King Farm
Published September 10, 2025 at 12:21PM
Courtesy AYSE Meze Facebook page
Fans of Mediterranean cuisine can finally mark their calendars, AYSE Meze Lounge will officially open its doors in Rockville’s King Farm neighborhood on Thursday, September 18th.
Last fall, we shared that the restaurant would be returning about five years after closing its beloved Frederick location in 2020. The comeback has generated plenty of anticipation, and the opening date now signals the start of a new chapter for the popular concept.
AYSE will continue under the guidance of owner Nezih Pistar, who helped make the original Frederick location a regional favorite. The restaurant promises to blend authentic Mediterranean recipes with modern culinary techniques, offering the same elevated dining experience that earned it a loyal following. Located at 700 King Farm Blvd #170, the new Rockville restaurant takes over the space previously occupied by Nick’s Chophouse.
Diners can look forward to a menu that celebrates the rich traditions of the Mediterranean, featuring vibrant mezes, expertly grilled seafood and meats, and signature dishes such as manti and wood-fired branzino. A sample menu is already available online, giving guests a preview of what’s to come.
AYSE is operated by the KIOS Restaurant Group, which also runs Pistarro’s Ristorante and Isabella’s Taverna and Tapas Bar in Frederick. The move to Rockville represents both an expansion for the group and a welcome addition to Montgomery County’s diverse dining scene.
Dining and Cooking