27 Best Baltimore Restaurants to Visit in 2024
There’s no doubt about it: Baltimore is a foodie city and there are countless wonderful Baltimore restaurants to choose from. It’s almost overwhelming trying to decide where to go.
According to the National Library of Medicine, eating meals as a social activity is genuinely good for mental and emotional well-being. That’s right, your next restaurant meal out in Baltimore is actually good for your mental health. It’s just what the doctor ordered. But what are some of the best places to eat in Baltimore? Where will you go?
We’ve assembled a list of some of the best warm and cozy restaurants near (or in) Baltimore, MD for your next outing or for local restaurant gift card ideas. Read on to learn more.
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Going out to eat is great, but nothing is better than learning a new skill. Consider taking a cooking class this year so you can be your own gourmet chef.
27 Best Baltimore Restaurants
1. Sotto Sopra
In Mount Vernon, Sotto Sopra offers an upscale Italian dining experience with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. This farm-to-table Baltimore gem is an excellent place for a classy date night or a celebration dinner.
The restaurant's elegant interior and opera nights contribute to a sophisticated ambiance. If you’re looking for date ideas in Baltimore, this may be one of the best Baltimore restaurants for the perfect date night dinner.
2. Maggie’s Farm
No, this isn’t a farm. It’s a Baltimore restaurant. Maggie’s Farm is one of the best restaurants in Baltimore for brunch, and it’s just a delicious place to eat all around. Maggie's Farm, situated in the Lauraville area, focuses on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients to create a menu that reflects the flavors of the region. The restaurant's commitment to sustainability is evident in its farm-to-table approach.
3. Alma Cocina Latina
Alma Cocina Latina, in the Canton area, offers a unique culinary experience with a focus on Venezuelan and Latin American cuisine.
This Baltimore restaurant is known for its flavorful dishes and commitment to showcasing Latin American flavors that aren’t widely available in Baltimore. This modern restaurant has an open kitchen and it’s a lively space that’s perfect for a date or a dinner with friends.
4. Duck Duck Goose
In Fells Point, Duck Duck Goose brings a touch of French flair to Baltimore with its modern brasserie-style menu. This Baltimore restaurant is known for its creative small plates, charcuterie and bright and lively atmosphere.
They also offer three-course Sunday suppers and they have a collection of custom candles if you want to take the smells of one of the best restaurants in Baltimore home with you. Fun!
5. Land of Kush
Vegans and vegetarians rejoice: Land of Kush isn’t just one of the best Black-owned restaurants in Baltimore or one of the best Baltimore restaurants for soul food, it’s also completely plant-based. They offer Maryland soul food staples, like BBQ and crab cakes, but with a vegan twist.
6. Peter’s Inn
This eclectic Baltimore restaurant was once a dive bar. Now it’s one of the best warm and cozy restaurants in or near Baltimore, MD, with a fantastic menu as well.
Tucked away in Fells Point, Peter's Inn is a beloved spot known for its intimate atmosphere and a menu that blends contemporary American and international flavors.
The ever-changing menu adds an element of whimsy and surprise to each visit. This is a great spot for a casual meal with a friend, and this Baltimore restaurant is open late, so there’s no rush.
7. Gertrude’s
If you love both art and delicious food, you won’t want to miss Gertrude’s (otherwise known as Gertrude’s Chesapeake Kitchen). Nestled right in the Baltimore Museum of Art, this Baltimore restaurant is known for its Chesapeake Bay-inspired cuisine.
The restaurant, led by Chef John Shields, features Maryland seafood and regional specialties in an artsy setting.
8. Foraged
Foraged, which labels itself a hyper-seasonal restaurant in Hampden, is a farm-to-table Baltimore restaurant with a focus on sustainability.
The menu showcases locally sourced and foraged ingredients, offering a unique dining experience that reflects the changing seasons. This unique restaurant is fantastic for any eco-friendly folks.
9. Le Comptoir du Vin
This French-inspired bistro in Station North, in the Arts and Entertainment district, offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu featuring classic dishes with a modern twist.
Le Comptoir du Vin is a Baltimore restaurant that’s celebrated for its thoughtful wine selection and commitment to locally sourced ingredients. It’s small, but each meal packs a flavorful punch.
10. Papi Cuisine
Papi Cuisine is one of the most popular Black-owned restaurants in Baltimore. On the surface, the menu seems fairly simple and straightforward, but the flavors are truly elevated.
From tasty crab cake egg rolls to a savory Cajun fried lobster, Papi Cuisine lets the seafood shine. This Baltimore restaurant is the place to go for anyone who truly wants a taste of the city.
11. Gunther & Co.
Located in Brewer's Hill, Gunther & Co. is a stylish Baltimore restaurant with a diverse menu that draws inspiration from global cuisines.
The industrial-chic setting and expansive windows create a welcoming and very trendy ambiance that’s popular for dates and group outings alike. There’s also a fantastic patio when the weather is warm.
12. Phillips Seafood
Phillips Seafood is a regional chain, but it’s one of the best Baltimore restaurants on the Inner Harbor. If you’re looking for a reliable place for basic (but delicious) seafood dishes, Phillips is the place to go.
While the first Phillips originated on the other side of Maryland in Ocean City, the one in Baltimore retains the same Maryland seafood flavors.
13. The Capital Grille
The Capital Grille is an upscale steakhouse located in the Inner Harbor. Many claim it’s one of the best restaurants in the Baltimore Inner Harbor.
