Mallory Square

If you’re in the market for a brand-new bike, City Bikes has got you covered. Like they tell their customers, “which bike you buy is less important than where you buy it.” Many bicycles are actually rather similar, regardless of the brand, but your go-to bike shop will dictate what maintenance, repairs, and advice you receive throughout its lifetime. 

City Bikes makes it their mission to ensure they’re the best place to buy from. Their warranty service includes hassle-free returns and a money-back guarantee over the first 30 days after your purchase as well as complimentary 30-day and 1-year tune-ups and free adjustments for the life of your bike. If you need a little extra service, they offer an array of packages ranging from a basic tune-up to a complete overhaul. 

What’s equally important is City Bikes’ emphasis on test rides. Not only will they answer your questions about particular bikes or offer advice, but they promote test rides as one of the best ways to find the perfect fit. They share their guidelines and requirements to ensure both you and the bikes are safe in the process, too. 

With these touches, there’s no doubt that City Bikes proves its own mantra: they really are the ideal place to buy your next bike!

After a busy day at home, in the office, or running errands, the last thing you want to worry about is deciding what to cook for dinner. Sure, you could grab another cup of coffee or head to the nearest drive-through. But wouldn’t you rather a homemade family dinner with the classic flavors of Italy? You can get just that thanks to Il Pizzico. 

Their typical dinner menu includes everything from gnocchi di ricotta, spinach e pomodoro (ricotta dumplings with tomatoes and spinach) to tiramisu, complete with a lengthy list of Italian wines to accompany your meal. But beyond the dining room, Il Pizzico also offers takeout and limited free delivery options. 

Perhaps their most exciting offering, though, is their “Family Meals” menu. These ready to bake meals come in two- or six-serving pans of cheese, meat, or seafood lasagna, spinach and ricotta cannelloni, or meat-filled tortellini. Just pop the tray into the oven and you’ll soon have a delicious meal with minimal effort. You could even pick up a few dishes and freeze some pasta to enjoy later! 

Whether you or takeout for dinner tonight or a family meal to heat up at your leisure, Il Pizzico will make sure you and your family get the tastes of Italy from the comfort of your apartment. 

With the weather getting warmer and warmer every day, you might be starting to take your workout routine outside on a regular basis. Here’s what you need to stay safe and comfortable while you’re exercising outdoors.

Lightweight, sweat-wicking layers.

Since spring bridges the gap between winter and summer, its weather can be somewhat unpredictable in terms of temperature. Make sure you’re ready for whatever awaits you outside by dressing in breathable layers, including a lightweight spring jacket. That way you can simply shed layers if it ends up being a warmer run, but you won’t be left shivering if it’s a little chilly on any given morning. Make sure your layers are sweat-wicking to avoid skin irritation.

A hat or sunglasses.

You’ll probably want to enjoy as much of that spring sunshine as possible! But maybe not when it starts to make you squint. Keep the sun off your face by donning a sweat-wicking hat or tossing on a pair of athletic sunglasses. Make sure the glasses fit well so they don’t slide down your nose as you run.

Waterproof sunscreen.

Before you put on those glasses, make sure you apply a layer of sunscreen! Even when it’s not particularly hot, your skin can still be damaged by the sun—and who wants to deal with a sunburn before summer even hits? Find a waterproof sunscreen that can withstand sweating, and stick with SPF 30 or higher.

A handheld water bottle or water belt.

Staying hydrated is super important any time you exercise, but even more so as the temperatures begin to rise. Make sure you take along plenty of water for your journey! Opt for a handheld water bottle, a CamelBak you carry on your back, or a water belt outfitted with several smaller water flasks.

5 Hot Weather Running Gear Tips
Outdoor Products to Promote Safety While Exercising
The 7 Best Handheld Running Bottles of 2020

Thanks to Matchbox right here in Rockville, you can enjoy a delicious brunch without having to leave your couch. Their Rockville location offers both sweet and savory brunch options, available for online ordering with pickup or delivery. Whether you’re looking for a classic American breakfast, chicken and waffles, a flavorful skillet, or a fruit-doused French toast, there’s an option for you. 

