Discovering the Hidden Foodie Gems: A Culinary Journey Through Hyattsville, Maryland

Welcome fellow food enthusiasts, to another sizzling edition of our gastronomic adventures! Today our culinary compass directs us to the enchanting locale of Hyattsville, Maryland, a place that promises to tantalize your taste buds with an exciting array of dishes, cuisines and flavors inspired by the town’s diverse demographic and rich history.

Though a relatively small town, Hyattsville’s culinary offerings are anything but! The vibrant food scene here is a blend of classic American comfort food, exotic international dishes, and innovative fusion offerings that reflect the multicultural tapestry of this locale.

From mouthwatering BBQ joints that’d give the southern states a good run for their money, to vegan and vegetarian outfits that showcase the versatility of plant-based ingredients, there’s something for everyone in this food lover’s paradise. Not to mention, Hyattsville’s bustling farmers’ markets come alive with fresh, locally-grown fruits and vegetables, artisanal breads, cheeses and more, that provide an exciting playground for the town’s culinary artists.

Brace yourselves as we embark on this flavorful journey, exploring the best eateries and culinary destinations Hyattsville, Maryland has to offer. Whether you’re a local resident, planning to visit, or simply looking to discover some inspiring food stories, you’re in for a treat!

Most Popular Restaurants in Hyattsville

One of the most beloved restaurants in Hyattsville is the home-style Italian eatery, Franklin’s. Located at 5123 Baltimore Ave, Hyattsville, MD 20781, it has been serving the community for over 20 years with an array of delightful American comfort foods.

Their menu specializes in various cuisines, including pizzas, burgers, and sandwiches, but their in-house brewery is also a significant crowd-pleaser. Their collection of craft beers, made in their on-site brewery, is one of the reasons for their immense popularity. They also offer a unique shopping experience in their general store section, making it a unique dining destination in the heart of Hyattsville.

Next on our list is the delightful Cuban spot, Cubano’s. Situated at 1201 University Blvd E, Hyattsville, MD 20783, Cubano’s offer a vibrant and authentic Cuban dining experience. The warm and inviting ambiance welcomes you into a world of traditional Cuban cuisine, where each dish tells a story.

At Cubano’s, the Roast Pork Asado style and Ropa Vieja are the absolute must-try dishes. For dessert, the Cuban Flan is a show stopper. The restaurant’s tropical décor, combined with live music and dancing on weekends, allows visitors to experience a piece of Cuba right in Hyattsville.

Another not-to-be-missed dining spot in Hyattsville is Busboys and Poets. Located at 5331 Baltimore Ave, Hyattsville, MD 20781, Busboys and Poets is not just a restaurant, but a community gathering place that fosters an environment where race, culture, politics, and art intersect.

The restaurant has a broad menu with an extensive range of dishes catering to various dietary preferences. Whether you are vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, or a carnivore, you will find something delectable to eat. In addition to their sumptuous food, their diverse event calendar featuring live music, poetry readings, and film screenings makes Busboys and Poets a true cultural hub in Hyattsville.

Our final top pick is the quaint and cosy Shagga Coffee & Restaurant. This Ethiopian restaurant, located at 6040 Baltimore Ave, Hyattsville, MD 20781, has been consistently rated as one of the best spots for Ethiopian food in the area. Their portion sizes are generous, and their menu is an excellent introduction to the hearty and flavorful world of Ethiopian cuisine.

Some of their standout dishes include Doro Wot (a spicy chicken stew), Kitfo (finely chopped raw beef), and an array of vegetarian platters. Their coffee, which is traditionally brewed in a ceramic pot known as a “jebena”, is also a popular favorite among patrons. With its warm and welcoming atmosphere, Shagga is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a hearty meal.

Most Unique Restaurants in Hyattsville

First on my list is Busboys and Poets. This is not your ordinary restaurant. As you walk in, you get to experience a uniquely mixed atmosphere of a café, bookstore, lounge, and theater. Located at 5331 Baltimore Ave, Suite 104, Hyattsville, Maryland, this restaurant offers a menu rich in different cuisines such as American, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern dishes.

