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The 10 Highest Rated Restaurants in Frederick MD in 2022

by ClueIQ Team | Jan 25, 2022 | Frederick MD

These are the best places for dining out in Frederick.

Frederick is one of the top tourist destinations in Maryland for history lovers, adventurers, and foodies.

Thousands of visitors drop by each year to experience the culture and local cuisine. This has led to an influx of eateries from street-side vendors to opulent restaurants, serving up a delicious fare.

If you’ve recently moved to Frederick or plan on visiting soon, here’s everything you must know to explore the food scene like a connoisseur.

Top 10 Must-Visit Restaurants in Frederick in 2022

Let the adventure begin!

Dutch’s Daughter
The Orchard Restaurant
Black Hog BBQ
Jojo’s Restaurant & Tap House
Thacher & Rye
Brewer’s Alley
Mezeh Mediterranean Grill
Manalu Italian Restaurant
The Wine Kitchen on the Creek
Mayta’s Peruvian Cuisine

Dutch’s Daughter

Dutch’s Daughter has been an integral part of Frederick’s culinary scenery since 1984.

The restaurant was initially located in the VFW Country Club before moving to its current location in 2000.

Dutch’s Daughter offers a premium and opulent ambiance perfect for celebrations.

It’s among the top venues in Frederick County for celebrating birthdays, parties, weddings, and other occasions.

You must try the Dynamite Shrimp, the Hot and Spicy Shrimp, Grilled Tenderloin Steak with Mushroom, Cheese, and Onion with Bonus Fries on the side.

Other must-tries include the Grilled Chicken Chesapeake and the Oyster Sandwich.

The Orchard Restaurant

Residents of Frederick County have been enjoying freshly prepared food items at The Orchard for the past thirty years.

Located in the city’s heart, this restaurant is within walking distance of the National Museum of Civil War Medicine.

The Orchard is one of the highest-rated restaurants in town and is especially popular for its vegetarian preparations.

The chef prepares homemade dishes with a local twist. And all the ingredients are locally-sourced and organic.

Must-try preparations include Crispy Southwest Chicken stuffed with jack cheese, cilantro salsa, red onion, avocado and remoulade, and Mediterranean stir fry.

While vegans love gluten-free, organic rice and vegetables.

Black Hog BBQ

Established in 2007, Black Hog BBQ prepares several unique styles of smoked beef.

Patrons consider the restaurant the best BBQ in Maryland for its savory and tasty offerings. Every dish is prepared from scratch, ensuring the best taste.

The wooden interiors accentuate the casual ambiance. And it’s the perfect setting for family outings and dining out with friends since the menu will please hardcore foodies.

Visitors must try the Texas Beef Brisket and the Arkansas Brisket. Patrons recommend ordering a platter for a heavier meal.

You can add buffalo-style chicken wings with ranch dressing with every order, along with other popular side dishes like mac and cheese.

Sweet potatoes are an excellent option for satiating your sweet tooth.

Black Hog BBQ is a household name in Frederick, and the chain has two more stores across Maryland.

Jojo’s Restaurant & Tap House

Known for serving the best food, excellent music, and an overall great time in Frederick, Jojo’s Restaurant & Tap House is an ideal place to hang out.

Apart from the daily specials, the restaurant also has twenty-six varieties of craft beer on tap.

Guests can enjoy a live performance while sipping on a cold brew with close friends.

A semi-private dining room offers privacy while accentuating the casual vibe.

Try their signature Grilled Salmon and Scallop Risotto.

Pasta lovers will not regret ordering pesto pasta.

Daily specials like maple-grilled pork chop are a delicacy.

Wait for the specials menu to be up before placing your order.

Thacher & Rye

Formerly VOLT, Thacher & Rye is chef Bryan Voltaggio’s brainchild.

Despite being one of the newest entrants in Frederick’s culinary scene, the restaurant has already impressed all those who’ve dropped by.

Chef Voltaggio was always known for using fresh ingredients, and Thacher & Rye is no exception.

The swanky décor accentuates the casual theme, further enhancing the dining experience.

The multi-course offerings at lunch are the restaurant’s biggest draw.

The seafood tower followed by the meaty rigatoni pasta highlights the meal.

The ribeye and hanger steak are the ideal entrée, while sticky toffee cake is the perfect dessert.

Brewer’s Alley

Founded in 1996, Brewer’s Alley is Frederick’s first brewpub.

If you’re looking for an authentic local dining or pubbing experience, nothing beats this colorful joint.

Patrons love the American-style cuisine, a large selection of ales, and a well-rounded menu.

The wooden interiors of Brewer’s Alley further accentuate the old-school feel.

