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

iconic baltimore. nothing else to say. pro tip: ask for the sauce to be on the side instead of on the chicken!

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Superb204 Reviews4.8

Maggie's Farm

4341 Harford Rd, Baltimore, MD 21214

AMAZING! From the food to the service and quirky decor. I came with a co-worker while I was in Baltimore for work and we were both blown away. Couldn...

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Superb93 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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Good82 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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Good178 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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Superb165 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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Superb127 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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Superb651 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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Superb602 Reviews4.7

Hootch and Banter

49 S Market St, Frederick, MD 21701

We attended a private affair at Hootch & Banter yesterday and the service, food and staff were excellent. The venue was comfortable and relaxed. The ...

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Superb118 Reviews4.6

Cacique Restaurant

26 N Market St, Frederick, MD 21701

Absolutely loved the food and atmosphere. Had the best time and everything was fabulous, including the service! Can’t wait to head back to Frederick. Gra...

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Good82 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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Superb262 Reviews4.7

Recently Opened Restaurants

The Carolina Kitchen

10256 Mill Run Cir suite 102, Owings Mills, MD 21117

I got the Cajun chicken and shrimp for $27 . They gave me 3 small shrimp that were mushy. The chicken was dry. The Mac & cheese is mainly cheese. The...

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Average113 Reviews3.1

Silver and Sons BBQ

5362 Westbard Ave, Bethesda, MD 20816

This is a unique and very tasty twist on barbecue and deli foods. The pastrami is thick, spiced and unbelievably tasty. You have never had a pastrami san...

Superb12 Reviews5

Kechy Pizza Co

10 Westminster Center, Westminster, MD 21157

Tried Kechy for the first time on Super Bowl Sunday - did not disappoint. We will absolutely be back! One of the best crusts we’ve ever had!

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Superb64 Reviews4.8

Domoishi

22650 Three Notch Rd A, Lexington Park, MD 20653

Food was fresh and delicious! Drinks were good as well. Everything was made to order, nothing was prepackaged. Excellent customer service and friendly. ...

Superb65 Reviews4.5

Chipotle Mexican Grill

23368 Three Notch Rd, California, MD 20619

Gave it another shot due to the location and previous fondness for Chipotle. The food is more bland than Taco Bell and if you want more than half a scoop...

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Average7 Reviews2.6

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.

Superb10 Reviews4.4

The Duchess

1000 W 36th St, Baltimore, MD 21211

Recently checked out The Dutchess, a new English pub in Hampden, Baltimore, featuring the Chamorro cuisine of the Mariana Islands, including Guam. It’s t...

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Superb56 Reviews4.8

Tokyosushi

438 E Belvedere Ave, Baltimore, MD 21212

Ordered sashimi for pick up. The lack of fish for the price confused and entertained. Well played...never again.

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Superb9 Reviews4.6

Kung Fu 12 Szechuan (Rockville) 功夫十二

14921 Shady Grove Rd D, Rockville, MD 20850

I have ordered twice from here. Chicken fried rice was very good both times. Other food items were not so good. Kung pav had a slight sweet taste even af...

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Superb98 Reviews4.5

Fiesta Cancún Bar & Grill

3610 Robert S. Crain Hwy, Waldorf, MD 20603

Allison was our server and she made our first experience one to write home about! She was so polite, attentive, and willing to serve. I wish there were m...

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Superb82 Reviews4.7

KPOT Korean BBQ & Hot Pot

5269 Buckeystown Pike, Frederick, MD 21704

Adrian was THE BOMB! He gave us all the ins and outs of preparing my dish. Answered all my questions. Checked on me! The garlic shrimp was On Point! I wi...

Superb166 Reviews4.8

Marley's Bar & Grill

6450 America Blvd Suite 101, Hyattsville, MD 20782

Went to brunch with family on Sunday. Had 11:30 am reservation. Was seated immediately. Not crowded at all. They only have 5 lower tables, everything els...

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Good168 Reviews4.1

Crimson Coward

4135 Mountain Rd, Pasadena, MD 21122

Lived the Crimson Coward! Food was delish! Staff could not have been nicer! 1st time and was so good we will definitely be back!!

