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A fine dining restaurant with subtle and sophisticated decor. Quiet and appealing. Great service and excellent food. Every bite was cooked to perfection and packed with flavors. Satisfied but not stuffed. 5* Tuna Crude: A combination of sweet and mild spicy flavors, and the freshness of tuna, creating an amazing flavor. 4.5*- Grilled Avocado: topped with crab meat salad. Mild flavors. 5*- Burrata: served with smoked trout roe: the burrata was very fresh. 5*- Hanger Steak and Eggs: cooked to perfection.
I went here with my man on a cute little date night and it was amazing. The ambience was dark, but sultry and sexy. The food was amazing and the service was top-tier. The drinks were also good, but I didn't get a picture of that. I love my Waygu picanha and my boyfriend loved his branzino. For appetizers, we got the woodfired meatballs and the baked bread. The bread was cooked to perfection and that smoked butter was amazing. We finished our night off with the chocolate cake and I couldn't ask for a better date night at this cute little steakhouse top-tier.
This is a great restaurant in Pike N Rose. I was very impressed with the food, drinks and especially the service, John provided. For starters, the Grilled Avocado was great. They put a heaping amount of crab salad which tasted great. The Caesar salad was large enough for four people to share. The croutons made this dish for me. For main entree, I got the 12oz Dry Aged NY Strip. It was cooked a perfect medium, and it was so tender and flavorful. I don't have to drive down to Chevy Chase now to get a great steak. My brother got the Grilled Branzino - this fish was so good and flaky. For sides, don't skip on the potato puree! Their Old Fashioned was one of the better ones I've had in the DMV. It's so hard to pick a favorite dish as everything was great. John is the best server and was so friendly and professional. I can't wait to come back and try more of their menu. The CAVA guys hit this one out of the park.
Can I say it's my favorite restaurant in the Rockville/North Bethesda area?! Yes, as a food who also appreciates good drinks and good ambiance when I dine, I love love this restaurant!!! Services are top notch, we celebrated anniversary here, the restaurant prepared us a card and champagne. All the food we got was so amazing, especially the steak...! And the interior decorations, such a vibe...I would have taken some pictures if it's not so dimmed, but it's nice cuz the vibe is very intimate. Definitely will be back!
Met up with friends for brunch and none of us had been here before and it's safe to say we'll be back. Our waitress, Rocky, was fantastic. She walked us through the menu, highlighting fan favorites while still giving us the full rundown, which made ordering easy. We ended up sharing a mix of dishes and everything was excellent. The brioche French toast, branzino, Caesar salad, deviled eggs, meatballs, and the bread with preserves and honey butter were all standouts... honestly, no notes. The cocktails (spicy margarita, pear spritz, and rosemary blossom) were well-balanced and flavorful without being overly strong. It wasn't too busy during brunch, so the atmosphere was relaxed and quiet. The decor is cute and makes it a great spot for either a date or a girls' catch-up. I'm not in Bethesda often, but this place is definitely worth the trip outside of DC. Looking forward to coming back!
The guys from CAVA are doing things right! All of their concepts are great and it's funny that they are known for the fast casual concepts more than their restaurants. We got the meatballs, macaroni and cheese, crab roll and split a steak. The meatballs were not one giant meatball, which is great for sharing. I realize this might change but was really good and sharable. The Mac and cheese had a firm noodle and creamy taste. All things ordered were great along with the cocktails. The crab rolls can be individually ordered at market rate, which was like $12 a roll. The pricing structure is à la carte as well. If you got a main, the sides come at a separate cost, but they are all shareable. If you get there early enough, you should be able to get a seat at the bar. It's seemed like a walk in was tough though as the night went on, so would recommend making a reservation.
