20 Best Restaurants in Silver Spring, MD
As I invite you on this culinary journey, prepare to uncover some of the best restaurants in Silver Spring, Maryland.
Let's embark on this gastronomical adventure together, shall we?
Our aim is not just to guide you to popular eateries but to encourage you to venture out and experience the city's diverse culinary landscape for yourself
Baleadas Grill Restaurant
It's quite the privilege to have Baleadas Grill Restaurant right at my doorstep.
I've passed by the place countless times but hadn't mustered the courage to try it out until recently.
The day I decided to give it a shot, I was met with a warm and friendly atmosphere that instantly made me feel at home.
One thing I can vouch for is that the food at Baleadas is nothing short of amazing.
I tried out the Lomo - it was exceptional, the perfect balance of flavors and textures that proved to be a treat for my palate.
And then, there was the Pollo Saltado, which was packed with so much flavor and love that it left me craving more.
The way they packaged it was a nice touch — they even cut a hole on top to keep the fries fresh.
To my delight, the food lasted me two whole days!
I also managed to try out the Sopa de Res, Baleadas, and the Especial Salvadoreño, each dish unique and packed with an abundance of flavor that left me longing for the next bite.
Elilta Restaurant
I can't help but rave about this hidden gem in Silver Spring, Elilta Restaurant.
I've been frequenting this place since last year, and it's become my go-to spot for delicious, fresh, and, most importantly, authentic Ethiopian cuisine.
What sets Elilta apart is not just its food but the warmth and friendliness you'll experience the moment you step into the restaurant.
The highlight of my visits has always been the food.
Everything is made fresh as you order it.
If you have a particular preference for how your meal should be cooked, simply ask, and they're more than willing to cater to your preference.
One of my favorite dishes to order is the vegetarian combo platter.
It's a medley of fresh veggies cooked in a variety of Ethiopian spices.
It's an absolute delight!
And don't even get me started on their Ethiopian coffee.
Ground and roasted in-house, it's the perfect end to an already perfect meal.
And the best part?
The prices are unbeatable.
Maria's Cafe & Restaurant Inc.
Just the other day, I decided to grab a bite in downtown Wheaton at Maria's Cafe & Restaurant Inc.
It was my first time there, and I was intrigued by the extensive menu.
They offer a good variety but be prepared, the prices are a tad higher, though nothing too extravagant for downtown dining.
The portions were quite large.
We ordered several dishes to share, and just in time for the Happy hour.
What a delight it was when we found out we could get bottled beer for only $3!
I will say, however, the cocktail drinks were a bit overpriced at $16.
I'm a bit of a fan of Salvadoran cuisine, and I've tried my fair share of places that serve it.
Their horchata was superb!
Effoi Restaurant
There's nothing like the feeling of discovering a neighborhood gem, and that's exactly what I found in the heart of my community at Effoi Restaurant.
It's not a place for posh, high-end dining, but instead, it offers a comfortable, homely atmosphere that I absolutely adore.
The food is simply amazing, and to top it all off, the prices won't burn a hole in your pocket.
One of my favorite dishes at Effoi is the vegetarian platter.
It offers an array of vegetables, including an irresistible red lentil stew and a chickpeas stew.
These are served on two injeras, which are more than enough for two people to share.
The best part?
It's all just $16 for two, so it's perfect for anyone on a tight budget.
I've also tried their special Ethiopian tea sans the Sambuca.
It's a delicious concoction of clove and cinnamon-infused hot water with a tea bag, a perfect accompaniment for dinner on a chilly winter's night.
However, keep in mind that there have been times when vegan meat options were unavailable.
As far as I know, everything on the vegetarian platter is dairy and egg-free, and thus vegan.
The atmosphere in Effoi is warm and inviting, with slow Ethiopian, or perhaps Eritrean, music playing in the background.
It's popular amongst the Ethiopian community, which is a testament to its authenticity.
If you're in the mood for something spicy, they've got you covered too.
Mandalay Restaurant & Cafe
It's hard to miss the Mandalay Restaurant & Cafe.
Their website makes it easy to navigate through their extensive menu and place your order.
Now, the dishes might not be the most visually appealing compared to other Asian cuisines, but believe me when I say the flavors are a different story entirely!
I'm a regular here, and my go-to is the Chicken and hot pepper curry.
It's a burst of flavor in every bite.
However, due to the restaurant's location in a busy business area with hectic traffic, I usually opt for takeout.
Don't get me wrong, the place is pretty spacious, and they do offer parking, but the convenience of enjoying Mandalay's dishes at home is unbeatable.
