As a die-hard foodie and an ardent explorer, there is no better thrill than combining the two passions and scouting the best food destinations across the cityscape. On this gastronomic journey, we find ourselves exploring the heart of Montgomery County, Silver Spring, Maryland, a cultural melting pot with a vibrantly diverse palate waiting to be discovered.
From pleasing brunch locations to lively bars, from street-side delicacies to gourmet delights, Silver Spring knows how to satiate your cravings effortlessly. The town wears an eclectic mix of the old and the new, the traditional and the contemporary, coloring its menu with the various flavors of numerous communities that reside here.
Warm and welcoming neighborhood restaurants here offer an impressive array of cuisines from around the globe. Italian, Thai, Ethiopian, Asian, Mexican – you name it, and Silver Spring has got it! And, let’s not forget the city’s love for seafood – rivaled only by its Maryland siblings by the sea.
Follow me as I embark upon this exciting epicurean endeavor, navigating through the culinary landscape of Silver Spring, and adding a dash of fun and flavor to our food diaries. Let’s trot through the city’s bustling farmers market, dine at its charmingly rustic and even modern and chic eateries, and discover the best places to eat in Silver Spring – all under the same food blogger’s hat!
Most Popular Restaurants in Silver Spring
Charm your taste buds with the culinary delights at the Mandalay Restaurant & Cafe. Located at 930 Bonifant St, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Mandalay caters a variety of Burmese dishes. The authentic flavors of Myanmar cuisine is the main attraction. The dishes are rich in flavor, texture, and aroma. The fan favorites include Tea Leaf Salad, Coconut Chicken Noodle Soup, and the spicy Samusa Soup. Mandalay guarantees a delightful dining experience for those with well-traveled palates.
Another restaurant that thrills the food enthusiasts is Mrs. K’s Restaurant and Wine Bar. Situated at 9201 Colesville Rd, Silver Spring, MD 20901, Mrs. K’s offers a fusion of traditional and contemporary American dishes in a historic setting. The place’s rustic charm along with its delectable menu, that includes dishes such as Grilled Lobster Tail and Wild Mushroom Ravioli, makes Mrs. K’s a must-visit. Don’t forget to explore their extensive wine selection.
For lovers of Italian cuisine, Pacci’s Trattoria, located at 6 Post Office Rd, Silver Spring, MD 20910, is a real treat. Pacci’s offers a cozy atmosphere and serves authentic Neapolitan pizzas cooked in a wood-fired oven. The thin crust and fresh ingredients make the pizza simply irresistible. Other items on the menu, such as the Caprese salad and homemade Tiramisu, are equally divine.
Finally, there’s the El Golfo Restaurant, situated at 8739 Flower Ave, Silver Spring, MD 20901. It offers a blend of Latin and Caribbean cuisines. The dishes are flavorful and authentically prepared, with popular options including the Camarones al Ajillo (garlic shrimp). The cheerful and vibrant decor coupled with live music events makes this an appealing dining destination.
The food culture in Silver Spring, Maryland is diverse and exciting. Each restaurant listed here offers a unique experience, allowing you to not only sample great food but also enjoy the distinct atmosphere of each location. Be sure to check them out and let your taste buds have the adventure they deserve!
Most Unique Restaurants in Silver Spring
When speaking of unique eateries, one can’t help but mention Mandalay Restaurant & Cafe. Located at 930 Bonifant St, this Burmese restaurant is one of the few places where you can experience true Southeast Asian cuisine. From the moment you step into the restaurant, you are transported to the far East through its rich interior decor, echoing the tradition and culture of Burma. The menu is expansive, with numerous vegetarian and vegan options, making it a popular spot for all types of food enthusiasts.
The Tea Leaf Salad, a traditional Burmese dish, is a must-try here. Comprising fermented tea leaves, cabbage, tomatoes, and various crunchy beans, this salad is a perfect blend of textures and flavors. The Coconut Chicken Noodle Soup, another crowd-pleaser, delivers a fragrant and rich taste with a generous portion of tender chicken. As for the desserts, the Fried Bananas won’t disappoint with their sweet taste and crispy texture.
Moving onto a completely different culinary landscape, we find ourselves at Cuba De Ayer. Situated at 15446 Old Columbia Pike, this restaurant presents a taste of Havana right in the heart of Silver Spring. The atmosphere is lively and colorful, making you feel as if you are dining in a quaint Havana neighborhood.
Among the many wonderful dishes available, the Ropa Vieja stands out as a fan-favorite. This Cuban-style shredded beef is slow-cooked and served with white rice, black beans, and sweet plantains. If you’re a seafood lover, the Camarones al Ajillo, shrimp sautéed in garlic sauce, is a treat for the palate. No meal at Cuba De Ayer is complete without trying their famous Mojito, perfectly mixed and refreshingly authentic. For dessert, the Tres Leches Cake is an absolute must, made from scratch and soaked in three kinds of milk.
