My Fantastic Five

Here’s a little compilation of some of my favorite restaurant choices in the Philly and DelMarVa area. If you have a favorite that didn’t end up here…feel free to invite me out to try it!

BALTIMORE CITY/COUNTY

1. Woodberry Kitchen: Read my review here.

2. The Food Market: Read my review here.

3. The Oregon Grille: My frequent birthday choice, this longstanding classic in Maryland is definitely for the white tablecloth set. While an excellent option for dinner, particularly if you enjoy live piano music in the background, we tend to go for lunch. Their Grilled Oysters are plump and are unique to the usual fried or raw oysters I normally get, and the Dry Aged Carpaccio is perfect for hot summer days. It’s old school, and I love it.

4. Zorbas: Often my choice for a birthday dinner, Zorbas is greek food at its best. No meal here is complete without the Grilled Octopus, which has been one of my favorite dishes since I was about five. Also, their Grilled Bread, Lamp Lollipops, and Tzatziki never disappoint. Come casual and be prepared for heavy pours.

5. Johnny Rad’s: Read my review here.

MARYLAND/DELAWARE BEACHES

1. Our Harvest: I first visited this spot a few weeks after it opened and I was blown away. With a seasonal menu that constantly changes, there are huge options for sharing and smaller plates that offer up delectable bites. Go hungry and order one of everything.

2. Catch 54: Read my review here.

3. Off the Hook: Read my review here.

4. Liquid Assets: Owned by the same people as Our Harvest, Liquid Assets has a great wine list and a great bar atmosphere. The menu does not change as often as its sister restaurant, so if you see the Chicken and Dumplings or Carolina BBQ on it, get them. My favorite things here are the cheese boards though. You can build your own and the options are plenty! Don’t leave without getting their homemade donuts.

5. DiFebo’s: Read my review here.

PHILADELPHIA

1. Vernick Food + Drink: Read my review here.

2. Zahav: Read my review here.

3. Vedge: I am not opposed to eating vegan food, but oftentimes I feel like I’m missing something by the end of a meal. That’s not the case with Vedge. There is an attention to detail, and emphasis on bold flavors, and a rotating cocktail list that always has me coming back for more. Some of my favorites include the Nebrodini Mushrooms, Eggplant Braciole, and the Seared Maitake Mushrooms.

4. June BYO: I have been to June several times and have liked it more each time. The dining space is small, but the staff is friendly, the food is fantastic, and the menu is always changing. If you are a fan of old-school French food, this is the place to check out.

5. Kalaya: If you like Thai food, you need to go to Kalaya. Another small BYO, the team at Kalaya is flawless. I don’t think my wine glass was ever empty, and the staff has spot-on suggestions. Even if you shy away from spicy food, there are enough options here where you don’t have to get something that will ignite your mouth. Go early, bring a few bottles of wine, and hang out with your friends.

3 Responses to My Fantastic Five

  1. You really need to try Salt Air in Rehoboth Beach.

    • I will definitely add it to my list! I don’t get down to Rehoboth too much much in the summer because it’s so busy and hard to park; but when I go down off-season, I’ll be sure to check it out.

      • I am with you. I am not a huge fan during the season anymore either. I spent a lot of my childhood summers there, but it is so packed. I also love green man… but they are only breakfast/brunch, coffee, and smoothies.

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