Maryland Restaurant and Dining Guide

From these waters once sailed ships laden with spices that shaped America’s palate. Today, Maryland, with its rich history and diverse influences, is a culinary playground, and boy, is it a treat! Maryland has been a melting pot, with waves of immigrants introducing flavors that we've blended in our own unique way. Baltimore's Ekiben isn't just a restaurant; it's an experience that gives a nod to our historic ports. Then there’s Columbia's Royal Taj, where the spices will remind you of tales from yesteryears. Head to Germantown’s Picca Pollo A La Brasa, and Frederick's Dutch's Daughter for a mix of old-world charm and modern-day zing. In Hagerstown, Schmankerl Stube carries traditions in every bite, and don't even get me started on Annapolis' Boatyard Bar & Grill. Craving a taste of Maryland's past and present? You’re in the right spot. This guide’s got all the deets you need!

Baltimore: Melody of Modern Eats

A walk through Baltimore is like stepping into a lively, flavor-packed time machine. The city was among America's busiest ports in the 19th century, attracting waves of immigrants and, with them, a world of flavors.

But let's get real – Baltimore's not just living in the past. The culinary scene here is straight-up popping. Take The Helmand, a veteran since 1989, dishing out Afghan delights like the Zardalu Challow; imagine sun-dried apricots and spicy lamb, with a side of history. And while you're pondering over past flavors, how about those Lamb Loin Chops? Marinated, grilled, and telling tales of a land far away. Then there's Ekiben, shaking things up with its no-frills take on steamed buns. Ever had Taiwanese curry fried chicken on a bun? You've got to try The Neighborhood Bird Bun, a dance of flavors that's music to your taste buds. Speaking of bold flavors, don't even get me started on their Ancho Chile Pork Bun.

Clavel’s the jam for those craving a sip and bite in a hip atmosphere. Their Carnitas Con Salsa Verde will have you nodding in approval, while the Pescado Culichi is a nod to coastal Mexico's culinary wonders. Maggie's Farm is a cozy spot that knows how to do comfort food right. Their Roasted Cauliflower Steak brings the world to your plate, and their Maryland Crab Cake is a pure Baltimore, no chaser.

Post-feast, how about soaking in some culture? The National Aquarium is an underwater journey you won’t forget, while The Walters Art Museum showcases history in brush strokes. And The American Visionary Art Museum is the city's quirky cousin you’ll love meeting.

Columbia Chow: A Modern Take with Classic Twists

The whispers of Columbia's past can be heard in every corner of the city, and if you listen closely, they're tempting you with delights. Columbia, conceptualized as a planned community in the 1960s, isn’t just a testament to urban development. It’s a beacon for food lovers craving a blend of the traditional with the chic.

Tino's Italian Bistro & Wine Bar, nestled in a cozy strip-mall spot, is pure gold. Think fresh mortadella, salami, and a punch of flavor, all wrapped in one killer sub – that’s their Italian Cold Cut Sub. But if you're leaning toward the cheesier side of life, their Cheese Calzone is the real MVP – soft, gooey, and packed with cheesy goodness.

Then, groove your way over to Stanford Grill. With its snazzy jazz vibes and a patio that's all about the chill, you'll find it hard to resist dishes like the Kent Island Fish Sandwich. And let me tell ya, their Rattlesnake Pasta is a dance of flavors, from the spice kick to the smooth Alfredo, that will leave you hankering for an encore. For those vibing with spiced-up flavors, Royal Taj Restaurant serves up some boss Indian dishes. Ever tried the Malai Kabab? It’s like a melody of ginger, garlic, and sour cream that you won't forget. And their Chicken Methi is basically tradition on a plate, cooked with love and a sprinkle of fenugreek.

Beyond the bites, Columbia dishes out some rad attractions. Robinson Nature Center offers a dose of natural beauty, while Lake Elkhorn Park is the spot for those Sunday picnics. For the shopaholics among us, The Mall in Columbia won’t dissapoint.

Germantown: A Tasty Blend of Cultures

Once a sleepy railway stop in the 19th century, today, Germantown's got some boss spots that blend tradition with the now. Ever wondered how flavors have evolved over the years?

