Capital Region USA is home to a diverse food scene that is as deep as its historical roots.
From Maryland and Virginia’s rich farmlands to the abundant Chesapeake Bay, the region benefits from a varied natural larder that is celebrated in restaurants and eateries across both states, as well as the nation’s capital, Washington, DC – home to 24 Michelin-starred restaurants.
Local producers are at the heart of the region’s food scene, putting the flavour of the Capital Region into traditional recipes and world cuisines. With Maryland’s famous crab season underway, the brand-new Hatch Local Food Hall opening in Virginia and one of the world’s best brunch scenes in DC – there has never been a better time to embark on a food tour of the Capital Region. A selection of the best events and experiences can be found below.
Sample the authentic delights of the Crab and Oyster Trail in Maryland
The best way to savour Maryland and get an authentic flavour of the region is to explore its famous Crab and Oyster Trail – which features restaurants, seafood markets, tours and festivals. The Maryland crab 2022 season is officially in full swing, running right through to early December with peak season forecast for late summer and early autumn. The restaurants along the trail serve a whole host of traditional dishes, including Maryland steamed crabs, soft-shell crabs and/or local Maryland oysters – as well as Smith Island Cake, the official state dessert.
For more information on the trail, visit: visitmaryland.org/article/maryland-crab-oyster-trail
Visitors can really work up an appetite by embarking on a hook and cook experience by hopping on a fishing charter to catch some deliciously fresh seafood straight from the source. Catch a prize fish before enjoying some shoreside grilling to complete an authentic Maryland foodie adventure, just like the locals would do. Visit: www.visitmaryland.org/things-do/hook-and-cook-maryland-seafood-experiences
Enjoy food from award-winning local chefs at the new Hatch Local Food Hall – Richmond, Virginia
The Hatch Local Food Hall opened in Richmond earlier in 2022 and is the perfect one-stop destination to sample a range of culinary delights. The food hall features seven local vendors, selling world cuisines including seafood, Mexican dishes, buttermilk fried chicken and more. The line-up includes Odyssey Fish from award-winning Alewife chef Lee Gregory, and Buttermilk + Honey from Lillie Pearl owners Mike Lindsey and Kimberly Love-Lindsey.
The Hatch also has a coffee bar serving fresh drinks and smoothies, a full-service bar, and curated market. The outdoor dining and endless choice mean it is the perfect spot for breakfast, lunch, or dinner whatever the weather. Visit: hatchlocalfoodhall.com/
Explore multi-cultural brunch in a multi-cultural city – Washington, DC
It might be renowned for its rich history and political significance, but if there is one thing Washington, DC is also famous for – it’s brunch. Whether visitors are looking for somewhere with great food, bottomless mimosas, a fun theme, or a bit of everything – Washington, DC’s vast array of brunch spots mean they won’t have far to look.
For those wanting a true foodie experience, visitors should head to the lively 14th Street for a stop at Spanish-influenced Estadio. Other mouth-watering options include Cork’s delicious small plates or the homemade pop tarts at the always-packed Ted’s Bulletin. For the mimosa-minded, Richard Sandoval’s El Centro offers a deal with bottomless mimosas and an endless supply of delicious tapas while Provision No. 14 offers an abundance of hand-crafted cocktails to try.
For a full list of DC brunch spots, visit: washington.org/visit-dc/where-find-best-brunch-washington-dc
Some of the best restaurants to sample across the Capital Region
Patty O’s – Washington, Virginia
Experience European-style cafe charm across the Atlantic at Patty O’s in Washington, Virginia. Patty O’s is a former gas station transformed into a charming cafe offering reimagined versions of classic American dishes by Michelin-starred chef Patrick O’Connell. Situated across the road from O’Connell’s Michelin three-starred Inn at Little Washington, Patty O’s is a must-visit for foodie fans. Visit: pattyoscafe.com/
The New Hickory Restaurant at Nicewonder Farm and Vineyards – Bristol
Nicewonder Farm & Vineyards new restaurant Hickory is fronted by acclaimed Chef Travis Milton. Having opened in Bristol in late 2021, the restaurant has already cemented itself as a must-eat spot. The menu is inspired by Milton’s Appalachian heritage, culture, and traditions, and uses locally sourced produce to create some of the freshest and most unique flavours. Visit: nicewonderfarm.com/hickory
Albi – Washington, DC
Albi is the proud recipient of a new-for-2022 Michelin star, located in Washington, DC’s Navy Yard. A celebration of Middle Eastern cuisine and culture, chef Michael Rafidi combines the flavours of his Palestinian heritage with some of the best and freshest local produce from the Capital Region. A roaring hearth is the centrepiece of this atmospheric restaurant with plenty of à la carte or prix-fixe menu options. Visit: www.albidc.com/
Immigrant Food + – Washington, DC
Located on the lower level of the new Planet Word Museum, Immigrant Food+ celebrates the American story with global cuisine from award-winning Chef Enrique Limardo and a group of “gastroadvocacy” pioneers. The restaurant offers a casual immigrant-inspired menu during the day of grab-and-go fusion bowls and sandwiches, and transitions to an upscale dinner experience at night featuring food prepared with ingredients from around the world. The bar serves global cocktails and wines from South Africa and the Balkans. Visit: immigrantfood.com/
Firestone’s Culinary Tavern – Frederick, Maryland
Enjoy some casual elegance in this historic tavern which along the Maryland Crab and Oyster Trail. The atmosphere in this 1920-era building that once served as a department store is warm and friendly. Mezzanine seating provides views of the activity on Market Street, serving the finest seafood – as well as deliciously traditional US dishes. Visit: firestonesrestaurant.com/
The Crab Claw – St. Michaels, Maryland
Take in the stunning views of Chesapeake Bay and tuck into some award-winning crab cakes at another famous restaurant along the Maryland Crab and Oyster Trail. The Crab Claw is a family-run restaurant and St. Michaels’ landmark where visitors can sit and watch the watermen deliver their fresh catches of the day almost straight to the table. Visit: thecrabclaw.com/
Embark on a culinary tour of the Capital Region – DC, Virginia and Maryland from £1,798pp
Embark on your own foodie tour of the Capital Region and stop off at all the best culinary locations with this package from the North America Travel Service. Spend three nights in DC at the Fairmont Georgetown, before heading on to Richmond for a night, followed by a night in Bristol and finally two nights at the Chesapeake Bay Resort in Maryland. Includes direct British Airways flights from Heathrow to Washington Dulles and seven days car rental with all-inclusive insurance. From £1,789pp based on two adults sharing and departure on select dates from 1 September 2022.
For more information and to book, visit: northamericatravelservice.co.uk/ or call 0333 323 9099.
For more information about Capital Region USA, please visit: capitalregionusa.org/.
