22 Best Restaurants in Gaithersburg, MD

This article was written by local contributor Aleigha Knight & edited by the Travel Lens team.

Aleigha Knight

Jun 25, 2023 • 19 min read

Welcome to Gaithersburg, Maryland, a bustling city with a diverse dining scene that I have the pleasure of calling home.

I've spent countless hours exploring the culinary gems of this city, and let me tell you, it's been a delicious journey!

From flavorful ethnic cuisine to classic American comfort food, the variety of flavors and experiences that this city has to offer is simply astounding.

In this article, I'm excited to share some of the best restaurants in Gaithersburg, Maryland, I've discovered throughout my time living here.

So, grab your appetite and get ready to embark on a food lover's adventure through the gastronomic delights of this charming city.

Galito's Flame Grilled Chicken

As someone who loves exploring new food joints in my neighborhood, I recently had the pleasure of visiting Galito's Flame Grilled Chicken in Gaithersburg, Maryland.

Right from the moment I entered, I was impressed by the decor.

While browsing through their diverse menu, which includes 1/4, 1/2, or whole chicken, rice bowls, chicken skewers, tacos, salads, wraps, sandwiches, burgers, wings, and sides like garlic bread, corn, mashed potatoes & gravy, fries, and more, I decided to try their 1/2 grilled chicken with lemon herb sauce and fries.

The chicken was cooked to perfection, and the flavors were spot-on.

Their fries were delightfully crunchy, and I found myself enjoying every single bite.

I also tasted their BBQ wings which came with a smoky sauce, and they were cooked thoroughly, making for a satisfying experience.

One of the highlights of my visit was the chicken espetada – a chicken breast skewer with onions, green and red peppers drizzled in their hot sauce with spicy rice.

The tangy, spicy hot sauce paired well with the succulent chicken breast cutlets, and the spicy rice was a pleasant surprise, reminding me of a mild rice/noodle mix.

To end my meal on a sweet note, I indulged in their sticky toffee pudding with toffee drizzle and vanilla ice cream.

The warm, moist dessert was heavenly, and I couldn't help but scrape every last bit from the plate.

Ela Mesa

Just the other day, I decided to try out Ela Mesa Taste of Greece for the first time, and I must say, it was an unforgettable experience!

From the moment I walked in, I could feel the warm and inviting atmosphere of this Greek restaurant.

The decor was beautiful, and the service was exceptional.

For appetizers, I had grape leaves and grilled octopus, which were extremely tasty.

The beet salad that I had for my main course was a delightful mix of flavors with fresh beets, arugula, and a ring of whipped goat cheese circling the dish.

To top it all off, I had some fantastic Greek wine along with my meal.

And oh, the dessert!

I couldn't resist trying their homemade walnut cake, and it certainly didn't disappoint.

He made sure every guest was well taken care of and enjoying their meal.

Slider Rider

I've had my fair share of burgers from various joints.

But after trying Slider Rider, I must say that it's genuinely one of the best Halal burgers I've ever had.

The quality of the burger is top-notch, and the unique potato bun adds an amazing balance to the overall flavors.

Plus, it's always heartwarming to support a local family business instead of a massive chain.

The food truck is conveniently located next to a gas station and has ample parking spots, making it a great pitstop for both locals and visitors alike.

However, be prepared to eat outside or in your car since it's a food truck.

I highly recommend ordering online and keeping an eye on your kids if you're ordering at the truck.

Royal Tandoor

One of my favorite go-to spots for an authentic Indian meal is Royal Tandoor.

I remember the first time I visited with my family, we were all impressed by the magical ambiance that reminded us of India.

One of our favorite dishes is the golgappa, and we usually order some wine to accompany our meal.

Every single dish we've tried has been absolutely amazing, with flavors that melt in our mouths.

I also had the chance to join some friends for a lunch buffet at Royal Tandoor on a weekday.

The beautiful interior and fancy couches added to the overall dining experience.

I was happy to find that the buffet was clean, clearly labeled, and offered both vegan and vegetarian options, as well as meat-based dishes.

George's

I absolutely love going to George's Hot Pot & Korean BBQ Restaurant every time I feel like indulging in a delicious hot pot meal.

The welcoming atmosphere and fantastic customer service always make me feel at home.

The food is simply amazing, with fresh vegetables and generous portion sizes that are perfect for sharing with friends.

My family and I have become regulars at this place, and we can never get enough of their unique soup bases.

We particularly enjoy the process of choosing our favorite add-ins, like veggies and meats, and then creating our own dipping sauces from the sauce bar.

