Do you ever get stumped with the ‘where should we go for dinner’ debate? We’re here to help! There are so many unique and delicious restaurants to try in the area so we’ve updated our list of the best Rockville restaurants, varying in both cuisine and cost. Whether you love brunch, barbecue, or bistros, you’re sure to find somewhere new to try on this list.
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Here is our ultimate guide to Rockville restaurants, updated for 2023. Or if you are looking for a quick find, click here for a summarized list.
Best for Dinner or Date Night
Clyde's Tower Oaks Lodge
$$ - $$$
Serving: Brunch, Lunch, Happy Hour, Dinner, Late Night
Reservations available
Located: 2 Preserve Pkwy, Rockville, MD 20852 
Clyde’s Tower Oaks Lodge is a unique addition to the Clyde’s family of restaurants. Tucked away along a wooded parkway, firefly lights guide patrons both to the front door as well as to their tables, with an atmosphere inspired by a rugged, outdoor log & stone cabin theme.
The lodge itself creates a cozy ambiance alongside a seasonal menu that includes ever-changing, classic American dishes. Known for their locally-sourced and sustainable ingredients, Clyde’s has a reputation for fresh fare, friendly people, and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Fontina Grille
$$
Serving: Brunch, Lunch, Dinner, Happy Hour
Reservations available
Located: 801 Pleasant Drive, Rockville, MD 20850
Located in the heart of King Farm Village, this Italian restaurant has everything from wood-fired pizza to fresh shrimp scampi on their extensive menu. It is consistently ranked among Rockville's top restaurants. Fontina Grille not only has lunch and dinner options, but a brunch menu that is served every Sunday from 11:30am-2pm. Their happy hour is served from 3-6pm on Sunday-Thursday. It includes discounted appetizers and drinks at the bar.
The ambience of Fontina Grille is perfect for any date night, special occasion, or even just a casual night out with family and friends.
Akira Ramen & Izakaya
$$
Serving: Lunch, Dinner
Located: 1800 Rockville Pike, Unit H1, Rockville, MD 20852
Ramen lovers rejoice! Inspired by the eclectic flavors of Japan, Akira Ramen & Izakaya brings traditional Japanese fare to Rockville. With an open kitchen and friendly atmosphere, patrons can enjoy their favorite Japanese dishes in a comfortable and welcoming setting. Throughout the extensive menu, guests can choose from a variety of dishes, featuring homemade noodles. They have a sizable sushi list as well. Since it opened, this local spot has quickly become a destination for those in the D.C. metro area.
IL Pizzico
$$
Serving: Lunch, Dinner
Reservations available
Located: 15209 Frederick Rd., Rockville, MD 20850
Consistently ranked a top restaurant in Rockville, this neighborhood Italian restaurant is a favorite dining destination among many. Alongside a chef-inspired, authentic Italian menu featuring a variety of meat, seafood, and homemade pasta choices, guests can choose from an extensive wine list to find the perfect pairing for each dish. The elegant yet casual setting makes this local spot ideal for a dinner date or night out with friends.
Mykonos Grill
$$
Serving: Lunch, Dinner
Reservations available
Located: 121 Congressional Ln., Rockville, MD 20852
Voted one of the Best 10 Greek Restaurants in Washington DC on TripSavvy and one of the 10 Best Restaurants in Montgomery County by The Culture Trip, this beloved Greek restaurant pairs traditional Greek specialties with beautiful interiors inspired by the look and feel of the Mediterranean. Offering a seasonal menu, guests can enjoy this tranquil setting while tasting classically inspired favorites and delicacies. Mykanos Grill is also known for it's beautiful outdoor seating, so be sure to check it out in the spring or summer for the ultimate Mediterranean feel!
Stanford Grill
$$ - $$$
Serving: Lunch, Dinner
Reservations available
Located: 2000 Tower Oaks Blvd, Rockville, MD 20852
This roomy, modern eatery is a Rockville resident favorite, featuring wood-grilled meats, fish, and American fare. With patios and fire pits, Stanford Grill is a casually elegant gathering spot for romantic dinner dates, family outings, and weekend brunch. It's no surprise they were voted one of the most romantic restaurants by Yelp with a live jazz trio playing nightly in the dining room.
Their expansive menu has something for everyone, including seafood enthusiasts and barbecue connoisseurs alike. Be sure to check out Stanford Grill for a perfect date night!
Matchbox
$$
Serving: Lunch, Brunch, Happy Hour, Dinner
Reservations available
Located: 1699 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD 20852
Known for their wood-fired pizzas, Matchbox is a D.C. area staple. Aside from their gourmet pizzas, guests can enjoy specialties like sliders, ribeye, pan-seared scallops and other chef-inspired entrees. The American bistro fare can be paired with upscale, signature cocktails, served in a warm, rustic setting. They also have an interactive children’s menu with crayons and games to keep the kids entertained.
