The prediction we made in last week’s issue has come true: Chef Robert Wiedmaier, the man behind Brasserie Beck, Mussel Bar & Grille and Wildwood Kitchen, is expanding his territory to Potomac Village. Wiedmaier’s RW Restaurant Group has agreed to buy The Tavern at River Falls, which lost its manager last year when Jeff Grolig exited the business and closed his neighboring River Falls Market. In recent months the restaurant has been run by Grolig’s father, a retired firefighter who admits he was in over his head. “I’m 72 years old, I know nothing about the restaurant business, and I’m at a stage in my life where I can’t be losing money,” Grolig says. “Selling this restaurant is going to leave a hole in our hearts, but it’s probably for the best.” Staff changes have already begun: A manager from Wiedmaier’s company started work this week, and there will likely be some updates to the menu. But for now there are no plans to change the restaurant’s name.
