You might be scanning this list because you’re planning a special dinner, read somewhere that Southern Maryland’s food scene is booming, or you’re simply craving something delicious right now. Whatever brought you here, welcome—let’s find your next great meal.
Plaza Mexico
$ | (443) 964-6381 | WEBSITE
Huntingtown, like most suburban areas, has no shortage of casual Mexican spots designed to make your experience look great for your social media feed, like Plaza Mexico. However, this boardwalk-adjacent restaurant isn’t style over substance. It’ll have you screaming, “Another banger!” after each bite. Their authentic Mexican menu elegantly combines traditional flavors with the influence of coastal Maryland living, heritage from the nearby pier.
You’ll want to inject both the chorizo dip and house-made margaritas that accompany the lively atmosphere straight into your veins, and, on a spiritual level, understand how they made the service so efficient even on packed nights, as well as why and how the friendly staff remembering your preferences makes you feel right at home. You might even question whether you’ve ever had a more consistently flavorful meal as good as theirs.
And for those very few who have been searching for the perfect spot for a fun night out in Huntingtown (yes, we know it’s not downtown), this is the place to order it with your meal.
Cold Penguin Ice Cream
$ | (410) 257-1387 | WEBSITE
Cold Penguin Ice Cream is the unofficial sweet spot of Huntingtown. Experiencing it is a bucket-list activity for anyone who lives or visits the area. While the classic shop may not win any prizes for décor and, dare we say it, ambiance, you’re here for the ice cream, which is deliciously crafted to the point where the flavour reaches the soul.
It’s topped with options like hand-dipped Hershey’s and the brown butter bourbon truffle with cappuccino crunch, and comes with a choice of shakes, including the handmade chocolate malt. We recommend getting a shake with special ingredients added, courtesy of the friendly staff. If you’re an ice cream hater, you can still also have a wonderful time with the kid-friendly setting and beautiful views from the benches or boardwalk across the street.
The Wheel House Beer Garden
$ | (410) 286-0000 | WEBSITE
The Wheel House Beer Garden is a laid-back, entertainment-focused spot in Huntingtown. While the space feels purposefully unpretentious, the drinks carry the craftsmanship and vibrant character of a beloved local watering hole. You’ll notice a steady stream of regulars and weekend visitors grabbing a beer or cocktail, likely to enjoy with the live music or while waiting for their food delivery.
The cocktail menu features creative staples, but their signature drinks, which include the refreshing crush and the bold whiskey strawberry smash, should absolutely be part of your order. As for the broader experience (a good beer garden is more than just drinks), we highly recommend trying their handmade cocktails with fresh fruit or exploring the comprehensive beer list, especially if you’re visiting on a busy weekend.
Mexico Restaurant
$ | (410) 414-9037 | WEBSITE
As the taco debate continues across the border states, we have a dispatch from the gravel lots of Huntingtown. The truth might be hard to swallow, but here it is: Amigo, sorry-oh, the Americanized Mexican food around here, is not great-oh. However, Mexico Restaurant, a family-friendly spot with awesome artwork, serves satisfying street tacos that will “hit the spot” with actual flavor and spice. They come with your choice of meats or just vegetables wrapped in fresh tortillas.
In addition to the strong margaritas and the relaxed atmosphere, their chicken quesadillas cooked with melted cheese and seasoned chicken also make this place worth it. They also serve a perfect daquiri. You know the type—strong, flavorful, balanced sweetness, and with a kick that all cocktail enthusiasts crave and enjoy.
Beachin Bay Bakery
Beachin Bay Bakery has masterfully captured the essence of a neighborhood bakery, like those found across small-town America—and executes it flawlessly. The charming Huntingtown location features warm wooden shelves, large, beautifully decorated cakes on display, and loaves of their signature whole wheat sourdough prominently showcased up front.
Without question, it’s the best bakery to gather with family over cookies praised for their perfect execution, pick up a visually appealing cake at a responsible price for a celebration, or simply watch the steady stream of local customers come and go as you savor their gut-healthy bread. We appreciate this Huntingtown spot because of the cozy indoor seating and the fact that you can easily bring children along for treats that delight both young and old.
But if you’re exploring the broader area, their reputation for delectable baked goods makes it a worthwhile destination for anyone seeking quality.
Baia Coastal Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar
$$ | (443) 550-3516 | WEBSITE
Huntingtown has no shortage of restaurants with a lovely waterfront view, complete with attentive service, fantastic food, and flexible seating options that offer a real source of enjoyment at mealtime. But one cannot survive just on views. Enter Baia Coastal Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar. They bring a pleasant and clean coastal Italian energy featuring an impressive display of delicious dishes and desserts, combined with a large menu of knockout hits.
The seafood section includes impressive branzino, and the thin-crust, wood-fired Roma pizza, created and blasted on-site, with a satisfyingly chewy texture. Baia is great any time of day, but the real excitement is on the weekends when the bottomless mimosas kick in. Get here to celebrate a wedding reception, have a brunch with a group of friends, or simply spot your favourite Maryland influencer, influencing, whilst you drink wine from a glass.
We highly advise you to book ahead, especially if you want to join their legendary back dining deck gatherings in warmer months.