Apart from their lunch and dinner menu, they serve a tasty brunch with both sweet and savory options every weekend from 10am – 3pm. They also have happy hour specials available on weekdays from 3pm – 6pm. With both indoor and outdoor seating, the Rockville location has become a favorite destination for lunch, dinner, brunch, and happy hour.
New EYA townhomes coming to Rockville, MD
Best for Happy Hour
Plaza Oaxaca
$$
Serving: Lunch, Happy Hour, Dinner
Reservations available
Located: 141 Gibbs St., Rockville, MD 20850
This fun dining destination specializes in authentic Mexican cuisine including mole Oaxaca, chile relleno, fajitas, and carne asada among many other dishes. They also feature margaritas and hand-crafted cocktails with a great happy selection every day from 4pm – 7pm.
In addition to the delicious menu, Plaza Oaxaca hosts live music and dance nights. The restaurant space features a large bar, outdoor patio area, and many TVs to watch all your favorite sporting events. Come here with friends or family for classic Mexican fare and a fun evening out!
Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant
$$ - $$$
Serving: Lunch, Happy Hour, Dinner
Reservations available
Located: 1403 Research Blvd., Rockville, MD 20850
This wine-centric restaurant, inspired by Napa Valley’s wine country, features a tasting room, full restaurant, bar, and even an artisanal market. The menu features a variety of entrees from pasta to seafood to steak, with gluten free and kids’ menu options available as well. Patrons will love the modern yet casual setting and can enjoy happy hour deals during the work week.
Happy hour runs every Monday – Friday from 2pm – 5pm, offering wine specialty drinks, wine by the glass, select cocktails, select appetizers and flatbreads.
World of Beer
$ - $$
Serving: Brunch, Lunch, Happy Hour, Dinner
Located: 196 E Montgomery Ave #B, Rockville, MD 20850
This casual chain takes on both the atmosphere and the offerings its name implies. With hundreds of beer selections available, diners can enjoy their favorite brew while watching the game on one of the flat screens above the bar, playing a game of trivia, or stopping by for happy hour.
Their happy hour includes both food and drink specials, every Monday – Friday from 3pm – 7pm. They also host a variety of events from bingo to watch parties and allow pups on the patio.
Taco Bamba
$ - $$
Serving: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Happy Hour
Located: 1627 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD 20852
Located in Congressional Plaza, Taco Bamba is a regional favorite specializing in gourmet tacos ranging from traditional combinations to unconventional signatures. Customers can come here for delicious tacos and other Mexican fare as well. They offer happy hour specials Monday - Friday from 3pm - 6pm. Margaritas, sangrias, and more are served for $5 during happy hour making it the perfect post-workday spot if your looking for a deal!
Botanero Restaurant
$$
Serving: Brunch, Lunch, Happy Hour, Dinner
Reservations available
Located: 800 Pleasant Dr #160, Rockville, MD 20850
This Spanish tapas restaurant has a fun, cozy neighborhood atmosphere. Serving classic, delicious small plates paired with signature cocktails, there’s always something new to try. With festive brunches, live music nights, and a wine bar, locals love to frequent Botanero.
While they serve brunch, lunch, and dinner, they also have great happy hour deals from 3pm – 6:30pm Tuesday through Friday at the bar and on the patio. Sangria, cocktail infusions, wines, beers, and select small plates and flatbreads are the perfect incentive to stop by after work.
Best for Casual Dining
Urban Hot Pot
$$
Serving: Lunch, Dinner
Reservations available
Located: 1800 Rockville Pike, H2, Rockville, MD 20852
This all-you-can-eat personal hot pot experience offers homestyle Chinese fare brought to you by a convenient and cool conveyor belt. This DIY style is rare in that the diners cook their own meats, veggies, shellfish, etc. in a rolling broth at the table. The overall food quality, casual style, and relaxed atmosphere are just a few reasons this local spot gets rave reviews from its patrons.
Mission BBQ
$ - $$
Serving: Lunch, Dinner
Located: 885 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD 20852
If you love barbeque classics like Texas-inspired brisket, slow smoked pulled pork, BAY-b-back ribs, mac-n-cheese, baked beans, and coleslaw, Mission BBQ is for you. Serving up all the American barbeque classics, Mission BBQ is a favorite for families, parties, and more. It is perfect for large families and get-togethers whether you are picking up a catering order or dining in. Their children’s menu is extensive and offers great, kid-friendly options.
Whether you sit inside or at one of the outdoor picnic tables, make sure to sample their signature sauces or try one of their region-specific special sauces.
