The 20 Best Restaurants in Halethorpe

Guinness Open Gate Brewery combines an expansive brewery setting with a full-service taproom restaurant. Guests enjoy a wide range of experimental and classic brews alongside hearty, well-prepared pub-style dishes such as burgers. Multiple floors, indoor seating, and lawn areas create a lively yet comfortable atmosphere, supported by attentive, efficient service.

Ms. Desserts is a bakery and café offering cakes, donuts, cookies, pastries, and freshly baked breads, including custom-designed celebration cakes. Guests can stop in for breakfast or lunch, with sandwiches prepared on house-made bread and a selection of beverages. The counter-service setup is straightforward, with plenty of seating and generally quick service. This spot suits both a casual meal and a visit to pick up baked goods to go.

Ice Cream Cottage is a nostalgic ice cream parlor serving Hershey’s hard ice cream, soft serve, and a wide range of traditional treats from sundaes and shakes to snowballs and banana splits. A small selection of lunch items, occasional outdoor barbecue, and ice cream cakes round out the menu. Friendly service, indoor tables, outdoor seating, and porch-style rocking chairs create a casual, family-friendly setting that often buzzes with activity in warm weather.

Boardwalk Fries and Burgers specializes in made-to-order burgers, including beef and turkey options that guests can customize with a wide range of toppings. Patties are described as juicy and cooked to order, with both single and double versions available. Hand-cut fries cooked in peanut oil, often enjoyed with cider vinegar, are a highlight. The setting suits a relaxed, quick meal for individuals or families.

Paul's Restaurant offers classic American diner fare in a clean, welcoming space with a counter, stools, booths, and tables. Guests appreciate promptly served, hot breakfasts and satisfying daily specials such as hearty soups and fried sandwiches. Housemade pies and cakes, including a noted lemon meringue, provide a nostalgic finish to the meal.

Coolahan's Pub is a small neighborhood bar offering classic bar food and a solid selection of beers. Steamed shrimp and made-to-order sandwiches are noted for their satisfying flavors. A pool table, dart board, and weekend entertainment add to the laid-back, local feel, drawing a friendly, working-class crowd.

DePaola's Pub is a classic neighborhood spot known for hearty American comfort food and generous portions. Guests highlight flavorful grilled burgers, including a notable turkey burger, along with specialties like chicken pot pie and boardwalk-style fries. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, with friendly staff and a hometown feel. A separate room is available for group gatherings and events.

Fish Head Cantina & Rockin' Sushi Bar offers a broad menu that ranges from sushi and salads to wings, quesadillas, and other bar favorites. Guests highlight flavorful appetizers such as crab dip and crispy wings, along with a selection of refreshing mixed drinks. Multi-level indoor and outdoor seating, music, pool tables, and occasional concerts create an energetic, laid-back atmosphere.

Oak Creek Cafe is a casual neighborhood tavern serving eclectic American comfort food. Guests mention hearty sandwiches, seafood specialties like corn-crab fritters, and Creole-inspired dishes such as jambalaya. The space is described as clean and thoughtfully decorated, with attentive, personable service enhancing the relaxed pub-style atmosphere.

Bakery Express combines a full-service bakery with a casual breakfast and lunch deli inside an industrial-style building. Guests find an array of baked goods, from doughnuts and cookies to pies and decorated cakes for special occasions, alongside made-to-order sandwiches and breakfast items. Counter service and ample seating create a straightforward, bustling atmosphere supported by consistently pleasant staff.

Shannon's Pub & Grille offers hearty American pub favorites, from chicken Parmesan over pasta to Maryland-style crab cakes and burgers. Televised sports and regular specials create an energetic, social atmosphere. Attentive servers and skilled bartenders contribute to the welcoming, comfortable feel of this local gathering spot.

Park Avenue Cafe II is a casual deli-style spot in an office building, serving classic American breakfast and lunch favorites. The menu features a wide range of made-from-scratch dishes, from omelets and hash browns to hearty subs. Guests appreciate the clean space, quick service, and the welcoming staff who get to know returning customers.