The artistic atmosphere is a nod to its name, which originates from American poet Langston Hughes who worked as a busboy prior to becoming a poet. Particularly, their exceptional mouth-watering vegan meals like the Vegan Nachos and Vegan Tuna Salad are must-tries. They also offer engaging events like poetry nights and book discussions, perfect for art and literary enthusiasts.

Moving on to the next stop, we have Franklin’s Brewery. Situated at 5123 Baltimore Ave, Hyattsville, Maryland, this spot is a true gem. It’s a unique combination of a restaurant, brewery, and toy store. Yes, you read that right, a toy store! It’s a delightful and quirky place that provides an enjoyable dining experience for both children and adults.

As the only combination brewery, restaurant, and toy store in the world, Franklin’s Brewery serves a wide range of home-brewed beers which have been winning awards since 2002. The menu is diverse, with dishes ranging from juicy burgers to fresh seafood, and even yummy pizzas. The fun and playful environment of Franklin’s Brewery makes it a perfect family dining spot.

Finally, we can’t talk about unique Hyattsville restaurants without mentioning Pizzeria Paradiso. You’ll find it at 4800 Rhode Island Ave, Hyattsville, Maryland. This restaurant brings a slice of Italy right to Maryland using wood-fired ovens, creating a delicious, authentic taste with every bite.

Pizzeria Paradiso stands out with its emphasis on simplicity yet savoury in taste. They offer a wide range of toppings to cater to your palate. Its uniqueness, however, doesn’t stop at pizzas. This place is also renowned for having one of the best beer selections in the area with over a dozen selections on tap and even more available in bottles. Their wonderful blend of food and drink options create a dining experience that’s hard to match.

Best Casual Restaurants in Hyattsville

When in Hyattsville, Maryland, the list of casual dining spots is endless, each offering unique culinary experiences. Here are some of the best casual restaurants that are undoubtedly worth a try.

Busboys and Poets located at 5361 Baltimore Ave, Hyattsville, MD, is a vibrant spot perfect for a laid-back lunch or dinner. This dining spot is not just a restaurant, but a gathering place where people can meet, read and discuss various topics. Their menu is quite extensive, featuring foods influenced by various cuisines worldwide, with many vegan and vegetarian options. The atmosphere of Busboys and Poets is filled with warmth and coziness, accentuated by bookshelves and artwork adorning the walls.

Another dining gem located at 5331 Baltimore Ave, Suite 104, Hyattsville, MD, is Frank’s Italian Restaurant. This family-owned restaurant has been serving generations of locals with classic Italian meals. The ambiance is casual, perfect for a relaxed meal. The pasta dishes here are a particular delight, from lasagna to linguini, all are hand-made and delicious. And of course, don’t forget to try their signature pizza.

If Mexican cuisine is more to your liking, Taqueria El Rey Taco House situated at 5501 14th Ave, Hyattsville, MD, is a must-visit. This no-frills Mexican eatery offers a menu chock-full of authentic Mexican food. The surroundings might be humble, but the flavors are anything but. Their tacos are made with handmade tortillas and filled with juicy meats. Other recommendations include nachos, quesadillas, and the to-die-for salsa.

For seafood lovers, Old Line Fish Company, located at 6502 America Blvd, Hyattsville, MD, is the place to be. This restaurant serves fresh and responsibly sourced seafood dishes. The interior is comfortable and inviting, offering a casual dining experience. The menu includes a variety of seafood options from fried calamari to oysters and crab cakes.

So, whether you’re a resident or just passing through Hyattsville, Maryland, these casual dining spots are sure to satisfy your taste buds and offer an enjoyable dining experience.

Best Family Restaurants in Hyattsville

The vibrant city of Hyattsville, Maryland, is brimming with family-friendly eateries that fuse delightful cuisines with a warm and amicable atmosphere. Our foray into this culinary landscape has resulted in a compilation of some of the best family restaurants in town.

