Sneak Peek: Vino Volo Opens Friday

Dozens turned out to the sneak preview of Vino Volo's Bethesda location, scheduled to open Friday.

The store was originally scheduled to open Nov. 9, but complications in shipping store merchandise caused by Hurricane Sandy have forced the business to push its opening day back one week.

Doug Tomlinson, founder and CEO of Vino Volo, turned out Thursday, Nov. 8, to host the store preview despite the delay, and to accept the Montgomery County Department of Economic Development proclamation of "Vino Volo Day."

"There's no better spot for you to be than Bethesda Row," said department representative Kristina Ellis.

Vino Volo launched in Dulles Airport in 2005, later expanding to airports across the country. On Friday, the store will open a wine lounge, restaurant and party room on Bethesda Row at Woodmont Avenue, bringing with it a full lunch and dinner menu and an “approachable” wine list.

“We’re offering the same great wine experience that our customers have come to appreciate at our airport locations, but without the hassle of travel,” Tomlinson said.

The restaurant menu will feature dishes already served at Vino Volo locations, including smoked salmon rolls and chorizo and chickpea chili, in addition to other tapas-style and full-sized plates. The atmosphere will remain family friendly, according to Tomlinson.

"Bethesda is a phenomenal market for us. We have a lot of loyal customers here," he said. "I love the lifestyle of having things down the sidewalk that you can explore—the cafe market of Barcelona and France."

The restaurant party room, deemed its “VIP seating area,” can be reserved for gathering and parties.

For more information visit the Vino Volo Facebook page here, or check back Friday morning for a sneak peak at the restaurant’s décor and menu.