Comfort Foods in the Mid-Atlantic

(Mid-Atlantic Region, February 4, 2022)- There is a time and place for healthy foods, but sometimes carbs and comfort just hit the spot. Destinations across Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia boast an impressive variety of restaurants that offer the most indulgent and comforting dishes. Dig into this list of hearty offerings across the Mid-Atlantic Region.

For more information on any of the following, contact the destination marketing organization listed below. For general information on the Mid-Atlantic, visit MATPRA.org

DELAWARE

Greater Wilmington and the Brandywine Valley
Though it may be cold outside, romance abounds inside the cozily warm oasis of Longwood Gardens’ grand Conservatory. Follow the garden visit up with a Provence-influenced meal at the equally romantic Le Cavalier in the historic HOTEL DU PONT. Then, see a show at the just-refurbished Playhouse on Rodney Square, the oldest theater continually on the Broadway touring circuit. There’s nothing like a steaming bowl of chicken soup. Some of the best around is at Rosenfeld’s Delicatessen. Craving the comfort foods of turkey day? The Bobbie at Capriotti’s is Thanksgiving on a sub roll. Retro diner Sterling Grille has a menu full of comfort-centric dishes. Or pick up some Walt’s Flavor Crisp Chicken, and try to guess the secret ingredients.Greater Wilmington Convention and Visitors Bureau, Jennifer Boes, VisitWilmingtonDE.com, [email protected]

MARYLAND

Allegany
Top-notch bakers and baristas have come together on the Mountain Side of Maryland to introduce a new gourmet food and beverage trail in the destination. Stops along the new Donut and Coffee Trail will have you falling in love with both the sweet and bold sides of Allegany County! Allegany County, The Mountain Side of Maryland, Mindy Bianca, MDMountainSide.com, [email protected]

Annapolis & Anne Arundel
Nothing says love like comfort foods and the warm satisfying feeling they can add to any day! Enjoy your favorites at a host of restaurants including Iron Rooster, Miss Shirley’s, Galway Bay, Luna Blu, Willy’s Kitchen, Ashling Kitchen and Bar, Evelyn’s, Vin 909, and Davis’ Pub, to name a few. Visit Annapolis & Anne Arundel County, Susan Seifried, VisitAnnapolis.org, [email protected]

Baltimore
Nothing beats the comfort of a big bowl of soup. And in Baltimore we do soup with our favorite versatile crustacean: crab. Whether it’s the tomato-based Maryland Crab Soup or a luscious Cream of Crab (both spiced with local specialty Old Bay Seasoning), each spoonful is like a warm hug. Visit Baltimore, Tracey Johnson, Baltimore.org, [email protected] 

Calvert
Whatever your go-to comfort food is, there’s surely a food truck in Calvert County, Maryland to satisfy all your cravings! From hot, fresh beignets, to thick and rich cream of crab soup topped with fresh crab right out of the bay, to an icy snowball that reminds you of your childhood! Calvert County Department of Economic Development, Hilary Dailey, ChooseCalvert.com, [email protected] 

Charles
If comfort food is what you crave, look no further than the variety of offerings in Charles County. From Chicken Fried Steak with mashed potatoes and Braised Pork Shank with sweet potato risotto to Fried Seafood Platters and French fries and sweet treats galore, there are tons of hearty home cooking inspired dishes waiting to be explored! Charles County Government, Department of Recreation, Parks, & Tourism, Maggie Boyden, ExploreCharlesCounty.com, [email protected] 

Hagerstown
In the mood for comfort food? The Schmankerl Stube Bavarian Restaurant in Hagerstown will not disappoint with their Knusperige Schweinshaxe – Pork Shank served  with Rahmsauce. Served with homemade sunflower bread and authentic German brews. It doesn’t get more comforting than this, and must be ordered 24 hours in advance. Visit Hagerstown, Betsy DeVore, VisitHagerstown.com, [email protected] 

Harford
From juicy burgers to Italian dishes, Harford County knows comfort food. The Abbey Burger offers exotic meats like camel or kangaroo to locally farmed Roseda dry aged black angus. Add a spiked shake! Not your average pizza joint, Acapella Italian Restaurant cooks up fresh Italian dishes like Penne con Pesto. Visit Harford, Mindy Schneider, VisitHarford.com, [email protected]

Kent
When temperatures dip, nothing satisfies like a good, home-cooked meal made with locally sourced ingredients. Relish grass-fed beef over hearty mash, sample oyster stew filled with local veggies, or delight in a mounding bowl of gumbo. You’ll find a family-friendly atmosphere paired with hometown hospitality. Start your culinary journey in Kent County, MD! Kent County Tourism, MD, Jana Carter, KentCounty.com, [email protected] 

