Restaurants in Columbia

“Royal Taj is our go-to restaurant for special occasions, like our 20th Wedding Anniversary last week. It never fails to deliver excellence. Because it was a very special dinner, we decided to try something different. So my wife ordered the Lobster Malabar and I ordered the Grilled Halibut. Both were very good, especially the Halibut which was covered in an outstanding Corn Relish. To top off the evening our excellent server, Joshi, brought us a slice of very tasty cheesecake with a lit candle on top. As usual we cannot rave loud and often enough about Royal Taj and it is all due to the GM Binda, who is very friendly, charismatic and truly sets the tone of excellence at Royal Taj.”

“Absolutely amazing. A true fine dining 5* experience from the service to the food. Will return again and again.”

“Unique menu and best service .”

“When I say this was a delicious scone, I mean it was the polar opposite of dry, the MOST flavorful and moist scone I have ever had in my LIFE. I’m in my 40’s, just sayin!!! Also tried the Oreo Cheesecake, it was absolutely delicious! Glad I finally stopped by ❤️”

“I have been coming here pretty much since the day they opened, food is excellent, clean place and excellent customer service!”

“The food was amazing! The service was impeccable! I came for lunch with a FB mom group from Loudoun and it was worth the drive.”

“Bar none the best sushi in Howard county. We’ve been steadies there for 15 plus years. Only wish we’d discovered it sooner. Highly recommend!!!”

“After seeing the reviews we had to check out this place. We came for the early showing of belly dancing. First, the interior is wonderful - a stark contrast to the bright outside, you're immersed in a nice intimately lit environment. The lighting decor is great and photographic. The food is amazing. My wife and I shared a Sultan's feast, which gave plenty of variety in tastes and plenty to take home for left overs. The belly dancing was awesome. The performer started on stage and then visited all the tables. No matter where you were in the spacious restaurant, you got to see her dance up close. Service was top notch - our server was very attentive and the automated serving robots were cool to watch. Cazbar is a unique blend of modern and traditional Turkish. We'll be coming back for sure.”

“The food and the service are excellent.”

“A Magical Night at Toby’s Dinner Theatre!
I recently took my 11-year-old daughter to see The Little Mermaid at Toby’s Dinner Theatre, and we had a wonderful time! We arrived around 5:15 PM and were first in line for seating when the doors opened at 6. The staff was organized and welcoming — we were greeted, assigned our seats, and promptly escorted to our table.

Our server (who also happened to be one of the actors!) took our drink orders within five minutes. Bread was brought out shortly after, and we were invited to help ourselves to the salad bar. Once our table number was called, we made our way to the main buffet.

While the buffet was plentiful, I felt the food quality didn’t quite match the rest of the evening’s magic. There were cheese and crackers, coleslaw, and seafood pasta salad, followed by broccoli, corn, a spaghetti pasta dish, seasoned baked chicken, ribs, and a carving station with ham, roast beef, and turkey. Unfortunately, nothing tasted particularly fresh or flavorful. I would’ve loved to see more kid-friendly options like mac & cheese, mashed potatoes, or chicken tenders — something to match the family-friendly theme of the show.

Now, the show itself? Absolutely fantastic! The acting, singing, costumes, choreography, lighting, and music all exceeded my expectations. The talent on stage was clear from the very first number to the final bow. My daughter was captivated the entire time — as was I! The show started around 8 PM and ended at 10:30 PM, and the pacing was just right.

We heard the venue is preparing for a renovation and expansion, and I’m excited to see what changes come next. Toby’s has some incredibly gifted performers, and I’d absolutely recommend the theatre experience. Just hoping the dining aspect improves to match the high-quality entertainment.”

“Toastique had become a go to spot for a quick / healthy lunch or business meet up”

“The fish was amazing and the jazz room is the perfect vibe for a first date or a cocktail with best friend! Absolutely loved it”

“Dined with my wife and kids and we ordered a variety of dishes because of varying tastes and picky eaters in my family. EVERY SINGLE DISH was incredibly delicious. From the pan-fried dumplings to the chicken fried rice to the Kung Pao Chicken to the Mongolian Beef, everything was cooked to perfection with generous portion sizes. Highest of recommendations. Plus, our server was very professional. Present when we needed her, but not at all overbearing.”