Of course, no modern-day brunch would be complete without cocktails. If you’re not confident in your bartending skills, plan to place your order for pickup so you can take advantage of Matchbox’s drink menu. Prefer to enjoy your meal sober? Sodas and lemonades are available as a non-alcoholic alternative. 

Even if you’re not fond of brunch, you can enjoy Matchbox’s menu. Try the wood-fired pizzas for which they’re famous or a sandwich or salad at any time of day. And, whether you order from Matchbox for brunch, another meal, or just because you’re craving a good slice of pizza, be sure to check out their environmental efforts, too. They ask that you note in the comments of your online order if you’d like utensils and condiments included in your order in an attempt to reduce waste. 

“My family's favorite place to hang out. Walk, run, yoga, skate, tennis, we've done it all here.” That’s what reviewer Barbie Howie writes of Fallsgrove Stream Valley Park. This park really does give visitors options for more activities than you could ever squeeze into just one visit. Luckily, you can stop by time and again to try it all. 

At 50.2 acres, Fallsgrove Stream Valley Park features a nature trail and paths to wander through and embrace your inner Thoreau. As one reviewer puts it, “Very serene place to relax. You'll have a feel of nature here.” Take a walk and take in the trees, plants, and other natural wonders that surround you. Sit a bit and meditate—count your breaths and focus on the feel of the breeze against your skin—or enjoy some yoga on the grass. Prefer your workouts to be more cardio-focused? Take a jog or go for a run through the park. Enjoy a picnic with friends or family, or just lie back and relax. 

You can’t fit in every possible activity at Fallsgrove Stream Valley Park in just one day. Pick a pastime for today, then plan another for your next visit—you’re sure to want to return soon. 

The world is changing rapidly right now, and the constant onslaught of news might be making it hard for you to unwind—especially if your home has suddenly become your workspace, too. One surefire way to recharge is to watch some good, old-fashioned mindless TV. Here are a few solid options to stream.

Arrested Development
An oldie but a goodie, Arrested Development was one of the first TV shows to pioneer the faux-documentary style. It put the approach to good use with a cast of offbeat, reliably selfish characters and an all-knowing narrator who’s mastered the tongue-in-cheek commentary. Although the show only has three original seasons, Netflix recently revived it so you can keep the streaming going for a full five seasons.

Nailed It
You’ve never seen a baking show quite like this one. Instead of sourcing its talent from a pool of top pastry chefs, Nailed It invites amateur bakers to come and show off their skills. They’re tasked with impossibly complicated baking projects, which they need to recreate in absurdly short amounts of time, and the results are hilarious. The commentary from the panel—which includes professional comedian Nicole Byers, a famed French chef, and a rotating celeb guest—only makes the baking competition that much more enjoyable. 

Always Be My Maybe
This Netflix original comedy was released last year to acclaim from critics and audiences alike, so if you haven’t seen the movie yet, now’s the time to tune it. It follows the story of a pair of childhood friends—one now a celebrity chef, the other content to live with his parents and pursue a floundering music career. Spoiler alert: they fall (back) in love, and Keanu Reeves also shows up.

17 Best Lighthearted Shows & Movies On Netflix When You’re Looking to Chill [Bustle]
The 25 Best Feelgood Movies on Netflix [Time Out]
The Funniest TV Shows to Watch on Netflix Right Now [Thrillist]

Artisan cookies still warm from the oven and ice-cold milk delivered right to your door—can you think of a better recipe for a laid-back autumn evening? Crumb’l Cookies just opened a Rockville location that’s making this dream a reality. You can order boxes of four or 12 of the gourmet cookies, along with a pint of specialty ice cream and bottles of chilled milk or chocolate milk.

