Visarts regularly has Groupon vouchers, and we purchased one to give ourselves a chance at the potter's wheel. This is located in a building on the third floor in the Rockville Town Center, and there are garages abundant in the area with up to 2 hours of parking free. The class is 2 hours so you'll end up paying $3 for the overage. Class started on time, the session was "full house," and one lady snuck in a child even though class was meant to be 14+ years only. The instructor went over the process and demonstrated how to begin and form the shape of the piece you intend to make (or end up with!). The instructor was helpful, friendly, and upbeat. I think playing some music would have enhanced the experience! You get three shots at creating something out of clay, and whatever you create can be kilned and picked up in 2 weeks. You may want to arrive early if you are in a group and want to sit together. I recommend wearing an apron as you'll get your clothes dirty. The stools aren't comfortable. You are advised to remove rings, watches, and bracelets for optimal experience. read more

I visited Visarts for a stained glass class this past Saturday (2/22) and it was awesome more or less from start to finish! The teacher provided us instruction at the start of the class to get us going. We each picked a pattern and glass as we saw fit. From there, we followed the instructions and asked questions of the teacher as we went along. Since I was alone, I was able to work wearing headphones, listening to an audiobook as I cut and grinded glass. Overall, I absolutely enjoyed this class and want to have stained glass as a hobby in the future! Definitely recommend the stained glass class at Visarts! read more

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My sister-in-law goes to VisArts weekly and she seems to have a great time. I also have tried the Sip and Paint class and the Try the Wheel class. The instructors were funny and helped us with small fixes. I felt the class goes quickly, so it isn't a deep dive by any means. I got them both on Groupon so the price was not bad for me and my mom to go. There are also other classes such as stained glass. read more

Visarts - Try the Wheel... can you tell which was my first attempt? - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Rockville, Maryland

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Took a class with my disabled sister in which the instructor was very patient and helpful and we were excited to have matching pieces. Unfortunately they never returned my creation to me and after multiple phone calls and in person out of the way visits because someone claimed they had it(for it not to be found when i arrived) i was told via phone today after calling because i didn't get the phone i was promised again that sometimes pieces get destroyed in the process they have to finish it. I'm very disappointed that this was not even a phone call or email that was made so that I wouldn't waste my time and gas on the piece we were both looking forward to having. We were told to return in two weeks for the piece and in that two weeks it was destroyed and I wasn't notified so that I didn't waste time calling or visiting. Otherwise the staff is pleasant and the class was pleasant and that's why they got the stars they got. read more

Visarts - Try the wheel - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Rockville, Maryland

After all these years, I have finally tried a class here. It was for pottery and wheel spinning. It was a fun experience and much harder in person. I enjoyed the place and the friendly people here. A lot of people are here using the facilities and are in the zone. One downfall is the lack of structure in terms of where and when things are happening. Perhaps it's because so much is happening all at once. They do not have validated parking so for classes that run a bit long, do know you will end up paying for parking. Location is good and easily accessible. For the price of the class, I felt like it was a good deal. read more

This place has such an interesting concept that I had never quite seen before. We were so enticed by the myriad of artful activities, that my girlfriend signed up for a weekend class. Today was her first day and it's for the creation of stained glass art. They had other classes available for every day of the week like krochey, ceramic art, and of course painting. Today there were roughly twenty atudents, and they were of all ages. I know that the Lego store has classes sokely for building lego creations, but this art studio definitely offers so much more. It really does seem like a lot of fun, and even more the classes provide a lot in tye way of self development. If I ever find the time, I would even consider taking an art class myself. read more

Visarts - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Rockville, Maryland

Love VisArts! Great classes including drop ins! Looking forward to more classes and exhibits this summer!

