135, eathawkers.com