Came for Valentines Day 2026! Couldn't get a dinner reservation so we came for lunch and the place was still packed. We've tried Julii, Melina and love them so we knew this was going to be good. We ordered the seasonal burrata appetizer, Wagyu Picanha, and Grilled Branzino, side of truffle mac and mushrooms. Burrata Appetizer: A seasonal menu item, super light and refreshing. Does come with a TON of carrots, maybe a bit too many. The walnuts and pistachios have it a special touch. As usual, wish these appetizers came with more bread. Our sourdough bread was a bit charred from the wood fire grill (they cook everything on the wood fire grill) so if that's going to bother you then maybe don't get this. Wagyu Picanha: David had been wanting to try this ever since we looked up the menu weeks ago, but the day before realized that it wasn't on the lunch menu so we politely asked if they'd be willing to make it, and they did! Shoutout to the Bouboulina team, you made his day. I really liked the red wine sauce it came with, and the temperature was cooked to perfect medium rare. Only thing was the meat could have used a touch more salt. Grilled Branzino: THIS THING IS HUGE. Thought I wouldn't finish it, but I powered through. The skin was super crispy (I'm weird, I'm not a fan of that much crispy skin, but David loved it and says it's the best part). The way they cooked this fish to perfect flakiness is beyond me. It's like they do it a million times or somethin. The lemon sauce underneath went well with fish too. Truffle Mac: Was definitely hesitant because I DONT like truffle. Just can't deal with the strong flavor. But surprisingly, while I did taste the truffle in this it didn't bother me much. They use cavatappi pasta which is my fav! Mushrooms: Had a pretty strong black garlic flavor which I wasn't a fan of, but have to say they really nailed the cook of the mushrooms. Our waiter was friendly and gave us a great intro to the menu. They were nice enough to give us complimentary champagne and although we asked for it to be a mocktail, we got alcohol instead and unfortunately didn't realize until I got the rashes after. Overall, great experience and we want to come back for that Tomahawk!
If you are looking for a dining experience that hits every mark, Bouboulina is it. From the moment we walked in, we knew we were in for a treat, but the execution exceeded all expectations. Every dish we tried felt intentional, featuring vibrant, layered flavors that highlight high-quality ingredients. The staff is attentive, knowledgeable, and genuinely warm. I have to give a special shout-out to the chocolate cake. I haven't been able to stop thinking about it since the final bite. It is rich, decadent, and perfectly textured, easily one of the best desserts I've ever had. It is, quite frankly, worth the trip alone. Bouboulina has earned a spot as one of my go-to's. Between the incredible kitchen and the top-tier service, there are a million reasons to become a regular here.
Bouboulina definitely lives up to the hype. We sat at the marble bar, which made the experience feel fun and lively. The picanha was perfectly cooked and super flavorful, and the pasta and salad were both great. Even the bread with whipped butter and honey was a standout. Cocktails were excellent (loved the espresso martini), and the service was warm and polished throughout. Such a great atmosphere that feels special but still relaxed. Would absolutely go back.
Service was outstanding. Food was mostly, but not 100%, delicious. I ordered the Picanha steak, a unique Brazilian cut, the mushrooms side, and shared the chocolate cake and Basque cheesecake. A colleague ordered the Branzino and I had a portion. The Picanha was excellent, cooked to medium at the chef's recommendation. A nice whole garlic bulb accompanied, super tasty. The mushrooms complete with raw egg were very good. The Branzino excellent, deboned with crispy, delicious skin. Multi-layered Chocolate cake was wonderful including the espresso gelato and chocolate sauce. Basque cheesecake was odd. This cheesecake is a rustic, crustless cheesecake from Spain's Basque region, known for its intentionally burned and caramelized top. Ours tasted like steak. Perhaps cooked in the same area as our steaks; I don't really know but it tasted like it. I would go back for a great steak but skip the cheesecake.
What went well? Everything!!! Despite of my poor planning everything went beyond well. From the time that my date and I entered, we were greeted and addressed immediately with Kindness and warm hospitality. We didn't have a reservation (strongly recommend to set your reservation). We were in luck last Friday night, and thank God because the food was delicious, from the bread to the salad, the steaks and Mac&cheese, the drinks and can't forget the chocolate cake. The food was great but the service was just as exceptional, always making sure we were enjoying every bit of everything. The soft lights and soulful music completely set the mood for the night. Definitely coming back for that Tomahawk steak!!!
Recently tried Bouboulina for my early birthday celebration and overall had a decent experience. The menu was simple but had various red meat and seafood options. I chose the Hanger steak and my aunt had branzino. The hanger steak was just ok, I really wasn't impressed with seasoning or presentation. The branzino was really good, de-boned and butterfly fillet. Also highly recommend their cauliflower as a shareable option. It's a decent portion size and taste really good with the pesto sauce. Service was just ok as well. Our server actually forgot that we were celebrating my birthday so I ended up with 2 desserts and a glass of champagne. The cheesecake was delicious and offers a huge portion slice, while the soft serve definitely brought me back to childhood days with the rainbow sprinkles. Ambiance is amazing. It's perfect for date night, it's beautifully decorated and I love the details like the candles surrounding the restaurant, pictures, drapery, etc. I would definitely love to return for a date night, maybe even for Valentine's Day. I had overall a good experience.