The service here is just right— not too formal, not too casual, and their dishes have a unique charm that mirrors the fusion of influences from China, India, and Thailand.
It's something you can only truly understand once you've tasted it.
There's also great value for your money, especially with the samosa appetizer.
In fact, the beef potato curry and the pork noodle with egg are just too good to miss!
Reggae Vibes
I remember the first time I walked into Reggae Vibes, a small takeout and delivery-only joint tucked away in my neighborhood.
It didn't take long for the aromatic spices to fill my senses, teasing my palate and whetting my appetite.
One thing about this place is that it's not your average eatery; it's a blend of culture and flavor into a satisfying plate of food.
My go-to order is the oxtails with rice and beans, coupled with a side of their delectable coco bread.
The oxtails are always cooked to perfection, so tender that the meat falls right off the bones.
And the seasoning?
Let's just say it's a flavor journey that you wouldn’t want to miss.
I also tried their beef patties once.
The spicy yet approachable taste left a lasting impression on me, making it a must-try dish for anyone who steps foot into Reggae Vibes.
To top it all off, the portions are large and guaranteed to leave you more than satisfied.
I can't quite put my finger on it, but there's something unique about the spice blend they use.
It adds an interesting complexity to the dishes that make them stand out from the crowd.
Thanks to the amazing flavors, I always find myself coming back for more.
Locavino
If you're ever in our neighborhood and looking for a place to dine and wine, look no further than Locavino.
It's now become a regular spot for me.
What I love most about Locavino is the way they blend food and wine culture in such a seamless way.
Imagine sipping on a glass of fine wine while shopping for more to take home!
It's more of a café than a bar— a place you can bring the whole family.
During their happy hour, the cream of mushroom soup and beef sliders become my go-to order.
The soup is deliciously creamy with the rich, earthy flavor of mushrooms, while the sliders are juicy, tender, and just the right size.
The prices?
Absolutely unbeatable!
What's more, Locavino's huevos rancheros are a must-try.
It's all about the roasted tomato sauce on the eggs - it's divine.
Koité Grill
I need to tell you about the finest gem in our neighborhood, Koité Grill.
You can check them out here.
The first time I ventured into Koité Grill, I had no idea what to expect.
But after reading so many rave reviews, I was intrigued enough to give it a go.
And boy, am I glad I did!
Their service was quick; I barely had to wait.
The interiors were simple and charming, adorned with a few African instruments and games, lending the place an authentic feel.
As for the food, it was nothing short of impeccable.
The portion sizes were large enough to satisfy even the hungriest of stomachs, and every dish I tried was a delicious surprise!
My taste buds still tingle at the thought of their grilled chicken and lamb.
The meat was unbelievably tender, and the rice was beyond delicious.
The grilled onions added a unique flavor to the dishes that made them even more memorable.
What's more, all their meat is halal.
And though the food took a little while to arrive, it was worth every minute of the wait.
I mean, you can't rush such artistry, can you?
What impressed me even more, was that the food was presented in to-go boxes with disposable silverware, a smart move considering the current global situation.
I particularly loved their stew with peanut butter, a dish I had never come across before.
It was simply amazing!
This family-owned, black-owned business truly stands out for its authenticity and the love they pour into each dish they serve.
Whether you're a fan of Senegalese cuisine or you just love top-notch food, you absolutely must try this place.
Meleket
I've always been a fan of trying new cuisines, and Meleket Ethiopian Restaurant is one of my go-to spots.
Nestled in a casual setting with a full bar, Meleket serves an assortment of classic Ethiopian dishes.
The food here is served on Injera - a staple food in Ethiopian cuisine, which is a type of sourdough-risen flatbread.
Whenever I stop by Meleket - here's their official website if you want to take a look, I'm always greeted with warm hospitality.
I'd highly recommend trying their cinnamon tea.
It's a unique blend that you won't find elsewhere - a perfect balance of sweet and spicy.
Now, let's talk about the food.
The portion sizes are substantial, and the food is rich and, to an extent, healthy.
The taste might vary depending on your preference, though.
Personally, I enjoy spicier food, but that doesn't stop me from appreciating the overall quality of their meals.
While the food is generally decent, there is one dish that makes me crave more - the veggie sambusas served with a sauce.
This sauce is a game-changer, adding a burst of flavor to the dish.
If I were to rate it, I'd easily give it a 5-star rating.
Parkway Deli and Restaurant
Ever since I moved to the neighborhood, Parkway Deli & Restaurant has become an integral part of my weekly routine.
