Local gems shine bright in Metropolitan Park
By Luke Fichter
Amazon's HQ2 at Metropolitan Park is a celebration of local businesses and the vibrant community that surrounds it. From beloved neighborhood retailers to eateries serving up a diverse range of culinary delights, HQ2 is set to become a dynamic hub that honors and supports the local business scene. Here's a snapshot of the local businesses that are making their mark:
Celebree School of National Landing: Getting their start in Ellicott City, Maryland, in 1994 this early childhood education center offers programming for kids from 6 weeks to Pre-Kindergarten through nurturing teachers and thoughtful curriculum.
Contes Bike Shop: A family-owned cycling haven that has been a staple in the biking community since 1957.
District Dogs: District Dogs began as a dog walking business in 2014, with owner Jacob Hensley as the sole employee. Growing with each new client, within two years the business included a team of walkers that covered the majority of Northwest DC. Now with seven locations, this all-in-one pet care business offers services like doggy daycare, grooming, training, and walking.
GLO30: Opening their first location right outside of Washington DC in 2012, GLO30 has a core philosophy that everyone can have glowing skin - with smart, habitual, and focused treatments done every 30 days as part of the process.
Good Company: A local, veteran-owned doughnut shop with over 40 varieties of freshly made doughnuts every day. It offers other breakfast essentials and, of course, coffee.
HUSTLE Fitness: Originally an online fitness platform, HUSTLE opened its first physical location at HQ2. It offers high-energy cycle and strength classes suitable for participants of all fitness levels.
Makers Union: A gastropub that quickly became a local favorite, strives to source its produce, proteins, beer, and coffee from local makers.
Peruvian Brothers: Two brothers with unique backgrounds, known for their mouthwatering Peruvian cuisine, including Pan con Chicharrón, saltados, and empanadas. Their food is so good that the Peruvian ambassador to the U.S. once named them "gastro-diplomats."
South Block: A regional favorite for over a decade, South Block offers healthy options like perfectly blended açai bowls, refreshing smoothies, and organic juices.
Toby's Ice Cream: Toby made his first batch of homemade ice cream in 1997 while at University of Maryland. After opening their first Arlington location in 2008, Toby's Ice Cream is now serving up their fun and unique flavors in Metropolitan Park.