20 days ago
Amazing place for a cozy, elevated dining experience! First, they definitely nailed the retro-style ambiance. I liked how moody and refined the decor was, with the dark wood accents and super dim lighting, almost like I was transported to a secret lounge in the middle of Pike & Rose. Second, our server was very prompt to greet us once seated. He was patient and attentive as this was our first time and asked for recommendations. For appetizers, we got a seasonal burrata with strawberries, cherry tomatoes, and jalapeños served with sourdough, and a separate order of wood-fired meatballs. The burrata was delicious, with a satisfying combination of fresh, sweet and spicy, and the meatballs were cooked to perfection! Our main meal included the bouboulina salad (with pecans, dates, and pears), the Maryland crab cake, the smash burger, and the wagyu picanha, all to share. Their standout was definitely the picanha since it was so flavorful and paired well with the flavors of the salad. I would definitely visit again for a special occasion :) read more
Been doing Capital Grille for the longest time as my go to steakhouse and wanted to try this new place and boy it sure didn't disappoint. Place is so nicely decorated and very quiet during lunch. Our server, wish I remember his name, was the best. I think he was floored I was dining with my twin brother. lol. Always came to check in with us and refilled our drinks and was very charming. The food we had was cooked so well with great seasoning, I couldn't have been happier. I had steak the other night so I stuck with fish this time and it was flavorful with lots of butter too. Mashed potatoes was so creamy and tasty and buttery. It's almost like a puree. My brother had a steak and was cooked to his liking with a great char too. Highly recommend this new steakhouse; I believe it's from the Cava brothers who has two other restaurants in the same shopping complex. read more
A fine dining restaurant with subtle and sophisticated decor. Quiet and appealing. Great service and excellent food. Every bite was cooked to perfection and packed with flavors. Satisfied but not stuffed. 5* Tuna Crude: A combination of sweet and mild spicy flavors, and the freshness of tuna, creating an amazing flavor. 4.5*- Grilled Avocado: topped with crab meat salad. Mild flavors. 5*- Burrata: served with smoked trout roe: the burrata was very fresh. 5*- Hanger Steak and Eggs: cooked to perfection. read more
I went here with my man on a cute little date night and it was amazing. The ambience was dark, but sultry and sexy. The food was amazing and the service was top-tier. The drinks were also good, but I didn't get a picture of that. I love my Waygu picanha and my boyfriend loved his branzino. For appetizers, we got the woodfired meatballs and the baked bread. The bread was cooked to perfection and that smoked butter was amazing. We finished our night off with the chocolate cake and I couldn't ask for a better date night at this cute little steakhouse top-tier. read more
This is a great restaurant in Pike N Rose. I was very impressed with the food, drinks and especially the service, John provided. For starters, the Grilled Avocado was great. They put a heaping amount of crab salad which tasted great. The Caesar salad was large enough for four people to share. The croutons made this dish for me. For main entree, I got the 12oz Dry Aged NY Strip. It was cooked a perfect medium, and it was so tender and flavorful. I don't have to drive down to Chevy Chase now to get a great steak. My brother got the Grilled Branzino - this fish was so good and flaky. For sides, don't skip on the potato puree! Their Old Fashioned was one of the better ones I've had in the DMV. It's so hard to pick a favorite dish as everything was great. John is the best server and was so friendly and professional. I can't wait to come back and try more of their menu. The CAVA guys hit this one out of the park. read more
2 days ago
3rd time there. Each and every experience was on point. Service, drinks, food...10/10. My husband is a steak snob and still prefers mine cooked for him at home. read more
3 months ago
Can I say it's my favorite restaurant in the Rockville/North Bethesda area?! Yes, as a food who also appreciates good drinks and good ambiance when I dine, I love love this restaurant!!! Services are top notch, we celebrated anniversary here, the restaurant prepared us a card and champagne. All the food we got was so amazing, especially the steak...! And the interior decorations, such a vibe...I would have taken some pictures if it's not so dimmed, but it's nice cuz the vibe is very intimate. Definitely will be back! read more
4 months ago
Met up with friends for brunch and none of us had been here before and it's safe to say we'll be back. Our waitress, Rocky, was fantastic. She walked us through the menu, highlighting fan favorites while still giving us the full rundown, which made ordering easy. We ended up sharing a mix of dishes and everything was excellent. The brioche French toast, branzino, Caesar salad, deviled eggs, meatballs, and the bread with preserves and honey butter were all standouts... honestly, no notes. The cocktails (spicy margarita, pear spritz, and rosemary blossom) were well-balanced and flavorful without being overly strong. It wasn't too busy during brunch, so the atmosphere was relaxed and quiet. The decor is cute and makes it a great spot for either a date or a girls' catch-up. I'm not in Bethesda often, but this place is definitely worth the trip outside of DC. Looking forward to coming back! read more