You must try the original Alley burger stuffed with onion rings, tomato, and lettuce. Other fan favorites include Pete’s Pulled Pork Burger.

The meat is smoked for over 12 hours for that perfect taste and texture.

The spicy IPA shrimp pasta is another popular delicacy here.

You must order some Kolsch or Indian pale ale to wash the food down.

Mezeh Mediterranean Grill

Originally from northern Virginia, Mezeh Mediterranean Grill was founded in 2013.

It has expanded to over three dozen locations across the USA in states like North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Virginia.

If you’ve always wanted to taste Mediterranean cuisine, Mezeh offers the perfect dining experience. It’s one of Frederick’s best restaurants and offers a calm and relaxing dining experience.

You can place custom orders here, and the chef prepares your meal from scratch using fresh ingredients.

Try the bowl filled with greens and basmati rice and add the spicy chicken shawarma or kebab for a meal.

Add the Turkish salad, spicy feta dip, or Lebanese tabouleh on the side.

Manalu Italian Restaurant

Founded in 2014, Manalu Italian Restaurant is a family-owned business serving authentic Italian delicacies.

It’s a favorite haunt for the locals who love the food and the flair. The patrons also love the stocked bar here.

Start your meal with the crunchy calamari fritters and dip it in marinara for an extra kick.

You must also try the baked baby shrimp with Italian herbs and the Gamberi Gratinati. Manalu also serves classic Italian dishes like puttanesca alongside pasta with marinara sauce, anchovies, capers, black olives, and garlic.

For more spice, you can add Arrabbiata to a dish.

We recommend adding a Margherita pizza to your order for an authentic Italian meal.

The Wine Kitchen on the Creek

Established in 2011, The Wine Kitchen on the Creek serves patrons who love wine and dine.

This casual bar is one of the best places to drop by with friends at the end of a hectic week. The menu includes a dozen beers, 40 wines, and a long list of classic cocktails.

The Wine Kitchen on the Creek locally sources its beef from the Rosenda Angus Beef Ranch. So, the food is always fresh.

The Sunday special menu includes cornmeal pancakes with fresh whipped cream.

You could also order fresh oysters any time of the day.

Must-try items on the menu include the Hangover Helper, a delicious open-faced wagyu burger, and the classic steak and eggs.

Their ecstatic experience cocktail is a cult classic and will leave you wanting.

Mayta’s Peruvian Cuisine

Mayta’s Peruvian Cuisine has been serving the taste of South America in the heart of Maryland since 2016.

The restaurant is the go-to place for the locals during weekends and occasions. And the pocket pinch isn’t extravagant.

If you want to enjoy global cuisine without going broke, Mayta’s is the place to be.

Savor the flavorful dishes originating in Peru or pick from the fusion menu. Their Chinese-style seafood paella is a must-try.

You should experience the fresh scallions and seafood in fried rice tossed with Peruvian soy sauce.

Don’t miss the Ceviche seafood marinated in fresh lime juice for an authentic Peruvian taste.

What Are Your Plans This Weekend?

Frederick’s culinary culture flawlessly infuses global flavors to give the local tastebuds a fresh kick every time.

So, if you’re visiting Frederick this year, drop by the places above for the best local experience.

If you’d like to turn your daylong sojourn into a fun, family-friendly daycation, drop by Clue IQ escape rooms for an immersive gaming experience.

We specialize in crafting bespoke family-friendly experiences. Drop in with your squad and spend the next 60-minutes fighting crime and escaping trouble.

If you enjoyed reading this blog and would love to read more, visit our blogs page for more such interesting content.

We’ve got exciting blogs for first-time players and escape room enthusiasts.

You should definitely check out the top things to do in Frederick if you’re visiting for the first time.

If you like this post, let us know in the comments below. For queries, get in touch today!

Top 10 Places to Visit Near Green Valley MD in 2022

by ClueIQ Team | Jan 20, 2022 | Green Valley MD

Ready to explore Maryland’s hidden gems?

Green Valley, MD, is one of the prettiest towns in Frederick County and a must-visit if you enjoy exploring the countryside.

With just over 12,000 people, this quaint town is surrounded by major cities.

While Frederick is a stone’s throw to the west, Washington DC and Baltimore are a few hours to the south and east, respectively.

The town is close to several fascinating tourist attractions.

And these are our top recommendations if you’re ever looking for things to do near Green Valley.

The 10 Best Places to Visit Near Green Valley, MD

How many of these are on your 2022 travel bucket list?