I went to VisArts for a Canvas and Cocktails class and left with an amazing painting. Everyone started with a pre-sketched canvas so it was easy to paint the picture. My only critique would be that the classroom was a little hard to find. Additionally, at other paint and sips I've been to there is normally a primary artist and a secondary artist who is there to help students; however VisArts only had one teacher which was harder for them to focus on everyone. The teachers was very encouraging overall. read more

I signed up for introduction to acrylic painting classes with Roza, and I was quite disappointed. From the very first session, it became clear there wasn't any real structure or lessons. It felt more like free time with paint rather than guided instruction. I was optimistic, so I attended another session, despite my better judgment. The instructor wasn't very attentive with me. In such a small class of only 3 to 4 students, I expected more guidance. Given the demographic, I wasn't surprised, but I was surely the only person in the class she wasn't attentive to. In the last class I attended, she said, "I know that you're independent," and I could only give an awkward laugh. The truth is, I was left to guide myself through tasks because she wasn't attentive to me compared to the other students, and she even acknowledged this. Overall, I was disappointed by both the lack of structure and my interaction with the instructor. What was supposed to be a relaxing class instead felt uncomfortable, and I've decided not to return. I wouldn't recommend this class if you're looking for instruction that actually teaches concepts and techniques. I did meet really nice classmates, but unfortunately this didn't outweigh the cons. read more

First off, if you do the Stain Glass class, get Richard as your teacher. He is funny, and really makes sure you understand what you are supposed to do!!!! The concept was to make a stained glass window. 1. The process is very well explained. 2. the parts are each to gather. 3. overall the process was time-consuming but fun! Let me say again, Richard and his wife were amazing as teachers! This is my first time doing this (my co-creator has done this before, ergo her two stained glass, and my one). But it was more than two years ago that she did her first one. I did leave the taped numbers on mine on purpose. read more

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I bought a Groupon and was so excited to do a date here. I purchased the Groupon mid-January and promptly went to the site to book as instructed. Classes were sold out so I waited a few weeks but the classes were still sold out. I called and was told they would be adding more classes in a week or so. I waited and when I went back on the site again sold out except Thursdays during a time when we work. So I called again and the representative just carelessly told me there's nothing they can do about it. I told them the Groupon is non refundable but they didn't care. Said they would not be adding anymore classes before my Groupon expiration, which is two months away, and basically I paid them money for nothing. I am unnerved that a business would take a customers money and provide no service or remedy. I will tell everyone I know about this. I feel I've been completely scammed! read more

I am not an artist by any stretch of the imagination, so when my friend suggested that we sign up for Cocktails and Canvas at VisArts I was understandably apprehensive. The class description assured me that this was "the perfect chance to learn the basics of acrylic painting while enjoying the company of friends," so I decided to sign up. My friends and I purchased a Groupon deal for last night's class featuring "A Starry DC," a project rated an 8 out of 10 on the difficulty scale. My friends and I arrived on time and were able to check in, get our complimentary plastic cup of boxed wine and snack-sized bag of potato chips while admiring the beautiful artwork on the walls. The studio's layout featured three long rectangular tables with room for about 5-6 students on either side of each table. My friends and I chose to sit on the side nearest the instructor where we had a good view of the featured paintings as well as the rest of the studio. Each attendee (approximately 30) received a partially sketched canvas and each of our stations was equipped with an easel, an 8x11 replica of the painting, a variety of acrylic paints and four paint brushes. Instructor Hiral Joshi began the class about 10 minutes after 7pm once everyone had settled in. Hiral was soft spoken and her voice often didn't carry over the din of conversations in the room, so I was happy that my friends and I had chosen to sit at the table closest to her so that we could hear her instructions. Hiral showed us two versions of the painting and informed attendees that we could paint either version. Painting while talking to my friends and listening to the soft jazz music playing in the room was actually quite relaxing. Painting the background scenery wasn't as hard as I had anticipated; however, adding the details to the paintings was where things got tricky. The nuances of each painting started to emerge as we interpreted Hiral's directions while trying to follow her paint strokes with her back towards us. I definitely could have used more step-by-step directions or could have benefited from someone walking around to give pointers while Hiral instructed. To her credit, Hiral did tell us to raise our hands if we had any questions and she did come over to assist as needed. Around 9:20pm, Hiral pointed out that we might not get to finish our paintings by 10pm and that we could come back another day free of charge to complete the work. This seemed to get some people in the room a little anxious and Hiral walked around to offer additional pointers. My friends and I were able to complete our projects and we got a kick out of how different each of our paintings turned out. I enjoyed the event for the most part. Going with friends definitely made the experience more enjoyable. read more