Maryland (State)
Maryland’s ultimate comfort food consists of 7-10 pancake-thin layers of yellow cake lovingly wrapped in rich chocolate icing. Declared our Official State Dessert in 2008, Smith Island Cake went from a hyper-local confection to an international sensation and is now found on restaurant menus across Maryland. Pass the fork please! Maryland Office of Tourism, Connie Spindler, VisitMaryland.org, [email protected]

Talbot
The cold weather signals oyster season in Talbot County! Whether Rockefeller-style, in an Oyster Pot Pie, or raw with a dash of hot sauce, this Eastern Shore comfort food comes fresh from the Chesapeake Bay. Plan your own oyster-based culinary tour by clicking “Oyster Trail” on our website’s “Eat” page. Talbot County Office of Economic Development and Tourism, Krista Boothby, TourTalbot.org, [email protected]

PENNSYLVANIA

Allegheny National Forest Region
Warm up with the offerings of Table 105, Taproom & Eatery. Sink your teeth into the comfort of an Artisan Flatbread Grilled Cheese with a cup of Tomato Bisque or a Battered Haddock Sammie with a local craft IPW. Dessert-a dreamy chocolate mousse. Allegheny National Forest Visitors Bureau, Linda Devlin, VisitANF.com, [email protected]

Bradford
With a fantastic menu brimming with popular American favorites like Cheesesteaks, Fish Fry, Burgers, Steaks and Wraps, the historic Wyalusing Hotel is a place to indulge your taste buds! The elegant dining room and rustic country barn-style bar serve a diverse menu seven days a week. Bradford County Tourism Promotion Agency, Morgan Christopher, VisitBradfordCounty.com, [email protected] 

Columbia-Montour
Let’s be honest – comfort food can really be any type of food that makes you feel good! Whether you’re looking for a hearty Pennsylvania Dutch meal or a warm, spicy curry, you’ll find plenty of options in Columbia & Montour Counties: Italian, Mexican, Chinese, Thai, Indian, American, and more. Columbia-Montour Visitors Bureau, Linda Sones, ITourColumbiaMontour.com, [email protected] 

Endless Mountains of Northeastern Pennsylvania
After hiking nearby trails or a day on the slopes, head to nearby Bingham’s Restaurant for the area’s premier homemade pies and bakers, and authentic freshly made American favorites like pot pies.  This family restaurant known for their incredible desserts has served everyone from tour groups to Presidents at their restaurant! Endless Mountains Visitors Bureau, Morgan Christopher, EndlessMountains.org, [email protected] 

Lancaster
When it comes to comfort food staples of Lancaster County’s PA Dutch heritage, you can’t go wrong with a delicious bowl of chicken corn soup at the iconic Bird-in-Hand Family Restaurant & Smorgasbord. Discover Lancaster, Joel Cliff, DiscoverLancaster.com, [email protected] 

Laurel Highlands
Brought to the Laurel Highlands by Eastern European immigrants, pierogies have become a staple on tables throughout the region. These dumplings can be bought ready-made or enjoyed at local restaurants where they’re fried fresh to order. Variations include potato and cheese, sweet cabbage, sweet potato, sauerkraut, cheddar and jalapeno pierogies. GO Laurel Highlands, Anna Weltz, GOLaurelHighlands.com, [email protected] 

Lawrence
Visit Lawrence County is excited to announce the 2022 Craft Burger Trail. Fifteen local restaurants all with unique burgers – you have one goal, devour your way through the trail! Experience unique and delicious burgers and there is a vegetarian version that defies the taste buds. Visit Lawrence County, Ginny Jacob, VisitLawrenceCounty.com, [email protected]  

Lehigh Valley
Hand-dipped chocolates, pastries, local wine, burritos, and more can be found at the Easton Public Market which is open year-round. Mark your calendars for PA Bacon Fest (11/5-11/6) where 100+ vendors line Easton with delicious unique bacon treats, live music, and family-fun activities all weekend long. Discover Lehigh Valley, Alicia Quinn, DiscoverLehighValley.com, [email protected] 

Potter-Tioga
Pretzel pieces and other ingredients go into the delicious bark that is the signature creation of Highland Chocolates.  Throughout the year the delectable confections made by the differently-abled workers draw visitors from far and wide to learn about this wonderful business and delight in the sweet creations the team creates. Visit Potter-Tioga, Morgan Christopher, VisitPotterTioga.com, [email protected] 

Raystown
Allow us to direct your taste buds on a delicious excursion through the unique dining delights of the Raystown Lake Region of Pennsylvania! From casual fare in an upscale setting to down home diners, taverns, quaint cafes & food trucks – you’re sure to enjoy a culinary cruise through Huntingdon County. Huntingdon County Visitors Bureau, Liza Gutshall, Raystown.org, [email protected]

