If you live in Potomac and you’ve ever driven into D.C. just for a burger, I have great news: those days are over. Duke’s Grocery has been open in Potomac Village since last spring, and after nearly a year of regular visits, I can confirm: it’s the real deal.
Duke’s Grocery, the beloved British-inspired neighborhood pub that’s been a D.C. staple for years, opened its first Maryland location right here in Potomac Village, taking over the former Lock 72 space at 10128 River Road.
It’s Already a Regular on Our DoorDash
I’ll be upfront. Duke’s has been a regular on our DoorDash rotation since the day the Potomac location opened. We didn’t waste any time. And we keep coming back, because the food is consistently great and it’s right here in the neighborhood.
Between delivery nights and a few dinners at the actual restaurant, I feel like I’ve already worked through a solid chunk of the menu. And I have strong opinions.
The Wagyu Burger Is the Real Deal
Let’s talk about what matters: the food. Duke’s has always been known for their Proper Burger, but their wagyu burger is the one I keep coming back to. It’s rich, perfectly seasoned, and has that melt-in-your-mouth quality that you just don’t get from a standard patty. Pair it with their crispy fries or, if you’re feeling indulgent, the white truffle mac and cheese, and you’ve got yourself one of the best casual meals in the Potomac area. Full stop.
A Gluten-Free Bun That Actually Tastes Like Food
Okay, this is where I get personal. I’m gluten-free, and if you are too, you know the pain. You order a beautiful burger and it arrives on a sad, crumbly, cardboard-adjacent bun that falls apart after the first bite. You end up eating the burger with a fork and knife and wondering why you bothered.
Duke’s gluten-free bun is different. It actually holds together. It has texture. It tastes like bread. I don’t know what sorcery they’re using, but it’s one of the few GF buns I’ve had at a restaurant where I didn’t feel like I was making a sacrifice. If you’re gluten-free and you’ve been burned before, trust me on this one. Just order it.
The Vibe
Walking into Duke’s feels like stepping into a cozy London pub that somehow landed in suburban Maryland. Leather booths, British-themed decor, a gorgeous copper-top bar in the center of the room. It’s warm, a little cheeky, and just the right amount of trendy without trying too hard. It’s the kind of place where you can grab a casual weeknight dinner or settle in for a longer evening with friends.
Right now they’re open for dinner service, with happy hour, lunch, and weekend brunch on the way. So if you think it’s good now, just wait.
Potomac Village Is Having a Moment
Duke’s isn’t the only new arrival. Potomac Village and Cabin John have been seeing a wave of new openings lately. But Duke’s feels like the kind of anchor spot that raises the bar for the whole area. It brings a little bit of that D.C. dining energy to Potomac, without the drive.
If you haven’t been yet, go. Order the wagyu burger. Thank me later.
Duke’s Grocery Potomac is located at 10128 River Road in Potomac Village. Currently open for dinner, with happy hour, lunch, and weekend brunch coming soon.
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