My mom and I came here for a special "Coffee and Canvas" session during the government shutdown. Visart so kindly hosted a hugely discounted event for furloughed government workers and provided coffee! The session was a 3 hour painting session and Visart provided the canvas, brushes and paints and aprons: everything we needed! It was an unguided class so we could go at our own pace and ask questions when they came up. The staff was also super helpful and willing to help us take group pictures! Overall, an amazing experience and we hope to be back soon! read more

Visarts - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Rockville, Maryland

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I love VisArts! The staff are always friendly and really care about their customers. I have taken pretty much all the classes they have to offer: ceramics, fused glass and painting. Be sure to check Groupon for deals! The instructors are great and take time to explain everything. I love the rooftop events so when you get a chance, be sure to register for a rooftop class (usually in the summer). The classrooms are clean and simple, with lots of sample artwork everywhere. I would highly recommend this to anyone who is interested in arts, even if you don't have much experience! read more

Not accessible. Can't park near building, and no valet or other service to provide transportation from a parking garage to the building. Worse yet, I called their parking info number many times and got music, no human, no voice-mail. Their website doesn't say any of this. As an aside, Google Maps took me to a private home near 270. (I reported the error.) read more

I didn't really know what to expect when walking into a class that requires any kind of artistic ability. I'm known to be very non artsy, but I was already pretty excited to try doing this. We arrived exactly at 7 and Ryan chit chatted with everyone until everyone arrived and we started roughly 10 minutes after the start time which was fine because of how personable he was. I went with a group of 6 people, which includes both my brothers and significant others. Initially, I was a little sad because I thought we were doing the wheel class, but I feel like the Mud + Merlot class greatly exceeded my expectations and I would gladly sign up for this same class again. The 3ish hours that we were there flew by and though my mug + shot glass kinda looked like shit (my fault not his), Ryan was incredibly positive and helpful with every single student in the class. My brother is also not very artistic, but Ryan helped him make a pretty cool looking octopus thing. Though the idea in itself was very fun, I can say that Ryan made an already fun event THAT much more fun. My group and I are planning on taking the Wheel clay class thing with him hopefully soon because of our experience with this class. read more

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Come here for anything art related for classes,sessions or just for fun. We came for the starry night DC painting class. It was awesome and the experience was relaxing and fun. We didn't have any music going cause a cord was missing. First drink was included and the next one is for purchase. Super helpful and friendly staffs. They validate parking. read more

Visarts - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Rockville, Maryland

VisArt has been offering classes to furloughed employees so I figured what the heck and signed up. Upon arrive we were offer coffee and asked to choose a painting (there were about 20 to choose from) to create. Of course I pick the most challenging one. The instructor walked around and offered tips to class attendees. She was very nice and friendly. I had so much fun chatting with the other attendees and I think my piece came out quite nice. I plan to visit again in the near future! read more

Visarts - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Rockville, Maryland

No. The teacher was very disorganized. The instructions were not clear. Very disappointing. I dropped out after the first class and lost all my money. No go on these art classes. Try the Compass Atelier in Rockville instead! read more

A friend and I came for the stained glass ornaments class and I cannot recommend it enough! VisArts was easy to find and when we arrived our instructor Emily was in the hall and told us to follow her to our classroom. The hallway was full of other classrooms (painting and ceramics) and when we arrived to our room the basic materials and templates were already set up for us. It was just my friend and I in the class which felt like such a special personal lesson! We hung up our coats and watched Emily explain and demonstrate each step of the process. It was a 2-hour class, but since it was just the two of us we took a bit (okay, a LOT) of time choosing our glass. This ended up being the hardest part! So many colors, opacities, and textures to choose from! After longer than I want to admit in writing, we had our glass and got to work. Emily was such a great instructor--letting us try things on our own and stepping in whenever we needed some extra help. I'm thrilled with how my final piece turned out. I'm so pleased with my first experience here and am already looking for my next class to take! read more

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Love Visarts. This is the second time I have been there. First time was intro to stained glass. This time is pottery wheel class. For both classes, the teacher were full of energy and very engaging. Lots of fun. read more

