Bob’s Shanghai Bethesda Applies for Liquor License
Bob’s Shanghai Bethesda has taken a key step toward opening by officially applying for a liquor license with Montgomery County. The application signals visible progress for the highly anticipated Chinese restaurant, which is preparing to open in downtown Bethesda.
According to county records, the liquor license hearing is scheduled for March 5, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. This process is typically one of the final regulatory steps before a restaurant begins full operations.

Location and Background
The new restaurant is located at 7776 Norfolk Avenue, on the ground floor of the Windsor Bethesda apartment tower. The space was previously occupied by Anthony’s Coal-Fired Pizza and sits next to the popular steakhouse Medium Rare.
Construction work inside the restaurant has been ongoing since September. While the windows remain covered, the liquor license filing is the first public sign that the opening may be approaching.
What This Means for Bethesda’s Dining Scene
Bob’s Shanghai is expected to add a new Chinese dining option to the area, contributing to Bethesda’s growing and competitive restaurant landscape. Nearby residents and local diners have been watching the space closely, waiting for updates on when doors might finally open.
Although an official opening date has not yet been announced, the scheduled hearing suggests momentum is building behind the project.
What Happens Next
If approved, the liquor license would allow Bob’s Shanghai Bethesda to serve alcoholic beverages alongside its food menu. Final inspections and interior work would still need to be completed before opening to the public.
For now, the restaurant remains under construction, but this latest development indicates that progress is moving forward.