The guys from CAVA are doing things right! All of their concepts are great and it's funny that they are known for the fast casual concepts more than their restaurants. We got the meatballs, macaroni and cheese, crab roll and split a steak. The meatballs were not one giant meatball, which is great for sharing. I realize this might change but was really good and sharable. The Mac and cheese had a firm noodle and creamy taste. All things ordered were great along with the cocktails. The crab rolls can be individually ordered at market rate, which was like $12 a roll. The pricing structure is à la carte as well. If you got a main, the sides come at a separate cost, but they are all shareable. If you get there early enough, you should be able to get a seat at the bar. It's seemed like a walk in was tough though as the night went on, so would recommend making a reservation. read more
Came for Valentines Day 2026! Couldn't get a dinner reservation so we came for lunch and the place was still packed. We've tried Julii, Melina and love them so we knew this was going to be good. We ordered the seasonal burrata appetizer, Wagyu Picanha, and Grilled Branzino, side of truffle mac and mushrooms. Burrata Appetizer: A seasonal menu item, super light and refreshing. Does come with a TON of carrots, maybe a bit too many. The walnuts and pistachios have it a special touch. As usual, wish these appetizers came with more bread. Our sourdough bread was a bit charred from the wood fire grill (they cook everything on the wood fire grill) so if that's going to bother you then maybe don't get this. Wagyu Picanha: David had been wanting to try this ever since we looked up the menu weeks ago, but the day before realized that it wasn't on the lunch menu so we politely asked if they'd be willing to make it, and they did! Shoutout to the Bouboulina team, you made his day. I really liked the red wine sauce it came with, and the temperature was cooked to perfect medium rare. Only thing was the meat could have used a touch more salt. Grilled Branzino: THIS THING IS HUGE. Thought I wouldn't finish it, but I powered through. The skin was super crispy (I'm weird, I'm not a fan of that much crispy skin, but David loved it and says it's the best part). The way they cooked this fish to perfect flakiness is beyond me. It's like they do it a million times or somethin. The lemon sauce underneath went well with fish too. Truffle Mac: Was definitely hesitant because I DONT like truffle. Just can't deal with the strong flavor. But surprisingly, while I did taste the truffle in this it didn't bother me much. They use cavatappi pasta which is my fav! Mushrooms: Had a pretty strong black garlic flavor which I wasn't a fan of, but have to say they really nailed the cook of the mushrooms. Our waiter was friendly and gave us a great intro to the menu. They were nice enough to give us complimentary champagne and although we asked for it to be a mocktail, we got alcohol instead and unfortunately didn't realize until I got the rashes after. Overall, great experience and we want to come back for that Tomahawk! read more
If you are looking for a dining experience that hits every mark, Bouboulina is it. From the moment we walked in, we knew we were in for a treat, but the execution exceeded all expectations. Every dish we tried felt intentional, featuring vibrant, layered flavors that highlight high-quality ingredients. The staff is attentive, knowledgeable, and genuinely warm. I have to give a special shout-out to the chocolate cake. I haven't been able to stop thinking about it since the final bite. It is rich, decadent, and perfectly textured, easily one of the best desserts I've ever had. It is, quite frankly, worth the trip alone. Bouboulina has earned a spot as one of my go-to's. Between the incredible kitchen and the top-tier service, there are a million reasons to become a regular here. read more
12 hours ago
4 months ago
Bouboulina definitely lives up to the hype. We sat at the marble bar, which made the experience feel fun and lively. The picanha was perfectly cooked and super flavorful, and the pasta and salad were both great. Even the bread with whipped butter and honey was a standout. Cocktails were excellent (loved the espresso martini), and the service was warm and polished throughout. Such a great atmosphere that feels special but still relaxed. Would absolutely go back. read more
Service was outstanding. Food was mostly, but not 100%, delicious. I ordered the Picanha steak, a unique Brazilian cut, the mushrooms side, and shared the chocolate cake and Basque cheesecake. A colleague ordered the Branzino and I had a portion. The Picanha was excellent, cooked to medium at the chef's recommendation. A nice whole garlic bulb accompanied, super tasty. The mushrooms complete with raw egg were very good. The Branzino excellent, deboned with crispy, delicious skin. Multi-layered Chocolate cake was wonderful including the espresso gelato and chocolate sauce. Basque cheesecake was odd. This cheesecake is a rustic, crustless cheesecake from Spain's Basque region, known for its intentionally burned and caramelized top. Ours tasted like steak. Perhaps cooked in the same area as our steaks; I don't really know but it tasted like it. I would go back for a great steak but skip the cheesecake. read more