Design a box stuffed with signature treats like their milk chocolate chip, Nutella Mudslide, chilled sugar, and pumpkin chocolate chip cookies. Enjoy the treats with a few scoops of vanilla or Muddy Buddy ice cream. You’re also welcome to actually stop in at the shop and grab a few warm cookies—walk-ins are welcome, but you can also order in advance for curbside pickup or takeout.

Vera Bradley. Corkcicle. Lilly Pulitzer. If these are the types of brands you like to shop—whether for yourself or a gift for someone else—you’ll definitely want to check out The Cottage Monet. This beloved local boutique is known for its stellar customer service and fun selection of giftable goodies.

While some of the inventory is now online, you’ll have the widest access to everything The Cottage Monet has to offer if you shop in-store. Don your mask and practice social-distancing while you’re inside! Pick up a candle that smells like simmering cider or a fresh Frasier fir. Snatch up some coffee caramel sauce to drizzle over your favorite ice cream. Or treat yourself to a new piece of jewelry from a trendy designer. All of these items and more await at The Cottage Monet.

Sweet potato, pumpkin, apple—these are a few of the ingredients that flourish in the fall, so it makes sense they’d also play a starring role in your baked goods. If you’re looking for some sweet autumn treats to make this month that are a little more creative than pumpkin muffins and apple pie, try these recipes.

Gingery Sweet Potato Pie [Country Living]
The distinct addition of ginger lends a rich, complex flavor to this otherwise traditional sweet potato pie. You can make your own pie crust or buy one pre-made to cut back on prep time. Then bake about four small sweet potatoes and mash them with milk, eggs, ginger, cinnamon, allspice, and, of course, sugar. Fill the pie crust with the sweet mixture, bake it, and top with homemade (or storebought) whipped cream.

Pumpkin Crisp [Delish]
Sure, pumpkin pie is delicious, but pumpkin crisp in a cast-iron skillet? You really can’t beat that. This recipe guides you in mixing together pumpkin puree, eggs pumpkin pie spice, heavy cream, and vanilla with ample amounts of sugar. Next, you’ll craft a crumbly topping using flour, brown sugar, salt, butter, and pecans. Pour the creamy mixture into a greased cast-iron skillet, sprinkle the buttery crumbs on top, and bake for about 45 minutes—then enjoy a slice a la mode.

Apple Dumpling Bake [Taste of Home]
This recipe is much easier than apple pie, and it features one unexpected ingredient: Mountain Dew. Apple slices wrapped in crescent rolls simmer in the sweet, bubbly beverage with sugar, butter, and cinnamon for about 35 minutes. The result? Flaky, golden-brown rolls bearing the perfect balance of tart Granny Smith apples and sweet soda and sugar. For an extra-delicious dessert, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

We could all use a little light in our lives this holiday season, and the perfect place to enjoy just that is the Winter Lights Festival at Seneca Creek State Park! Now through Dec. 31, with the exception of Christmas Day, you can take a perfectly socially distant drive through the nearly four miles of brightly illuminated holiday displays. As they say, they’ve been socially distancing since 1995! Throughout the park, you’ll discover over 450 different pieces in lights, from snowmen in the wintry snow to nutcrackers in castles to penguins in igloos and so much more! 

Tickets are offered per car (not per person), and you can head online to purchase a discounted ticket prior to your arrival or simply purchase it at the gate when you get there, it’s just a few bucks more. Not only are you having holiday fun, you’re also supporting local when you visit, as the festival supports the following organizations: Cool & Dope food donation program, Gaithersburg Cares food & nutrition program and Gaithersburg Holiday Giving program. Have fun and give back!

Should you make a trip to PAUL French Bakery & Café today? If you’re ever in doubt, whip out your phone and check out their home page. One quick look at the gorgeous pastries and fresh breads will have you on your way in no time. 

