A popular DMV concept is preparing to change the way Bethesda diners think about burgers and fries. CHAR’D is bringing its refined approach to the classic pairing to Pike & Rose early next
year, and it’s certain to become a neighborhood staple.
CHAR’D will be making its Maryland debut at 11881 Grand Park Avenue in a storefront that housed BurgerFi until its closure in December earlier this month. Co-owner Khallil Daher generously set aside some time to speak with What Now DC about bringing the elevated burger concept to a new neighborhood. “Bethesda has been one of our most requested markets.” he states.”We have seen strong and consistent demand from Maryland over the past year, and Pike & Rose in particular aligns perfectly with our brand. It offers great foot traffic, a strong food culture, and a community that cares about quality and transparency. Federal Realty has also been an excellent partner, which made Bethesda a very natural choice for our next step.”
The Pike & Rose storefront is part of a concerted push to spread CHAR’D’s distinctive take on fast-casual classics to a broader audience. Daher explains: “Over the last 18 months, we have expanded CHAR’D across multiple states while refining our operations, supply chain, and team. With that foundation in place, we are focused on scaling in a thoughtful and disciplined way. The continued demand across DC, Maryland, and Virginia made this the right time to begin a broader regional expansion, starting with Bethesda.”
CHAR’D’s Bethesda location will maintain the core principles that have made the concept such a fan favorite while also honoring its new home. Daher states: “The core CHAR’D experience will remain the same with clean ingredients, premium smashburgers, and duck fat fries. The Bethesda location will reflect the Pike & Rose neighborhood with a slightly elevated design and layout. Each location is designed to fit its community while staying true to the CHAR’D brand.”
Locals won’t have to wait too much longer to savor CHAR’D’s delectable cuisine; Daher states that he and the CHAR’D team are aiming to have the Bethesda location open in early 2026. The new storefront will be the opening salvo of a larger expansion plan-Daher says: “This Bethesda location is the first of many, as we plan to expand to dozens of locations across DC, Maryland, and Virginia over the next few years. Our vision is to build a strong regional footprint while maintaining the quality, consistency, and standards that define CHAR’D.”
Bethesda foodies will certainly be counting down until CHAR’D opens its doors. The restaurant offers a more sophisticated approach to burgers and fries without sacrificing any of the flavor fans have come to know and love. Daher offers this appealing glimpse of what lies in store: “Guests can expect premium, seed oil free smashburgers made with grass fed beef, crispy duck fat fries, and a focused menu built around real, high quality ingredients. We are very intentional about what goes into our food and avoid low quality fillers and ultra processed ingredients that are common in fast food. When people try CHAR’D, they immediately notice the difference. It is indulgent and satisfying, but it does not leave you feeling heavy or sluggish. It simply does not feel like typical fast food.”
