Feb. 28, 2009
Adega Slideshow A Walk through Adega Live Adega Interviews"The Adega Story" told in Adega Wine Cellars and Cafe by Manager Ilecia WilliamsLive Interview "The Adega Experience" told in Adega Wine Cellars and Cafe by loyal customer Aman Fissehazion Live Interview About the Author
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Silver Spring's Silver Lining:
Adega Wine Cellars and Cafe
By Esther J. ImendeAmerican Unviversity Interactive Journalism
Tucked away in a quaint little corner of Silver Spring, Maryland, Adega Wine Cellars and Cafe has became an instant sensation serving delicious gourmet meals at affordable prices, while offering a vast selection of wine --all served up in a rare, casual and relaxing atmosphere.
Adega owner Walter Rhee is the brain behind this independent establishment which opened its doors five years ago, becoming a hot spot for the downtown area.
“He is very involved with the day-to-day site operations,” says assistant manager Ilecia Williams. “It helps the atmosphere with customers and employees. He has a good relationship with them.”
Williams emphasizes this as one of the secrets to Adega’s success. The benefit of knowing the owner personally, and having the opportunity to present ideas to him. Independent restaurants also have more freedom and flexibility to try new things and make changes as they see fit.
Adega has often customized their services to cater to the likes of their customers. Rhee has made popular specials a part of their regular menu due to the high demand, such as the Obama Freedom Fajita.
More specials include discounts for first time and regular customers, a daily happy hour including beer and fine wines, discounts on half and full cases of wine, a frequent customer program and more. Adega also offers table wine service without a corkage fee. An added bonus? Whatever wine customers do not finish, they can cork and take home.
These simple, personal touches have expanded their patrons to include a more mature crowd, while still providing a great family-friendly atmosphere.
Parking at Adega is ideal with free two hour parking on weekdays, and free parking on the weekends. Local festivities and businesses also usher in quite a bit of foot traffic.
Owner Rhee finds out what the customers like and is able to make changes almost instantly, Williams notes. You just don’t have that suppleness with chain restaurants.
Rhee also makes a point of getting out on the floor to chat with the customers. It’s a real benefit for all to have that level of access to the owner. Even while ordering at the register, employees make sure that patrons are comfortable, enjoying their entire Adega experience, says Williams.
Adega understands the value of community and stays involved by making donations to local schools and silent auctions, while welcoming other opportunities to give back.
So whether it’s your first date, family lunch, happy hour with the girls, or just the need to get-away to a place that feels like home, Adega is ready to give you just what you need—served up gourmet style with a price that is just right.
Adega Wine Cellars and Cafe: 8519 Fenton St. Silver Spring, MD 20910
Adega Hours:
Monday-Thursday 11am-10pm
Friday-Saturday 11am-11pm
Sunday 11am-8pm
Free 2 hour parking during weekdays
Free parking on weekends