Pinky’s Eatery
$ | (443) 550-3203 | WEBSITE
In Huntingtown, barbecue and soul food joints come in one style and one style only: casual, by local standards. Pinky’s Eatery is another one of these spots, and our top pick for reliably impressive, high-quality comfort food. Their smoked brisket dinner and crispy fried chicken special are cooked with down-home perfection, and the menu was created with the help of a team of Southern-trained cooks.
For those not into fried food, their oyster po’ boy, tender ribs, and collard greens are a must-order. Since this welcoming, friendly spot is popular with families, every kind of hungry local, and out-of-towners looking for a delicious meal, be sure to come early for the picnic tables.
Chesapeake Market & Deli
$ | (410) 257-7757 | WEBSITE
With its classic American-style interior, convenient market section, and easy online ordering, Chesapeake Market & Deli would seamlessly fit in as a reliable neighborhood spot in any small town. Yet this market and restaurant doesn’t coast on only convenient looks. They have a solid menu that’s rather reasonably priced for its Mid-Atlantic location in Huntingtown, and a mix of classic American dishes that punch above average—think perfectly cooked fillet medallions and crispy sweet potato fries.
This spot is a great all-rounder for any occasion, whether that be quick solo lunches, casual family dinners, or big group orders that should always include grabbing some beer to go and enjoying the consistently friendly service.
Traders Seafood Steak & Ale
$$ | (301) 855-0766 | WEBSITE
The American obsession with prime rib needs to be scientifically studied. What also needs to be studied is how this seafood and steak restaurant does not play when it comes to flavor, especially on the steak side of the menu. Your food arrives piping hot, both temperature and quality-wise, but as the meal progresses, the seafood dishes keep delightfully impressing. The fried seafood platter is both generous in its portion size and bold in the fresh taste of the crab balls and fried oysters.
Classic dishes that you would find in any well-established seafood restaurant exceed expectations in this Huntingtown spot. We recommend the crab dip, lobster tails, and prime rib; the deeply flavorful crab & shrimp salad might be our new favorite salad of all time, and we bet Traders’ version will be yours too.
Butterflies & Wishes Tea & Sweets
$$ | (443) 646-6392 | WEBSITE
I usually raise an eyebrow at teahouses promising ‘exceptional experiences,’ especially since the cozy charm often feels forced. But the delightful Butterflies & Wishes Tea & Sweets, nestled in Chesapeake Beach, manages to deliver. They’re serving thoughtful flavor combinations that are genuinely charming and beautifully arranged treats.
You’ll find a delicate white tea with floral notes, a robust black tea paired with savory finger sandwiches, plus a must-try monthly themed offering like the June Strawberry Tea, to highlight a few of the standouts. There are no missteps to be made here—and dessert envy is inevitable. Add the warm, welcoming service and quaint yet inviting interiors, and you’re in for a delightful afternoon.
Lobby Coffee Bar & Cafe
$ | (410) 257-5662 | WEBSITE
Lobby Coffee Bar & Cafe is a local favorite spot, built with the coffee lovers, burger enthusiasts, and Huntingtown regulars in mind. It feels like you’re at a cozy neighborhood hangout where the baristas have come together to showcase their prize brews, and you’re the lucky guest who gets to fill your cup with all the goodies. They’re open every day, but if you visit in the morning, you’ll be welcomed by the aroma of fresh pastries before you’re shown to your table.
Give your coffee order then let loose with the menu, showcasing a variety of comforting dishes. You’ll want to fill your plate with the spectacular Battle Creek beef burger with Gouda, bacon, and BBQ, your favourite drink (we love the cold brew flights—where locally roasted beans are steeped in cold water for hours), plus some sweet potato fries, a lemonade, and then savor it all whilst chatting with friends.
MOD Pizza
$ | (443) 550-1007 | WEBSITE
MOD Pizza holds the unofficial honor of being the go-to spot in Huntingtown for anyone introducing people to customizable pizza—think personalized flatbread veggie pizza with Mike’s Hot Honey sauce, fresh ingredients, and delicious food—to name a few of the highlights. These standbys are served up in a modern yet cozy space with an almost scenic patio setting outside. It’s perfect for pretty much any occasion, but especially good for casual family meals or low-key solo visits.
Ledo Pizza
$ | (410) 257-1705 | WEBSITE
Sometimes, the hustle and bustle of Huntingtown can feel a bit much. If you’re looking for a spot that offers a quiet escape, Ledo Pizza—a reliable neighborhood pizza joint—provides some relief. Run by a team that clearly cares about service, Ledo serves up some of the best comfort food in the area. Zero in on the strombolis made with consistently good quality, and the chicken & artichoke fettuccine—the flavorful, generous portions will take the edge off your day.
Ledo also makes a delicious pizza with provolone, which is worth trying with an order of wings.
Hook & Vine – Kitchen and Bar
$$ | (443) 964-5488 | WEBSITE
If there’s a checklist for what makes a neighborhood spot “worth revisiting,” Hook & Vine ticks every box—plus, it offers reliably good food as a bonus. It’s a kitchen and bar in one, with warm, inviting decor and a comfortable, laid-back vibe (if you want to unwind with friends over solid drinks and bites, this is where to do it). The menu features classic American fare with some delightful twists—the crispy fried green tomatoes and the rich, savory crab dip are standout starters.
But the food is here to complement the real draw: their consistently friendly, welcoming service. The best chicken strips, perfectly crispy and satisfying, are worth the visit alone, even if the timing of their arrival can sometimes test your patience.
