When it comes to unearthing culinary treasures, Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives never disappoints. From coast to coast, the show has spotlighted countless eateries that might otherwise remain under the radar. Maryland, with its rich culinary heritage and eclectic food scene, is no exception.
Whether you’re a local or a traveler, these 12 Maryland restaurants featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives are absolute must-visits. Join us as we dive into the flavors, stories, and mouth-watering dishes that put these spots on the map. Get ready to embark on a delicious journey through Maryland’s hidden gems that will leave your taste buds begging for more!
The Smoking Swine
In the heart of Baltimore, MD, The Smoking Swine food truck, run by Drew Pumphrey, is a haven for smoked meat lovers. This mobile eatery has garnered a fanatic following, thanks in part to standout items like The Carolina sandwich—featuring boneless pork butt with a brown sugar dry rub, smoked to perfection over 12 hours, and drenched in spicy barbecue sauce. Toss in a topping of homemade chipotle slaw, and you’ve got a dish that will leave you craving more. Guy Fieri’s endorsement makes this truck a bucket-list stop for fans of Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives.
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Miss Shirley’s Cafe
Miss Shirley’s Cafe at 513 W Cold Spring Ln, Baltimore is a must-visit for fans of Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives. Known for its Southern-inspired menu, this cafe serves up crowd-pleasers like the Southern Slammer Sandwich with fried green tomato, bacon, avocado, cheddar, and a fried egg on pumpernickel. Another standout is the Crab Happy Chesapeake Chicken Sammy, featuring lump crab cakes and chicken sausage on an English muffin. With a legacy upheld by Eddie Dopkin’s son, David, Miss Shirley’s Café offers a taste of Southern comfort that will leave you craving more.
DiPasquale’s Italian Marketplace
A Baltimore institution since 1914, DiPasquale’s Italian Marketplace at 3700 Gough St is famous for its authentic Italian sandwiches and groceries. Highlights include the Real Italian sub and pressed panini stuffed with mortadella and roasted peppers. Highly acclaimed on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, their arancini impressed Guy Fieri, who called it a “winner-winner rice ball dinner.” Visitors can also enjoy homemade bread, mozzarella, and cannoli, making it a go-to spot for everything Italian.
Swallow at the Hollow
Situated at 5921 York Rd., Baltimore, Swallow at the Hollow is a beloved dive bar known for its exceptional food. The standout dish? Their Honey Ghost wings, which feature a fiery ghost pepper sauce that’s surprisingly well-balanced with sweetness. Guy Fieri hesitated but ultimately praised the wings on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives. If you’re a fan of bold flavors and a bit of heat, this is the place to be.
Johnny Rad’s Pizzeria Tavern
Johnny Rad’s Pizzeria Tavern, located at 2108 Eastern Ave., Baltimore, offers a unique punk rock dining experience. Famous for their Trainwreck pizza, which combines mushrooms, spinach, olives, and fresh mozzarella, this pizzeria caters to both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. Featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, their menu also includes vegan chili, hush puppies, and delectable fried risotto balls. With its edgy vibe and delicious offerings, Johnny Rad’s is a standout spot in Baltimore’s dining scene.
Jimmy’s Famous Seafood
Located at 6526 Holabird Ave, Baltimore, Jimmy’s Famous Seafood is renowned for its legendary crab cakes, hailed by Guy Fieri as “95 percent crab, 5 percent binding.” These colossal crab cakes are packed with fresh Maryland lump blue-crab meat and are a must-try. Another standout dish is the massive Seafood UFO, featuring oversized slices of bread stuffed with crab cakes, crab-studded mac and cheese balls, fried shrimp, fried oysters, and shrimp salad. For fans of Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, Jimmy’s Famous Seafood is a seafood lover’s paradise.
Sláinte Irish Pub and Restaurant
Located in Historic Fells Point at 1700 Thames St., Baltimore, Sláinte Irish Pub and Restaurant offers a unique blend of traditional Irish pub fare with a Baltimore twist. Renowned for their seafood gumbo packed with shrimp, crayfish, and Maryland blue crab, this pub is a must-visit for seafood lovers. Chef Chris Marquis adds his own flair by reinventing classic corned beef into a hearty bibimbap with a Korean twist. Fans of Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives will appreciate the creative fusion of flavors and vibrant atmosphere.
Grano Pasta Bar
Grano Pasta Bar, nestled at 1031 W 36th St in Baltimore’s vibrant Hampden neighborhood, is a must-visit for pasta aficionados. Famed for their handmade ravioli filled with mushrooms and cheeses, and their flavorful tagliolini pasta with baby clams, this tiny gem offers a rich, earthy dining experience. Fans of Diners, Drive-ins and Dives will remember Guy Fieri’s enthusiastic praise for these dishes. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Grano Pasta Bar promises a delightful culinary journey that leaves your taste buds celebrating.
Stoney Creek Inn
Stoney Creek Inn, located at 8238 Fort Smallwood Rd. in Greenland Beach, MD, is a haven for seafood lovers. Fans of Diners, Drive-ins and Dives may recall Guy Fieri raving about their exceptional Maryland crab feast and delicious crab cakes. Known for its hands-on dining experience, this crab shack also delights with deep-fried crab, cream of crab, and crab toast. If you’re ready to enjoy some of Maryland’s finest seafood, Stoney Creek Inn offers a memorable and flavorful adventure.
G&A Restaurant
G&A Restaurant, located at 3802 Eastern Avenue in Baltimore, MD, is the go-to spot for authentic Coney Island-style hot dogs. Owned by Andy Farantos, this eatery has garnered acclaim for its Coney Island chili sauce, a “crazy meat concoction” praised by Guy Fieri on Diners, Drive-ins and Dives. The sauce, a flavorful mix of ground beef, chili powder, celery salt, and secret spices, elevates their famous Coney dogs and burgers. If you’re looking for a unique and delicious dining experience, G&A Restaurant is a must-visit.
Broadway Diner
Broadway Diner, located at 6501 Eastern Ave in Baltimore, MD, is a family-owned gem famous for its delicious food and generous portions. Featured on Diners, Drive-ins and Dives, Guy Fieri praised their Broadway Festival, calling it a “seafood buffet for 90.” He was equally impressed by their Potato Crust Salmon, describing it as “one of the coolest things I’ve ever seen on Triple D.” If you’re looking for a memorable meal, Broadway Diner’s eclectic menu, including Hungarian Goulash and Shrimp Creole, won’t disappoint.
Brick Oven Pizza
Brick Oven Pizza, located at 800 S Broadway in Baltimore, MD, stands out for its innovative and mouth-watering pizza toppings. Featured on Diners, Drive-ins and Dives, owner Mike Beckner offers unique creations like mac and cheese or shrimp pizza. Guy Fieri especially praised their cheesesteak pizza, calling it “up there with the best.” For those seeking an adventurous and delicious pizza experience, Brick Oven Pizza is a must-visit.