“What should we get for dinner?” The classic family debate: In the mood for Italian, Thai or Mexican? A craving for Mediterranean, Greek or American? Cabin John village has it all, with ice cream and soft pretzels for dessert.

The popular spot located in the heart of Potomac has been well-regarded since 1967. Known by long-time Montgomery County residents, changes to the popular shopping center transpired when it was bought by EDENS in 2016.

The first noteworthy additions were two chains making their way to Maryland in 2019: Shake Shack, renowned for their thin burgers and crinkly fries, as well as Playa Bowls, Jersey-shore style acai bowls. Junior Kate Bardill recently tried Playa Bowls for the first time since their opening in 2019. “I’m a little overwhelmed by the menu but excited to try it,” Bardill said.

Along with the additions came closures: Baskin Robbins closed in 2022, which was devastating for locals. Moving the original ice cream shop to Potomac Woods Plaza, the storefront kept the iconic spoon door-handle though when replaced with The Scoop. Established by Potomac natives, “The Scoop is really good but it doesn’t compare to Baskin Robbins,” sophomore Sophie Hammerman said.

Since then, Cabin John has said hello to different cuisines. Colony Grill brings a thin crust, “hot oil” pizza spot, Kema by KENAKI introduced high-class, fast casual sushi, Mykonos takes taste buds on a trip to Greece and The Grove’s floral aesthetic makes for the prettiest Mediterranean bar.

For a quicker bite, The Pretzel Bakery brought the previously unseen concept of specialty, Philadelphia soft pretzels to Potomac, and Capo Deli serves bites of Italy, being known for their authentic Italian deli sandwiches.

After major construction adjacent to Shake Shack, new plots for stores welcomed Chopt, the make-your-own salad chain, and Boulangerie Christophe, a new French bakery. Locals have mixed opinions on the construction and new shops at Cabin John, but the managing director of EDENS, David Germakian, said that it is their key to success. “These new additions not only enhance our retail landscape but also magnify the sense of togetherness that lies at the heart of Potomac’s identity,” Germakian said.

Coupled with the new changes and growth-focused mentality, Cabin John Village ensures that some things never change. Classic, beloved Cabin John spots such as Starbucks, Dunkin’ Donuts, CAVA, Sister Thai and Gregorios have all remained untouched in their original plots without fear of replacement. Even though McDonald’s and California Tortilla experienced renovations that changed their iconic looks, they continue to serve their standard menus.

Looking to the future, Colada Shop, a Cuban café that opened its Cabin John Village doors in 2022 is being replaced with nutritious Miami-based chain Pura Vida Miami. Bethesda Bagels will also be opening another location in an empty Cabin John space.