At Picca Pollo A La Brasa, the Peruvian beats are loud and clear. Oh boy, their Beef Heart Anticuchos. Marinated, skewered, and paired with Peruvian corn - it's straight fire. And if you're looking to shake things up, the Lomo Saltado with its sautéed steak and tomatoes is pure magic.

But hey, maybe you’re in the mood for Thai? Sabai Sabai Simply Thai brings the streets of Bangkok right to Maryland. Their Tom Kha is a creamy, zesty soup that'll have you craving seconds. And for those wanting to play it cool, the Green Papaya Pad Thai is just the right kind of different. Let’s switch to some hearty Italian? Mamma Lena Trattoria Napoletana, a family-run gem, is the place. Their Ai Quattro Fromaggi Pizza is a cheesy dream come true, while the Alle Vongole Pasta has that classic Italian flair that’s always a win.

And when you’re not munching, Germantown has some rad spots. Lancaster County Dutch Market is the spot for a little bit of everything. Or breathe some fresh air at Ridge Road Recreational Park or Butler's Orchard. Both offer up the perfect mix of leisure and adventure.

A Dash of The Unexpected Flavors in Frederick

Once a pivotal crossroads during the Civil War, today, Frederick's a crossroads of flavors, a tantalizing blend of the old and the new.

Dutch's Daughter, with its swanky dining room and the vibey downstairs bar known as The Dungeon, serves dishes that are straight up legendary. Their Crab Imperial is a rich combo of jumbo lump crab meat broiled to perfection in a creamy sauce. And if chicken's your jam, the Chicken Oscar, topped with crab and smothered in Hollandaise, is where it’s at.

For a trendy twist on American classics, Hootch and Banter is the spot. The Figgy Smalls with its pan-seared scallops and fig bacon jam is a game changer, and their Filet Wellington Minis is simply mind-blowing. They’ve taken a traditional dish and made it Insta-worthy. If you’re leaning towards something with a little Latin flair, Cacique Restaurant should be on your radar. Whether it’s the sizzling Fajita Cacique or the creamy Spinach Enchiladas, every bite is a fiesta.

But hey, between meals, don't skip on the history. Pop into the National Museum of Civil War Medicine and immerse yourself in some poignant stories. Or maybe stroll to the Schifferstadt Architectural Museum and marvel at German Colonial architecture.

Hagerstown: Bavarian Roots and American Flair

Straight to the point. Schmankerl Stube? Total gem. Decked out servers in traditional garb make sure you're treated right. Their Herzhafter Sauerbraten is real talk - tender pot roast swimming in sweet-sour goodness. And the Schwäbisches Zwiebelfilet is a medley of beef and pork that's gonna make you wanna cancel your other dinner plans.

But then, there’s 28 South. The place is all about flipping the script. Housed in a building that’s got stories to tell, they dish out some next-level New American grub. Pesto Salmon, anyone? That pan-seared delight paired with sundried tomato & basil pesto is a whole mood. And the Lamb Osso Buca? Trust me, you haven’t had lamb till you've had it this way.

When you need a breather, why not chill at Hagerstown City Park? Grab a shady spot and munch on those leftovers. And for a taste of culture, the Washington County Museum of Fine Arts is a must-visit. This place has got you covered if you, like me, got a thing for 20th-century art.

Annapolis Eats: From Harbor Heritage to Fusion Flair

Annapolis – it's more than just Maryland's capital. This bayside beauty, with its colonial roots and bustling harbor, mirrors the rich past in its present-day munch scene.

Swing by Tsunami for a bite, and you'll see what I mean. This joint is all about the twist – taking the traditional and flipping it on its head. Their Tsunami Roll? Think shrimp tempura getting cozy with avocado and a drizzle of eel sauce. And if you're all about that steak life, their Beef Tataki, with that sweet kick of honey-sriracha eel sauce, is seriously on point.

Then there's Boatyard Bar & Grill. You can almost hear the waves crashing and sailors chatting when you walk in. Their Grilled Swordfish Chimichurri is the real deal – fresh, zesty, and just a hint of the ocean. Oh, and that Roasted Bone-in Jerk Chicken paired with Crab macaroni? It’s like a dance party for your taste buds.