What went well? Everything!!! Despite of my poor planning everything went beyond well. From the time that my date and I entered, we were greeted and addressed immediately with Kindness and warm hospitality. We didn't have a reservation (strongly recommend to set your reservation). We were in luck last Friday night, and thank God because the food was delicious, from the bread to the salad, the steaks and Mac&cheese, the drinks and can't forget the chocolate cake. The food was great but the service was just as exceptional, always making sure we were enjoying every bit of everything. The soft lights and soulful music completely set the mood for the night. Definitely coming back for that Tomahawk steak!!! read more
6 months ago
Recently tried Bouboulina for my early birthday celebration and overall had a decent experience. The menu was simple but had various red meat and seafood options. I chose the Hanger steak and my aunt had branzino. The hanger steak was just ok, I really wasn't impressed with seasoning or presentation. The branzino was really good, de-boned and butterfly fillet. Also highly recommend their cauliflower as a shareable option. It's a decent portion size and taste really good with the pesto sauce. Service was just ok as well. Our server actually forgot that we were celebrating my birthday so I ended up with 2 desserts and a glass of champagne. The cheesecake was delicious and offers a huge portion slice, while the soft serve definitely brought me back to childhood days with the rainbow sprinkles. Ambiance is amazing. It's perfect for date night, it's beautifully decorated and I love the details like the candles surrounding the restaurant, pictures, drapery, etc. I would definitely love to return for a date night, maybe even for Valentine's Day. I had overall a good experience. read more
3 months ago
(4.15) ~ Very good overall food & service MENU: ** Crab Rolls = (4.35) Very tasty ~ Got two @ $12 ea. ** Burger (dry-aged) = (4.35) High quality Meat. Although I asked to add a Sunny Egg & they said no, even though they do it for brunch & I was willing to pay extra... ** Crispy Potatoes (special) ~ (4.15) Very good, kinda like Tater Tots (see photo). ** Double Espresso = (4.15) Very good * Loaded Baked Potato = (3.75) Good * Vanilla Soft Serve = (3.5) Not as good as last time, b/c there was no smokey blueberry sauce & only (6) Blueberries instead... read more
The tuna crudo and espresso martini are standouts here! Boris was attentive and provided great service. Loved the booths as they are perfect for small groups. Definitely one of the best espresso martinis I've had in the dmv! So cold! read more
We need more places like this in Montgomery County. It was so classy, cute, and everything was so well-plated. The waiters know what wine is good and what to recommend with what you are eating. Me and my girlfriends loved our cocktails. And I cannot even begin to talk about how well the food was presented. It was so soooo well done. Everything was just so pretty -just check out my pictures. But the reason why I'm giving it just four stars, that while the food was really pretty, and the atmosphere was excellent, the taste and food chemistry of the dishes was just not there. I would recommend this place to anyone looking for a good date night, or if you're looking for a place to impress a potential gf/bf. The presentation, atmosphere, and drinks are amazing. I just wouldn't take a foodie here. read more
Been here twice--once for bar drinks and once recently for a friend's birthday dinner. The restaurant has a fancy feel, speak easy vibes--it's pretty dim lit inside. Service here was excellent--our server Jonathan was friendly, attentive and helpful in recommending dishes. Overall, food was good, with some mixed feelings. Lobster Wedge Salad had chunks of lobster meat but the dressing lacked flavor, so the whole salad was bland. The 10 oz. Wagyu Picanha Steak was tender and well flavored, one of my top favorites. Whole Grilled Branzino was delicious--the gremolata was a nice flavor addition to the fish. Wasn't a huge fan of the Lasagna--also bland and dry, not enough sauce inside, just at the bottom (the sauce wasn't cooked in for extra flavor). For sides, the Fire Roasted Cauliflower and Ember Roasted Mushrooms were great! Cocktails I recommend: The Coldest Martini in DC, Espresso Martini, Dirty Gin Martini & Rose Blossom. Jonathan brought out a small soft serve with candle to celebrate the birthday girl! We also the Basque Cheesecake and Espresso Gelato which were both pretty good. read more