It's not just a meal but a fun and interactive dining experience!

I remember when we hosted a farewell party for a close friend at George's, and we ended up staying there for over three hours, just enjoying the food, laughter, and conversations.

Okey Poke

One of my favorite places to grab a bite in the area has to be Okey Poke.

I've been here at least five times, and I've never been disappointed.

This small business is a true hidden gem, offering great quality food with a wide variety of options.

It's definitely a spot that can cater to people with dietary restrictions, ensuring everyone in your party can find something to their liking.

Not only are their poke bowls absolutely delicious, but they are also very healthy.

I usually opt for sushi rice, black pepper tuna, ceviche, seaweed salad, radish, cilantro, mango, carrots, cucumber, ginger dressing, lemon basil dressing, lime wedge & sea salt, and furikake.

Their portions are generous, and I always leave feeling satisfied without being too full.

Ordering online is also super convenient.

The last time I did that, my order was ready when I arrived, and the rice was still warm after a 20-minute drive home.

They even offer some tasty drinks like canned green tea and orange cream soda.

La Vina Mexican Grill

Just the other day, I decided to visit La Vina Mexican Grill once again, and let me tell you, they never disappoint!

As soon as I walked in, I received a warm welcome, making me feel like family.

The atmosphere is perfect for a fine dining experience, and the Latin cuisine is simply mouthwatering.

I can't resist ordering their fried plantains, which are delicious and not overly greasy.

The refried beans are amazing, too – they have no pork lard in them, making them perfect for those who can't eat pork.

Don't even get me started on the endless pours of agua fresca!

During my last visit, I tried the fried flounder with plantains and beans, accompanied by chicha morada – a refreshing drink from the Andean region of Peru made from purple corn, limes, cinnamon, pineapples, and water, with added sugar and infused apples.

Like everything else at La Vina, it was simply superb.

Kenaki Sushi Counter

I've always been a big fan of sushi, so when a friend recommended Kenaki Sushi Counter in Gaithersburg, I knew I had to give it a try.

I've been getting takeout from Kenaki quite a few times this year, and I must say, it never disappoints.

What really amazes me is their ability to keep the menu interesting with delicious specials.

The fish is always of high quality, and the combination of flavors is truly fantastic.

One of the things I like most about Kenaki is their excellent service.

The ambiance at Kenaki is lovely, too, with chill music playing in the background and a mix of table sizes inside, as well as some outdoor seating options.

One dish that always stands out to me is the Black Magic roll.

The truffle oil is expertly melded into the flavor, creating a truly unique taste sensation.

I also enjoy their beet salad, which is a novel take on one of my favorite vegetables.

And let's not forget their miso soup – I usually don't pay much attention to the soup at other sushi places, but Kenaki's miso soup is genuinely something special.

Finally, I have to mention the dessert.

The bread pudding made with croissants is insanely good and not to be missed.

Taco Bar El Guero

I have been visiting Taco Bar El Guero for years now, and let me tell you, it's a hidden gem in Gaithersburg.

Tucked away in a beer & wine shop at a gas station near the Rio, this counter-serve Mexican restaurant has been serving up some delicious tacos, burritos, and other Mexican street food.

You can find their menu and more information on their website.

The charm of this place is in the fact that it's located inside a beer & wine shop in a gas station - it sounds sketchy, but it adds to the overall unique experience.

While you can't drink the beer you buy on-site, they offer indoor and outdoor seating, and the outdoor tables are situated in a decent spot, not on the gas station side of the joint.

As for the food, I've tried various tacos, and the chorizo is by far my favorite.

The house marinade adds the perfect amount of flavor to the dish.

The al pastor is also a great option, with well-seasoned meat.

However, I would recommend steering clear of the bistec (steak), as the meat tends to be rubbery and flavorless.

Don Pollo

Whenever I crave some delicious Peruvian chicken, I head straight to Don Pollo of Gaithersburg.

Their chicken is cooked to perfection, juicy and tender, with just the right amount of seasoning.

The portions are huge, and I always make sure to get potatoes that are rich in butter and sweetness.

To balance it all out, I love to pair my meal with their crispy, tasty fries.

One of the things that keep me coming back is their caramelized plantains, cooked until tender and simply irresistible.

Sin & Grin

I recently dined at Sin & Grin, a charming Mexican restaurant located in The Kentlands.

They immediately served a complimentary bowl of chips and salsa which was a nice touch.

I couldn't resist ordering their Queso Dip, and I have to say, it was absolutely amazing!

For my main course, I decided to try their Fajitas which were just as delicious.

