Yelp’s Top 25 Places to eat is a list unlike any other “best of” out there. Sure, you’ll see your obvious local favorites on the list, but it’s also chock full of hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path joints like Z&Z Manouche Bakery tucked away in the Woodley Gardens neighborhood in Rockville. From fine dining to shawarma food trucks — find them all in Yelp’s Top 25 Places to Eat in the MD Burbs.
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Topping this year’s best Top 25 places to eat list is Gardenia’s Cafe, a family run business in Gaithersburg that is run by the four members of the Ortega family. They use clean, all natural ingredients to craft some of their favorite dishes they like to eat at their own home and serve it out to Yelpers who can’t stop giving it 5 stars.
Pro tip: You’re going to want to make a note of these spots, so we made it easy for you. For great businesses at your fingertips, get the Top 25 to-go. Follow this collection on Yelp.
1. Gardenia’s Cafe (Gaithersburg)
Cuisine: American with Latin influence
What they’re known for: All day breakfast, fresh baked goods, and an incredibly friendly and welcoming staff
Yelpers say: ” From the sincere smile and greetings when you walk in, to the vibrant colors and cozy seating for maybe 20 people, this is a quaint neighborhood spot to get breakfast (all day), lunch, and dinner. They have a small collection of baked desserts, breads….all made in house. They are proud of the fresh ingredients in all their dishes and especially their alkaline water. On first visit, we tried and loved their beef pasteles and Cajun style pasta shells with chicken. We also tried their gluten free chocolate chip cookies and coffee tres leche cake….again all made in house. Must check this little hidden gem.” – Jocelyn A.
2. Z&Z (Rockville)
Cuisine: Middle Eastern, Mediterranean
What they’re known for: Their made to order manouches (Lebanese style flatbreads), housemade spices which they sell in store, and fresh bold flavors.
Yelpers Say: “Beyond a neighborhood staple and into what should be known as a culinary destination. If you are a flatbread zealot, Z&Z takes the concept and localizes middle eastern flavor producing a sensational, flavorful experience that is fulfilling physically as it is emotionally. I ordered the Hot Halaby Honey as recommended by the makers. The sausage’s dryness feeds well into the richness of the cheeses. The crust is crisp and delicate, even in the middle just as I like it. The spice and sweetness is balanced, and the heat is not too overwhelming but teasing.” – Arlouwe S.
3. Analia’s Cafe (Frederick)
Cuisine: Greek
What they’re known for: Traditional Greek favorites at reasonable prices and generous portions
Yelpers say: “My wife and I each ordered a platter – she got chicken souvlaki and I got the Greek platter… The meat was perfectly cooked and super flavorful. I am a very discerning salad person and theirs was on point. We got a side order of hummus so now we have pita for days. Portions were huge, I’m a human garbage disposal and still couldn’t finish it all.”
4. Talia’s Cuzina (Kensington)
Cuisine: Mediterranean
What they’re known for: 7-hour braised lamb that they use in wraps and sliders and an extensive catering program
Yelpers Say: “Absolutely delicious. We bombarded this place with 16 of us, taking up almost every seat inside the restaurant , but they quickly responded and provided excellent food in a short amount of time. All of the food was absolutely delicious, but our favorite dishes were the Greek tacos, rice bowl with brisket, mushroom ravioli, and chopped salad. But the Lamb sliders were our absolute favorite, the perfect combination of flavors that exploded in your mouth. Wow! I can’t recommend this place highly enough.” – Brenda S.
5. Gyuzo Japanese BBQ (Rockville)
Cuisine: BBQ, Ramen, Seafood
What they’re known for: High quality cuts of meats that can be cooked via a grill set into each table, in addition to their Japanese curry rice.
Yelpers Say: “The meat was very fresh, great selection and they even had some vegetarian options to grill. This is where I fell in love with grilled King Oyster mushrooms. Who knew? Their appetizers were all really tasty (I especially love their chicken karaage) and I thought the sauces that came with the meats were spot on. Definitely such a delightful addition to the Rockville area and I hope they’re here to stay!” – Lianne Z.
6. Kabob BQ (Waldorf)
7. 2Fifty Texas BBQ (Riverdale Park)
8. 168 Asian Burrito (Olney)
9. Thai Meric Eatery and Bar (Frederick)
10. Regina’s Restaurant (Wheaton)
11. Spizzy (Camp Springs)
12. Ema Rossi Pizzeria Napoletana (Rockville)
13. Gemelli’s Italian Market (Gaithersburg)
14. BLT Grill (Gaithersburg)
15. Hummus Mediterranean Grill (Hagerstown)
16. KENAKI Sushi Counter (Gaithersburg)
17. Choong Man Chicken (Germantown)
18. St. Veg (Rockville)
19. Jasmine (Ijamsville)
20. Slider Rider Food Truck (Gaithersburg)
21. Dalia’s falafel (Kensington)
22. Bollywood Masala Indian Restaurant (La Plata)
23. Pho Tai 63 (Bladensburg)
24. Rik’s Cafe (Hagerstown)
25. Trattoria Da Lina (Takoma Park)
Methodology: This is an all-time list of the Top Places to Eat in the MD Burbs area according to Yelp. We identified businesses in the restaurant category on Yelp, then ranked those spots using a number of factors, including the total volume and ratings of reviews. This list looked at businesses in and around the MD Burbs area. All businesses were marked open on Yelp as of June 28, 2022. When available, all businesses on this list have a passing health score as of June 28, 2022.