Im in love with Bouboulina (& the story behind the name,too). The decor, the immaculate service, vibe in both rooms and the music are top tier (in my opinion). You may walk by it due to the speakeasy feel entrance. Once you walk in - you tend to forget on you're in Rockville...vibe. The greeting from each staff when walking by and the attentiveness is superb. Presentation of food is on point and delicious with each bite. It was my first time trying the Tomahawk steak - it's now my favorite!!! So tender and perfect seasoning (natural juices), grilled garlic and the smokiness of the thyme. The only complaint I have it could've been warmer when it was brought to the table. The branzino was perfect - you can eat it with the skin! The burger was flavorful, all veggies were yummy. Yes - we got a little stupid with the food (lol). The desserts - YUM!!!! My favorite was my martini!!! I can go on & on..... if you're around Pike & Rose - stop by and try Bouboulina. Oh yeah - parking garage steps away and out door seating available ;-) read more
10 months ago
Celebrated a birthday and it was perfect in every way! The staff was so warm, welcoming and accommodating (and gave a personal happy birthday card). They explained the menu and answered our questions very thoroughly. Throughout they tended to us without being intrusive. The dining area had warm dark wood tones that reminded me of old school steak houses. We shared the house bread, which came with a butter potion blended with honey and parmigiana cheese. The bread was warm, chewy and soft. The butter had hints of sweet and salty from the honey and cheese. It melted on the bread slice. My companion had the grilled branzino. Fish was tender and flaky with a crisp skin. The cabbage slaw accompanying the dish was crunchy and well seasoned. I had the lasagna. It was the most unique and tastiest I've had. Instead of layered sheets baked it was rolled up and baked on its side. The pasta sheets were stuffed with mozzarella, bechamel and bolognese meat. Portion came with 4 rolls and a delicious meat, basil and tomato sauce surrounding. Basil and parmigiana topped the rolls. The top edges had a slight and perfect char. Was rich and filling. We shared a roasted mushroom side that was smoky, tender and topped with manchego and thyme. The egg yolk was on the side as requested. Meal and birthday celebration was perfect! read more
5 months ago
I went to this restaurant recently with a friend, and it was really lovely. Our waiter (I think his name was Pablo) was really nice and helpful. We got a Caesar salad and a bunch of fish dishes to share. I know I had a shrimp dish, and there was a tuna dish on the table as well. Everything was super fresh and flavorful. The vibe was really elevated--kind of a quiet, relaxing atmosphere--so my friend and I tried to keep our volume down. I'd definitely go back for that cool, elevated vibe and the delicious fresh food. read more
1 year ago
We visited about a month or so after opening day. We made a reservation on Open Table, and upon arriving, check-in was smooth. Nestled in the very busy Pike and Rose off Rockville Pike, there are nearby parking garages and you'll take a short walk to the restaurant. The entrance offers a bar that is separate from the main dining area. As you walk towards the dining room, you're greeted with dim lights and a beautiful steakhouse-like decor. The furniture and finishings were beautifully executed. As we settled in, we opted for the Lobster Wedge Salad as an appetizer. We tried the NY Strip Steak, Hearth Grilled Half Chicken, and the Branzino. For a side, we chose the Fire Roasted Cauliflower. Listen, I know some will debate a salad is a salad, but no...incorrect. The Lobster Wedge Salad was something delicious! Medium-boiled egg, with chunks of lobster and a little seasoning on the lettuce? 5/5. I would definitely get this again. The NY Strip was good too, but nothing too amazing. Same goes for the Half Chicken. The Branzino was tasty. I particularly enjoyed the pickled onions that accompanied the fish. Lastly, although I consider myself a foodie, I like to think of myself as a health-conscientious foodie. So, when I say that their cauliflower was nothing short of amazing...it was just that! With it being fire-roasted, the outside had a nice char, but was very soft inside. Loved it. Last, but not least, the dirty martini -- it was highlighted on the menu, and that made me try it. I expected the usual olives as a garnish, but it was finished off with olives that were either roasted or manipulated in some way. Regardless, I didn't like it. The presentation, however, was beautiful. I would definitely visit Bouboulina again. Cheers! read more
My parents and I are big fans of Melina, so I was excited to try the newest restaurant from their book. This one is different from Julii or Melina, and it feels more formal. The bar is small and feels like a nice place to grab a drink. The back room is darker and feels much more formal, and a return to long gone days. It's a gorgeous ambiance. Anyways, we had a reservation for a friday night. The waiter was pretty attentive, and we ordered several items to share: *The meatball - this was really tasty and delicious! Loved the sauce. *Beef tartare - solid tartare! *Tomahawk - this was perfectly cooked (medium rare), which was expected given it's a steakhouse ha! *Side of cauliflower - I love a head of cauliflower, and this one was cooked to perfection. We were so full, but wanted to have dessert, so we asked for the Basque cheesecake to go. Even though we ate it over an hour later, it was still delicious! We also had some wine, and I had an old fashioned cocktail. All of which was really good! Overall, the bill came to $400, which is on the pricier end, though again, the is a steakhouse, and we had a bottle of wine + one cocktail, so it's to be expected! I would definitely recommend this place, but more for a special celebratory night. read more
