As a self-proclaimed foodie, hunting down the coolest food spots and hidden gems in town excites my inner food critic. I have particular taste buds, so I’m always looking for quirky flavors and awesome culinary skills. My love for finding mouthwatering eats never gets old!

I’ve spent so many weekends checking out local cafes, busy markets, and all those cool hidden spots, putting together a list of the best places to eat that are worth your time.

Restaurants You Have To Try

Every place has its own vibe, with everything from gourmet dishes to good old classic comfort food, all packed with flavor and life. So, let’s jump in and explore the awesome food scene in Baltimore together, where every bite has its own tasty tale!

1. Puerto 511

• Google Rating: 4.8/5
• Cuisine: Peruvian
• Best Dishes: Ceviche, Lomo Saltado
• Details: A cozy, BYOB spot praised for its authentic cuisine and intimate atmosphere.

2. Sabor del Parque

• Google Rating: 4.7/5
• Cuisine: Mexican
• Best Dishes: Tacos, Burritos
• Details: Celebrated for its exceptional tacos and vibrant flavors.

3. CLOCK Restoration

• Google Rating: 4.5/5
• Cuisine: American
• Best Dishes: Seasonal Specials
• Details: Known for its unique ambiance and innovative menu.

4. The Cannon Room

• Google Rating: 4.4/5
• Cuisine: Bar and Lounge
• Best Dishes: Craft Cocktails, Small Plates
• Details: A hidden gem with a cozy atmosphere, perfect for intimate gatherings.

5. Ministry of Brewing

• Google Rating: 4.6/5
• Cuisine: Brewery
• Best Dishes: Craft Beers, Light Fare
• Details: Housed in a former church, this brewery offers a unique setting.

6. Le Comptoir du Vin

• Google Rating: 4.9/5
• Cuisine: French
• Best Dishes: Duck Confit, Oxtail Ragu
• Details: A cozy bistro offering a concise menu of French-inspired dishes.

7. Peter’s Inn

• Google Rating: 4.8/5
• Cuisine: American
• Best Dishes: Seasonal Specials
• Details: Known for its ever-changing menu based on seasonal ingredients.

8. Little Donna’s

• Google Rating: 4.7/5
• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Best Dishes: Pasta Dishes, Wood-Fired Pizzas
• Details: A neighborhood favorite offering hearty Italian-American fare.

9. The Helmand

• Google Rating: 4.8/5
• Cuisine: Afghan
• Best Dishes: Kaddo Borwani, Lamb Lawand
• Details: Serving authentic Afghan cuisine, known for flavorful dishes.

10. CookHouse

• Google Rating: 4.9/5
• Cuisine: Modern American
• Best Dishes: Seasonal Specials
• Details: An innovative, chef-driven restaurant focusing on locally sourced ingredients.

Best Black-Owned Restaurants In Baltimore

Baltimore’s got an awesome food scene, better than the D.C. scene, if I dare say so. The Black-owned spots really spice things up with a mix of flavors, traditions, and creativity.

Whether you’re in the mood for hearty comfort food, craving Caribbean vibes, or looking for a fancy night out, these Black-owned restaurants serve an experience you will soon be back for.

Here’s a roundup of the best Black-owned restaurants in Baltimore that promise a memorable dining experience.

1. The Land of Kush

Address: 840 N Eutaw St, Baltimore, MD 21201
A must-visit for vegan and soul food lovers, The Land of Kush serves up delicious plant-based versions of classic comfort dishes. Their BBQ ribs, curry chickpeas, and sweet potato cake are local favorites.

2. Ida B’s Table

Address: 235 Holliday St, Baltimore, MD 21202
Named after journalist and activist Ida B. Wells, this restaurant blends Southern cuisine with a modern twist. Signature dishes include shrimp and grits, fried chicken and biscuits, and bourbon-glazed salmon.