In between bites, take a breather at the William Paca House & Garden. It's history, greenery, and serenity all rolled into one. Or, for the nature lovers, Quiet Waters Park is pure zen – with trails, boats, and some sick art galleries.

Let’s get real – Maryland is a treasure trove of gastronomic tales. From Baltimore’s harbor eats to Frederick’s rustic spots, the state dishes out stories flavored by time. Hagerstown’s throwback diners, Annapolis with its harbor vibes, colonial whispers, and modern munch scene, Columbia and Germantown, bridging classic comfort with modern finesse - every town in Maryland has a vibe. Maryland's food scene is like that perfect playlist – a mix of golden oldies with some chart-topping hits. With each bite, you’re reliving a piece of history or diving headfirst into a current trend. Cool, right? From the fresh catch of the bay to farm-fresh veggies, this state keeps things fresh and fiery.

Ready to chat about your favorite Maryland meal at the next dinner party? Or better yet, swing by Maryland and taste the hype for yourself. Because let’s face it, there's no better way to appreciate history and hospitality than on a plate, right here in Maryland.

Must-Try Restaurants in Maryland

Ekiben

1622 Eastern Ave, Baltimore, MD 21231

Incredible. I was feeling miserable and unwell and hot and as soon as I got my food my soul was restored. I was cured of my childhood trauma. Truly an un...

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Superb198 Reviews4.8

Maggie's Farm

4341 Harford Rd, Baltimore, MD 21214

Every weekend I'm free I drive the 30 minutes for the best brunch! The owners and their team are delightful, and make each visit so much fun. The c...

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Superb90 Reviews4.5

Tsunami

51 West St, Annapolis, MD 21401

Review from 9/20/23

While not a very traditional sushi place, it still has great food and a nice ambience. Outdoor seating was great a...

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Good86 Reviews3.7

28 South

28 S Potomac St, Hagerstown, MD 21740

Reservations made, was seated right away, Sophie our server was prompt and friendly.Calamari average frozen and fried.Handcut fries were good, I'd q...

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Good260 Reviews4

Schmankerl Stube

58 S Potomac St, Hagerstown, MD 21740

The entire experience was excellent. This restaurant is going to be our new stop when we pass through Hagerstown.

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Superb133 Reviews4.7

Tino's Italian Bistro & Wine Bar

8775 Centre Park Dr, Columbia, MD 21045

Dirty dishes sat at empty tables the whole time I was there. The food was very disappointing. A few years ago it was excellent but not on this visit.

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Good183 Reviews3.9

Royal Taj Restaurant

8335 Benson Dr, Columbia, MD 21045

Best Indian foood!! I've been multiple times! Service is impeccable Ambiance is grand! The team makes you feel special

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Superb447 Reviews4.8

Clavel

225 W 23rd St, Baltimore, MD 21211

The restaurant was a cool vide. The outside setting is really nice. Parking can be an issue but the food is delicious a bit on the pricey side but is del...

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Superb167 Reviews4.5

Sabai Sabai Simply Thai

19847 Century Blvd Ste M, Germantown, MD 20874

This small restaurant was a great find. We were there when they opened. The service was very good as was the food.

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Good95 Reviews3.9

Picca Pollo A La Brasa

13000 Middlebrook Road, Germantown, MD 20874

Hello! Very sad, today we ordered their “seafood rice” through DoorDash. My dad is visiting and I boasted to him that you are the best and he left practi...

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Good156 Reviews4.1

Mamma Lena Trattoria Napoletana

13507 Clopper Rd, Germantown, MD 20874

It's a small place, but it has a lot of charm and amazing, authentic food! Many things are imported, and everything we tried was delicious. I'd...

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Superb124 Reviews4.5

The Helmand

806 N Charles St, Baltimore, MD 21201

In Baltimore for the weekend, stayed in this neighborhood, … such a pleasure to come across. The food tops out of one of the best meals - in our top 20...

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Superb142 Reviews4.7

Glenwood's (formerly Stanford Grill)

8900 Stanford Blvd, Columbia, MD 21045

Service was friendly and prompt. The food was delicious. We ordered the salmon. Definitely will be back. The live music was a nice touch. Enjoyed it all.