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Good58 Reviews4.1

STEAKN’BONE

2821 O'Donnell St, Baltimore, MD 21224

Went to this restaurant for Valentine day and the food was so good service was amazing highly recommend for a nice date night

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Superb93 Reviews4.6

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

Recent Reviews

Linda's Cafe

22608 Three Notch Rd, Lexington Park, MD 20653

I challenge you to find a better breakfast spot in all of Southern Maryland. Top notch service, high quality meals, coffee is always hot and fresh. Staff...

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Good113 Reviews3.9

Genesis Pizza & Méxican Restaurant

8305 Ocean Gateway, Easton, MD 21601

Was kinda n hurry on road and they slowed us down due to lack of service . Food was ok

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Good66 Reviews3.8

InJapan Japanese Steak Seafood & Sushi (Easton, MD)

101 Marlboro Ave, Easton, MD 21601

Chicken was grilled to dry for my liking.

Vegetarian options: The offer gluten free menu cooked in the back kitchen.

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Good64 Reviews4.1

Obrycki's Restaurant and Bar

between gates B-7 and B, Concourse B, Concourse B BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport, 7050 Friendship Rd #9, Baltimore, MD 21240

unfortunately I was very disappointed this time around. I always stop here on my travels and get the amazing jumbo crab roll. And it never disappointed. ...

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Good170 Reviews3.5

Katie's Tex Mex

13400 Old Columbia Pike, Silver Spring, MD 20904

Girl answering the phone should learn some custumer service, she sound like she doesn't want to be there working

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Superb52 Reviews4.6

Gregorio's Trattoria

12505 Park Potomac Ave Suite 110, Potomac, MD 20854

My favorite restaurant is Gregorio"s. The food is delicious served warm, service is delightful and the place is always welcoming. If you are looki...

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Good11 Reviews3.9

Double Tap Tavern

34214 Golts Rd, Golts, MD 21635

Great road trip. 7 from De. yesterday afternoon. Food, service, atmosphere was outstanding. All enjoyed. Thanks

Superb32 Reviews4.8

Busters

46 W Main St, Lonaconing, MD 21539

Hands down, the best peanut butter milkshakes! So thick and creamy!!! I bought my mom and dad each one for their 61st anniversary because they love them ...

Superb4 Reviews5

Checkers

9447 Baltimore National Pike, Ellicott City, MD 21042

great place to eat, love love the service here. always on time with the food. wonderful hours and i just love the milkshakes here and the food is off the...

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Superb135 Reviews4.4

Meet & Feast Restaurant

1724 Woodlawn Dr ste 30, Baltimore, MD 21207

Downgraded my review to a 1-star due to the business' combative and highly combustible reply. Just check out Google reviews. Is this how you treat y...

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Good98 Reviews4.2

Milk & Honey - Silver Spring

9326 Georgia Ave, Silver Spring, MD 20910

Amazing food at a reasonable price. The staff and service are wonderful. One of my favorite restaurants in Silver Spring and surrounding areas.

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Superb109 Reviews4.3

Urbano

1915 Towne Centre Blvd #150, Annapolis, MD 21401

I went the Annapolis, Maryland restaurant location today for their Taco Tuesday special. I had one of the worst customer service experiences I have ever...

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Good46 Reviews3.3

Sharks Fish & Chicken

4115 Patterson Ave, Baltimore, MD 21215

The food was very good .as we entered we was greeted with a hello .so that niceyall can go get those big fishes..

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Good64 Reviews3.7

895 Grill

101 Chesapeake Ave, Brooklyn, MD 21225

Food is good but raised their prices up by $5 an item. Not worth $17 for a 12'' sub. They change the prices to whatever they want. Will never g...

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Good40 Reviews3.3

El Eden Latin Restaurant

1201 Dual Hwy, Hagerstown, MD 21740

Order para entrega fue canselada despues de midia hora fue cancelada y mi dinero no ha sido regresado a mi Cuenda. Les llame y nunca contesdaron el telefono

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