From hole-in-the-wall gems to rooftop cocktail scenes, this list is my personal food map of Baltimore, built from years of brunches with friends, late-night carryout runs, solo sushi cravings, and celebratory dinners that turned into memories. Whethe...
Map
Sections
13
Vegan Menu
Mexican
Food Halls
Coffee + Smoothies
Brewpub + Drinks
Breakfast + Brunch
Vegan Menu
Golden West Cafe is a solid pick for mixed-diet groups who still want to sit at the same table, from vegans to omnivores. Come for the vibe, stay for the Vegan Buffalo Chik’n Caesar Wrap (my go-to).
Golden West Cafe
I'm not vegan…but Hue Cafe makes me think I could be one day. The menu has a diverse selection. And saying the food is delicious is an understatement. You can't go wrong with anything on the list. My top favorites are the Chick'N Fungi Sandwich or Bo...
Hue Cafe & Apothecary
A good place to work remote or read a book. Plus the drinks are tasty and the menu is vegan-focused. I highly recommend the Loaded Falafel Sandwich.
Red Emma's Bookstore Coffeehouse
The Land of Kush is well-known and recommended within Baltimore's vegan community.
The Land of Kush
This is my go-to bakery when I wanted to get a birthday treat for the partner who is a hard-core vegan.
Harmony Bakery
Mexican
I love love love Clavel. It's a Taco Tuesday (or Taco Everyday) must. Perfect for dining in with friends or carry-out. Also be sure to get a margarita because they are delicious.
Clavel
Food Halls
A historic market turned flavor playground. I kept coming back for Thai Street’s Pad See Ew—the kind of comfort food that makes pick-up feel like self-care.
Broadway Market
Haven’t had the pleasure yet, but this spot is on my hit list for next time I’m in Federal Hill.
Cross Street Market
I haven’t been since the renovation, but Lexington Market is always a fun visit to explore the merchants. Plus the crab cakes at Faidley’s are decent. If the new vibe kept the old flavor, it’s still worth the detour (and the nap after).
Lexington Market
R. House is a great place to meet for drinks. I don't necessary have a favorite vendor, but I love how there's a spot dedicated to Pop-up vendors. I always tried to check out the pop-up whenever I could.
R. House
Coffee + Smoothies
My favorite smoothie spot in Baltimore. Not only are the smoothies delicious, but they make the best acai bowls.
Pure Raw Juice
My colleagues and I would always get a Walking Waffle in celebration of our birthdays. If you are along Key Highway and need some coffee or a waffle, check out this place.
Order & Chaos Coffee
Good coffee spot when you're in the Hampden area.
Common Ground Cafe Cooperative
Baby's On Fire is a small cafe with a large, cool vibe. You can buy vinyl records and a delicious Baby's on Fire Panini with your coffee.
Baby's On Fire
Brewpub + Drinks
My go-to spot to catch up with friends over a beer, burger, and fries in the historic Mount Vernon neighborhood. Plus there’s a pub space on the lower level.
The Brewer's Art
Great place to grab drinks with friend while in the area.
Leinie Lodge & Beer Garden
Capital Grille is known for it's nightlife vibes and after-work drinks.
The Capital Grille
Located at the top floor of the Revival Hotel, you can expect good drinks and food with a gorgeous view of Baltimore's historic Mount Vernon neighborhood.
Topside
Bloom’s is where you go when you want your night out to feel a little more grown and glam.
Bloom's
Tucked inside an old hotel with speakeasy vibes, this is a good place to chase cheap drinks, share salty snacks, and maybe spill a few secrets under the glow of those wise old owls.
The Owl Bar
Wicked Sisters is a go-to spot when meeting friends in the Hampden area. The Wicked Crabcake is decent.
Wicked Sisters
The Food Market nails that sweet spot between comfort food and chef flex. Whether you're crushing brunch or leveling up date night, just know: the pretzel bites are a must.
The Food Market
Breakfast + Brunch
If you are craving a breakfast sandwich, Sam's Bagels is the spot for you.
Sam's Bagels
Spoons is always my go-to brunch spot when I want to go somewhere with nice vibes and tasty food.
Spoons
When you're near the University of Baltimore or MICA, this is a good place to grab coffee and a breakfast bagel.
On the Hill Cafe
Mediterranean
I highly recommend Cafe Fili for your caffeine needs while in the Mount Vernon area. Top picks on the menu: the Chicken Marrakesh and the Falafel Wrap.
Cafe Fili
Cuban
The best Cuban food in Baltimore. I love their Carne Asada platter.
Little Havana
Fusion
A Black-owned business that rotates it's menu every week. So each week there will be something different served, which I really enjoyed.
Blacksauce Kitchen
Mera is truly a gem in the Mount Vernon neighborhood. I highly recommend the Crispy Cauliflower and Tahini.
Mera Kitchen Collective
I've only eaten at Ekiben once, but it definitely left and impression and I'd happily go back. The spicy neighborhood bird bun was delicious.
EKIBEN
Dooby's has always been known to be a good spot to work remote and grab a coffee and some food.
Dooby's
Bakery + Desserts
I first discovered Ovenbird when I was looking for a bakery that should Challah bread. But I kept going back for the assortment of fresh bread they make.
Ovenbird Bakery
I haven't been here yet because they were still under construction last time I was in Baltimore. But a friend mentioned it being on their list of places to visit.
Kneads Bakeshop & Café
The Charmery is probably one of the best ice cream spots in Baltimore. You have to check it out when you have a craving for a cool treat.
The Charmery Hampden
Pizza
Hersh's might feel like it's off the beaten path, but it's worth it. Top picks on the menu: the wood-fired Chesapeake Rockfish and the Salami Mommy.
Hersh’s
I friend introduced me to this place and I'm so glad they did. My go-to plates here are the Crispy Duck Legs and the Prosciutto Artisan Pizza.
Birroteca Baltimore
I haven't eaten at Zella's often due to location, but I recommend it when you are in the Hollins Market area.
Zella's Pizzeria
I highly recommend the Strongman Meat Pizza. HomeSlyce is a favorite of mine because of their large pizza.
HomeSlyce - Mt. Vernon
Seafood
Ouzo Bay is a trendy place you go to for special occasions.
Ouzo Bay
Sushi
This is definitely a go-to place when I've craving sushi or want to enjoy some sake while catching up with friends.