A & J Restaurant
$
Serving: Lunch, Dinner
Located: 1319 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD 20852
Referred to as the "Best Dim Sum in the DC Area," this family-run institution is one of the best deals in town. Serving Northern Chinese and Taiwanese fare in a fast casual setting, diners love the fresh, homemade, authentic dishes ranging from juicy pork dumplings to spicy noodles and everything in between. Easy to pick up lunch to go or dine in, you’ll want to try this local spot next time you’re craving authentic Chinese.
Peter Chang Rockville
$$
Serving: Lunch, Dinner
Reservations available
Located: 20 A Maryland Ave., Rockville, MD 20850
Chef Peter Chang is known for his bold tastes and full-flavored dishes. For those looking to try something new, the extensive menu ranges from specialties like the scallion bubble pancakes and dragon eggplant to traditional Szechuan dishes with the chef’s own special twist. The menu offers a wide variety, including a kid’s menu with options for the younger crew. Complete with a warm and welcoming atmosphere, Peter Chang’s is an ideal spot for a casual night out with the family in Rockville.
Bombay Bistro
$$
Serving: Lunch & Dinner
Located: 98 W. Montgomery Ave., Rockville, MD 20850
This family owned and operated Indian restaurant has been serving the Rockville community for over 30 years. With a reputation for bold, flavorful, and authentic dishes, guests can enjoy selections from their diverse menu including curries, biriyani, dosas and more. Their comfortable atmosphere makes guests feel right at home while they dine.
Al Carbon
$
Serving: Lunch, Dinner
Located: 200 Park Rd., Rockville, MD 20850
This casual family-run restaurant serves a variety of Mexican & Latin American fare from tacos and ceviche to natural juice drinks like mango and maracuya. If you love arepas, you’ll love Al Carbon. Their relaxed and cozy atmosphere invites guests to stay as long as they’d like.
Grill Kabob
$ - $$
Serving: Lunch, Dinner
Located: 1409 Research Blvd., Rockville, MD 20850
Grill Kabob offers traditional Afghan food with a unique twist. Their menu features a delicious variety of made-to-order kabobs and other authentic specialties all marinated and grilled to perfection. Family-owned and operated, Grill Kabob is a quick, easy, and satisfying spot for lunch and dinner.
Best for Brunch & Breakfast
Founding Farmers
$$
Serving: Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Dinner, Happy Hour
Reservations available
Located: 12505 Park Potomac Ave., Potomac, MD 20854 
While the address may be down the road in Potomac, we couldn't leave this delicious spot out of the best brunch section. Voted one of OpenTable’s 100 Best Brunch Restaurants in America, Founding Farmers serves a mix of all-American and farmhouse classics alongside their own innovative creations. From biscuits and gravy to meatloaf and brisket, their vast menu has something for everyone. Their Happy Hour menu, served Monday-Friday from 3:30-6:00pm, boasts amazing prices and southern small bites such as brie farm bread and fried green tomatoes.
The atmosphere mimics their mission, with a warm, welcoming aesthetic, from unique light fixtures to original artwork and quirky sculptures. Their outdoor patio is the perfect setting for spring and summer dining. Founding Farmer’s is great for a date night, family brunch, or just grabbing a quick bite to eat with friends!
Mosaic Cuisine
$$
Serving: Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Happy Hour, Dinner
Reservations available
Located: 186 Halpine Rd., Rockville, MD 20852
This Modern French Restaurant offers a unique twist on French cuisine with a café-style atmosphere. Despite their French roots, their menu is an eclectic mix from around the world, including favorite classics from Belgium, Italy, and even the U.S. Rockville residents rave about their sweet & savory brunch, served from 10am until 6pm, offering waffle french toast, mango & brie waffles, quiche lorraine and more.
First Watch
$
Serving: Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch
Located: 100 Gibbs St. Unit D, Rockville, MD 20850
Fresh, friendly, and fast are the pillars of First Watch’s philosophy. Everything is made-to-order and they pride themselves on using the finest local ingredients possible. Voted Top Family Dining Restaurant by Consumer Reports, they serve a variety of breakfast and lunch options from classic omelets and French toast to superfood bowls and sandwiches.
Silver Diner
$-$$
Serving: Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch
Located: 12276 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD 20852
This family favorite’s flagship location and headquarters resides in Rockville, MD. Silver Diner has been a staple in the Washington, D.C. area since 1989. It is decorated to resemble a vintage diner featuring classic red booths and retro neon lighting. Their all-day breakfast and brunch offer a variety of staples such as french toast and pancakes, as well as healthier flexitarian menu items.
Not only do they serve an all-day breakfast but are open until 12am on weeknights and 2am on weekends, making it perfect for a late-night bite to eat. Also, don’t forget to try one of their iconic hand-spun milkshakes!
