Vegetarian Taco Chain 'Chaia' Opening In Bethesda On Tuesday, Sept. 28

BETHESDA, MD — A 100 percent vegetarian taco chain is opening in Bethesda on Wednesday, Sept. 28 at 7237 Woodmont Ave. next to Landmark’s Bethesda Row Cinema.

Chaia, a “farm-to-taco” chain that has locations in Georgetown and Washington, D.C., said its new location will feature the same menu items of seasonal tacos, enchiladas, quesadillas, sweet potato nachos and sides. One addition will be a kids menu, to encourage children to eat more vegetables, the owners said. The chain’s mission is to serve food that’s good for people and the environment.

“The enthusiasm and local following we’ve gained over the years have inspired us to bring our delicious, plant-forward tacos to Bethesda,” said Co-Founder Bettina Stern in the announcement. “As entrepreneurs, our purpose is to come up with transformative, consistently new ideas that solve real problems and leave the world a better place.

“With our new shop’s location near an array of fitness offerings – including its close proximity to where walkers, runners, and bikers access the Capital Crescent Trail – we’re joining a community that’s as passionate about health as we are, making it the ideal venue for us to test fresh ideas that will move our mission forward in a big way.”

Chaia was founded in 2013, and started as a food stand at local farmers markets. In addition to being totally meat free, the chain is also gluten free and nut free, with the option for vegan dishes.

“After the toll the past 18 months has taken on neighborhoods across the DMV, the presence of our mission-driven, locally-grown small business in downtown Bethesda, a center of commercial activity, sends an important signal that people are hungry to rebuild their communities in a meaningful way,” said Co-Founder Suzanne Simon in the announcement.

“We’re honored to help lead the way, and will do so by continuing to ensure that our company culture – how we serve both our customers and our employees – reflects our values of quality, seasonality, sustainability, and hospitality.”

This story was updated to include the set opening date.