Last, but certainly not least, there’s Moby Dick House of Kabob at 909 Ellsworth Drive. This place takes you on a flavorful journey to the Middle East with their delightful Persian cuisine. The interior is warm and welcoming, decorated with traditional Persian art that transports you to Iran.
For first-timers, the Kabob Barg, made from a top sirloin of beef seasoned with saffron then grilled, is a surefire winner. Accompanied by fluffy saffron rice and a chargrilled tomato, it’s a meal to remember. The Pomegranate Walnut Stew, also known as Fesenjoon, is a sweet and sour dish made with ground walnuts and pomegranate molasses that shouldn’t be missed. To finish off, their Persian Ice Cream, a creamy saffron rosewater ice cream sprinkled with pistachios, is simply heavenly.
Best Casual Restaurants in Silver Spring
Silver Spring, Maryland, is a food lover’s paradise, offering numerous casual dining spots. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor exploring the town, there are several restaurants that stand out for their unique dishes, cozy ambiance, and excellent service.
First on our list is Urban Butcher, located at 8226 Georgia Ave. Known for their farm-fresh ingredients and innovative menu, this restaurant is a must-visit for carnivores. Their in-house dry-aged beef and artisanal charcuterie are the highlights, but you’ll also find delectable seafood, poultry, and vegetable dishes. Pair your food with their excellent wine or cocktail selections for a memorable dining experience.
Next up is Sergio Ristorante Italiano at 8727 Colesville Rd. This Italian gem has been serving delicious food since 1982. With its family-friendly environment and classic Italian dishes such as spaghetti carbonara and tiramisu, it’s no wonder Sergio’s has a loyal following. Their impressive wine selection complements the savory dishes, making for a truly authentic Italian dining experience.
On the other end of the spectrum is Mandu, located at 8504 Fenton St. Offering Korean cuisine, Mandu serves up traditional dishes with a modern twist. From the doeji bulgogi (spicy pork BBQ) to the mandu (dumplings), each dish is flavorful and satisfying. The industrial-chic decor with its open kitchen layout adds an appealing visual element to your dining experience.
Located at 7339 Georgia Ave, Thai at Silver Spring has a varied menu that caters to all taste buds. They serve both classic and contemporary Thai dishes. Their pad Thai and green curry are local favorites. But beyond these popular dishes, their menu explores a wider range of Thai cuisine. Whether you are a fan of spicy food or prefer something more subtly flavored, you will find something that fits your palette.
Lastly, don’t miss the Cubano’s at 1201 Fidler Ln. This Cuban restaurant is known for its warm, vibrant decor and authentic, flavorful dishes. The ropa vieja (shredded beef) and pollo asado (roasted chicken) come highly recommended. Complement your meal with their Cuban mojito, which perfectly captures the spirit of Havana.
All these restaurants offer take-out and delivery options. So, you can enjoy their delicious offerings from the comfort of your home. Each of these casual dining spots brings its unique flavor and style to Silver Spring, enriching the food scene of this vibrant town.
Best Family Restaurants in Silver Spring
If you are in Silver Spring, Maryland and looking for a family-friendly restaurant that offers amazing food and a comfortable atmosphere, Mandalay Restaurant & Cafe is the place to be. Located at 930 Bonifant St, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Mandalay Restaurant & Cafe specializes in Burmese cuisine, providing a unique dining experience for your family.
The interior has a warm, inviting ambiance with modern decors that will make you feel comfortable as soon as you step inside. The staff are amazingly welcoming, providing top-notch service and ensuring that your dining experience is a memorable one.
The menu is where Mandalay truly shines. You will find all sorts of traditional Burmese dishes. A must-try is their Mohinga, a rich fish soup served with rice noodles and garnished with cilantro, lime, and chili – it’s a traditional Burmese breakfast dish that is loved by many. For dessert, consider trying their Shwe Yin Aye – a refreshing coconut milk-based dessert.
When visiting Silver Spring with your family, you must also check out Woodmont Grill. Situated at 7715 Woodmont Ave, Bethesda, MD 20814, Woodmont Grill is an American restaurant that offers a cozy dining atmosphere. The restaurant is known for its diverse menu of American classics and its live jazz music, making it a great choice for family dining.
You can start your meal with some hot Spinach & Artichoke Dip, followed by the Hawaiian Rib-Eye, a signature dish that never disappoints. Their Key Lime Pie is an excellent way to finish off your meal. Don’t forget to try their Craft Cocktails, they are absolutely amazing.
Heading towards downtown Silver Spring, you’ll find Il Pizzico. At 15209 Frederick Rd, Rockville, MD 20850, Il Pizzico is an Italian spot known for its relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere and absolutely delicious Italian cuisine.