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Superb679 Reviews4.3

Boatyard Bar & Grill

400 Fourth St, Annapolis, MD 21403

Visited this restaurant while in Annapolis. Staff was friendly and attentive. Crab dip with artichokes was excellent.

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Superb603 Reviews4.7

Hootch and Banter

49 S Market St, Frederick, MD 21701

Hooch and Banter!! What a gem of a place! It's right by the riverwalk in cute, downtown Frederick. I was there at brunch and got the shrimp and grit...

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Superb121 Reviews4.5

Cacique Restaurant

26 N Market St, Frederick, MD 21701

The menu offers a broad array of authentic dishes, though some prices at the restaurant are considerably higher than on the caciquerestaurant dot com web...

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Good83 Reviews4

Dutch's Daughter

581 Himes Ave, Frederick, MD 21703

The good here was amazing, the service was perfect and the price (in the dungeon) was reasonable!! We will definitely be back!

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Superb267 Reviews4.7

Recently Opened Restaurants

Tito’s Fried Chicken

105 Carroll Island Rd, Middle River, MD 21220

Gave it a try. I was not overly impressed. Food was mediocre at best. I will not patronize on a regular basis.

Superb9 Reviews4.3

Chopt Creative Salad Co.

1809 Reisterstown Rd, Pikesville, MD 21208

The restaurant was pretty empty on a Sunday afternoon. Very clean and inviting inside. We ordered a bowl and a wrap. We decided to dine in. The food was ...

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Superb10 Reviews4.5

Carmen's Italian Ice of Kensington

10309 Kensington Pkwy, Kensington, MD 20895

Love this place got the strawberry lemon 2-3 days ago my brother tired it he doesn't even like strawberry and lemon and he liked it and the girl who...

Superb9 Reviews5

Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse

825 Dulaney Valley Rd Ste 1161, Towson, MD 21204

It was my husband's 50th birthday and he wanted to go to a Brazilian Steakhouse because when we went in Florida he enjoyed it immensely. The online ...

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Superb233 Reviews4.6

Bojangles

1312 W Patrick St, Frederick, MD 21703

Second time in 2 weeks got a take out family meal and they forgot something. Last time no biscuits. This time one side missing and the biscuits were raw ...

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Average104 Reviews2.8

KANPAI BBQ Hotpot Buffet

1701 Rockville Pike STE A10, Rockville, MD 20852

I came in on a random Wednesday evening to celebrate my graduation with my family. Since it was a weekday, there was plenty of seating for my large party...

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Superb136 Reviews4.6

Gregorio's Trattoria

12505 Park Potomac Ave Suite 110, Potomac, MD 20854

Our experience at this Italian restaurant was awful from start to finish. When we asked for a table, we were met with, "Do you have a reservation?&q...

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Good10 Reviews3.8

Kura Revolving Sushi Bar

12266 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD 20852

My favorite dish is the Chicken Gyoza Dumpling, which is delicious! Even at very busy times, my server Ramiro always makes me feel welcome and has an abs...

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Good138 Reviews4

Uno Más

420 Pennsylvania Ave, Centreville, MD 21617

We had such a great dinner last night at Uno Más! Highly recommend their birria egg rolls and tuna tostadas! Live music in the bar was an added bonus! 🌮

Superb74 Reviews4.5

Plaza Tapatia Pittsville

7456 Gumboro Rd, Pittsville, MD 21850

The restaurant space is very cute. However, the people at the bar,including the bartender, were so loud, it made for a negative dining experience. We cou...

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Good25 Reviews4.1

Ka Ming Food House

7550 Ritchie Hwy, Glen Burnie, MD 21061

I wanted to try a new place. So, I got the General Tso's chicken combo with pork fried rice and a shrimp egg roll. I absolutely loved the fried rice...

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Superb24 Reviews4.3

Urbano

1915 Towne Centre Blvd #150, Annapolis, MD 21401

1 pm on a Thursday in Annapolis . Empty . Hmmm . Servers need training . No salt or pepper on any tables . It's needed . Seasoning lacking . Decent ...

