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Growing California chain Dog Haus opened its first East Coast location in Bethesda, Maryland on Friday, April 13. And, at least for now, the verdict remains split on whether it fits into the local dining scene.
Located in an industrial-style space at 7904 Woodmont Avenue, its centerpiece dog creations — all served on grilled King’s Hawaiian rolls — include a “Sooo Cali” (wild arugula, avocado, tomato, crispy onions, and spicy basil aioli) and a “Chili Idol” (an all-beef dog topped with chili, cheddar cheese sauce and onions). There’s also lots of booze, with wines, two dozen local beers, and rosé slushies.
Its core offerings are overseen by celebrity chef and Food Network star Adam Gertler. Other menu options include corn dogs, and a fried chicken sandwich. Sides include chili cheese tots, loaded fries, and beer-battered onion rings. For dessert there’s milkshakes and soft serve ice cream.
Read on to hear what the public is saying, just 10 days into service:
The Can’t Go Wrong News: Facebooker Kristen Weissman says she’s tried several different items and reports that “everything was really tasty, plus, there’s a full bar; where else can you get a glass of wine [with] your tots and a milkshake??” And Yelper Mbachur M. calls her experience “one of the best meals I’ve had. Everything came up to like $30 (two drinks included). That’s not bad AT all.” [Facebook, Yelp]
The Get It Together News: Facebook user Giovanna Panameno was underwhelmed. “The dogs were okay, had the Old Town and bf had the Cowboy. Felt the dogs were missing something,” she writes. Yelper G Z. sees room for improvement. “It’s a new place working out issues but it seems like staff is untrained and just young,” he says. “I’d rather spend $25 somewhere that’s less chaotic and more of a relaxing atmosphere to enjoy a few beers and some food.” [Facebook, Yelp]
The Feeling Right at Home News: Yelper Pati Y. calls Dog Haus an “adorable joint. Fun, good music, wood & iron furniture.” And Crystal L. notes “the interior was very chic and cozy which made for a great place to watch the D.C. Trifecta play on the three TV screens above the bar area. After ordering at the cashier, the gourmet dogs were brought to our table pretty quickly.” And Instagrammer @lowymatt1211 writes “the place was buzzing at 9 p.m. and the staff was still energetic and having fun. [Yelp, Instagram]
The ‘Say What?’ News: Trip Advisor’s CWnut warns, “This place is noisy. Many TVs, music playing and as soon as you walk in the cashier yells a welcome which should be done when you actually walk the 10 feet to order.” And while Yelper Lee M. calls the food “stellar,” the “interior design was all concrete, tile, and wood. This means the inside was very noisy and it was hard to have a conversation.” [TripAdvisor, Yelp]
The Solid Service News: Facebook user Shaya Misra Fitzgerald hails the seamless flow of her evening at Dog Haus. “Atmosphere was laid back and sophisticated. We had great service even on a busy night,” she writes. Susan Avalos concurs “Huge selection of great beers and dogs. The service was fantastic too. We so need one in VA,” she writes. [Facebook]
