8 Best Mom and Pop Restaurants in Maryland!
Recently-brewed coffee, fresh-from-the-oven baked goods, hearty entres—that’s the smell of a mom and pop restaurant. And in a state like Maryland, we do mom and pop spots right. From down-home diners to legendary grills, here are the 8 best in the state!
Mykonos Grill, Rockville, MD
Angelo Mitsotakis is the owner of Rockville favorite, Mykonos Grill. The food is inspired by the Aegean islands, bringing the owners’ authentic flavors to Maryland. They’ve received the Diner’s Choice Award multiple times, as well as other accolades. If you’re in the mood for something a little more upscale but with locally-owned roots, this is your place. But that's not all. They have a second location, Gyroland, that serves up fast, casual Greek eats.
Bullock's Family Restaurant, Westminster, MD
Bullock’s Family Restaurant gets most of its meat from the next-door meat market butchery. Both operations are family owned. The restaurant has won the Carroll County’s “Best” award multiple times.
Friendly Farm Restaurant, Upperco, MD
The Friendly Farm Restaurant began in Upperco, Maryland, all the way back in 1959. The restaurant is still in the family, as is the 200-acre farm upon which it is set. Meals are served “family style” with all you can sides. Stop in for lunch or dinner.
The Helmand, Baltimore, MD
The Helmand has been a Baltimore landmark since 1989. It is one of the premier Afghani restaurants in the country and is still owned by the same family. In their own words: “The Helmand offers an extensive full course menu of lamb, seafood, beef and chicken dishes as well as eggplant, spinach, and other fresh vegetable options.”
Don Jorge’s Restaurant, Gaithersburg, MD
Don Jorge’s Restaurant brings authentic Mexican flavor to Gaithersburg, Maryland. Their made-to-order food includes all your favorite Mexican dishes. Stop in to this casual, family-owned spot the next time you’re craving Mexican.
Rips Country Inn, Bowie, MD
A Bowie, Maryland, mainstay, Rips Country Inn has a homey ambiance and delicious food. The restaurant is decked out in horse racing stuff, with hose stall booths and an exterior that resembles a barn. Take a look at the attached wine and spirit store before heading home.
Schmankerl Stube, Hagerstown, MD
Schmankerl Stube recreates an authentic Bavarian experience. Servers wear traditional German clothing while beer steins hang from the ceiling. The food is inspired by the owner’s Germanic roots, including schnitzel and wurst.
Carrol’s Creek Café, Annapolis, MD
For the people of Annapolis, Carrol’s Creek Café feels like home. Folks have been coming back for this waterfront dining experience for over 30 years, enjoying lunch, dinner, brunch, and special events. While everything is tasty, we recommend taking advantage of their close proximity to the water and ordering the seafood.