17 days ago
Boubolina was the first woman who attained the rank of admiral. She fought in the Greek War of Independence in 1821. She was a role model for women, as a mother and a soldier. This restaurant is named after her. The restaurant has a rich and stylish decor which is reflected in the rich tapestry, beautiful wall paintings, and stylish furniture that all help to enhance your dining pleasure. Service was simply amazing. We had excellent service and the staff were friendly and professional. We had several people check on us during the course of our meal. We started off with drinks. I ordered a mimosa, with fresh squeezed orange juice. My friend ordered the strawberry lemonade. Both drinks were excellent! My friend ordered the smash burger which comes with beef, a sunny side up egg, bacon, cheese, burger sauce and a pickle. She said it was delicious. I do think that for the cost, they should have included a side dish....some fries or breakfast potatoes would be a nice addition to the dish. I ordered the lobster Benedict which comes with spinach, lobster, cooked in brown butter hollandaise and espellette. I had asked for the pepper or espellette to be left off my dish. The waiter came out and told me that by accident they had included the pepper in the dish. So, I asked them to make one without it, as I had requested. I kind of thought that was strange for them to ask if my preference was due to a health condition or my personal preference. Either way, it was up to the chef to make the order as it was requested. I was definitely confused, as why they would even ask that question. Were they going to send it out anyway? (If it was a personal choice.) I mention this because when my meal was served, the hollandaise sauce was cold. They probably remade the poached eggs and left the rest of the breakfast entry as it was. When, you are paying the cost of a fine dining restaurant, it is the attention to detail that is very important. And, although I didn't send it back. This is not acceptable for a fine dining restaurant and caused them to lose a star. The other issue I had was with the lobster Benedict....you would assume that there would be large chunks of lobster in the dish. But, the lobster was lacking in this dish. The dish was very tasty. But, with 2 epic issues, definitely not a five star rating for the food. There were lovely touches. My friend was celebrating a birthday and they did bring out ice cream and a card for the birthday recipient. That was a lovely personal touch. So, the service was 5 + stars, the ambiance 5 + stars, the food was between a 3.5 and a 4 star rating. The chef definitely has some room for improvement. The cost at Bouboulina is expensive and when you are paying top dollar for a brunch....everything should be well executed. read more
11 months ago
Came here for lunch to celebrate anniversary with my husband. Booked reservations through Opentable and told them we were celebrating our anniversary. They had a card and gave us complimentary bubbles whicg elevated the experience. We did get cocktails- a gin blossom drink with egg white that was delicious and husband got their Old fashioned. For our entree I got their salad and added hanger steak for protein. Salad was tasty with dates, pear and lemon vinaigrette. Husband got the wagyu that he said he enjoyed. Included loaded potato to share. For dessert we shared the chocolate cake. We have been wanting to try this place out and the experience lived up to our expectations. The decor was beautiful as well! We will be back. read more
Had an incredible dinner here from start to finish! They use a wood fire grill for their food so many things develop a nice smoky flavor, including the bread and asparagus. Everything was very tasty! I especially loved my salmon as well as the NY strip steak. The Basque cheesecake was a rich and wonderful end to the night! read more
1 year ago
I've been here twice, once for just late night cocktails with friends at the bar counter (the bartenders were very nice!), and the second time for dinner. The dining area in the back is quiet & private, and I really liked the overall vibes. Service was friendly & attentive. Cocktails were good both times I went! We've had their boubou old fashioned, espresso martini (love it with the banana liqueur), and yuzu spritz (refreshing) to name a few. Menu selection is smaller (just like at its sister restaurant, Melina), so that might not be for everyone. Ordered the tuna crudo to start--yum! For entrees, I got the lasagna--I was pleasantly surprised with the twist on the presentation that it was different from your usual rectangular lasagna, and the portion was generous. My husband ordered the wagyu steak, which unfortunately he thought was a little chewy. For parking, street and multiple garages on Pike & Rose, including one right across Bouboulina. read more