3. Connie’s Chicken and Waffles

Address: 400 W Lexington St, Baltimore, MD 21201
Located in Lexington Market, Connie’s Chicken and Waffles is a go-to spot for crispy, flavorful chicken paired with fluffy waffles. They also have unique waffle flavors like red velvet and cinnamon roll.

4. Crust by Mack

Address: 868 N Howard St, Baltimore, MD 21201
A small-batch bakery specializing in gourmet seafood pies, Crust by Mack is famous for its crab pies and lobster mac and cheese. Their sweet treats, like the pecan sticky buns, are also a must-try.

5. Papi Cuisine

Address: 1928 Fleet St, Baltimore, MD 21231
This Afro-Caribbean fusion restaurant is known for its luxurious seafood dishes, including the viral crab cake, egg rolls, and lamb chops. The upscale atmosphere makes it a great date night or special occasion spot.

6. Ekiben

Address: 1622 Eastern Ave, Baltimore, MD 21231
A fusion of Asian and soul food, Ekiben is famous for its steamed buns stuffed with flavorful proteins like Thai chicken and spicy tofu. Their crunchy broccoli dish is also a fan favorite.

7. Next Phaze Café

Address: 112 E Lexington St, Baltimore, MD 21202
This Southern comfort food spot serves up classic dishes like catfish, mac and cheese, and cornbread. Their weekday lunch specials make them a great option for a quick but hearty meal.

8. The Urban Oyster

Address: 36 S Charles St, Baltimore, MD 21201
Baltimore’s first female-owned oyster bar, The Urban Oyster offers a fresh take on seafood with char-grilled oysters, crab cake sliders, and delicious seafood boils.

9. Black Sauce Kitchen

Address: Various Farmers Market Locations
A staple at Baltimore’s farmers markets, Black Sauce Kitchen is famous for its smoked meats, buttery biscuits, and inventive flavors. Their smoked brisket biscuit is a must-try.

10. Water for Chocolate

Address: 1841 E Lombard St, Baltimore, MD 21231
This cozy, chef-owned bistro serves up elevated comfort food with a global twist. Dishes like duck hash, seafood omelets, and coconut rice are crowd-pleasers.

From soul food to seafood, these Black-owned restaurants showcase Baltimore’s rich culinary diversity. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual bite or a fine dining experience, these spots offer incredible flavors and warm hospitality.

Best Italian Restaurants – Little Italy, Baltimore

Little Italy in Baltimore is a charming neighborhood that transports visitors straight to the heart of Italy with its cobblestone streets, rich history, and, most importantly, authentic Italian cuisine.

Whether you’re craving homemade pasta, fresh seafood, or mouthwatering desserts, this neighborhood is a food lover’s paradise. Here’s a roundup of the best Italian restaurants in Little Italy that promise a memorable dining experience.

1. La Tavola

Address: 248 Albemarle St, Baltimore, MD 21202
La Tavola is a must-visit for those who appreciate traditional Italian cooking with a modern twist. Known for their fresh seafood pasta and homemade gnocchi, this restaurant offers a refined dining experience with dishes that highlight high-quality ingredients and classic Italian flavors.

2. Dalesio’s Of Little Italy

Address: 829 Eastern Ave, Baltimore, MD 21202
Dalesio’s is a cozy spot offering Northern Italian cuisine in an intimate setting. Signature dishes like calamari, eggplant parmesan, and homemade garlic bread keep guests coming back for more. The warm ambiance and attentive service make this a great choice for a romantic dinner.

3. Vaccaro’s Italian Pastry Shop

Address: 222 Albemarle St, Baltimore, MD 21202
If you have a sweet tooth, Vaccaro’s is the place to be. Famous for their decadent desserts, this pastry shop serves up some of the best cannoli, gelato, and Italian cookies in the city. It’s the perfect spot for an after-dinner treat or a midday coffee and pastry break.

4. La Scala

Address: 1012 Eastern Ave, Baltimore, MD 21202
La Scala offers a lively atmosphere with a menu full of Italian delights. Favorites include the Fettuccine Samantha and Shrimp and Crab Alfredo. With an elegant yet welcoming vibe, this restaurant is ideal for both special occasions and casual dinners.

