It’s no secret that bartenders know the best local spots. So, we asked some of our favorite Montgomery County, Maryland hotel bartenders about the most popular drinks at their bar, why they love bartending, and what some of their favorite things to do are outside of Washington, DC when they’re off the clock.
The Bench: Gaithersburg Marriott Washingtonian Center
9751 Washingtonian Boulevard, Gaithersburg, MD 20878
The Bench is a modern eatery and bar featuring lakeside patio views and happy hour specials. They’re open Monday through Friday from 6:30am-10:00pm and Saturday and Sunday from 7:00am-10:00pm.
Christina Miles, Bartender
Q: What’s the most popular drink at your bar?
A: The Pineapple Nutmeg Margarita. It has 1800 Tequila, pineapple juice and agave.
Q: What is your favorite part about bartending at your bar?
A: Meeting people from all over the world and learning about different cultures, food, and drinks.
Q: What attractions in Montgomery County, Maryland do you like to explore in your spare time?
A: I would like to explore more wineries and small, non-chain restaurants and bars in Montgomery County.
The Corby Kitchen: Bethesda North Marriott Hotel and Conference Center
5701 Marinelli Road, North Bethesda, MD 20852
The Corby Kitchen works with local farms and sustainable fisheries to bring the freshest ingredients to their menu. They’re open Monday through Friday from 6:00am-12:00am and Saturday and Sunday from 11:00am-12:00am.
Matt Lewis, Bartender
Q: What’s the most popular drink at your bar?
A: The Old Fashioned or a Manhattan. They are a perfect cocktail after a long day of meetings.
Q: Why do you love bartending in Montgomery County, Maryland?
A: The industry in this county is like family; many friendships have come from bartending in this area.
Q: What attractions in Montgomery County, Maryland do you like to explore in your spare time?
A: I enjoy hiking the Billy Goat Trail, playing golf and softball, and anything related to outdoor recreation.
Harvest Plates & Pints: Holiday Inn Gaithersburg
2 Montgomery Village Avenue, Gaithersburg, MD 20879
The culinary team at Harvest Plates & Pints is inspired by seasonal and sustainable ingredients. They’re open Monday through Friday from 6:00am-10:30pm, Saturday and Sunday from 7:00am-11:00pm, and offers daily happy hour from 4pm-7pm.
Tigist Ayanew, Bartender
Q: What’s the most popular drink at your bar?
A: The most popular drinks are actually our featured varieties from local craft breweries. For those looking for a variety of options, we encourage people to create their own beer flight.
Q: Why do you love bartending in Montgomery County, Maryland?
A: I love bartending in Montgomery County, MD, because we have such a large diversity of guests. I learn a lot about their different countries from them.
Q: What’s your favorite place in Montgomery County, Maryland to drink that is not your bar?
A: My favorite place to have a drink is any one of the local breweries. I love to support the local businesses that support us.
Want to meet more people behind Montgomery County, Maryland’s drinking scene? Check out the downtown and upcountry wineries and vineyards you have to visit and our Q&A with brewery owners and founders.