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Such a huge contrast to my painting experience at Kelly's Art & Frame back in February. The Pros: Much better snacks, and a pretty solid variety of options from savory to sweet. Lots of beverages too from sparkling water to soda and Fisheye wine in Merlot and Pinot Grigio. The canvas was stretched on a frame and not just a flat piece of board. The Cons: the inspiration piece is a color copy and very low resolution. It was nearly impossible to see any brush strokes or even color variations. The brushes bristles were far too soft and not a wide variety of types so brush strokes were pretty unrefined. We didn't get a real palette to mix paints, just paper plates that soaked up the paint. The chair was so rickety that when I sat down I was nervous it wouldn't be able to support me. Other issues that they had little control of but affected my experience: The attendees participating were a rowdy bunch. Where the Art & Frame experience was quiet and soothing, this experience was like having the happy hour crowd in to paint. If you want to go with friends and talk and socialize then this is perfect for you. If you want to be able to concentrate and focus, or listen to some quiet music- don't expect that type of environment here. The teachers did come around and help vocal people, but they never stopped by one time to give me feedback. Which was fine for me, but if you need help, speak up! read more

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This was a great space when I attended an event here about a year ago. The location is situated between shops, dining and other activities. Covered garage parking is nearby. The catering and decor were first class. I would consider booking this space in the future! read more

VisArts was the venue for our wedding and we could not have been more pleased with our selection. First of all, the site has a beautiful, modern aesthetic. While it was too hot to hold the ceremony on the rooftop in late August, we were still able to take many beautiful photos with the surrounding skyline, and particularly at sunset. The ballroom itself is roomy and the large glass windows allow in lots of sunlight. Second, VisArts provides a lot of decorating options and we were able to decorate with gorgeous paper lanterns, string lights and colored up-lighting. Third, the VisArts staff were extremely responsive, patient and helpful, answering all of our questions, and making the many changes we requested. Danny, who was our primary point of contact, was especially professional, helpful and accommodating. Fourth, VisArts worked smoothly and effortlessly with our other vendors to make sure everything came together smoothly. And finally, VisArt's location in Rockville Town Center, and its proximity to the Cambria hotel was a huge plus to our out-of-town guests, who really appreciated having so many other restaurants and amenities to go to over our wedding weekend. Overall, VisArts was our ideal wedding venue, and we could not be happier with our selection or the service we received! We would definitely recommend VisArts to anyone else looking for a modern wedding venue! read more

I've always wanted to try the wheel and bought a Groupon for my wife and I to attend a clay wheel class. It was so much fun and our instructor was great. We were one of the first people to get there on time and he shared that w couple people informed him they would be late and asked us if it would be ok if we waited for a while which we said was fine. You get 3 pieces of clay if you should need it for the class and you can pick which one you want to have painted for future pick up or you can get up to all 3 at an additional charge. I was a little intimidated at first thinking it would be insanely hard but it wasn't if you just listened to the instructor who was really nice, patient and always willing to help. Definitely recommend for families with kids and/or couples. They store your pottery up to 3 months and have it ready for pick up 2 weeks after you take the class. Good location and Lots of restaurants and stores in the surrounding areas. It was not hard to find and there is garage parking and metered parking nearby. read more

I AM OBSESSED. Thank you LivingSocial for sending me an email with this deal!! I think it was $45 for a fused glass class ($75 value?) and it was so much fun. I am even thinking of buying another voucher to go back and do it again. They had a lot of different color glass to chose from and they allowed you to be creative. (I hate some of these art classes that make you do exactly what the teacher instructs.) The teacher was knowledgeable and helpful to all of the students. I learned a few things too. I haven't gone back to pick up my piece yet (it's not that easy for me to get to Rockville but that's on no reflection on them of course) I also love how many other mediums they have. Really lets me tap into my creative self :-) read more

Wow. Amazing space. Amazing staff. Amazing variety of what Visarts is and does and offers.... Summer camps for kids... painting and ceramics and all sorts of are classes for adults and families... adult style activities (e.g., mosaics and merlot)... outdoor activities during summer months... "shows" for local or visiting artists... programs for young adults and adults with learning differences... and sooooooo much more... Visarts also hosts events abs gatherings and meetings and socials and Meet & Greets and more... And the staff collaborates with local businesses and non-profits -- true "community"... Visarts is -- AMAZING. read more