5. Amicci’s

Address: 231 S High St, Baltimore, MD 21202
For those seeking a casual yet flavorful Italian meal, Amicci’s is a fantastic choice. Their generous portions of classic pasta dishes and fresh seafood entrees make this a popular destination for locals and tourists.

6. Isabella’s Brick Oven Pizza & Panini

Address: 221 S High St, Baltimore, MD 21202
If you’re craving a slice of Italy, Isabella’s Brick Oven Pizza & Panini is the spot to visit. Known for delicious brick-oven pizzas and friendly service, this eatery offers some of the best pizzas in town with fresh, high-quality ingredients.

7. Cafe Gia Ristorante

Address: 410 S High St, Baltimore, MD 21202
This family-run restaurant delivers a cozy, welcoming vibe along with a fantastic menu. The cauliflower carbonara is a standout dish that even non-vegetarians rave about. With colorful decor and a rooftop seating area, Cafe Gia is a great place to enjoy a meal with friends and family.

8. Tagliata

Address: 1012 Fleet St, Baltimore, MD 21202
Tagliata is known for its hand-cut steaks, fresh-rolled pasta, and extensive Italian wine list. The lobster ravioli and bolognese are top choices for guests looking for a refined dining experience in a stylish setting.

9. Chiapparelli’s Restaurant

Address: 237 S High St, Baltimore, MD 21202
Chiapparelli’s is a classic Italian eatery known for generous portions and homemade pasta dishes. Their famous house salad is a must-try, and their history adds a nostalgic charm to your dining experience.

10. Sabatino’s

Address: 901 Fawn St, Baltimore, MD 21202
A staple in Little Italy, Sabatino’s has been serving authentic Italian comfort food for decades. The Penne with Vodka Sauce and Veal Florentino are among their most loved dishes.

No matter which restaurant you choose in Little Italy, you’re bound to experience the warmth of Italian hospitality and the flavors of traditional Italian cuisine. Buon Appetito!

Restaurant Weeks 2025: Deals & Top Dining Spots

Baltimore’s food scene’s most fun time happens twice a year during Restaurant Weeks, where locals and visitors can enjoy the city’s delicious food at great prices. Here’s a guide to the upcoming Restaurant Weeks.

Restaurant Week – Most Delicious Week of the Year

Baltimore City Summer Restaurant Week 2025

• Dates: July 19 – 28, 2025
• Details: This event offers discounted breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus, plus carryout specials, from top Charm City eateries. Visit Baltimore

Baltimore County Summer Restaurant Week 2025

Dates: Specific dates for Baltimore County’s Summer Restaurant Week 2025 have not been announced yet. For the most current information, please visit the official Baltimore County Restaurant Week website.

Participating Restaurants & Typical Deals

During Restaurant Week, numerous establishments across Baltimore offer fixed menus, with multi-course meals at set prices.

In 2024, dinner menus ranged from $35 to $55, while lunch and brunch options were also available at various price points. Some of the participating restaurants in 2024 included:

• Phillips Seafood – Known for its classic Maryland crab cakes and fresh seafood offerings.
• Miss Shirley’s Cafe – A favorite for brunch enthusiasts, offering Southern-inspired dishes.
• Mama’s On the Half Shell – Celebrated for its oysters and traditional seafood fare.

As the event approaches, I advise you to visit the official Baltimore Restaurant Week website.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Baltimore

• Charleston – An upscale restaurant offering contemporary American cuisine with a focus on seafood.
• Thames Street Oyster House – Renowned for its extensive selection of oysters and New England-inspired dishes.
• The Food Market – A modern eatery serving inventive American comfort food in a casual setting.

Baltimore’s Restaurant Week is a fantastic opportunity to explore the city’s rich culinary landscape, from known establishments to hidden gems. For exact dates, keep an eye on official announcements.

To find out when the dates drop, subscribe to my email list to get an email alert when it’s time to eat!