NEW: Best for International Flavors
La Canela
$$
Serving: Lunch, Dinner
Reservations available
Located: 141 Gibbs St D, Rockville, MD 20850
This family-owned restaurant is serving authentic Peruvian cuisine right in Rockville’s Town Square. They have been in business for over 20 years, remaining a Rockville favorite. La Canela was opened with the goal of sharing Peruvian flavors and culture with the community.
Customers can enjoy their menu of classic Peruvian dishes such as ceviche and Seco de Cabrito, a lamb dish that is braised for 10 hours. And don’t miss out on La Canela’s take on a classic tres leches cake, the “Tortas Tres Leches.” It is a fan-favorite!
Gyuzo Japanese BBQ
$$-$$$
Serving: Lunch, Dinner
Reservations available
Located: 33 Maryland Ave Unit B, Rockville, MD 20850
Gyuzo is traditional Japanese BBQ restaurant with a modern twist. It is also Maryland’s first Japanese BBQ spot, "serving the finest Wagyu." Located right in Rockville’s Town Square, this spot is great if you are craving Japanese flavors and has an extensive menu featuring a sushi list, wagyu dishes, noodles, specialty cocktails and more. Gyuzo also has a list of set course menus for groups ranging from 2-3 and 4-6.
El Mercat Bar de Tapas
$$
Serving: Brunch, Happy Hour, Dinner
Reservations available
Located: 101 Gibbs St. Unit C, Rockville, MD 20850
El Mercat is a Spanish tapas restaurant opened by Chef George Rodrigues in Rockville Town Center. The restaurant serves weekend brunch, daily happy hour from 3-6 pm, and dinner. Chef Rodrigues has been praised for his cooking style and has competed on various Food Network shows such as Chopped and Beat Bobby Flay.
The menu is mostly shareable plates, or “tapas,” making El Mercat the perfect spot for a night with family or friends when you are wanting a taste of Spain. They also have various paellas and main plates. Don’t miss out on their bottomless brunch drink deals on Saturdays and Sundays!
Nosh Grill House & Karaoke
$-$$
Serving: Dinner
Reservations available
Located: 12 N. Washington St, Rockville, MD 20850
Nosh Grill House & Karaoke is not your typical Chinese restaurant. This dinner and karaoke spot is the perfect place for a fun night out in Rockville. The menu is inspired by Northern Chinese cuisine along with influences from Japan, Korea, and Russia. Their bar menu is very extensive, featuring specialty Asian cocktails and draft beer. If you are looking for a unique dining and entertainment experience, be sure to check this place out. Don’t forget to pick out your favorite karaoke song before making a reservation!
Cava Mezze
$-$$
Serving: Brunch, Lunch, Happy Hour, Dinner
Reservations available
Located: 9713 Traville Gateway Dr, Rockville, MD 20850
Cava Mezze is an authentic Greek restaurant serving delicious Mediterranean fare in Shady Grove. It was started by a group of three friends that grew up in Greek households. Their parents’ cooking inspired the menu and flavors of Cava Mezze.
The menu includes a “brunch mania” choice for larger parties that offers discounted beverages and food items. Cava Mezze also has a lunch and dinner menu serving shared plates of dips, cheeses, skewers, and more. This restaurant is a Mediterranean-enthusiast’s perfect spot!
At-a-Glance Summary:
Dinner or Date Night:
Happy Hour Deals:
Casual Dining:
- Urban Hot Pot
- Mission BBQ
- A & J Restaurant
- Peter Chang Rockville
- Bombay Bistro
- Al Carbon
- Grill Kabob
Breakfast and Brunch:
Perfect for Family:
Wallet-Friendly:
Outdoor Seating:
- Mykonos Grill
- World of Beer
- Founding Farmers
- Stanford Grill
- Fontina Grille
- Botanero
- Silver Diner
- Mission BBQ
- Clyde’s
- Matchbox
International Flavors:
- Akira Ramen & Izakaya
- IL Pizzico
- Mykonos Grill
- Plaza Oaxaca
- Taco Bamba
- Urban Hot Pot
- A & J Restaurant
- Peter Chang Rockville
- Bombay Bistro
- Al Carbon
- Grill Kabob
- Mosaic Cuisine
- Cava Mezze
- La Canela
- El Mercat Bar de Tapas
- Gyuzo Japanese BBQ
- Nosh Grill House & Karaoke
Now that you've found a few restaurants to try, it's time to plan the rest of your weekend in Rockville. To get you started, take this fun and quick quiz to find where to go and what to do in the area based on your favorite activities. Click here to take the quiz.
*Some photos are for reference only and may not represent the exact food or location. Information provided is subject to change without notice.
** Price ranges: Approximate and average price for one meal: $= under $10, $$= $11-$30, $$$= $31 & up. Subject to change, tax and tip not included in approximation.
