Top 5 Frederick Food & Drink Spots: A Local’s Guide
Okay, so you’re looking for the *really* good grub and drink places in Frederick, Maryland, huh? I get that, because like your average person, finding a genuinely amazing place around here can, at times, be almost like trying to find a specific grain of sand on the beach. The historic downtown is positively packed, just like any other self-respecting popular spot. Plus, the surrounding area boasts these totally cool hidden gems. It’s a situation where you basically want something great, and you want it now, right? Very well, here is my super personal list – the kind of list I’d hand over to a friend visiting for the weekend, so too it’s authentic. You know, none of that super touristy stuff. That is to say, places that locals legitimately love. Let’s get into it!
1. Brewer’s Alley: Where History Meets Hoppy Hour
First off, let’s kick things off with Brewer’s Alley. This isn’t simply a brewpub; I want you to think of it more like a Frederick landmark with a pint. Very! Nestled in the heart of downtown, Brewer’s Alley calls a historic building home; I mean the building is neat in itself, very steeped in Frederick’s past. Is that ever interesting? In the warmer months, anyway, snag a seat on the patio; it’s absolutely fabulous for watching people go by as you toss back a flight. You may enjoy, like your average person, taking your time as you relax there!
The food? Think elevated pub fare. You may find, like your average person, that you appreciate this quality over a cheap vibe. It is that kind of location. The menu, very tasty by the way, changes every now and then, too, I want you to remember that! I feel like you want this detail.
What to order: Definitely start with the pretzel bites. Those almost make the visit worth it alone! For drinks, anyway, ask what’s fresh, because usually, usually there are seasonal beers worth trying. Is that amazing or what? They very often get creative, which is pretty neat!
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2. Volt: Fine Dining with a Side of Charm
Now, maybe you’re looking for something a touch fancier, just a touch! I want you to think of Volt. Is that what your thinking is? Is it fancy enough? Anyway, situated in a historic mansion, too, Volt is like a whole special event. It is amazing, no? I love that detail!
Chef Bryan Voltaggio really outdid himself with this place. I mean he is, as a matter of fact, somewhat of a local celebrity in the cooking kind of area! Anyway, the spot has got such an imaginative tasting menu; there is often an a la carte option; you choose whichever way that floats your boat. Also I might mention: the ambiance, you see, is amazing too. All very intimate, kind of classy. Makes it super perfect for special occasions, just slightly!
What to order: Is it not obvious, kind of? Go for the tasting menu! It’s kind of what they’re almost known for. And, too, maybe make sure to call way ahead to reserve. It often is fairly booked!
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3. The Wine Kitchen: Vino and Views
Speaking of amazing views, lets shift our focus slightly. Maybe, potentially, what you would almost desire would be the Wine Kitchen, alright? This one’s also in downtown Frederick, sitting fairly perched above Carroll Creek. It might even be your thing!
As the name suggests, they have got a huge assortment of wine; seriously there really might be one for every palate there, which I very love. You know? Also, I think it would almost be wise to remember, the menu has shared plates, and entrees, fairly seasonally inspired, you know? To be honest, this place almost becomes a go to for just meeting friends in an amazing and easy place; what more could you want?!
What to order: Look, if you like your whites, it probably would almost be wise to ask the server for a recommendation, cause’ you may or may not like my tastes. For the grub, really, try whatever small plate just looks incredible that particular day. I have never been let down yet!
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4. Firestone’s Culinary Tavern: Comfort Food, Elevated
Ok, so you would potentially want something sort of filling, just comforting, and I would say Firestone’s is just great. Anyway, its pretty much this classic tavern that also does a whole host of yummy updates on tried and true meals that we just love, and enjoy. They are amazing for this. As a matter of fact, Firestone’s feels inviting; a bit nostalgic too, actually, is that really the vibe? I think so, anyway! But what is more, the staff are basically very experienced in what the meal brings. It just almost adds this amazing and welcoming factor.
They have very classic sandwiches, too, and then the entrees. So, really there is quite a bit there to choose from; do not think you need to potentially limit yourself just due to my ramblings about all those yummy, tried and tested goodies!
What to order: I’d, personally, make the argument that you have to get the crab dip. That’s really what almost wins it here. Afterwards I like the Tavern Burger, which might be extremely simple, yet it very does just hits that perfect note for what I want at that moment!
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5. Frederick Social: A Smorgasbord of Flavors
To finish this list, alright? Lets’ just maybe make a pit stop to Frederick Social; I mean seriously they are, without a doubt, so unique. It may be one of my favorite spots, truthfully! So what is it almost you may ask? Good point. First thing you have to do is picture just your regular kinda’ food hall but maybe almost just a tad more up-beat. Secondly, add the craft beer taproom in the place; then a kinda gaming and common location, too. Yeah? Got that? Right. Well I’m not kidding. This is that location.
So many, tons to test from tons of vendors; just this crazy atmosphere for families, pals, you, me, really almost anyone!
What to order: Good grief. Whatever you could potentially just have a taste for! You could choose pizza, tacos, pho, sushi, sandwiches or anything you want; so really get out and stretch those wings! You almost won’t regret it. You just potentially can’t go amiss!
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Read our full review: Frederick Social Full Review and Details