This bustling, old-school joint, reminiscent of the classic NYC-style delis, quickly turned from an occasional restaurant choice to my go-to spot, thanks to its flavorful and hearty offerings.
The food at Parkway is simply exquisite.
I fondly recall my first foray into their menu, where I opted for the smoked fish platter.
It was generously laden with lox and white fish, and it was more than enough for me and my spouse.
Let's not forget the latke and blintzes, which are out of this world!
When I yearn for some comfort food, their chili and the rare roast beast never disappoint.
Their pickle bar is another highlight that deserves a special mention.
The pickles, beets, and pepperocinis are simply to die for, adding a delightful tangy contrast to their savory meals.
And, if you find the homemade turkey breast from their deli as irresistible as I do, you'll probably end up taking home a few pounds like me to whip up some delicious sandwiches and turkey salad.
But it's not just the food that makes Parkway stand out.
They make you feel at home, which is probably why I'm always back for more.
Whether you're unpacking, need a quick meal, or are just in the mood for an all-day breakfast, I can reassure you that Parkway Deli and Restaurant won't disappoint.
Kook Kai's Thai Noodles [ The Pepper Thai Kitchen ]
I'm a regular visitor of Kook Kai's Thai Noodles, also known as The Pepper Thai Kitchen, which you can check out here.
It's my go-to place for celebrating special occasions, like my recent birthday dinner.
They accommodated my birthday cake in the refrigerator and surprised me by bringing it out with candles and singing, making for a delightful dessert experience!
The food, as always, was exceptional.
Every dish we ordered boasted distinct flavors, with none of them tasting similar to another.
Between clicks of my camera, trying to capture the exquisite Thai dishes, I found myself completely engrossed in the taste and gave up taking pictures to enjoy the food.
Kook Kai's Thai Noodles is undoubtedly a hidden gem in the community.
The chicken satay appetizer, which comes with a delicious dipping sauce, is one of my favorites.
Their moist chicken and charm fried rice are no less than a treat to the taste buds.
The servings are generous, and you often find yourself packing the leftovers to enjoy later.
On days when I visit alone, I usually order Thai iced tea, a treat in itself.
Accompanied by Satay and its delectable cucumber sauce for starters and Panang Curry as the main course, the meal is nothing short of heavenly.
The curry, with its rich coconut flavor blended with peanut butter, is worth every penny.
Amy Tex Mex Bar & Grill
One of my favorite things about living here is discovering little gems like Amy Tex Mex Bar & Grill.
It's an unassuming spot, a classic hole in the wall that might escape your notice if you're just passing by.
But trust me, it's worth stopping in.
The other day, I met up with a buddy of mine for a late lunch at Amy's.
We were the only ones in there, which gave us the opportunity to take in the old-school bar's relaxed ambiance.
Don't let the quiet fool you, though – the food and drinks are definitely something to shout about!
I found myself indulging in a beef quesadilla while my friend went for the chicken tacos.
Both dishes were outstanding and superior to what you'd get at any chain restaurant.
The unique Latin twist on classic dishes added an extra layer of flavor that was truly delightful.
However, the true star of the show had to be the margaritas.
Large, delicious, and at just $10, they were an absolute steal!
Ikko Sushi
I've sampled a good few sushi places in Silver Spring, but none of them have captured my heart (and stomach!) quite like Ikko Sushi.
Tucked away in the heart of downtown, it's such an easy spot to drop by and pick up some takeout after a long day or unwind with friends over the weekend.
Let me tell you, their sushi rolls are something else!
They're larger than what you'd find elsewhere, but what's really special about them is how fresh and flavorful they are.
The Nigri sushi combo?
Phenomenal.
But the rolls that really blew me away were the Caterpillar, and Salmon Lover rolls.
I added those to my combo one late Friday night, and I've been hooked ever since.
But don't just take my word for it.
Next time you're in downtown Silver Spring, why not check out their menu and see what takes your fancy?
Zinnia
I had been curious about Zinnia since it opened about six months ago, but I wanted to wait for a perfect weather day to enjoy their patio seating.
The day finally arrived on April 8th.
Booking a reservation online was simple, but hunting for an online menu was a fruitless endeavor, though the website did inform me about the 20% service charge on all bills.
When my party and I arrived, we were promptly seated and presented with a menu boasting a pleasing selection of appetizers, salads, and entrees.
Catching my eye immediately was the breakfast sandwich, a hearty assembly of scrambled egg, cheese, and bacon on a large English muffin.
Spoiler alert - it didn't disappoint.
We also indulged in the Mozzarella bites served in marinara sauce.
Like the breakfast sandwich, it was delicious, but the sauce could have been a tad warmer.