What a beautiful restaurant! It was way fancier than I anticipated, and I felt overdressed. But all the staff were very friendly and accommodating. I met a group of friends here, and it was brunch time on a Sunday. With the combination of the old school music and the fancy decor, the place has quite a vibe. The brunch menu was cool ... Only a few items felt truly like breakfast, but everything looked delicious. My friend ordered this bread for everyone to share, and seriously I could come any day and just enjoy that. It came with maple whipped butter and this jam... THAT JAM. That jam is a mystery, but it is one of the best jams I have ever had. For my entree I got the smoked salmon eclair, which was really good. It wasn't too salty, and I liked the smashed avocado and salad with it. Our server told me that it might be light, so I got an order of truffle mac and cheese as well. The bread actually filled me up more than I thought, so I could barely eat it on the spot, but later on that mac and cheese was fantastic. I nibbled on with my friends got to, such as the steak. I was wowed all around my drink of choice was their pear spritz... One of my favorite fruits that I feel is underutilized in cocktails. All this to say, this is the perfect spot for a date. The menu is pricey, and out of all the other restaurants I know this group has, this is by far the fanciest. Will I be back? Absolutely. read more
Gorgeous ambiance, excellent service! Went in for a late lunch on New Year's Eve at the bar. Delicious espresso martinis and other cocktails. Enjoyed their take on the wedge salad (no bleu cheese!!), the shrimp appetizer and steak sandwich. read more
1 year ago
Bouboulina is taking dining in MoCo to a whole new level. The ambiance, interior design, service, and food are all what you'd expect at a top notch restaurant in DC. The downside is that all of that comes with DC-like pricing. However, that wouldn't stop me from returning for a girl's dinner or date night. Most of the guests were dressed up, adding to the experience. I got the branzino, which was amazing. I was going to get the celeriac puree as my side but our server recommended the carrots instead because the puree is more of a dipping sauce for steaks. I'm so glad he said something! I wasn't expecting anything from the carrots but they were great. The servers regularly checked in on us and answered any questions we had but still gave us space to enjoy our meal. The only thing I didn't love is that they really seem to upsell you on bottled water. Like, opening the bottle without even really waiting to know if you want to purchase the $8 bottle or if you're comfortable with tap water. They opened the bottle for my friend before I even got to the restaurant. I would've appreciated them waiting until the second guest (me) arrived at the table before forcing our hand with pricey water. I'm not a picky water drinker. I would preferred to save that money for my side or put it towards a cocktail. Next time I go, I'll say "I'm good with tap water" as soon as I'm brought to the table/as soon as I'm greeted. Not the most elegant approach but apparently that's what needs to be done. read more
21 days ago
7 months ago
Literally my favorite place in North Bethesda! The service is outstanding and the atmosphere is amazing. The menu has a Mediterranean touch while still offering the classic American steakhouse experience. The steak was incredible, and all the appetizers--plus the bread--were delicious. A perfect spot for a date night or any celebration! read more
2 months ago
We had a great experience at Bouboulina. Pablo was an excellent server. He was very attentive, kind, and gave great suggestions throughout the night. The restaurant was fully booked, but we were still able to find seating at the bar and a table, which worked out perfectly. The steak was delicious, and the truffle mac and cheese was my favorite. Pablo really made the experience even better with his kindness and service. I would definitely come back. read more
Bouboulina is truly fine dining in the DMV, once you step in you're transformed to a whole new place. The ambiance is romantic and intimate, great for a date or girls catch up. Service was extremely kind and attentive all around. We had the Bouboulina bread, lasagna, 10oz wagyu, loaded potato and drinks. I'd describe the food as good, I felt like a bit more flavor could be used... like something was missing in each item. Drinks were great! Light and airy. read more
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More info about Bouboulina
921 Meeting St
North Bethesda, MD 20852
Directions
(301) 857-9090
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http://www.eatbouboulina.com
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Ask the Community - Bouboulina
Other than what seems to already be implied, is there a dress code?
No stated dress code. I would recommend smart casual dress or better.
Where is the closest parking garage?
It is right across the street. But, since they remodeled that garage the spaces are very small and it is hard to drive around the garage. I recommend parking in the garage across from Summer House. There is a walking path straight to Bouboulina.
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Bouboulina - desserts - Updated July 2026
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