Falafel Inc has once again been named the “Best of DC” winner in the Best Falafel category by the Washington City Paper.

Founded in Georgetown, the fast-casual chain is known for its mission-driven model, which donates a portion of its proceeds to refugee support programs through partnerships with organizations including the World Food Programme. Branded as “the world’s first falafel fast-casual food social enterprise franchise,” Falafel Inc promotes an “Eat For Good” mission while serving all-natural vegetarian dishes.

The company opened its first Maryland location at Westfield Montgomery in Bethesda in November 2024, but the location closed in March 2026. A second Montgomery County location opened at 11802 Rockville Pike at Pike & Rose in North Bethesda in April 2025. Another location is coming soon to Downtown Silver Spring. The menu features falafel, hummus, bowls, and sides including Zaatar fries and Tabouli salad.

Another Montgomery County restaurant, Olive Lounge in Takoma Park, finished as the runner-up in the category. Other finalists included Agora, which recently opened its first Maryland location in Bethesda; CAVA, which was founded in Montgomery County; Cedars of Lebanon; and DC Falafel.

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Sheetz will open its new Gaithersburg location today, Thursday, Aug. 20, at 16529 South Frederick Avenue in Walnut Hill Shopping Center, marking the convenience store chain’s second location in Montgomery County.

A grand opening celebration will take place from 9 to 11 a.m. and will include giveaways, a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a chance to win “Sheetz for a Year” in the form of a $2,500 Sheetz Z-Card.

Customers who bring a non-perishable food item for donation to the Capital Area Food Bank between 9 and 11 a.m. will receive a Sheetz-branded bag while supplies last, limited to one per customer.

The new Sheetz is part of several changes underway at Walnut Hill Shopping Center. Construction is also underway on a new Chipotle with a drive-thru pickup lane, and a new African restaurant has been announced for the former La Viña space.

According to Granite Canyon Partners, the Gaithersburg Sheetz uses the company’s smallest store format, allowing the location to fit within the existing shopping center.

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