“Always the best and staff are all super nice!”

“DMV Taqueria food truck is highly recommended! It’s smart to call in your order as they’ve grown in popularity as the word’s gotten out. My neighbor loves their chicken quesadillas. My favorite is the shrimp quesadillas, but honestly, you can’t go wrong with any of the menu items. I understand the churros are a favorite too, though I’ve not personally tried them. The drive home is brutal. The food smells so amazing, I can’t park the car fast enough. 5⭐️”

“We came in for a little lunch date and was surprised at how fall and cozy everything was. We had been before with some family, but this time we were able to take it all in. The food was fresh, paced, and delicious. The highlight for me was definitely the creme brulee. The chocolate at the bottom is thick and such a contrast to the creme and crunchy sugar. It was heavenly, so much so I almost didn't want to share! I cannot wait to go back another time and try a few more items. The lunch specials are affordable and the portion sizes we found to be good. We didn't leave hungry for sure.”

“Amazing food! The signature meal was full of flavor, the catfish fingers were perfectly crispy, the brisket was tender and delicious, and the onion strings were the perfect crunchy side. Drinks and deals made it even better!”

“Thanks for making our Thanksgiving Dinner!”

“Fantastic place! The decor is beautiful. Food and wine were fantastic! Rudy, the owner, is the star of the show! He has a fantastic, friendly, and welcoming personality. He took time to chat at each table, and he’s so friendly and funny. We will definitely make this a favorite spot! 5 stars!!!! ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️”

“Hard to find. They first wanted to put us in the bar area, which is not where I wanted to sit. I wanted to sit in main dining. It was a different gnocchi. I’m used to. But it was good. The waiter was good. Very, very loud in the main dining area. We forgot things that I requested. We had to request bread rather than the waiter asking us if we wanted some. As it was after 1 o’clock.”

“Ordered the army breakfast. Eggs were over done, sausage was under cooked and the entire meal was cold. Could have had a better breakfast at a homeless shelter. First and last time.”

“I don’t typically write reviews, good or bad, however our experience at Xenia on Oct 12th has changed my mind. We were in the area from Boston just for the night and learned of Xenia through our hotels concierge. It was amazing and probably one of the best dining experiences I’ve ever had. The food was outstanding and prepared beautifully. We had the Spanikopita, Greek salads, shrimp saganaki, and lamb riblets. All very tasty and expertly prepared. What really did it though was the on point service offered by Mary (Maris). Her efficiency, attention to details, thoughtful presentation of the menu, was a 15 out of 10! She is a super star! We were delightfully surprised by the restaurant’s generous hospitality when they sent us a dessert sampler compliments of the house because we were out of state first timers. I only wish weren’t 5+ hours away, as we would be fast regulars for sure!”

“Ruth was fantastic!! She made our two year anniversary special by being attentive just because - She didn’t even know we were celebrating anything. We ordered happy hour dishes, which were mostly your standard - but the oysters had an Asian flare to them and were prepped so they were nice and easy to eat. Maryland roll and Scallop roll were amazing, and every Sashimi we had (Amberjack, yellowtail, bluefin tuna) were some of the most delicious and fresh sashimi I’ve ever had. We will definitely be coming back!! (The dessert was also super cute & Delicious)”

“I had an awesome lunch there today 3/8. Loved everything. Thank you.”

“Best Indian food around and even better service. This is my husband and I’s go to spot!”

“Enjoyed salmon and the Caesar salad with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc, New Zealand. My husband had the Chesapeake and a bowl of onion soup. We were served by Ethan who’s an awesome waiter. I can’t say enough. Love it.”

“We try to stop here whenever we are in town. Amazing selection of all vegan options. Definitely recommend for any vegetarian/vegans! I've had pretty much everything on the menu and can say I love it all! The app is super convenient to order ahead and get rewards. Great place!”

“Overall this is a good place to have Happy Hour. I am super disappointed that the charcuterie board was taken off the menu. It was the best! Bring it back please!”