Let’s discover the gastronomic delights that this city has to offer!

Busboys and Poets

Located at 5331 Baltimore Ave #104, Hyattsville, MD 20781, Busboys and Poets is a community gathering place that welcomes families with diverse, high-quality food. Their menu is an eclectic fusion of American, Latino, and Caribbean cuisines, creatively delivering dishes to appease all tastes. They even cater to dietary restrictions with a wide range of vegan and gluten-free options. The restaurant encapsulates an inviting atmosphere, making it a fantastic spot for quality family time.

Franklin’s Restaurant, Brewery and General Store

Tucked on 5123 Baltimore Ave, Hyattsville, MD 20781 is Franklin’s Restaurant, Brewery, and General Store. A one-stop destination for a family outing, it is a brewery, a restaurant, and a fun toy and novelty store. The food is made from fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, with their signature hand-crafted beers serving as an excellent accompaniment. For children, the toy store makes it a delightful place to explore after a fulfilling meal.

Carolina Kitchen

If your family is craving soulful southern cuisine, Carolina Kitchen at 6501 America Blvd, Hyattsville, MD 20782 should be top on your list. This restaurant offers classic southern dishes with a modern twist. From their renowned fried chicken and waffles to their famous mac n cheese, each dish brings a sense of comfort that only home-style cooking can provide. The ambiance is cozy and inviting, making it ideal for a hearty family meal.

Paisano’s Pizza

Paisano’s Pizza, located at 7404 Baltimore Ave, College Park, MD 20740 is a family favorite for its exquisite pizzas, pastas, and subs. The eatery is famous for its delicious, authentic Italian cuisine that is sure to satisfy your cravings. The restaurant has a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere, and the staff prides itself on its quick and friendly service. From the Classic Margherita to adventurous specialty pizzas, Paisano’s offers something for every pizza lover in your family.

These family restaurants in Hyattsville are sure to satiate a variety of cravings and provide you with an unforgettable dining experience. Enjoy exploring the delightful culinary canvas of Hyattsville, Maryland!

Best Takeout Food in Hyattsville

For food lovers who crave exotic flavors, Busboys and Poets is a treasure trove that brings together a tantalizing fusion of American, International, and vegan cuisine in a uniquely charming environment. Ideally located at 5331 Baltimore Ave, Hyattsville, it’s a spot that offers a memorable takeout experience.

Their eclectic menu boasts a diverse range of dishes that cater to all taste preferences. Food lovers rave about their signature vegan “Nacho Pizza,” which features a quirky blend of flavors that will delight your taste buds. And let’s not forget their mouthwatering burgers, which are renowned for their juicy tenderness, served with delicious, crispy fries that pack a punch.

Next on our culinary journey through Hyattsville is the much-loved and highly-rated, Franklins. This unique restaurant-brewery-general store makes its home at 5123 Baltimore Ave in Hyattsville. Franklins is a family favorite, loved for its fun, vibrant atmosphere and of course, its excellent takeout offerings.

Their menu selection is a rich tapestry of American classics, with a creative Franklins twist. The famous “Brewben” sandwich is a standout, featuring house-cured corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and 1000 Island dressing on toasted rye. Seafood lovers, on the other hand, should not miss the “Shrimp and Grits,” for a true taste of southern comfort. For those with a sweet tooth, their decadent desserts serve as the perfect finish to a delightful meal.

Another culinary gem in Hyattsville is the Shagga Coffee and Restaurant at 6040 Baltimore Ave, serving traditional Ethiopian cuisine that tantalizes all your senses. The restaurant’s homely decor resonates with its wholesome, traditional cooking, making it an excellent choice for takeout with a touch of authenticity.

Shagga is celebrated for its vegan options, which are packed with veggies and rich, authentic spices. Their non-vegetarian dishes, such as the “Doro Wat” – a spicy chicken stew, are equally phenomenal, offering an adventure for your taste buds. To complement the robust flavors, patrons often opt for the homemade honey wine or a pot of traditional Ethiopian coffee.