Featuring both traditional and innovative Italian dishes, the menu offers a wide array of pasta, seafood, and meat dishes. Try their famous Gnocchi con Salsiccia e Funghi or enjoy a well-made Pollo al Marsala. Top off your meal with one of their homemade desserts like the Tiramisu or Panna Cotta.
Silver Spring, Maryland boasts a diverse food scene, and these family-friendly restaurants are just a few worth mentioning. Each offers a winning combination of great food, cozy atmosphere, and excellent service that guarantees a delightful dining experience for the whole family.
Best Takeout Food in Silver Spring
One can’t talk about the best takeout food in Silver Spring without mentioning the culinary magic that happens at Mandalay Restaurant & Cafe. Located at 930 Bonifant St, this Burmese restaurant offers an array of unique, flavorful dishes that are sure to whet your appetite.
Whether you’re a fan of spicy curries, delectable noodles, or exquisite vegetarian options, Mandalay has you covered. One standout dish is their Shweji dessert, a sweet cream of wheat-based dish that’s absolutely heavenly.
Next on the list is Nando’s Peri-Peri conveniently situated at 924 Ellsworth Dr. Renowned for their spicy flame-grilled chicken, Nando’s offers a take on fast food that’s surprisingly fresh and made with high-quality ingredients. Their Peri-Peri sauce, ranging from mild to very spicy, is a fan favorite. Pair their chicken with one of their equally delicious sides like Macho Peas or Red Skin Mashed Potatoes, and you’re sure to be in for a treat.
Italian food lovers, on the other hand, will fall in love with Mangos Tomato located at 7083 Carroll Ave. Known for their signature dishes like Margherita Pizza and Penne Alla Vodka, they offer a flavorful and aromatic take on the classic Italian cuisine that’s impossible to resist.
Asian food enthusiasts won’t be able to resist Yee Siang Dumplings. This dumpling house at 1319 Rockville Pike is known for its delicious, handcrafted dumplings that are filled with a variety of ingredients like pork, shrimp, and leek. Besides dumplings, they offer a range of other Chinese dishes. Their takeout is always packed carefully, ensuring that your food reaches you in the best condition possible.
On the hunt for mouth-watering Indian cuisine? Look no further than Garam Masala, located at 4037 Baltimore Ave. With a menu that’s rich with authentic North Indian dishes like Butter Chicken and Lamb Biryani, they offer a taste of India that’s as close as you’ll get without leaving Silver Spring.
Regardless of whether you’re a homebody or simply too busy to cook, these Silver Spring eateries will satiate your hunger with something delightful every time!
What Foods is Silver Spring Known For?
If there’s one thing that Silver Spring, Maryland is known for, it’s the diversity of its gastronomy scene. A melting pot of varied cultures, this is evident in the myriad of international restaurants available. So, where do we begin? Let’s start with Mandalay Restaurant.
Located at 930 Bonifant St, Silver Spring, MD 20910, Mandalay offers a burst of Burmese cuisine that may be unfamiliar to some, but is definitely worth sampling. Their ginger salad, with its unique crunch and tang, and the fragrant coconut chicken noodle, filled with hints of lemongrass and lime, are immediate crowd-pleasers.
From Southeast Asia, we venture a little west to Ethiopia at Addis Ababa Restaurant. Nestled at 8233 Fenton St, Silver Spring, MD 20910, this place serves up traditional Ethiopian cuisine that is both flavorful and convivial. Don’t miss out on the Doro Wot, a spicy chicken stew served with Injera, a fluffy sourdough flatbread. It’s robust, hearty, and packed with flavors.
Moving away from African flavors to the Middle East, we have Lebanese Taverna, a family-owned establishment at 933 Ellsworth Dr, Silver Spring, MD 20910. With its fresh, Levantine-inspired food, it’s hard not to fall in love with their Falafels, Hummus and, of course, the perfectly charred Kabobs. This place is a must-visit for those who appreciate good, honest and healthy Middle Eastern cuisine.
Let’s not forget the Latino community that has helped shape Silver Spring. El Pueblito found at 9554 Old Georgetown Rd, Silver Spring, MD 20910, is a hidden gem. Known for its authentic Guatemalan cuisines, offerings like their Pepian (a traditional meat stew), Tamales and Pupusas with Curtido (Salvadoran stuffed tortillas with pickled cabbage) will have you feeling like you’ve taken a trip to Central America.
Silver Spring’s vibrant and versatile food scene is sure to please any food lover, offering a literal world of flavors to explore. Whether you’re craving Asian, African, Middle Eastern, or Latin cuisine, this culinary gem of Maryland has it all. Venture out and explore the tastes of the world in the heart of Silver Spring!
