If you’re a Maryland resident, a trip to Baltimore is a must. While known for the scenic Inner Harbor, their impressive National Aquarium, and numerous art festivities, there’s more to this city than meets the eye — particularly when it comes to their diverse food scene. Foodies from all over flock to Charm City to experience the spectrum of flavors and the fresh seafood, maybe even sprinkled with some Old Bay Seasoning. Here are some spots you won’t want to miss on your next road trip to Baltimore:

Iron Rooster

Let’s start with breakfast. When it comes to the most important meal of the day, this city has plenty of contenders for the best breakfast and brunch. Stop into Iron Rooster and expect to find a country-style kitchen where they serve breakfast all day. Their menu includes six different Eggs Benedict options as well as favorites like Belgian Waffles and Shrimp and Grits. They also serve lunch and dinner plates, like their adventurous Waffle Burger, a traditional burger served on a waffle bun. But save room — one sweet you’ve got to try here is their famed homemade pop tart.

Blue Moon Cafe

The Blue Moon Cafe has a reputation for quality diner food in Baltimore — so much so that residents are willing to wait in line at 2:30AM for their delicious treats. They’re open 24 hours a day, and they don’t accept reservations, so come prepared to wait for the Blue Moon experience. One favorite dish is their Captain Crunch French Toast, topped with whipped cream, fruit, and powdered sugar.

The Food Market

Dining at The Food Market is a treat that foodies won’t forget. This restaurant is housed in a former grocery store with award-winning Chef Chad Gauss calling the creative shots. They offer dinner nightly and brunch on weekends. They serve American-style comfort cuisine with a twist, like their Pickle Brined Fried Chicken and their famed Baltimore Club featuring a crab cake sandwich with shrimp salad, bacon, lettuce, and tomato. The space is modern, lively, and very popular among locals, so make sure to secure a reservation ahead of time.

 

Woodberry Kitchen

At the head of Baltimore’s farm-to-table movement, you’ll find Woodberry Kitchen. Foodies in the city would be remiss to skip this spot. They serve truly local food, sourced directly from local farmers and fishermen, with local U.S. spirits, organic and local wines, and Maryland-brewed beer. Spike Gjerde is the James Beard Award-winning chef behind this restaurant serving a menu of exciting daily options. One popular choice is their Crab Pot served with homemade crackers. The atmosphere is romantic, with a rustic feel, making for a relaxing dining experience. Catch them nightly for dinner or for brunch on weekends.

 

Thames Street Oyster House

A trip to Baltimore isn’t complete without some fresh seafood, and Thames Street Oyster House is one of the best spots around. They’re located in historic Fells Point and offer an array of New England seafood dishes as well as an à la carte raw bar. Their dishes pair well with a handmade cocktail which you can enjoy in their upstairs water view dining area, the main bar room, or in their lovely courtyard.

Lexington Market

A foodie’s paradise, this market gives visitors a taste of all the city has to offer in one place. This market is one of the oldest in the nation. They’ve got over 75 different food vendors to sample from, offering everything from crab cakes to fried chicken and waffles to pastries like nut rolls and glazed donuts. You can really take your time exploring through this diverse market.

 

Vaccaro’s Italian Pastry Shop

Vaccaro’s is famed for their 62-year-old, family-owned business as well as their delicious pastries. They’ve got multiple locations throughout Baltimore, and you’ll find one of their most popular spots right in Little Italy. They serve deli sandwiches for lunch, but the cannoli and cookies are standouts here. Consider dining out in Little Italy and capping off your evening with one of their delicious cannoli.

 

 

What better way to explore a city than to eat your way through it? In Baltimore, foodies will find a paradise of options. Whether you’re looking to fill up on a delicious meal or satisfy your sweet tooth, Baltimore won’t let you down. Do you have any must-visit eateries in Baltimore? Share them with us!