This Bethesda eatery serves fast-casual food at its finest. Stop in for your daily coffee and an expertly prepared croissant or other delicate and buttery baked good. The full food menu includes breakfast or lunch sandwiches on signature crusty PAUL French Bakery breads, as well as handmade soups and salads. And it wouldn’t be a French café without delicacies like quiche, croques, and exquisite pastries. If you have a special event on the horizon, or just want to treat yourself this season, a box of macaron, a whole fruit tart, or the millefeuille Napolean is a lovely way to do it.

Find the Maryland location of PAUL French Bakery & Café on Bethesda Avenue. Order for pick-up or delivery right from the website after you peruse those stunning photos on the home page.  

Getting into the holiday spirit in your home? Perhaps your annual traditions include baking! Before you whip up the first batch of cookies, you might want to rearrange the kitchen to make the process a bit easier. These expert tips can help.

1. Stow spices on a turntable. Turntable, Lazy Susan, whatever you call it, these contraptions make it simple to quickly locate the spice you’re looking for! You can also use them for go-to baking supplies like flour and sugar. A mini turntable should fit neatly and easily into any spare cabinet.
2. Quickly boost your storage space. There’s probably some spare space in your cabinets that you don’t even realize is there! That’s the dead air above your canned goods and spices. Double your storage space instantly by adding wire shelving, which sits right on top of your permanent shelves. Similarly, small drawers under the sink or in other underused spots can work wonders.
3. Stash your cookie sheets differently. Instead of keeping your cookie sheets in a haphazard pile, use tension rods to get them in order. Line up tension rods from one side of a cabinet to the other and store your cookie sheets vertically.
4. Use the back of your kitchen cabinets. Did you know that parchment paper tubes are super easy to hack? Stick a wooden dowel through the hole in the center of the tube, and you can hang it instead of trying to stuff it in a drawer alongside cling wrap and aluminum foil. Just affix two temporary hooks to the back of a cabinet door, thread the dowel through them, and voila! Parchment paper at your fingertips.

The 52 Best Kitchen Cabinet Organization Ideas of All Time [Apartment Therapy]
The 35 Most Brilliant Organizing Ideas of All Time [The Kitchn]
22 Smart Storage Tricks for a Small Kitchen [Good Housekeeping]

Working out in the warm months was pretty easy, even with gym closures and other restrictions. The great outdoors always beckoned with sunshine and balmy breezes, inviting you to go for a run or maybe join an outdoor fitness class. But with the colder temperatures moving in, staying active has become more challenging. Here are a few ways you can do it anyway—and keep those resolutions.

1. Head outside (just bundle up first). Fresh-air workouts are still an option, you’ll just have to spend a little extra time getting ready. Bundle up in weather-appropriate, reflective gear before you head out, like these top-rated items. Don’t forget sweat-wicking pants and layered tops in synthetic or wool materials, a warm hat, and gloves, and sunscreen!
2. Stay hydrated. Just because it's winter doesn't mean you don't need to stay hydrated. In fact, dehydration is harder to notice when it's colder out. Be sure to drink water or a sports drink before, during, and after your workout, even if you're not particularly sweaty or thirsty.
3. Try online workouts. Online fitness routines are having a real moment right now, and for good reason. With everyone staying at home more, virtual workouts provide a convenient alternative to in-person sweat sessions. Pay a monthly fee to access a large library of workout videos, like BeachBody On Demand, or see if any of your local fitness studios are streaming classes. YouTube also has lots of options for free.
4. Get into at-home cycling. By now, you’ve probably heard of Peloton and its pricey in-home spin bikes. But did you know that you don’t need to splurge on one in order to access its library of pre-recorded and live-streaming classes? Snag one of these more affordable spin bikes and then subscribe to Peloton’s classes ($39/month) for a full-fledged fitness studio at home.

