The Museum Store
On the grounds of the National Cathedral, the museum store is a one of a kind gift shop where you can find books and other items spanning all faith traditions. unusual children's toys and books, jewelry, cards, pottery, textiles: this is a must on your tour of the cathedral and out of towners will appreciate the opportunity to take home a unique and meaningful souvenir. A snack shop is adjacent to shop to keep your energy up for more shopping or touring.
Greenhouse At Washington Natl
Beautiful garden shop, with everything from statuary to potted plants and urns. A fun place to take visitors who enjoy gardening and want to tour the cathedral. I heard the Greenhouse may be closing, whether for the season or not, I don't know, so call ahead before you go. Parking is limited on the close, but ample in underground garage.
Cathedral Herb Cottage
Lovely place to shop for upscale herb and garden items. On the grounds of the National Cathedral, next to the Bishop's Garden, which is worth a stroll while you're there. Ample parking in underground garage if you come up short on the close. Jams and gifts, cards and chimes. Fun to browse or buy and a treat for out of towners with green thumbs.
Oriental Antiques By Susan
Nice items, but over-priced, so buyer beware. Still, a lovely shop to browse on antique row in the heart of old town Kensington. If you have money to burn and want a one of a kind item as a gift or treat for yourself, stop on in. Just inform yourself before you go as to what market prices really are for some of the "antiques."
Colonial Opticians
Great, family-run business. Caring and professional. Attention to detail. Our whole family gets our eyewear here, from progressives to reading glasses. Nice selection of frames and they offer discounts for insurance. Timely completion of orders and they really take the time to measure and fit properly. Highly recommended. You may have tried the cheaper chain eyewear stores; this opticians shows why skilled is always a better value.
Silver Diner
A bit of Americana. Fun atmosphere with good diner food, including breakfast any time. Generous portions and friendly service, as well as kiddie menus make this a place to please every palate. The chocolate cake is divine. Vegetarian options include veggie chili. Great place for breakfast, supper or anything in between. On the Pike.
Moby Dick X House Of Kabob
One of our favorite restaurants for reliably good and reasonably priced fare. Light food with lots of flavor. Casual and friendly. Good choice for lunch or supper, with something for kids, as well. Good baklava, so save room for dessert!
Lebanese Taverna
A family favorite and closer than the one down the Pike if you're to the north. Reliably good entrees, with food to please the kids in the crowd who would rather have chicken than falafel. Most dishes can be ordered as sandwich or entree. Save room for the baklava. The rice pudding has a delicate flavor like rose water. Good choice for lunch or supper.
La Tasca
Nice Spanish tapas in newly opened Rockville town center area. Convenient garage parking if no on-street spots found. Casual yet nice setting and friendly, prompt service. The food is not as refined as Jaleo's, but lots closer than Bethesda if you're in Germantown or Gaithersburg. I've been there with my husband, as well as with my son's Spanish class and both times the food was good. The portions, in tapas size, are meant to be ordered severally and shared. The dessert is especially tasty.
Mamma Lucia Of Fallsgrove
Reliable Italian favorites in family-friendly setting. Reasonable prices and service. Something for everyone, from pizza to pasta. A good choice for intimate casual dining or family gatherings.