Nestled in the heart of Baltimore, Federal Hill is a vibrant neighborhood with a rich history and a diverse food scene. From classic Southern comfort food to fresh seafood, Italian cuisine, and more, there’s no shortage of delicious options to explore. Whether you’re a local looking for your new favorite spot or a visitor eager to sample the best of the area’s cuisine, our guide to the top 10 Federal Hill restaurants you must try is here to help. So grab a friend or two, come hungry, and get ready to explore the flavors of Federal Hill!

1. Matsuri

In Business Since:

Matsuri first opened its doors in 1996 and has since become a popular spot for sushi and other Japanese cuisine.

Types of Cuisine:

The restaurant serves a variety of traditional Japanese dishes, including sushi, sashimi, tempura, udon noodles, and more. They also offer a range of sake and other Japanese drinks.

Hours:

Matsuri is open seven days a week, with lunch hours from 11:30am to 2:30pm and dinner hours from 5pm to 9pm.

Address:

Matsuri is located at 1105 S Charles St, Baltimore, MD 21230.

Best Food Items:

Matsuri is known for its fresh and flavorful sushi, with popular items including the Spicy Tuna Roll, Yellowtail Roll, and Matsuri Roll. The restaurant also serves a delicious ramen noodle soup and its signature dish, the Matsuri Chicken.

The Good:

One of the standout features of Matsuri is its cozy and intimate atmosphere. The restaurant has a traditional Japanese design with a wooden interior, paper lanterns, and a sushi bar. The staff is also known for their friendly and attentive service, making for a pleasant dining experience.

The Bad:

Some customers have reported long wait times during peak hours, and the restaurant can get crowded on weekends. Additionally, street parking can be challenging in the area.

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Interesting Fact:

Matsuri has been featured in several local and national publications, including The Baltimore Sun and The Washington Post. The restaurant has also won multiple awards for its sushi and Japanese cuisine.

2. The Local Oyster

In Business Since:

2015

Type of cuisine:

Seafood

Hours:

Monday-Thursday: 12:00pm-9:00pm

Friday-Saturday: 11:00am-10:00pm

Sunday: 11:00am-9:00pm

Address:

520 Park Ave, Baltimore, MD 21201

Average spending per person:

$15-$25

Best food items:

Rotating selection of local and regional oysters

Crab cakes

Lobster roll

The Good:

The Local Oyster offers fresh and delicious seafood, with a focus on local and sustainable ingredients. The rotating selection of oysters is a highlight, and the friendly service and casual atmosphere make it a great spot for a casual lunch or dinner.

The Bad:

The small size of the restaurant can make it crowded and noisy during peak hours, and the prices can be a bit high for some diners. You can also know about Baltimore Comedy Festival

Interesting Fact:

The Local Oyster started as a mobile oyster bar, serving fresh oysters at farmers markets and festivals before opening a brick-and-mortar location in Baltimore’s Mount Vernon neighborhood.

3. Thai Arroy

In Business Since:

2011

Type of cuisine:

Thai

Hours:

Monday-Thursday: 11:00am-9:30pm

Friday: 11:00am-10:00pm

Saturday: 12:00pm-10:00pm

Sunday: 12:00pm-9:00pm

Address: 1019 Light St, Baltimore, MD 21230

Average spending per person:

$15-$25

Best food items:

Pad Thai

Drunken Noodles

Massaman Curry

The Good:

Thai Arroy is a popular spot in Federal Hill for its authentic Thai cuisine and affordable prices. The restaurant’s friendly and welcoming atmosphere make it a great spot for a casual lunch or dinner with friends or family.

The Bad:

Some diners have reported slow service during peak hours, and the restaurant can get quite crowded and noisy on weekends.

Interesting Fact:

Thai Arroy is family-owned and operated, and the menu features a range of classic Thai dishes made with fresh and authentic ingredients. The restaurant also offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options to cater to different dietary needs.

4. Crossbar

In Business Since:

2014

Type of cuisine:

German-inspired cuisine

Hours:

Monday-Thursday: 4:00pm-12:00am

Friday-Saturday: 11:00am-2:00am

Sunday: 10:00am-12:00am

Address: 18 E Cross St, Baltimore, MD 21230

Average spending per person:

$20-$30

Best food items:

Soft pretzels with beer cheese

Schnitzel sandwich

Bratwurst platter

The Good:

Crossbar offers a cozy, lively atmosphere with plenty of German-inspired dishes and a wide selection of beer on tap. The soft pretzels with beer cheese are a must-try, and the indoor and outdoor seating options make it a great choice for any season.

The Bad:

Some diners have reported slow service during peak hours, and the noise level can be high on weekends.

Interesting Fact:

Crossbar is owned and operated by a family of German immigrants who wanted to bring a taste of their home country to Baltimore. The restaurant’s cozy interior is inspired by traditional German beer halls, with plenty of communal seating and rustic decor.

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5. Baba’s Mediterranean Kitchen

In Business Since:

2010

Type of cuisine:

Mediterranean

Hours:

Monday-Friday: 11:00am-9:00pm

Saturday: 11:00am-10:00pm

Sunday: 11:00am-8:00pm

Address: 745 E Fort Ave, Baltimore, MD 21230

Average spending per person:

$15-$25

Best food items:

Baba ghanoush

Chicken shawarma wrap

Falafel platter

For more menu options, please check out the official website here.

The Good:

Baba’s Mediterranean Kitchen offers fresh and flavorful Mediterranean cuisine in a casual and friendly atmosphere. The restaurant’s homemade dips and spreads, including the popular baba ghanoush, are a highlight, and the affordable prices make it a great spot for a quick lunch or dinner.

The Bad:

The small size of the restaurant can make it crowded and noisy during peak hours, and the service can be slow at times.

Interesting Fact:

Baba’s Mediterranean Kitchen is a family-owned and operated restaurant that started as a small food stand at the Fell’s Point Farmers Market. The menu is inspired by the owners’ Lebanese and Syrian heritage, with a focus on fresh and healthy ingredients.

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