VIRGINIA

Giles
Perched on a hilltop, tucked into Giles County, one finds the most special hidden treasure, The Bad Apple. This sheep barn turned speakeasy destination dining experience is the place for craft Virginia cocktails and lively atmosphere. To indulge in the utmost comfort, order the Shrimp and Grits with a Gimlet. Giles County, VA Tourism, Cora Gnegy, VirginiasMtnPlayground.com, [email protected] 

Hampton
Follow the flavor to Charlotte’s Cafeteria! The cafeteria-style restaurant is the perfect place to visit when you’re craving delicious Southern comfort cuisine. It features a carving station, specialty salads, enjoyable entrees, signature sides, and delectable desserts. Welcome to Charlotte’s! Leave as friends, return as family. Hampton Convention and Visitor Bureau, Leslie Baker, VisitHampton.com, [email protected] 

Harrisonburg
On a chilly winter’s day curl up with a grilled cheese sandwich from Grilled Cheese Mania. This Harrisonburg, VA restaurant started as a very popular food truck. Select from over two dozen mouth-watering grilled cheese varieties including gluten free and vegan options and 6 dipping sauces for the perfect indulgence. Harrisonburg Tourism & Visitors Services, Jennifer Bell, VisitHarrisonburgVA.com, [email protected] 

Loudoun
Loudoun is famous for farm-to-fork dining, but we love our comfort fare too. BBQ crowd pleasers Monk’s, Schmidt’s and Carolina Bros deliver succulent smoked ribs, brisket and mac ‘n’ cheese, while trendy Senor Ramon Taqueria brings a hearty Virginia twist to burritos and tacos. Don’t miss burgers and fries at popular roadside market Roots 657. Visit Loudoun, Jen Sigal, VisitLoudoun.org, [email protected] 

Norfolk
Spend your chilly days at our comfort food restaurants! Indulge in authentic ramen at Alkaline, made-from-scratch soups and rosemary biscuits at The Stockpot Norfolk. Warm up with the spices of Indian Chaat street food at Tamarind or enjoy a gourmet grilled cheese sandwich at Grilled Cheese Bistro. Visit Norfolk, Nicole Nussbaum, VisitNorfolk.com, [email protected] 

Richmond
The Richmond region’s brand new Buttermilk and Honey is the place for fried chicken sandwiches! Chef Mike Lindsey’s menu features a variety of chicken sandwiches, Southern sides and decadent desserts. A Buttermilk and Honey outpost will be at the brand new Hatch Local Food Hall in early 2022. Visit Richmond VA, Meghan Gearino, VisitRichmondVA.com, [email protected] 

Shenandoah
Family owned & operated Southern Kitchen has been serving home-style recipes for over 65 years. Step back in time and get comfy with your family in a corner booth. Friendly staff will serve up the best fried chicken, hand-cut steaks, barbeque and homemade pies in the region. Visit Shenandoah, Brenda Black, VisitShenandoahCounty.com, [email protected] 

Stafford
Experience southern comfort and scratch-made delights in Northern Virginia with Stafford’s local restaurants. Indulge yourself with a beer at 6 Bears & A Goat Brewing Company, or experience Mediterranean flavors at Potomac Point Winery by savoring bites in their unique dining experiences. No matter the meal, get comfortable in Stafford. Tour Stafford Virginia, Courtney Swenson, TourStaffordVA.com, [email protected] 

Staunton
Staunton’s restaurant scene is lively with an eclectic vibe. All kinds of dining establishments co-exist cheerfully. Whether it’s southern-style comfort food from Kathy’s Restaurant, grilled cheese goodness from Yelping Dog or warm savory and sweet croissants from Reunion Bakery; you’ll find it right here in Staunton, VA. Staunton, VA, Jessica Williams, VisitStaunton.com, [email protected] 

Virginia’s Blue Ridge
Located minutes from I-81 in Salem, Virginia, Gina’s Food with Flavor is located in a historic home that is the perfect setting for a restaurant featuring comfort food. The menu includes Southern classics like fried chicken, catfish, pork chops, salisbury steak and other daily specials. Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge, Taylor Spellman, VisitVBR.com, [email protected]

Williamsburg
Parallel to Williamsburg’s reputation as a colonial town, you’ll find restaurateurs who are passionate about their craft and boosting the city’s profile as an East Coast destination for food. Williamsburg is home to a new wave of culinary types dreaming up dishes that will excite serious gourmands and foodies alike. Visit Williamsburg, VA, Miranda Jarrell, VisitWilliamsburg.com, [email protected]

 

Take a look at even more images from across the Mid-Atlantic. Please be sure to provide photo credit to the appropriate DMO.

 

ABOUT THE MID-ATLANTIC TOURISM PUBLIC RELATIONS ALLIANCE

The Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance (MATPRA) is a cohesive unit of regional tourism partners encompassing Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C. The group serves travel journalists by creating a regional resource that ignores geographical boundaries to better promote common threads, offering story ideas about the Mid-Atlantic region as a whole. For more information, visit MATPRA.org.