No takeout list in Hyattsville would be complete without a nod to the city’s most exquisite sushi spot, Sushi by Jin. Nestled at 9031 Baltimore Ave, this Japanese restaurant is acclaimed for its fresh, high-quality sushi, impressive portions, and delightful presentation.

Regular patrons rave about the “Spider Roll” and “Rainbow Roll”, but no matter what you choose off the menu, Sushi by Jin never disappoints. For the bold and adventurous, their “Jin’s Special Roll” – filled with shrimp tempura, spicy tuna, and topped with avocado, guarantees an unforgettable culinary experience.

While Hyattsville, Maryland is bursting with many more flavorful takeout options, these restaurants offer a culinary adventure guaranteed to provide an unforgettable gastronomic journey right from the comfort of your home.

What Foods is Hyattsville Known For?

In the diverse culinary scene of Hyattsville, Maryland, the region is steadily gaining recognition for its Hip and diverse food scene, drawing in local food lovers and traveling gastronomes alike. This vibrant city, nestled in the heart of Prince George’s County, is particularly renowned for its American BBQ, authentic Italian cuisine, and mouth-watering Mexican dishes. One cannot talk about Hyattsville’s food scene without mentioning the standout restaurants serving these cuisines.

For the best American BBQ in the city, Busboys and Poets is an absolute must-visit. Located at 5331 Baltimore Ave, Hyattsville, MD 20781, this establishment’s history extends beyond just serving delicious meals. It is a cultural hub where racial and cultural connections are uplifted, a space where art, culture, and politics blend flawlessly to create a community gathering place that fosters a progressive dining experience. Of course, their slow-cooked baby back ribs and the smoky beef brisket always steal the show, leaving diners yearning for more.

Staking a claim in the Italian category is Franklin’s Restaurant, Brewery, and General Store. Conveniently situated at 5123 Baltimore Ave, Hyattsville, MD 20781, Franklin’s is a one-of-a-kind brewpub with its in-house brewery and impressive menu. A long-time favorite among residents, this place is adored for its Maryland crab pizza, pasta dishes reminiscent of the Italian countryside, and homemade brews that complement each dish perfectly. It’s not just the food and drink that makes Franklin’s a standout; it also doubles as a quirky general store, so you can shop for whimsical toys, games, and gifts while waiting for your food.

Completing the trio, La Plata Grill stands tall in delivering exceptional Mexican fare. Nestled at 1837 University Blvd E, Hyattsville, MD 20783, La Plata Grill serves traditional Mexican dishes with a modern twist. From classic tacos and enchiladas to innovative dishes like shrimp ceviche and stuffed poblano peppers, each plate is a flavorful journey through Mexico’s culinary landscape. Their innovative margaritas that push the envelopes of creativity, like the jalapeno-infused, are definitely not to be missed.

These restaurants, with their distinct offerings and atmospheres, truly encapsulate the diverse and vibrant food scene that Hyattsville has cultivated. Offering mouth-watering dishes that span across global cuisines, each establishment is sure to provide a memorable dining experience for locals and tourists alike.

Eating Your Way Around Hyattsville: A Detailed Food Trip Itinerary

Day 1:

Kickstart your day with a hearty breakfast at Busboys and Poets. Known for their eclectic menu featuring a variety of international cuisines, you can start your day off right with their signature avocado toast or vegan scramble. Located at 5331 Baltimore Ave Suite 104, Hyattsville, MD 20781.

For lunch, head over to Franklin’s, a restaurant, brewery, and general store rolled into one! Known for their unique brews and hearty American fare, this is a fun place to relax and refuel. It’s situated at 5123 Baltimore Ave, Hyattsville, MD 20781.

End your first day in Hyattsville with a delightful dinner at Pizzeria Paradiso. Try their Neapolitan style pizzas with an extensive range of craft beers. It’s located at 4800 Rhode Island Ave, Hyattsville, MD 20781.

