Looking for the “best overall restaurants” in Maryland? OpenTable, an online reservation service, analyzes nearly 2 million global diner reviews from the past four months. They sort the results by location and create a list of “the best” based on the information.
It’s important to note that a restaurant must be on the OpenTable platform in order to be eligible for their list. Below is the August 2025 list for “Maryland– DC Suburbs” though many of these restaurants are simply located across the state:
• Il Piccolo Morso: Located in Leonardtown, this Italian restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu featuring classic pasta dishes, including house-made lasagna and various pasta sauces. Address: 22845 Washington St, Leonardtown, MD 20650 (St. Mary’s County) Website
• Cuba De Ayer: This popular Cuban restaurant in Burtonsville serves authentic Cuban cuisine, from traditional roasted pork and ropa vieja to a variety of Cuban sandwiches. It’s known for its flavorful dishes and welcoming atmosphere. Address: 15446 Old Columbia Pike, Burtonsville, MD 20866 (Montgomery County) Website
• Manalu Italian Restaurant: Situated in Frederick, Manalu is a family-owned Italian restaurant with a cozy and friendly atmosphere. The menu includes traditional Italian favorites, seafood, salads, and brick-oven pizzas.
Address: 5227 Presidents Ct, Frederick, MD 21703 (Frederick County) Website
• Monocacy Crossing: Serving New American cuisine in a comfortable setting, this Frederick restaurant is known for its diverse menu that includes everything from steamed mussels and fish tacos to braised lamb shank. It also features a pet-friendly garden patio.
Address: 4424A Urbana Pike, Frederick, MD 21704 (Frederick County) Website
• Persimmon: With a focus on American bistro fare with a European twist, Persimmon in Bethesda offers a sophisticated menu with dishes like pan-seared duck breast, steak frites, and a variety of creative appetizers.
Address: 6931 Arlington Rd, Bethesda, MD 20814 (Montgomery County) Website
• Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse (Gaithersburg): An upscale steakhouse chain, this Gaithersburg location is famous for its signature sizzling, butter-topped prime steaks served on a hot plate. The menu also includes a variety of classic seafood and poultry dishes.
Address: 106 Crown Park Ave, Gaithersburg, MD 20878 (Montgomery County) Website
• Mosaic Cuisine: This French-fusion restaurant in Rockville is known for its creative menu, which features modern French dishes with global influences. They are particularly famous for their unique waffle-centric brunch offerings and extensive coffee bar.
Address: 186 Halpine Rd, Rockville, MD 20852 (Montgomery County) Website
• The Island Hideaway: Located in Solomons, The Island Hideaway is a popular spot for American cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood. The menu features a range of dishes from crab cakes and fresh fish to house-made pasta and pork chops. Address: 14556 Solomons Island Rd S, Solomons, MD 20688 (Calvert County) Website
• The Tasting Room: This restaurant in downtown Frederick offers fresh, regional cuisine with a European influence, complemented by an extensive wine list and innovative cocktails. Their menu changes seasonally to feature local and fresh ingredients. Address: 101 N Market St, Frederick, MD 21701 (Frederick County)
Website
• Cava Mezze (Olney): Cava Mezze in Olney is a lively spot for modern Greek and Mediterranean small plates, or “mezze.” Diners can enjoy a wide variety of shareable dishes, including spreads like Crazy Feta, grilled meats, and fresh salads. Address: 3122 Olney-Sandy Spring Rd, Olney, MD 20832 (Montgomery County)
Website
The following two Maryland restaurants were included on OpenTable’s “Best Overall” in Baltimore/Maryland:
Cafe Gia Ristorante: Cafe Gia Ristorante is an Italian restaurant in Baltimore’s Little Italy, known for its vibrant, colorful interior and authentic cuisine. The menu features classic Italian dishes and seafood options, and it offers a lively atmosphere with outdoor seating. Address: 410 S High St, Baltimore, MD 21202 (Baltimore City) Website
One Eleven Main: One Eleven Main is a New American restaurant in Bel Air that focuses on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. The menu changes frequently to reflect what’s fresh, offering a dining experience that combines classic techniques with a modern culinary approach. Address: 111 S Main St, Bel Air, MD 21014 (Harford County) Website
Dining and Cooking