“I took my dad tonight for Father’s Day and it was very busy. We were told an hour and half wait so we waited. From the crew at the reservation desk to the lady who took is us to our table and Evan our waiter everything was awesome. Even with being crazy busy service was great and food was great. I highly recommended Texas Roadhouse Columbia”

“Great food and awesome staff.”

“Good and not expensive like the food trucks that come around”

“Fast, Friendly and Delicious”

“Hubby and I enjoy the salads from here. They have standard salads but you can also customize them. As well, the employees who work there are always nice and helpful.”

“My son wanted a 6 layer rainbow cake with sprinkles and she delivered! Beautiful and tasty.”

“Parking is a tad tight, but....The service and food was AMAZING! Well lit, clean, great menu. Displays were awesome 👌🏿. Will definitely make subsequent trips and order for holidays”

“I love this place!!! The food is so fresh, simple and tasty and service is always kind and fast ❤️❤️❤️”

“I felt like I was eating pizza at Buddy’s in Detroit. The pizza was absolutely delicious. I also ordered the brussels sprouts, AWESOME. My food was delivered and was delicious. I look forward to actually going to the tap room and trying other things on the menu. Did I say the food was awesome?😎”

“I'm not a fan of pumpkin beers but Basic Bee is absolutely fantastic. I could easily be persuaded to like pumpkin beers if they're made like this one”

“Biscuits are fluffy... the gravy could use some seasoning but it's nicely executed”

“I’ve been coming to this taco truck for years now…and I hope and plan to keep doing so!

The food is fabulous and delicious, and the portions are quite generous. I’ve had many tacos and quesadillas from here, they’re excellent, but my regular now is a steak torta (best. sandwich. ever.). Usually my order lasts me two or more meals!

Can’t overstate how much I love this restaurant and appreciate the consistent, high quality food its owner cooks up. Check it out! This place IS my Chipotle! Better food, better portions, AND better prices! Thank you to the restaurant owner for maintaining this wonderful food fixture in our community!”

“The staff at this location are nice and polite. My order is always ready for pick up at the time requested.

I wish the garlic bread with cheese wasn't so thick.”

“Cafe Columbia is a cute, colorful little cafe with delicious crepes and friendly service. Recommended.”

“My first time there but food was delicious”

“Tea & Staff are wonderful.”

“Love this custard. Delicious be and reason as bly priced. Mr Yang is very nice, too.”

“I never thought I would like anything better than Pho until coming here. The noodle soups are heavenly and the dumplings scrumptious. Nicest service you could find in a pleasant and relaxing atmosphere. Lots of vegetarian options too!”

“Well stocked cases with great variety. Pumpkin macaron is a great seasonal treat. Greek cookies. Bagels. Cakes.”

“I’ve ordered here many times and am always happy with what I’ve got: sides, pizza, sandwich, etc. Great local place to get food and the staff are very friendly.”

“We Love getting pizza from Eataliano! Not only do they have delicious vegan pizzas, they also offer the best imported Italian goodies like wafers, artichokes, olives, pastas, hard candies, and more.”

“Here's to the highest stars available (20), and then some. Today, I introduced my son to Mango Lassie, Chicken Tika Masala, Nan. He was hesitant to come at first and now he is so impressed with the food and service. Thanks so much. I hope your restaurant grows and grows.”

“I wish there were more non-dairy options and that it was a little bigger. It gets very cramped and wait times kinda suck on event days but the ice cream is great.”

“My favorite stop of the day! Always a nice vibe! Friendly service from everyone but Sandy is the best! Professional, knowledgeable and patient as I tried new smoothies each visit!! I’m on a weight loss journey and just bettering my health overall and Puregreen has been a staple in my success! If you have not checked Puregreen out and you love smoothies you absolutely should!!”

“We came in on a whim & so glad we did. We were seated immediately & greeted warmly by an amazing waitress. Food was brought out quickly & was such a good serving size. Delicious eggs Benedict & the hollindaise was amazing! My fiancé had the biscuits & gravy & was so happy with his food. Excellent portions & such a wonderful place. Can’t wait to come back again!! Highly recommend!!”

