Business & Tech

O'Donnell's Served Its Final Meal

After more than 90 years in the region, O'Donnell's served its final dish on Saturday.

Famous for its rum buns, happy hour and Norfolk-style seafood, O'Donnell's Sea Grill served its final meal Saturday evening.

Owner Bill Edelblut started working at the restaurant when he was 14 and was the third generation to run the establishment, according to a report by WJLA.

“It’s kind of been an emotional roller coaster for the last week,” Edelblut said, according to the report. “The passion’s kind of gone after 40 years.”

Patrons have taken to O'Donnell's Facebook page in the last few days to share their thoughts on the closing (and ask for some recipes).

"So sad to hear they closed after all these years. I'm 5th generation Washingtonian and loved going to the original OD's. My brother Jack went to the Gaithersburg, Md. bar. I would give anything to have the rum bun recipe. Help does anyone have the recipe????" wrote user Dian Braden.

"So glad I was able to make it in one last time before you closed. I shared the last rum buns with my family this morning. We are going to miss you!! Any consideration being given to a selling a recipe book? I'm sure it would be a big hit!" wrote user Diane Mentzer.

SPEAK OUT: What will you remember most about O'Donnell's Sea Grill? What do you hope will fill its void in the Gaithersburg area? Tell us in the comments!


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