This week we got word that three more restaurants — Spice 6, Gusto and Aroma — will not be returning to Westfield Montgomery mall. All three have been dark since spring, and all have now confirmed that the closings are permanent. Spice 6, a D.C.-area chain serving fast-casual Indian dishes, is down to just three locations since the pandemic began. Gusto, a local pioneer of cauliflower-crust pizza, has also closed its doors in downtown Bethesda. Perhaps the biggest blow is the loss of Aroma, one of the largest coffee chains in Israel, which had been a staple at the mall for seven years. Other post-pandemic closings include Beefsteak, Mirch Masala and Poké Papa. On a happier note, Jamba Juice is finally back in business — and several new stores are moving in.