Day 2:

Begin the second day of your culinary adventure at Yogi Castle. It’s a perfect place for a fun breakfast with a variety of frozen yogurts, smoothies, and parfaits. Visit them at 5501 Baltimore Ave #107a, Hyattsville, MD 20781.

For lunch, make your way to Shagga Ethiopian Cuisine. Get your hands on authentic Ethiopian cuisine with a wide range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. It’s located at 6040 Baltimore Ave, Hyattsville, MD 20781.

Your final dinner in Hyattsville should be at Spice 6 Modern Indian. They provide fast and casual modern Indian cuisine with traditional Indian flavors. You can find them at 5501 Baltimore Ave Suite 107, Hyattsville, MD 20781.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are some popular restaurants in Hyattsville?

A1: Hyattsville is a thriving foodie haven. Some top-rated restaurants in Hyattsville include Busboys and Poets, a vibrant eatery with great food and atmosphere, The Common, known for its eclectic breakfast and lunch options, and Franklin’s Brewery, a family-friendly restaurant, and general store with house-made microbrews. There’s also Vigilante Coffee, which locals rave about for its gourmet coffee and pastries.

Q2: I’m looking for some international cuisine. Any suggestions?

A2: Absolutely! Hyattsville boasts a diverse culinary scene. For scrumptious Mexican dishes, check out La Sirenita. If you’re craving Ethiopian, try Shagga Coffee & Restaurant. Banana Blossom Bistro serves delightful Vietnamese food, and Spice 6 Modern Indian offers fast-casual Indian food with veggie options.

Q3: Are there any vegetarian or vegan-friendly restaurants?

A3: Yes, there are. For a vegan-friendly joint, you can’t miss The Greenbelt Co-op Supermarket and Cafe, which serves an array of plant-based foods. While they’re not exclusively vegetarian, places like Busboys and Poets and Spice 6 Modern Indian offer delicious veggie options on their standard menus.

Q4: I love seafood. Any recommendations in Hyattsville?

A4: For seafood lovers, the Seafood Boil is a must-visit. This seafood haven serves some of the best crabs, shrimps, and lobsters in town. If you also love sushi with your seafood, Yogi Sushi is a great go-to.

Q5: Are there any good pizza places in town?

A5: If you’re a pizza lover, Pizza Paradiso is the place for you. With a plethora of gourmet pizza and beer options, it never disappoints. Also, try out Potomac Pizza, a local staple with a range of traditional and specialty pizzas. For a more contemporary take, check out Blaze Fast-Fire’d Pizza.

Q6: Any good places for dessert or sweet treats?

A6: For a heavenly dessert experience, you must visit Shortcake Bakery. They offer baked goods and desserts that are not only delicious but also works of art. For ice cream lovers, local favorite, Milk & Honey Cafe, offers a variety of gelato flavors. Also, check out Vigilante Coffee for their pastries and artisanal coffee.

Q7: Where can I go for a nice brunch?

A7: There’s no shortage of brunch spots in Hyattsville. Standouts include Busboys and Poets and The Common, both of which offer hearty breakfast and lunch menus. For a brunch with a twist, you can also try out The Jerk Pit, a Caribbean restaurant that serves brunch on Sundays.

Q8: What about a good place for a romantic dinner?

A8: If you’re looking for a romantic dinner setting, consider Franklin’s Brewery with its cozy setting and charming ambiance. The Old Maryland Grill, with its exemplary service and delectable food, is also a great pick for a date night.

Are you a globetrotter with a passion for discovering unique culinary delights? Do you yearn to uncover the flavors and foodie hotspots that are hidden in cities around the world? Well, you’re in luck! We’ve crafted an array of travel food guides that dive into the gastronomic treasures of many fascinating cities. From the pizza havens of New York to the tapas trails in Barcelona, we’ve got it all covered. So why not take your taste buds on an adventure and check out our collection of food travel guides? You can explore them right here. Bon Appétit!