Having limited access to Mayorga Organics coffee is certainly better than no access at all. This chic little shop is currently only offering curbside pick-up and walk-up services for a handful of hours on select days (cashless payment). That’s the only time you’ll be able to get their unique blend of organic, single-origin coffees, but it will be worth every bit of the wait. Mayorga Organics roasts their beans right on-site, and you can even peer into the factory window while you wait for your French press or pour-over coffee to brew. It doesn’t get much fresher, and Mayorga Organics prides itself on just that—a responsibly sourced, ultra-fresh, expertly brewed cup each and every time.

Find Mayorga Organics on East Gude Drive in Rockville, or keep your eye out for their beans at your local Costco. The business does a lot to support regions where they source their coffee – just another reason that Mayorga Organics deserves your hard-earned dollars right now.

Did you make a New Year's resolution to stay active in 2021? Consider a visit to Rockville Town Square Outdoor Ice Skating Rink. A safe, socially distant way to get some exercise and enjoy a brisk winter's day, this beloved outdoor ice-skating rink welcomes visitors until 10 or 11 p.m. every evening! 

The Rockville Town Square rink has implemented many new safety measures to keep everyone healthy. Perhaps the most important is the online reservation system, which helps to ensure that the rink is never crowded, so everyone can maintain six feet of distance between themselves and fellow skaters. Reserve a time slot and pay online ($10 for adults), then grab a mask and head to the rink. Note that you must arrive within 10 minutes of your reservation to be guaranteed entry, and as an added bonus, you'll score validated two-hour parking!

Winner, winner, family dinner. Trapezaria Mediterranean Kuzina has a daily dinner special that is a wonderful departure from all the fast casual food you’ve been eating. For just $20 per person, enjoy a full four course meal of Mediterranean specialties, from soup or salad plus a classic Greek dip to start, to a homestyle entrée complete with sides, and then dessert of baklava or galaktoboureko (a custard-y version of the classic phyllo dessert). 

Not ready for in person dining yet? You’ll be missing out on Trapezaria beautiful dining area and warm atmosphere, but the family dinner special is available for carryout as well. Valentine’s Day is a perfect occasion to take advantage of this truly delicious deal, and let Trapezaria worry about the cooking while you avoid the crowds during an often-busy holiday. And don’t forget about Trapezaria’s famous weekend brunch buffet with $5 bottomless mimosas, or their lunch on-the-go service offering all you can eat for one flat price. Find Trapezaria on North Washington Street. Circle around to the back of the building for free parking directly behind the M&T Bank.

With the Valentine’s Day season in full swing and countless other events to remember—like birthdays, anniversaries, and other special occasions—it’s important to have a go-to local florist in mind where you can find the perfect floral arrangement or bouquet whenever you need it. Locally, Kentlands Flowers & Bows in Gaithersburg is ready and waiting to be that place for you and yours. With fresh-cut flowers and other gifts, you’ll be able to find something for every recipient at Kentlands Flowers & Bows. 

But a trip to this shop won’t just get you the gifts you need—you’ll get the gift of a positive experience for yourself, too. As one reviewer writes, “I loved that the store is fragrant (the smell of fresh cut flowers) and clean (clear pathway throughout the store). The staff were friendly and kind. The customer service was excellent.” Another enthuses, “We have been to most of the other florists in the area and this store is by far the best.” Still another happy customer explains, “The shop feels like a family. My spirit is always lifted when I come in the shop.” 

From the scent of beautiful flowers to the helpful guides ready to find you the perfect gift, Kentlands Flowers & Bows is ready to get you through Valentine’s Day or any special event. 

A lot has changed in the past year. For one thing, staying home became the new going out. That theme is going to hold through this month, at least, which is why you should start planning for an at-home Valentine’s Day. Begin with these creative ideas.