I'm no artist. So I approached "Cocktails and Canvas" at Visarts with a bit of trepidation. Would I be in over my head and frustrated? Would the instructor be able to wrangle a large class? And would the wine be okay? Fortunately, answers to these questions were no, yes, and yes, in that order. Kim kept the class lively and fun, while providing excellent instruction for our "Dragonflies" painting. (It wasn't too difficult, either, to my relief.) The Pinot was good. And I loved doing an activity for a girls' night out. Now my friends and I are planning what class we will tackle next! read more

I attended a baby shower here on a Saturday afternoon. It was pretty quiet and we had plenty of space to enjoy ourselves. The building itself is very pretty. The party was held on the third floor and was clearly marked. The facility and staff had sketched three large paintings in the colors and theme of the baby's nursery. The Mom to be had nothing but great things to say about that process. They provided aprons, paint, tons of brushes, tips and encouragement. You can bring your own food and set up a table for food and dining. I liked that a staff member was there to help if needed but didn't over step or make you feel inadequate. It was a great experience for me as an attendee. I would love something like this for any future babies I have! read more

Visarts - One of the art pieces completed - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Rockville, Maryland

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This is a fun place to just relax with friends! Their different classes have great instructors. The drawing charcoal classes are great! Just don't be afraid to get messy!! You'll be amazed at what you can do! Don't worry of you don't finish, they have additional finishing classes. The cocktail painting classes are fun... but I wish they would teach more techniques. The platters class is a little more stressful since you have to come up with your own design.... Besides classes they have galleries to display local artists! Fun to explore. Also look out for opening nights.... read more

Visarts - Before firing - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Rockville, Maryland

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I was so looking forward to the "Try the Wheel" class but I have to be honest I was really disappointed. The instructor lacked a passion for teaching (did not seem to enjoy teaching), had no patience (was incredibly rude to students - taught without empathy), failed to diversify teaching based off student demographic, and assessed student's work infrequently. I was shocked to hear her responses: "Well, I'm not your mother..." when a student was indecisive about their work or the tone of her voice when she would become impatient with elderly students. I will pass on a next time and leave the instructor with some kind advice. *Be kind and patient with newbies. Not everyone has prior experience. * If you're having a bad day.. please separate it from class. We are all human but your paying students would like to enjoy the class. After all, it is expensive. *Be there. Be aware of each student's challenges. Don't wait for a hand to go up or for someone to ask for help. Take initiative in helping your student. There's only 7 students. *Treat people with respect. Again, be kind and patient. Not rude, sarcastic or snarky. read more

I came here for a rooftop painting night. The teacher was okay but she didn't seem very enthusiastic. I thought the location was good but you have to park in the garage. I circled around too many times not realizing that. I think that maybe if they were a little bit more cheery and maybe played some music they could really improve this place. I might try another one here that isn't rooftop since it was a good experience overall. read more

I went via a Groupon for fluid painting and it was so fun. Our instructor, Michelle was super cool and made everything easy. The place itself is clearly well organized and managed. The location is very convenient because there's a ton of restaurants and other things around to enjoy! I would recommend everyone to go and try all of the classes they have available. read more

Visarts - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Rockville, Maryland

I bought a groupon for the intro to fluid painting. The groupon offer was a great great deal for what we got to do and the materials used! When I bought the groupon months ago there were no classes offered so I had to trade my groupon in before it expired. There was multiple locations in Rockville Town Center so it was focusing where the class was. I enjoyed the size of the class very comfortable with COVID circumstances. The instructor was great. The variety of canvas and colors were great. read more

Visarts - Introduction to Fluid Painting - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Rockville, Maryland

Me and my wife went here for the Mud and Merlot class we got the tickets off of Groupon. It was a good class and it was fun. Everyone in the class was really nice .We will pick up our vases in two weeks. I can't wait to see our work of art. read more

Visarts - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Rockville, Maryland