Although I found the Pork Tacos a bit dry, the overall dining experience was fantastic.

On another visit, I tried their Cake battered Cod - Fish Tacos, which were a tad salty but had a really tasty batter.

The Salmon Tacos were good as well, but could have used some extra spice.

One of my favorite dishes, however, has to be their Steak Burrito – hands down the best one I've had in the area.

The restaurant also boasts a strong social atmosphere, making it easy to strike up a conversation with fellow diners.

Thai House Restaurant

One of my favorite spots to indulge in delicious Thai cuisine is the Thai House Restaurant.

This cozy and unassuming restaurant really knows how to cook up some flavorful dishes!

I've been a loyal customer for quite some time now, and I'm always impressed with their consistent quality and friendly service.

The drunken noodles at Thai House are simply amazing – the perfect balance of spice and flavor, with fresh vegetables and perfectly cooked noodles.

I also love their pad see ew with chicken; they have a way of keeping the vegetables slightly crunchy, which adds to the overall texture and taste of the dish.

Their menu offers a wide variety of options, and I have yet to find a dish that I didn't enjoy.

Another great aspect of Thai House is their ability to accommodate dietary restrictions, like gluten-free requests, which are not always easy to find at other restaurants.

And, of course, I can't forget to mention the sticky rice with coconut ice cream – it's an absolute must-try dessert!

Nishiki Ramen & Sushi

I'm always on the lookout for new dining experiences in Gaithersburg.

One day, I stumbled upon Nishiki Ramen & Sushi in the Kentlands and decided to give it a try.

Little did I know that I was about to discover one of the best sushi places off the beaten path!

From the moment I walked in, I was greeted by the genuine hospitality of the family-run business.

I started my meal with a refreshing seaweed salad and white shrimp tempura, both of which were delicious.

But the real stars of the show were the sushi rolls I tried: the Volcano roll and the crispy salmon roll.

Each bite was an explosion of flavor, and the quality of the fish was truly unmatched.

What surprised me even more was the fact that Nishiki Ramen & Sushi also serves amazing ramen!

It's not often that you find a restaurant that excels in both sushi and ramen, but they've managed to pull it off.

The ramen was flavorful and comforting, making it a perfect addition to my meal.

Poki DC Poke Bar

I've been frequenting Poki DC for quite some time now, and I must say, I've had an amazing experience.

The poke bowls are usually great – fresh and delicious, with a variety of fruits, vegetables, and proteins to choose from.

My all-time favorite has to be the grilled salmon bowl, which never disappoints.

I've been to other poke places in the area, but this place remains unbeatable.

I keep coming back for the grilled salmon bowl and the diverse selection of veggies.

Cafe Roma

I have always had a thing for Italian cuisine, and Cafe Roma has become one of my go-to spots for both special occasions and casual dinners.

Nestled in the heart of Gaithersburg's Kentlands area, this gem of a restaurant has never disappointed me.

You can check their website here.

From the moment I walk in, I am instantly captivated by the warm and inviting ambiance, enhanced by the tasteful décor.

It's the perfect setting for a memorable meal, whether it's an intimate date night or a celebratory gathering with friends and family.

One thing that has always stood out to me is the exceptional service.

Over the past 11 months, I have dined at Cafe Roma more than six times, and I'm always eager to try something new from their extensive menu.

My personal favorite has to be the short-rib ravioli, which is divine.

And it's not just me; my friends and family have also raved about dishes like the soft shell crabs and the spaghetti with meatballs.

What's even more impressive is the affordability of their menu.

RanKen Noodle House

I must say, finding an authentic ramen restaurant in my area has always been a challenge.

But then I discovered RanKen Noodle House, and it has become my go-to place for delicious Japanese cuisine.

What really impressed me was their attention to detail with the to-go packaging.

Everything was fresh, and the presentation made it feel like a special treat.

Their gyoza and ramen are simply amazing!

I personally love the Shio ramen, which transports me straight to Tokyo every time I taste it.

For those who love spicy food, the super spicy ramen with chili oil on the side is a must-try – just a spoonful of the chili oil adds the perfect kick.

What truly sets RanKen Noodle House apart from other ramen places I've been to is their commitment to accommodate dietary restrictions.

A friend of mine with a mushroom allergy had a customized soup base made for them, which I think is quite rare and speaks volumes about their dedication to customer satisfaction.

Yoyogi Sushi

I have been ordering from Yoyogi Sushi for quite some time now, and I must say that their rolls are delicious and reasonably priced.

Since they only offer sushi, rolls, and sashimi, it's perfect for when I'm craving some Japanese cuisine.

