Democracy Grille Restaurant and Bar at Bethesda Marriott Suites Becomes Favorite Eatery for Locals

BETHESDA, Md. – July 29, 2009 – Don and Pat Clubbs think the Democracy Grille restaurant and bar at the Bethesda Marriott Suites hotel is the perfect local destination for cocktails, dinner, or brunch on the weekends. In fact, they are so convinced that they have been regulars at the restaurant, seven days a week for four years-or 1,460 meals.

But what keeps them coming back? First, they say the location is perfect since it's in Bethesda, right off of I-270. They live and work only about a mile from the hotel.

"The Democracy Grille is an easy destination and the parking is free," says Ms. Clubbs. "When it rains, commuters stop in to wait out the traffic and the storm and have appetizers and conversation."

The Clubbs also point out the local restaurant's comfortable outdoor space with cushioned furniture and heaters for cooler weather.

The second thing the Clubbs like about the Democracy Grille and restaurant in Bethesda is the management and staff. "There has been some turnover during the years we've been coming, but the transition has always seemed easy and everyone has been very well qualified," says Mr. Clubbs. "The general manager comes around to say hello and the chef will pop out to see what we think of something new that he's created. They, and the wait and bar staff, all treat us like family. In fact, if we don't arrive at our usual time, the staff are worried and ask us to call."

The third thing that the Clubbs say keeps them coming back is the food. They say they appreciate the range of price options and especially like the bar/appetizer menu during Happy Hour. The hotel's Democracy Grille restaurant and bar in Bethesda, piloted Marriott's 5-10-20 menu-a collection of food items ready within 5, 10 or 20 minutes. These culinary items are classic American, chef-crafted, simple, fast and fresh. This type of menu is especially popular now because the items are moderately priced, so diners don't have to drop a small fortune to enjoy a meal out.

In addition to the daily menu, the Democracy Grille offers expansive weekend brunch buffets complete with omelet and carving stations, and an array of other items, as well as holiday specials.

Since the recent lobby renovation, the Clubbs have noted an increase in business people taking advantage of the new space. "The Bethesda Marriott Suites was the first hotel in the country to launch the trendy lobby rein-vented concept that is becoming popular now," explains Keith McNeill, Bethesda Marriott Suites general manager. "In 2007, we created a lobby 'great room' where there is space to work, lounge, drink and enjoy our restaurant. The furniture is comfortable and good looking, and you can plug your lap top right into it."

The Clubbs invite the public to join them at their local Bethesda restaurant, the Democracy Grille and bar, open seven-days a week for some culinary delights off the 5-10-20 menu and a relaxing evening in the great room. The Bethesda Marriott Suites is located at 6711 Democracy Blvd, Bethesda, MD. Visit www.BethesdaMarriottSuites.com or call 301-897-5600 for more information.