Eating Your Way Around Silver Spring: A Detailed Food Trip Itinerary
First, fuel up for the day with breakfast at The Daily Dish, located at 8301 Grubb Rd., Silver Spring, MD 20910. This farm-to-table restaurant boasts a menu full of fresh, seasonal ingredients. Their award-winning breakfast menu comes with a wide range of options like the Belgian Waffles with seasonal fruit or the Veggie Scramble for a lighter option.
Next, head to Pacci’s Neapolitan Pizzeria for lunch at 8113 Georgia Ave., Silver Spring, MD 20910. As the name suggests, they serve pizzas prepared in the traditional Neapolitan style. Their Brick Oven Margherita Pizza or the Salsiccia e Rapini Pizza made with fennel sausage are definite crowd-pleasers. And don’t forget to end your meal with their homemade Tiramisu!
In the afternoon, take a coffee break at Bump ‘n Grind at 1200 East-West Hwy., Silver Spring, MD 20910. This unique spot prides itself on carrying a selection of rare vinyl records and serving ethically sourced coffee and tea. Grab an Iced Latte or their Matcha Green Tea to rejuvenate.
For dinner, reserve a table at Mandalay Restaurant & Cafe at 930 Bonifant St., Silver Spring, MD 20910. This family-run eatery serves Burmese cuisine, a blend of Indian, Chinese, and Thai flavors. Try their popular dishes like the Chicken Curried Noodles or the Spicy Mango Pork. Their Mango Sticky Rice is a dessert not to be missed.
Finally, end your day with an after-dinner drink at Denizens Brewing Co. at 1115 East-West Hwy., Silver Spring, MD 20910. Their beer menu features a variety of uniquely crafted brews, many of which are made on site. Try their award-winning Southside Rye IPA or the Third Party Tripel.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Where can I find the best pizza in Silver Spring, Maryland?
A1: Silver Spring is home to many top-notch pizza joints. Among the most popular are Pete’s New Haven Style Apizza for its thin crust pizzas, Mamma Lucia for traditional Italian style pizzas, and Pacci’s Neapolitan Pizzeria for a unique Neapolitan twist. Each restaurant offers its unique spin on pizza, catering to different tastes.
Q2: What are some good places for breakfast?
A2: There are a few local favorites you shouldn’t miss in Silver Spring. The Original Pancake House serves a variety of delicious pancakes, crepes, and other breakfast dishes. The Silver Diner offers a classic American diner experience with various breakfast options, while Bump ‘n Grind provides a cozy atmosphere with great coffee and light breakfast bites.
Q3: Can I find vegetarian or vegan options in Silver Spring?
A3: Absolutely! Silver Spring has a variety of vegetarian and vegan restaurants. Some of the best include Mandalay Restaurant & Cafe for Burmese vegetarian options, and Everlasting Life Restaurant for a vegan menu of Southern-style comfort food. For vegan desserts, check out Sweet and Natural which serves cakes, cookies, and pies-free of dairy and eggs.
Q4: Where can I enjoy authentic ethnic cuisine in Silver Spring?
A4: Silver Spring is known for its diversity, reflected in the wide range of ethnic cuisine available in the area. For authentic Ethiopian cuisine, check out Beteseb Restaurant. For Thai, NaiNai’s Noodle and Dumpling Bar is a local favorite. Cubano’s offers delicious Cuban cuisine, while Mandalay Restaurant & Cafe is the place to go for Burmese food.
Q5: Are there farm-to-table restaurants in Silver Spring?
A5: Yes, Silver Spring is home to a few notable farm-to-table restaurants. The Daily Dish is a prime example of farm-to-table dining, offering seasonal menus based on produce from local farms. Mrs. K’s Toll House also uses fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, offering a menu influenced by American and international cuisines.
Q6: Can I find seafood specialties in Silver Spring?
A6: Yes, several restaurants specialize in seafood. Notably, Cameron’s Seafood Market offers fresh seafood with a focus on Maryland specialties such as crab cakes and Old Bay seasoned dishes. Ocean City Seafood is another great spot for fresh seafood, offering a mix of American and Asian seafood dishes.
Q7: What about high-end dining options?
A7: If you’re looking for a more upscale dining experience, Silver Spring has several to offer. The Classics, a steakhouse offering prime cuts and a fine dine wine list, and All Set Restaurant & Bar, known for its upscale seafood dishes and New England inspired cuisine, are highly recommended.
Q8: Are there kid-friendly restaurants in Silver Spring?
A8: Yes, there are restaurants that are perfect for family dining. The Silver Diner offers a kid-friendly menu along with a classic American diner atmosphere. Eggspectation is known for its extensive menu, providing options to please even the pickiest eaters, and McGinty’s Public House offers a relaxed setting with a separate kid’s menu.
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!
