Mario N.
Yelp
Charley Prime Foods in a unique place to gather with friends and family. Located on the pond side of the Washingtonian Rio complex in Gaithersburg, MD, it opened about 1 year ago where one of the Tara Thai restaurants was located.
Charley Prime decor is original but also reminds you of those little local bistros found in France. Quirky paintings, globe lamps hanging from bright orange scones, and fun, kitchy movie posters complement the atmosphere. There are many secret stylish details, too, like the parquet bar top, to the The One wine glasses, or the Walco steak knives scream of a secret hand that knows how to marry quality and functionality.
The menu's focal point seems to be French Bistro inspirations with eclectic American interpretations: steak frites, donuts and Parker rolls, cacio e pepe macaroni & cheese, fresh oysters, trout almondine and many others.
I visited the restaurant on a Sunday (right after two back to back biggish holidays) and unfortunately, and because of the brunch rushes there were no oysters to order. I did order the steak frites, which came out at the temperature I ordered (medium rare), with hand cut thin fries and a petit side salad. Everything was beautifully seasoned. I also ordered the cacio e pepe mac & cheese, which was served piping hot, peppery, cheesy and covered with toasted paisley crumbs. I also had some wine, including a glass of cabernet franc. The service was friendly and warm, which one of the reasons why I love to sit at the bar. My only suggestion for improvement would be to offer some more creative desserts (The sweet offerings on the dessert menu were staples like cheesecake and bread pudding), but this is a minor quip. I was dissapointed because I was not able to try the oyster special. By the time I left, the restaurant it was pretty packed. I will be visiting Charley Prime again in the near future.