The Washingtonian‘s August issue is focused on the best bargains in the area, and it lists some great resources for Silver Spring families. Here’s what I learned in its pages:

Mrs. K’s Toll House gives patrons celebrating a birthday a free vanilla cupcake and glass of champagne and Austin Grill will give you a free entree for your birthday if you register online for their e-club.

The best deal on orchids in the area is at Whole Foods or Ikea, says interior designer Matthew Swingly of McMaster Wallace Interiors.

Whole Foods now stocks pints of Moorenko’s yummy ice cream.

The first Monday of the month at Johnson’s Florist & Garden Centers get 20% off plants, cut flowers, garden supplies and patio furniture.

Trader Joe’s rules for bath & body care products, according to professional makeup artists Kim Giammaria and Carola Myers.

Kids eat free on Thursday nights 4-11pm at the Hard Times Cafe in Rockville.

Michel Richard shops at H Mart for the exotic selection and to save 25-40% off supermarket prices. Lucky for us, there’s one in Wheaton.

Charlie Palmer Steak House in DC doesn’t charge a corkage fee, provided the vintage you bring is American.

And speaking of American wine, there’s a great article by Dave McIntyre about Silver Spring couple Sarah O’Herron and Ed Boyce’s Mount Airy vineyard, Black Ankle. And it looks like they will soon be open for tastings and visitors.

Thanks to the staff of The Washingtonian for a great issue, and I hope you don’t mind that I poached tidbits for parents in Silver Spring.

P.S. The Washingtonian‘s Best Bites Blog & July issue featured the Flower Bakery Cafe in Silver Spring on Layhill Road. More local yummies!