• Plan a picnic in the living room. It may be too cold to head outside for a picnic, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the romantic experience indoors. Lay out your picnic blanket on the living room floor, light a few candles, and serve up a beautiful charcuterie platter and some other simple finger foods.
• Make a meal together. In the mood for something more gourmet? Make the date about the process of cooking instead of just enjoying the meal. Pick a new recipe, gather the ingredients, and set up your cook station with everything you need to get going (and maybe a glass of wine or two).
• Have a movie marathon. Do you and your significant other love romcoms? Pick your faves and set up the living room for a romantic movie marathon! Make sure you have plenty of cozy throw pillows and blankets, your favorite snacks and drinks, and your top films all queued up and ready to go.
• Set up a spa night. One way to show that you care is by pampering that special someone. If you’re not comfortable going to the spa for a couples’ massage, bring the spa to you! Diffuse a calming scent, like lavender, and dote on your significant other with a neck or foot massage.

16 Stay-at-Home Valentine’s Day Date Ideas [The Spruce]
Celebrate Valentine’s Day With a Stay-at-home Date Night [HGTV]
Stay-at-Home Date Ideas for Valentine’s Day [Organized Mom]

Since the 1960s, South Moon Under has been curating collections of chic apparel, eclectic accessories, versatile homewares, and fun gifts that suit every style and occasion. Lucky for residents of Mallory Square, there’s a location nearby, in Gaithersburg!

If you want to grab some things for your apartment, South Moon Under stocks options like board games, candles, and mugs embellished with cheeky sayings. You can also fill your closet with new skirts, dresses, or swimwear for the upcoming spring and summer seasons.

In terms of gifts, there’s something for everyone. From self-care kits and facial stone rollers to COVID-friendly gifts like a handwashing timer and blue-light glasses for all that home screen time, they’ve thought of it all! All the items they carry are perfect for the here and now, no matter what you need!

One of Ireland’s most famous writers, James Joyce, published the experimental book, Finnegans Wake in 1939, following his classic tome, Ulysses. Here in Rockville, though, you’ll find another meaning to the title—locally, Finnegan’s Wake is a classic Irish Pub, "home of the perfect pint."

That perfect pint comes in many forms, depending on your preferences. Sip at a draft Guinness, bottle or can of the same, or an assortment of Irish whiskeys, like Jameson, Tullemore Dew, or Bushmills. More of a cocktail fan? Finnegan’s has options like a Moscow mule or dark & stormy. Wine aficionado? Red and white varieties are waiting to please your palate. 

Need some food before you sip at your drink of choice? Finnegan’s Wake offers plenty of Irish fare to satisfy even the most insistent hunger. Try a corned beef sandwich, an all-day Irish breakfast, or cottage pie. Looking for brunch instead? Try a breakfast sandwich, an Irish scramble, or Finnegan’s corned beef-topped eggs benedict. 

You might not struggle to find a drink in Rockville but, when it comes to an Irish pub, there’s only one place to find the perfect pint and plenty of craic—and that place is Finnegan’s Wake.

Thinking about welcoming a new addition to your household—one with roots and leaves? Plant parenthood can certainly be rewarding, especially when you’re staying home most of the time. If you’re just getting started, here are a few plants that can thrive in your apartment.

Jade. This simple succulent with scarlet-tinged leaves barely needs to be watered, which is a big plus, and can weather direct sunlight. So, if you have a sunny spot in your home and the time to water them once every two weeks, chances are you’ll be able to keep a jade plant happy.

Spider plant. Named for the branches that web out like the legs of a spider, this variegated plant is easy to hang. That’s why apartment-dwellers tend to love it—in addition to the fact that it doesn’t require frequent watering, and it grows well in low light. And one more bonus: it also cleans the air!

Bird’s nest fern. Whereas most ferns can only thrive in high levels of humidity, the bird’s nest fern is different. It’s happy in an average amount of humidity and very little light, so it’s much easier to grow in an apartment than some of its counterparts.

Best Indoor Plants for the Smallest of Spaces [Apartment Therapy]

The 30 Best Indoor Plants for Apartments to Buy Online [Elle Decor]

The 11 Best Houseplants for Apartments [The Spruce]