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Good45 Reviews3.3

Pizza Palace

81 Shipping Pl, Dundalk, MD 21222

Amaaaazing Cheese Steaks fresh hot fries and the service is A1 ! Me and my children enjoy the food and the service

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Good16 Reviews3.7

Betty Lou's

33 Magothy Beach Rd, Pasadena, MD 21122

Service was great, wish there was more coffee options for brunch or and martini espresso was ok. The chai cinnamon roll was my favorite but everything el...

Superb82 Reviews4.9

Tarin Thai Cuisine Baltimore

624 S Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21231

Great restaurant with gracious service! I've come here every other week and I've had no complaints. Delicious food and super accommodating with...

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Superb37 Reviews5

Recent Reviews

First Watch

2159-D York Rd, Timonium, MD 21093

My husband and I had a late breakfast at the Timonium location on December 27, 2024. Upon arrival, at almost 11:30 AM, the hostess named Samantha, was se...

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Good85 Reviews4.1

4 brothers bar & grill

3209 Belair Rd, Baltimore, MD 21213

Black Family owned business, grown adult establishment, with great food;drinks; & the best prices. Always have the latest sporting events playing &am...

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Superb17 Reviews5

Marlin Moon Restaurant

3301 Atlantic Ave, Ocean City, MD 21842

The restaurant is located in our hotel food was excellent service the same bartender was friendly and outgoing nice atmosphere went back twice for lat...

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Good194 Reviews4.1

Casa Rico

1399 W Patrick St, Frederick, MD 21702

Chips are excellent so is the salsa…however they are putting potatoes in with their taco meat now as a “ filler “ which al...

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Good74 Reviews4.1

Baugher's Restaurant

289 W Main St, Westminster, MD 21158

Stopped here because I like to get their chicken livers. They were the worst I have ever had here. When I complained they wants to refix the meal. No...

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Good167 Reviews4.1

B.B.U. Kitchen Bowie

6131 Highbridge Rd, Bowie, MD 20720

Similarly to South Pride Seafood, I was really looking forward to trying South Pride Seafood after hearing so many great things and being a fan of Soul F...

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Good57 Reviews4.1

Horace And Dickies seafood of Oxon Hill

801 Southern Ave SE, Oxon Hill, MD 20745

Horrendous!!! The fish was horrible, all of the sides were horrible! I'm afraid that this location doesn't compare to the H Street location bac...

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Average44 Reviews2.9

China House

16 Denton Plz, Denton, MD 21629

I have been getting my chinese fix here for years these past 2 times the food was dry and not what I ordered the older lady that answers the phone is hat...

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Average24 Reviews2.8

Attman's Potomac Deli

12505 Park Potomac Ave, Potomac, MD 20854

Worst service (not one staff member spoke or understood English). The manager finally took the order. From the time we sat down until we received our foo...

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Superb122 Reviews4.3

Fratelli's Italian Restaurant

925 Snow Hill Rd, Salisbury, MD 21804

Bartender was the queen of eye rolls whenever we asked anything. I have noticed the owner sitting at the bar talking eith employees. Customers seem a a...

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Superb136 Reviews4.4

Cafe Roma

12166 Darnestown Rd, Gaithersburg, MD 20878

Decided to try a new Italian restaurant out of town. Picked up the cheese ravioli. Sauce is very bland. The inside of the ravioli is basically just ricot...

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Superb94 Reviews4.3

Stella Notte

8809 Baltimore National Pike, Ellicott City, MD 21043

We visited for Wed evening 1/2 price pizza for the very first time. Crazy busy and we didn’t think about making a reservation.The two young ladies at the...

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Good75 Reviews3.7

Hang Ari

9380 Baltimore National Pike, Ellicott City, MD 21042

I've never been disappointed by the food here, except one time. That one time was more because of food selection, something like offal or innards ho...

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Good80 Reviews3.8

United Buffet & Grill

1290 Smallwood Dr W, Waldorf, MD 20603

Love this place. My family and I go there about twice a month. The food is fresh and the place is clean. Plenty of things to choose from. The ribs are su...

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Good112 Reviews3.8

Cakes by Cynthia's

3531 Washington Blvd, Halethorpe, MD 21227

Always love the truck when it is local! Just got my first delivery and the cake jars do not disappoint. So many different options and all equally delici...

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