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First time at Visarts in Rockville town center I came for salsa lessons and dancing but there seems to lots of cool artist booths throughout as well with some nice looking pieces. I need to come back when they are open to take a look. Salsa dancing and lessons start at 7:00 second floor on Monday nights 7:45 for intermediate and then open dancing. This place is happening for a Monday night. I will be back. read more

Visarts - Salsa - Venues & Event Spaces Near Me - Rockville, Maryland

The perfect place to get your hands dirty in some clay! We took the Mud and Merlot class and it was so much fun! The teacher was very friendly and helpful. She instructed us on how to make either a tray, a mug or two cups. She emphasized that the mug and the cups were more difficult, but who doesn't like a challenge? I decided to go for the cups! You start with smoothing out the clay, tracing out the template, printing a pattern, and cutting out the template. The difficult parts were putting together the ends of the cups, making the handles and adding the bottom. However, the teacher was quick and ready to help you when you needed it. I had some trouble making the two cups that I didn't have too much time to paint, but I was able to put about 2-3 coats of the ceramic paint. You are able to blow dry the ceramics to make the drying process go quicker. Note to remember when making ceramics: don't forget to score! ;) Pro: -Parking is validated for 2 hours. We parked in Garage A and stayed about 3-4 hours and only had to pay $3! Not bad at all. - There's a bar! The first alcoholic drink is free and the rest are only a few bucks. Water and snacks are free all night long! Con: - Limited selection on paint colors, but the shades do change depending on the number of coats read more

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My friend and I attended the Cocktails and Canvas class last night to paint a classic: Starry Night by Van Gogh. This has always been one of my favorite paintings so I was excited for this class after a long, draining week of work. VisArts can be a little hard to find for first-timers, but it is tucked away behind La Tasca in the corner of Rockville Town Center. They will also validate parking for you so feel free to use any garage nearby within the Center. Another note: I purchased a Groupon to receive 50% off this class, but was informed by one of the staff that it benefits VisArts more if you call them directly and ask for the Groupon rate. I assume this allows VisArts to earn the entire amount instead of having to pay Groupon fees. The class starts promptly so make sure you are on time. We got a decent pour of wine (in a cute little Solo cup, no less) and were provided with all the materials needed for our masterpieces-to-be: canvas, apron, paintbrushes, and tons of paint. The class moves at a reasonable pace so that beginners and advanced artistes alike can follow along quite easily. Our instructor, Ellen, was hilarious and also a great teacher. She went around the room several times to check-in with each person and embraced everyone's creativity by praising our unique painting styles. I have painted before so I assumed it wouldn't take me the whole 3 hours to finish - I was wrong. You definitely get sucked into painting and perfecting; I barely had enough time to finish my wine! You are also allowed to purchase additional glasses of wine, beer, non-alcoholic beverages, and snacks. All in all, the class is very fun and therapeutic. Register early online as classes do fill up about 1 to 2 weeks in advance. There was also a gingerbread house class down the hall, which looked like a blast. I will definitely be back to try another class! read more

This is a review for renting event-space at VisArts. We booked VisArts to host our wedding's post-reception party. We choose the indoor space to hold our event. The venue was beautiful - floor to ceiling windows overlook the main square of Rockville Town Center. The interior was new and contemporary. Simple wood overhangs with modern light fixtures made up the ceiling Our contact at VisArts was Callie. She was courteous, informative, and easy to work with. VisArts has a list of recommended vendors - caterers, equipment renters, etc - if you need help getting started with those things. They were also open to non-recommended vendors as long as they are insured. Pricing was a bit pricey. But you get a great interior and a handsome view of Rockville Town Square. read more

I purchased a gift certificate for a friend's birthday, and I did not receive my gift certificate at all. And of course, they charged my card. I emailed their customer service help desk, and did not receive a response. I called, an intern who of course did not know how to fix this issue, kept me on the line and told me to call back right before 8pm. Mind you, this place closed at 7pm that day. It wasn't until an email, a voicemail, and 4 calls later, I received a coupon code from the same intern because the gift certificate issue would not have been resolved in time. To anyone who wants to purchase a gift certificate, get it in person. But I would like to say that Jennifer, the intern, did come through in the end. Jennifer, if you're reading this, sorry for being a pain in the butt. And thank you for trying your best to find a solution. read more