“Absolutely true to its name. House of India is the place to be if you appreciate authentic Indian cuisine and excellent service. It’s not only having a dinner , it’s having a memorable experience. Loved everything about it. The food is exceptionally great, the service is outstanding. The owners under new management goes above and beyond to make every guests feel welcome. Highly recommend this place.”

“I may only be a small town pizza lawyer, but bacon wrapped deep dish pepperoni pizza cannot be against the law.”

“Delicious burgers...in fact, the best burger spot in the area....avid fan of the Columbia location --been there six times the past 3 weeks... the service always prompt and friendly, especially from Raymond”

“I was in and out in a matter of minutes and able to get a variety of things. Very delicious.”

“My wife and I had lunch at the Longhorn restaurant in Columbia today (9/3/25). The food was prepared perfectly and tasted great. Nicole was great. She is an excellent waitress. Thanks again.”

“Great 🌮 and 🌯 chips and 🥑 they are on 🔥🔥”

“Food is awesome. Taste great bought a good flavor. I would recommend this.”

“I come here a lot and it’s always fast, friendly, and clean. Jocelyn gave amazing customer service! She was very friendly, patient, and she had a little humor.”

“This was a very good hamburger. Though I asked for medium, it was medium well. Of course, degree of doneness is a challenge for any hamburger joint. Even so, the meat was flavorful. There was quite a bit of bacon on my bacon cheeseburger. The onion rings were also quite good. The shortfall was Pepsi products, which I do not prefer. I think the shock for me was one burger, order of onion rings, and fountain drink was $25.00.”

“I regularly order the chicken fillet sandwich here, and it’s been consistently delicious. The freshly made salad and bread are a must-try. I’ve also had the pizza and cheesesteak, both of them were really tasty. If you’re staying in Columbia, I highly recommend this place.”

“So this is my new favorite place in Columbia. Oh my goodness. What a gem. It’s literally so delicious. I’m so thankful I stopped in. Every bite was better than the last. I think I could eat this every day. Spicy, sweet, savory, tasty.

I had the beef cup bap, miso soup, and a small side of cucumber kimchi!”

“Ordered the summer rolls and the grilled pork chop dinner with white rice and a side of pho broth. The food came out pretty quickly despite how busy it was. The portion size for the pork chop was huge, and everything was SO good. Definitely my new favorite Vietnamese spot in Columbia. Highly recommend!!”

“Huntington Deli is great. It’s a hidden gem. The owner’s great you will a smile every time and remember your name if you’ve been in before. The food is fresh and delicious. Breakfast is my favorite to get there but lunch/dinner is just as good. If you are in the area, stop by and check it out.”

“I've been to Pub Dog many times and have never been let down, but tonight was the best experience I've had at a bar in years. Let me preface that I had had a crappy day, and decided to come for their epic pizza - I sat up top, away from the hubbub, and each bartender checked in on me. Mel, Savannah, Bailey, and the manager, Alex, made me feel so special & looked after. I'm beyond grateful for their rockstar performance. Only suggestion: get jalapenos lol. Love you, you thirsty dogs!”

“We dined here for their lunch buffet and the food was amazing and extremely fresh. Everything was really tasty and a great value. Highly recommend!”

“Excellent.”

“Everything is always fresh and made to perfection. Their staff is amazing! Their food is delicious! I love Abbys.”

“I had the chance to visit Upper Crust Pizzeria & Deli on my recent business trip to Columbia, and it did not disappoint. I had no much free time to eat something and that's why I went to the nearest pizza house. I ordered their signature specialty pie, the “Mt. Everest”, which beautifully met its name with layers of bold flavors. Thanks a lot, guys!”

“Absolute the best ever!! The sever was truly polite and respectful! She was great. The business is very clean and amazing atmosphere to enjoy your food!”

“Super-friendly guy behind the counter (the owner, maybe?) who asked questions about what I like and provided informed recommendations that were exactly right! Delicious teriyaki vegan “chicken”!”

