The North Bethesda fast-casual market is preparing to welcome a hip newcomer to its dining scene. Bartaco, a chain known for its upscale approach to coastal street cuisine, is opening in the Pike & Rose development, according to The List: Are You on It?
The restaurant is bringing the flavors of the beach to 11886 Grand Park Avenue. Bartaco is taking over the space vacated by Nada, the Mexican restaurant that occupied the building for nearly eight years before closing in September of 2024.
An opening timeline is not currently available for Bartaco’s triumphant entrance into the Bethesda fast-casual market, however a posting is live on Indeed searching for a general manager for the storefront. Bartaco CEO and president Anthony Valletta tells What Now DC that it is still too early to estimate an opening date, but that he and the chain’s team are enthusiastic about joining the neighborhood, saying: “More to come, but we are excited to be part of the community soon!”
While Bartaco may be new to Maryland, the chain has a small but mighty presence in the DMV. The restaurant has four locations across the region-the eatery has laid down roots in Reston and Mosaic in Virginia, and Mount Vernon and the Wharf in DC.
With a menu featuring dishes like baja fish, sesame ribeye, and falafel, Bartaco has established itself as the perfect spot for a relaxed and delicious meal. As the website states: “as a neighborhood drop in place for lunch, a casual supper or anything in between, Bartaco is hard to beat.”
