Cafe Deluxe, Gaithersburg MD

Cafe Deluxe opened in my neighborhood at Washingtonian center a few months ago.  On a gorgeous spring-like weeknight, we took the dog out to the lake for a nice stroll, and decided to try the new establishment.  I called ahead to make sure they allow dogs at the patio area, and they seem very accommodating to small dogs.  Many other restaurants in the area are not dog friendly at all, for example Red Canyon does not allow dogs in their patio area, CPK allows dogs but they need to be 'outside the fence', which I did not like.  Guapos has a similar policy with the fence but they are really not that strict once you get there as long as you're not a disturbance to other patrons.  On the other hand, Nando is another dog friendly restaurant if you're interested in taking your pooch, but always call ahead to make sure!

from patio area

The patio area is spacious and has plenty of seating, so we were seated right away.  The location, of course, is lakefront so it's great for chilling and people watching (or paddle boat watching).  We even saw a huge fish jumped out of the water!  The place looks great for a happy hour because they have an outdoor bar with great ambiance, I might come back to try!  It will be nice in spring and fall to sit by the lake and enjoy happy hour specials and drinks!

Cafe Deluxe menu

I ordered a turkey burger in an attempt to be healthy, he ordered the beef short ribs from the entrees.  We chatted and people watched for a while before the food came, but it didn't take unreasonably long.  I'd say about 15 to 20 minutes tops.

turkey burger

The turkey burger was good!  It was moist and the buns were toasted buttery delicious, the sauce was a great compliment to the burger as well.  His short rib was okay, a little dry to my liking but it made the C+/B- passing grade.  

beef short rib

Overall, the new restaurant wins with their excellent bar ambiance and nicely setup outdoor dining area.  Their food is up to par, but nothing knocked us out of our shoes.  They do have a descent brunch menu though, we might have to come back for a Sunday brunch sometime!  (with a stroller and the pooch?)

FoodiePop's rating: 3.9/5

Cafe Deluxe
9811 Washingtonian Blvd
Gaithersburg, MD 20878