There's no seating available, but there's a grassy area nearby that's perfect for a picnic.

One of the things I appreciate about Yoyogi Sushi is their variety of vegetarian options, which is something I don't always find in other sushi places nearby.

The jumbo tofu is a favorite of mine, and I frequently order their vegetarian sushi rolls.

Boca Botana's Tapas Restaurant

I recently went to Boca Botana's with a few friends, and it was such a fantastic experience!

The relaxed, white tablecloth setting was perfect for a night of catching up with friends over some delicious tapas.

Since we were a group, we decided to order a variety of dishes to share.

We were blown away by the Calamari, which was deep-fried with coconut, giving it a unique and delightful twist compared to the traditional Italian style.

The Scallops were cooked to perfection, and the potato salad underneath was amazing!

We also tried the bacon-wrapped dates, which were surprisingly delicious.

One of my friends is Brazilian, and she was excited to see that they serve Caipirinha, Brazil's national drink.

We also shared the Iberico Chorizo Paella and seafood paella, which were both good.

Coastal Flats

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Coastal Flats, a seafood restaurant in my neighborhood, and I must say that the whole experience was absolutely delightful.

From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with a warm and welcoming ambiance, which set the tone for the entire evening.

I'm not a big fan of seafood, but I decided to give their Hickory Grilled Chicken Breast a try, and I'm so glad I did.

The presentation was impeccable, the brown butter sauce was divine, and the chicken was cooked to perfection.

The green beans and angel hair pasta that accompanied the dish were equally delicious.

My friend and I decided to share the key lime pie, which turned out to be the perfect choice.

The tartness and sweetness were well-balanced, and the portion size was just right for two.

Hot Pot Hero

Just last week, I decided to try out Hot Pot Hero in Gaithersburg, and I must say, I was more than impressed!

The selection of ingredients at Hot Pot Hero was vast, and everything was incredibly fresh.

We opted for the all-you-can-eat option, and even though the price was a bit on the higher side, the quality of the food made it worth every penny.

The broths were flavorful, and the sides were delicious – I particularly enjoyed the fish balls.

The meats they offered were tender and delectable, making it one of the best hot pot experiences I've ever had.

One of the most memorable moments of the evening was when our drinks were delivered by an adorable cat robot!

It was such a cute and unique way to serve customers, making the dining experience even more enjoyable.

I must admit, I overindulged a little on the spicy food, but it was just too good to resist!

I can't wait to go back to Hot Pot Hero for another fantastic meal with friends.

Mezeh Mediterranean Grill

I've been going to Mezeh Mediterranean Grill for years now, and it has always been one of my favorite spots in town.

The food is not only healthy but also delicious, with a wide selection of toppings and diverse dishes to choose from.

I particularly enjoy their bold & beautiful dish, spicy hummus, flatbread, and Turkish salad.

One thing I appreciate about Mezeh is that they've maintained the same quality and portion sizes over the years.

I remember visiting in 2019 and then again in 2023, and there was no noticeable difference in the food.

Plus, the prices have remained reasonable, which is a big plus in my book.

Guapo's Restaurant

Guapo's Restaurant has always been one of my go-to spots for a fun night out with friends.

The lively atmosphere, tasty Tex-Mex food, and refreshing margarita pitchers make it an ideal spot for celebrations or just a casual dinner.

One of the things I love about Guapo's is their happy hour deals.

It's great value for the food and drinks you get but be prepared for it to be packed and a bit loud.

However, the energy is contagious, and it's easy to get caught up in the excitement.

The food at Guapo's never disappoints.

From their sizable burritos to their classic tacos, everything is delicious and filling.

And if you're worried about the weekend rush, just know that it's a testament to how popular and well-liked the place is.

When the weather is nice, I highly recommend trying to snag a spot on their patio.

The views are amazing, and it's a fantastic way to enjoy your meal.

After your meal, you can take a stroll around the nearby lake to digest and soak in the beautiful surroundings.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, Gaithersburg offers a diverse culinary scene that I'm proud to call my own.

The wide array of restaurants featuring different cuisines ensures that there's always a new dining experience to look forward to, and I've enjoyed trying out these various places with friends and family over the years.

Whether it's cozying up with a bowl of Nishiki Ramen on a chilly day or indulging in a mouthwatering Halal burger from Slider Rider, the dining scene in Gaithersburg has never let me down.

💌

Spotted a mistake, have some feedback, or just want to chat with our editorial team? Click here to get in touch.

✍️

Find out more about Travel Lens and read our editorial guidelines here.