Some people make bucket lists full of thrilling activities, like sky diving and climbing Mount Everest. We here at Only In Maryland prefer bucket lists of the edible variety. We've compiled a list of 14 restaurants in Maryland that are a must-visit. Some are pricey, and some are dirt cheap. Some are flashy, while others you can visit in sweatpants. From ethnic food to long-time classics, here are 14 picks for our restaurant bucket list in Maryland:
1. Charleston Restaurant; Baltimore
Visit this location at least once in your life for some of the most delicious gourmet food. Not only are the dishes delicious, but they're beautiful, too. Sometimes a special occasion splurge is totally worth it for such a spectacular dining experience. For the most up-to-date menu, hours, and more, check out the official website.
Address: 1000 Lancaster Street, Baltimore, Maryland, 21202
2. VIN 909 Winecafe; Annapolis
This restaurant is great on the inside, and even more stunning on the outside! There is almost always a crowd at Vin 909 for its unique food selections perfectly paired with crisp, delightful wine. For the menu, as well as reviews and more photos, visit the official VIN 909 website.
Address: 909 Bay Ridge Avenue, Annapolis, Maryland, 21403
3. Dutch's Daughter Restaurant; Frederick
This unique restaurant never disappoints. The atmosphere can't be topped, and the food is scrumptious. Their crab cakes are a home run, and at Dutch's you always win. For the full menu, as well as hours and more photos, visit the official Dutch's Daughter website.
Address: 581 Himes Avenue, Frederick, Maryland, 21703
4. The Trolley Stop; Ellicott City
This establishment has a charming atmosphere with its stone walls and exposed beams, perfectly matching the character of Old Ellicott City. Their delicious food is also offered in large portions, so bring your appetite! For the most current menu, click here for the official website.
Address: 6 Oella Avenue, Ellicott City, Maryland, 21043
5. Ristorante Ottaviani; Cumberland
If you're a fan of authentic Italian food filled to the brim with perfection, this place is a must-visit. Their sauces are so flavorful, and they never fail to receive rave reviews. You'll definitely see why once you take the first bite. Check out the official website for the menu and most up-to-date hours.
Address: 25 North Centre Street, Cumberland, Maryland, 21502
6. Jimmie & Sook's Raw Bar & Grill; Cambridge
This restaurant has great seafood and totally kooky (but surprisingly wonderful) combinations. You can't miss the fish-n-chips! Visit the official Jimmy & Sook's website for the most recent menu and hours information.
Address: 527 Poplar Street, Cambridge, Maryland, 21613
7. The Vineyard Wine Bar; Havre de Grace
The Vineyard Wine Bar has the most adorable courtyard, as well as tremendously good gourmet food. Many of their entrees include fresh fruit and veggies, and you can't pass up some of the more unique items on the menu. Make sure to visit the official Vineyard website.
Address: 142 North Washington Street, Havre de Grace, Maryland, 21078
8. Ava's Pizzeria & Wine Bar; St. Michaels
Ava's delectable pizza is fire-grilled to perfection and is a must-try for locals and visitors alike. No restaurant bucket list in Maryland is complete without a stop at Ava's! Check out the outdoor seating and get a spot next to the unique beer tap fountain. For the most up-to-date menu info, make sure to visit the official website.
Address: 409 South Talbot Street, Mt. Michaels, Maryland, 21663
9. Republic; Takoma Park
Republic has creative food combinations and customers can't help but keep coming back for more. Softshell crab on top of buttered braised greens, anyone? We think yes. Click here for the most recent hours and menu updates.
Address: 6939 Laurel Avenue, Takoma Park, Maryland, 20912
10. Kim's Key Lime Pie & Lotus Kitchen; Solomons
Kim's has a homey atmosphere and is a delectable choice for brunch or lunch. The salads are as brilliantly colorful as they are filled with flavor, and the desserts are to die for. Visit the official Kim's website for the most recent menu, hours, and more.
Address: 14618 Solomons Island Road South, Solomons, Maryland, 20688
11. Grace's Mandarin; National Harbor
The decor in this restaurant is otherworldly, and the food is just as impressive. This place proves that Asian fusion is here to stay, and it's here with a delicious fury. Visit the website for the most up-to-date menu and hours.
Address: 188 Waterfront Street, National Harbor, Maryland, 20745
12. Lib's Grill; Perry Hall
If you're in the mood for some good ol' hearty, all-American comfort food, Lib's Grill is where it's at. From burgers and fries to the grilled duck pictured here, you'll find something to love every single time you stop in. Visit the website for the most recent menu info.
Address: 5009 Honeygo Center Drive #101, Perry Hall, Maryland, 21128
13. Desert Rose Cafe; Williamsport
For a more simple restaurant experience with small-town service, head to Desert Rose Cafe. Many stop here after hiking or biking the C & O Canal, rounding out their perfect Maryland day trip with some perfectly-prepared baked deliciousness. Visit the official Desert Rose website for the most up to date menu, specials, and more.
Address: 2 East Potomac Street, Williamsport, Maryland, 21795
14. Vagabond Sandwich Company; Bel Air
This restaurant may very well have the best sandwiches in Maryland. You'll never run out of favorites! For the most recent specials and menu, visit the official website.
Address: 111 Thomas Street, Bel Air, Maryland, 21014
What restaurants would you recommend everyone visit at least once in their lifetime? Which places earned a spot on your personal restaurant bucket list in Maryland? Tell us any we might have missed in the comments! Need some delightful desserts to finish off your meal? Visit this article for a list of the best ice cream shops in Maryland!
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