Known for its elegant atmosphere and extensive wine list, this Baltimore restaurant offers a refined and “classy” dining experience with a focus on dry-aged steaks, fresh seafood, and attentive service. This is a place to dine for a celebration dinner.
14. La Cuchara
La Cuchara brings the flavors of northern Spain to Baltimore, with a focus on Basque and Asturian cuisine. The restaurant is praised for its commitment to authenticity, offering a selection of pintxos (or small snacks) and larger dishes in a stylish, modern setting.
This is a bit different from your standard tapas restaurant, but those who enjoy that vibe will enjoy La Cuchara as well.
15. Clavel
If you like authentic Mexican food, this may be the Baltimore restaurant for you. Clavel is a popular spot for Mexican cuisine, particularly known for its authentic tacos and mezcal selection.
The restaurant has a laid-back, hip atmosphere and a menu that celebrates the flavors of Mexico.
16. Azumi
If you’re looking for Baltimore restaurants open late that still serve delicious food, don’t miss Azumi. It’s a fine-dining Japanese restaurant inside the Four Seasons. It’s one of the best restaurants in the Baltimore Inner Harbor that features steaks, sushi, hibachi and so much more.
This is an excellent spot for a birthday dinner or a nice night out on the town. It’s also one of the nicest Baltimore restaurants on the water, so you’ll have a great view while you dine.
17. Wicked Sisters
Wicked Sisters, one of the most popular big Baltimore restaurants downtown, offers a diverse and tasty menu with a focus on American comfort food.
The restaurant's casual yet trendy setting makes it suitable for various occasions, whether you’re on a first date, going out for a birthday or just hanging out. There’s also plenty of beer on tap, so you won’t go thirsty.
18. Loch Bar
You don't want to miss out on Loch Bar if you want a nice Baltimore restaurant on the water for some lighter (but still upscale) fare.
You can expect the standard Maryland seafood options, such as a variety of delicious crab dishes alongside fresh raw and cooked oysters. There’s often live music and the view is delightful.
19. Pho Bac
Do you love pho? If so, you don’t want to miss this Vietnamese Baltimore restaurant. Pho Bac is a family-owned restaurant that offers classic Vietnamese dishes like Pho, bahn mi and more.
The restaurant is small and cozy, making it perfect for a casual lunch or dinner, especially on a cold winter night.
20. Ouzo Bay
Ouzo Bay, located in Baltimore’s Harbor East, is a Mediterranean restaurant known for its seafood, Greek-inspired dishes and an extensive selection of ouzo.
The upscale setting adds to the dining experience. It’s not just your average Mediterranean spot! They also offer creative cocktails, making this a must-visit restaurant for any bar enthusiasts.
21. Water for Chocolate
This Baltimore restaurant is where locals know they can get a delicious meal every time. From brunch to dinner, Water for Chocolate has a fantastic menu that uses fresh ingredients and takes a creative approach to otherwise commonplace meals.
The menu is seasonal and the chef takes great pride in every single dish that hits the table. This is one of the cozier Baltimore restaurants downtown, so it’s not ideal for large groups at this time.
22. Ethel's Creole Kitchen
If you want some good old-fashioned Creole comfort food with a modern twist, you have to go to Ethel’s Creole Kitchen near Mt. Washington. This bi-level restaurant and bar features classic foods like gumbo and jambalaya in a super cozy atmosphere.
If you’re tired of the same old dishes in Baltimore restaurants, bring your friends to Ethel’s for something new.
23. Cosima
Some people claim that this is one of Baltimore’s best restaurants. Are you ready to find out whether or not that’s true for yourself? Cosima features Sicilian food and wine and brings fresh Mediterranean flavors to Baltimore.
It has an excellent patio with a view of the water, making it a wonderful spot for a sunset happy hour. Expect a more upscale take on some Italian classics as well as a few menu items that may be totally new to you.
24. Annabel Lee Tavern
This tavern may not seem like it belongs on a list of the best Baltimore restaurants, but we love a good theme. This Poe-themed tavern features tasty American fare alongside cocktails.
While it is a tavern, the food is more than just your standard bar food. It’s upscale, with a mix of Baltimore classics (like crab cakes) and bar treats like duck fat fries. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxed meal.
25. Ekiben
Ekiben has three locations around Baltimore, so if you find that you like it, you’re never too far away from a tasty meal.
This Asian fusion Baltimore restaurant is a casual quick-service style restaurant featuring rice bowls and steamed buns with unique flavors and ingredients, such as Thai chicken meatballs. This is the perfect spot for a quick lunch when you’re already out on the town.
26. Dukem
Ethiopian food is underrated. If you’ve never had it, this restaurant is a must-try for you. This is a fantastic spot for group meals and the platters are excellent for anyone unfamiliar with Ethiopian cuisine.
You can try a little bit of everything with no commitment. The food is authentic and the service is friendly.
27. La Barrita Restobar
If you’re dining out in the Butcher’s Hill neighborhood, you may want to pay a visit to La Barrita. This Argentinian restaurant blends casual comfort with upscale dishes, creating an excellent dining experience for all types of occasions.
They have an extensive menu that features both familiar meals and Argentinian-inspired dishes.
So where will you go next time you’re out on the town in Baltimore? All of these Baltimore restaurants serve delicious food and drinks, you just have to decide what you’re in the mood for.
Whether you want scenic Baltimore restaurants on the Inner Harbor or something downtown and cozy, there’s sure to be something for you.
For even more fun things to do in Baltimore, check out other experiences happening on Classpop!