“My favorite place in Columbia. I’ve been coming here for over 10 years and it has always been the same quality. Everything I have ordered has been great and they have excellent vegetarian options as well”

“This used to be my favorite. I came in last Friday bought a 32 oz smoothie. I do love the smoothies and chocolate covered almonds. They no longer have styrofoam cups which is a great disappointment. B4 you even get 20 mins away anything is melted in those plastic cups. I even tried to refreeze it like I always do. But it was mostly sweet juice by the time I got home. Which means I wasted my money. I need a cup that works please smoothie king! I still recommend because this bothers me and may not bother others.”

“Every time I go to this Location my food is always hot in the manager name Latone is always friendly in always on her stuff it’s always clean in there in this location keep decorating every holiday I like to see the decorations make u feel at home 1255 keep up the go work”

“Took my kids over the weekend pizza is AWESOME SAUCE!!!! staff and waiters was super nice GREAT experience definitely will be returning”

“Here's to the highest stars available (20), and then some. Today, I introduced my son to Mango Lassie, Chicken Tika Masala, Nan. He was hesitant to come at first and now he is so impressed with the food and service. Thanks so much. I hope your restaurant grows and grows.”

“Royal Taj is our go-to restaurant for special occasions, like our 20th Wedding Anniversary last week. It never fails to deliver excellence. Because it was a very special dinner, we decided to try something different. So my wife ordered the Lobster Malabar and I ordered the Grilled Halibut. Both were very good, especially the Halibut which was covered in an outstanding Corn Relish. To top off the evening our excellent server, Joshi, brought us a slice of very tasty cheesecake with a lit candle on top. As usual we cannot rave loud and often enough about Royal Taj and it is all due to the GM Binda, who is very friendly, charismatic and truly sets the tone of excellence at Royal Taj.”

“I have a standing order with this restaurant for their Ribs. But I also like their Pizza and Subs. I always talk to John when placing my order. He is so professional, helpful and polite and kind. This is one of my favorite places to order food from. I give them 5 Stars!”

“Good and not expensive like the food trucks that come around”

“FIRST TIME AT THIS PLACE. HAD ORDERED THE CHICKEN PHO. ALL I CAN SAY IS DELICIOUS !!!!!”

“Someone need to give that man Thaddeus a job and pay him what he deserves as kind a respectful as that young man is it a shame to see him being mistreated and underpaid if anyone is looking for a amazing worker who is always respectful go here and find Thaddeus and offer that man a better job”

“Delicious burgers...in fact, the best burger spot in the area....avid fan of the Columbia location --been there six times the past 3 weeks... the service always prompt and friendly, especially from Raymond”

“Ordered the army breakfast. Eggs were over done, sausage was under cooked and the entire meal was cold. Could have had a better breakfast at a homeless shelter. First and last time.”

“DMV Taqueria food truck is highly recommended! It’s smart to call in your order as they’ve grown in popularity as the word’s gotten out. My neighbor loves their chicken quesadillas. My favorite is the shrimp quesadillas, but honestly, you can’t go wrong with any of the menu items. I understand the churros are a favorite too, though I’ve not personally tried them. The drive home is brutal. The food smells so amazing, I can’t park the car fast enough. 5⭐️”

“Cafe Columbia is a cute, colorful little cafe with delicious crepes and friendly service. Recommended.”

“You just catered an event at Pike and Rose. The omelets were delicious and made to order.”

“The bartender in this place inspires me to write this review, excellent service and magnificent attention from Bella, she has an amazing energy and you can be there for hours because of her, if you want to have delicious drinks and a great time come to this place and ask for her, my new favorite place!!”

“This was my first time at Busboys and Poets in Columbia. What a great experience! I loved the atmosphere. And there were so many vegan options I didn't know what to order! I ended up getting the crispy cauliflower bites and the vegan "tuna" sandwich. Both were really good! I plan to go back often to try some of the vegan bowls, the pasta and the veggie burger.”

“My daughter and I decided at the last moment on a Thursday evening to eat at PF Chang's. There was a major concert that evening nearby, so we were pleased to get a quick reservation. The atmosphere was pleasant, not loud. Our server was friendly, knowledgeable, and responsive. The food was delicious with crisp vegetables and flavorful sauces. I had the crispy tofu and my daughter had the salmon.”

