Restaurant Week is here (August 11–24), and what better time to round up the best eats in our beloved HoCo? Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking to dodge your kitchen for a few days, these local gems serve up unforgettable flavors, cozy vibes, and serious reasons to dine out. From sizzling street food to candlelit comfort, here's where you should be making reservations, or just showing up hungry.
GrillMarx Steakhouse & Raw Bar
Address: 10175 Little Patuxent Parkway, Columbia, MD 21044
Website: gmxcolumbia.com
Cost: $$$
Synopsis: Upscale American dining brought to Columbia—order hand‑cut steaks, raw bar favorites, and burgers grilled just right. Great for celebratory dinners or grown‑up date night with a welcoming, polished vibe.
The Food Market
Address: 10480 Little Patuxent Pkwy, Columbia, MD 21044
Website: the-food-market.com
Cost: $$–$$$
Synopsis: Comfort food elevated with flair—think duck‑fat fries, short rib stroganoff, soft pretzels with beer cheese. Chef‑driven, creative, playful—you’ll leave full and grinning.
Glenwood’s (Stanford Grill)
Address: 8900 Stanford Boulevard, Columbia, MD 21045
Website: glenwoodsdining.com
Cost: $$$
Synopsis: Warm wood‑fired flavors meet live jazz ambiance. Famous for ribs, cornbread, and wine‑glass sunsets on the patio. Elegant without stuffy—a North Star for reliably delicious evenings.
Ananda
Address: 7421 Maple Lawn Blvd, Fulton, MD 20759
Website: anandarestaurant.net
Cost: $$$$
Synopsis: Elevated Indian with fairytale charm—lit fireplaces, lush courtyard, farm‑to‑table sourcing. Expect impeccable lamb chops, craft cocktails, and décor that makes the whole meal feel like an event.
Dok Khao Thai Eatery
Address: 6000 Merriweather Dr Suite B155, Columbia, MD 21044
Website: dokkhao.com
Cost: $$
Synopsis: Street‑food‑meets‑art. Bold Thai flavors, sleek modern interior, and standout dishes like drunken noodles and crispy duck curry. Cocktails are just as photo‑ready—and equally tasty.
Peter Chang
Address: 6000 Merriweather Dr Suite B175, Columbia, MD 21044
Website: peterchangcolumbia.com
Cost: $$
Synopsis: Szechuan done right. Think numbing spice, soup‑filled dumplings, crispy eggplant, and bold flavors. Perfect for anyone ready to graduate from mall‑food to something deeply authentic.
Walker’s Tap & Table
Address: 2465 MD-97, Glenwood, MD 21738
Website: eatatwalkers.com
Average Cost: $$
Synopsis: Where small-town charm meets big flavor. Burgers are hefty, the beer list is local, and the live music makes it feel like Friday every night.
Plus One Worth the Drive
The Point Crab House & Grill (Arnold, MD)
Address: 700 Mill Creek Rd, Arnold, MD 21012
Website: thepointcrabhouse.com
Average Cost: $$
Synopsis: Crab cakes, cold beer, and marina views so pretty you’ll forget you still have to drive home. Summer lives here year-round.
Whether you're savoring smoky tandoori at Ananda or diving into duck fat fries at The Food Market, Howard County’s got flavor for days. These seven spots are just the start—so use Restaurant Week as your excuse to explore, indulge, and maybe find your new favorite. Your taste buds (and local chefs) will thank you.