Compliments also go to the Snack Stravaganza, an assortment of bread, warm olives, pineapple jam, honey butter, and toasted nuts.
At $8, it was a steal and made for a fantastic sharing platter.
The dessert menu, too, was enticing.
The truffle chocolate cake was exceptional, and I'd recommend it to anyone with a sweet tooth.
Nazrawi Ethiopian Restaurant
There's this little quick-serve spot tucked away in the heart of the area that has been my go-to for a rich, flavorful meal - the Nazrawi Ethiopian Restaurant.
Here, you can build your own Ethiopian bowl crafted around a protein of your choice, an irresistible carb, or some greens and a tantalizing sauce to complete the meal.
Speaking of meals, I've been fortunate enough to try one of their finest - the Banatu.
It's a delightful platter with ribs firfir, kifto, green collards, lentils, and a mix of cabbage and sweet onions, and believe me, it's an absolute delight for the taste buds.
Another thing I love about Nazrawi is their lentils.
They're remarkably good!
The service is kind and swift, creating a serene atmosphere, especially on quieter days like Mondays.
The authenticity of the Ethiopian flavors and spices used in their dishes is something that leaves me coming back for more.
When it comes to cleanliness, Nazrawi Ethiopian Restaurant doesn't disappoint either.
The establishment maintains a high level of cleanliness, from the dining area to the bathrooms, creating an inviting environment that enhances the overall dining experience.
BIBIBOP Asian Grill
One of my favorite spots to grab a quick bite is definitely BIBIBOP Asian Grill.
The food here is great, and you can tell they are committed to providing healthy options.
I love how the place is always clean, and the service is excellent and efficient.
Whether it's a busy weekday or a relaxed weekend, I can count on being in and out within 30 minutes.
The location is quite accessible, too, although finding street parking can be quite a challenge during peak hours.
It's always much easier to simply walk or carpool.
The ambiance inside is inspiring, with interesting designs and graffiti on the walls that add to the overall appeal of the place.
All Set Restaurant & Bar
I had always heard great things about All Set Restaurant & Bar, a local favorite known for its New England-style seafood cuisine and nautical-themed decor.
One night, my buddies and I decided to see what all the fuss was about.
As soon as we walked in, we were taken in by the navy and white decor, subtly accented with ropes, creating an ambiance that reminds you of a charming coastal town.
We started our meal with some cauliflower bites and oysters.
The oysters were just as fresh as the ones you'd find on a New England dock.
The cauliflower bites, a surprising hit, had just the right amount of crunch.
We continued our feast with crispy salmon and crab cakes.
Each plate was a symphony of flavors that reminded me of my travels to the east coast.
The lively atmosphere was enhanced by some great music and the option to watch games on the many TVs around the restaurant.
Fusion Bar & Grill
I've been going to Fusion Bar & Grill often after work with my friends, and it's always a good time.
The spot is great for grabbing some drinks, and there are plenty of food options to keep your appetite satisfied.
They also offer a surprising variety of wing flavors and some Asian dishes that you wouldn't expect in a bar and grill, my personal favorite being the bulgogi and rice.
But where this place truly shines is during those karaoke nights every Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday.
There's also a fun addition of three pool tables for some friendly competition.
The drinks, while not particularly extraordinary, are on par with what you'd expect from a local hangout spot.
Silver Spring Wings
Silver Spring Wings has become my go-to destination for a variety of reasons.
The first thing that comes to mind is definitely the quality of their wings.
From the Sweet Chili Thai Sauce to the Old Bay Seasoned wings, each dish has its own unique touch that sets it apart from the others.
The wings are nothing short of perfect, with a crisp exterior that doesn't get soggy with the sauce.
And it's not just the wings - their battered chicken tenders are some of the best I've ever had, juicy and well-seasoned with a perfectly crispy crust.
The other great thing about Silver Spring Wings is the variety of sides they offer.
My friends and I were particularly impressed with the potato wedges and coleslaw combo.
We also loved the veggie sticks, which were fresh and generously served.
What makes Silver Spring Wings really stand out is the management and service.
I've always been treated with nothing but respect, which makes a huge difference in my overall dining experience.
Final Thoughts
Having explored countless dining options in Silver Spring, I can confidently say that there's a distinct richness in the variety and quality of food here.
From savoring authentic Asian flavors at BIBIBOP Asian Grill to discovering hidden food gems like Baleadas Grill Restaurant and Meleket Ethiopian Restaurant, the culinary journey has been absolutely delightful.
Each visit to these places isn't just about a meal but rather an experience that I look forward to every time.
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