“Love this restaurant. Yummy tacos. Great location in short walking distance to the fabulous outdoor Merriweather Post Pavilion music venue.”

“Food is amazing, Extremely Fresh. Only Con is the people who are outside taking orders should carry spare batteries for their tablets and card readers. That's the only thing that made it difficult for me and my family”

“My first time there but food was delicious”

“Love this place. Good food, great staff, top shelf drinks! But LADIES, be careful on that walkway heading to the bathroom. It's EXTREMELY slippery. I have personally fallen.”

“Toastique had become a go to spot for a quick / healthy lunch or business meet up”

“We came in on a whim & so glad we did. We were seated immediately & greeted warmly by an amazing waitress. Food was brought out quickly & was such a good serving size. Delicious eggs Benedict & the hollindaise was amazing! My fiancé had the biscuits & gravy & was so happy with his food. Excellent portions & such a wonderful place. Can’t wait to come back again!! Highly recommend!!”

“There’s so many good options on the menu it’s hard to pick. Everything is so delicious! Great cocktails!”

“We Love getting pizza from Eataliano! Not only do they have delicious vegan pizzas, they also offer the best imported Italian goodies like wafers, artichokes, olives, pastas, hard candies, and more.”

“It’s a chill place to be at this time a day the food is great anyone and everyone come to Ale House”

“Delicious burgers...in fact, the best burger spot in the area....avid fan of the Columbia location --been there six times the past 3 weeks... the service always prompt and friendly, especially from Raymond”

“The food is delicious and the portions are enormous. I got a bowl with brown stew chicken, rice n peas, and plantains. It's enough food for multiple meals (for me). I just wish I'd asked for a bit more brown gravy!”

“Some of the most amazing and accommodating staff in the Columbia area. The staff here at Uncle Julio’s go above and beyond when it comes to your evening out and family’s needs. I personally highly recommend dining here. Beautiful and quiet patio area for you to sit. Indoor seating is just as authentic as well. All food is made from scratch, fresh daily. Table-side guacamole is an experience you must indulge in especially for you avocado lovers! Not to mention their chocolate piñata that is perfect for any occasions! So interactive and delicious. 10/10! Don’t just take my word for it but go try it out for yourself, you won’t be disappointed. Last but not least you can set up rewards with them and earn so many things through their points system! 😊”

“Hosted us for a super 30th birthday, all staff were super nice and our guests loved the nacho bar ~ taco bar~ churros”

“the first time I was there I had the roast chicken and the meat fell off the bone. two weeks later I am back again for the same dish. I used to eat at the Peruvian place but the food is bland. this is exciting food and makes me want to come back again and again.... James the owner went out of his way to greet Mr and the staff seems awesome. Three stars”

“I ordered catering from Big Greek Cafe for my son’s baptism. The food was amazing, and my family and friends could not stop complimenting the spread. Petros and his staff were such a pleasure to work with. Fresh food and quality customer service!”

“We had lunch here this afternoon. The loud classic rock was a bit overwhelming. Considering, you’re serving healthy food options, soft music sounds would match the ambiance. We ordered the Citrus Garlic Shrimp Bowl and the Barbecue Luau Bowl. Upon walking in, the guy at the counter greeted my husband but not me, he only looked at me and nodded, which I thought was a bit rude. However, the young lady who helped us was very kind, extremely helpful, and had great customer service. The food was fresh, flavorful, and filling, and the restaurant was very clean overall.”

“We had a nice family dinner. The food was delicious you can tell the meals are made with fresh ingredients, the staff was great and the atmosphere was so nice especially for my child. We loved the meatballs, cheese pizza and the Nutella Angioletti Fritti! We will be coming back again for more family dinners.”

“I was skeptical of the place at first because I’m used to the one in Bowie. But I was aware of my new surroundings. The same food, good service and nice people.”

“I am lactose intolerant and specifically did NOT include cheese on my sub. I get a sub and it has cheese of course after I have taken bites and noticed. Whoever is making online subs needs to check out the instructions carefully, especially when ppl are paying $20 for a sub.”