By owner Lance London’s account, there have been plenty of moments in The Carolina Kitchen Bar & Grill’s history that should have been the end of it. For example, when it burned down.

And yet, London’s passion for his concept has kept The Carolina Kitchen alive now for 27 years. Today, it has four locations in the Washington, D.C., metro area, and London is preparing to open five more in Maryland — each offering a fresh spin to The Carolina Kitchen branding and menu.