Catoctin Mountains
Cunningham Falls State Park
Schifferstadt Architectural Museum
Clue IQ Escape Room
Crystal Grottoes Caverns
Monocacy National Battlefield
Weinberg Center for the Arts
Barbara Fritchie House
Hootch & Banter
Hessian Barracks

Catoctin Mountains

An integral part of the Appalachian Mountain range, the Catoctin Mountains form the easternmost section of the Blue Ridge Mountain.

The area offers excellent views of the surrounding landscape and boasts a massive flora and fauna population.

Owens Green Campground is a cozy nook perfect for camping with a close group of friends, family, or a date.

You could also organize a picnic on a sunny spring day, go hiking, or explore the scenic trails on a bike.

There’s a lot to explore out here. So, drop by the Visitor Center and research the facilities for the best experience.

via GIPHY

Cunningham Falls State Park

Famous for outdoor activities like swimming, fishing, hiking, and canoeing, Cunningham Falls State Park is a nature lover’s delight!

The best time to visit the park is between April and October, when the water level is higher.

Cunningham Falls State Park is split into two distinct regions, the William Houck Area and the Manor Area.

While the falls, lake, and camping spots fall in the William Houck Area, the Scales and Tales Aviary and the historic Catoctin Iron Furnace are part of the Manor Area.

The hiking trails range from short steep climbs to long, winding paths.

Swimming is permitted on a few stretches of Huntington Creek Lake, while hunting is allowed throughout the land.

Schifferstadt Architectural Museum

Perhaps the best remaining example of German colonial architecture in the USA, Schifferstadt Architectural Museum, is a stone house constructed in 1758.

The building features several fascinating and distinctive architectural elements from the era and is one of the first houses in Frederick.

You can learn more about the history and whereabouts of Frederick’s early settlers here.

Don’t forget to take a stroll around the Heritage Garden, a square kitchen garden adjacent to the house, which a dedicated Master Gardner maintains along with a group of enthusiastic volunteers.

Clue IQ Escape Room

Escape rooms are an excellent source of pure adrenaline rush.

If you’ve never played an escape game before, let’s change that on your next visit to Green Valley.

Clue IQ, the best escape room in Frederick, is located a stone’s throw from Green Valley. So, gather your squad and drop in for some heart-racing adventure.

Pick your favorite escape room game from our vast list of challenges and test your limits in a controlled environment before time runs out.

Escape IQ has plenty of novel puzzles to keep you busy.

So, what are you waiting for? Book your slots now!

Crystal Grottoes Caverns

This exotic cave network has the most rock formations per square foot. It’s also the only cave in Maryland open to the public.

Crystal Grottoes Caverns abound in vast columns of drape-like stalactites, and the guides explain each exhibit in great detail.

Each tour is approximately 30-minutes long. And certain sections of the cave can take a bit longer to explore as they get relatively narrow in parts.

Certain areas are barely 4 feet tall. So, you might have to crouch to avoid hitting your head on the cave walls.

Monocacy National Battlefield

The site of the legendary Battle of Monocacy, this place prevented the siege on Washington during the Civil War.

The museum is spread over 1500 acres of land and exhibits several memorabilia and buildings reminiscent of the era.

Monocacy National Battlefield sits on the banks of River Monocacy and is right on the borders of Frederick.

The staff here are accommodating and will help you plan an educational and inspiring trip upon your visit.

Weinberg Center for the Arts

The hub of performing arts in Frederick, Weinberg Center for the Arts is a historic movie palace from the early 90s.

The venue hosts several professional musicals, dances, theatre performances, and family entertainment throughout the year.

The season typically starts from September and continues till May of the following year.

Apart from enjoying a live show, visitors can also join a free tour of the property to get a feel for the backstage.

Free tours are hosted weekly and last between 45 minutes to an hour.

A professional guide leads the group and occasionally spills exciting secrets about the iconic venue.

Barbara Fritchie House

The iconic house of Barbara Fritchie, the heroine of John Greenleaf Whittier’s poem, is a must-visit.

While this used to be a museum between 1927 and 2018, the place is currently an Airbnb, meaning you can stay here for the night.

The owners did a great job of offering patrons the latest amenities while preserving the authentic charm of the place.

The highlights of your stay include authentic Barbara Fritchie memorabilia, heirlooms, and antiques.

The house is a must-visit when in Green Valley.

Hootch & Banter

Despite opening its doors to the public only in 2015, Hootch & Banter has attained cult status in Frederick County.

Located in the historic South Market Street building known locally as The Canal Bar & Grille or Kidd’s Café, this magnificent restaurant breathes life into the area.

Guests will love the casual atmosphere combined with upscale food.

An enlarged photo of the Kidd family hangs on the restaurant’s central wall celebrating the venue’s history.

The menu includes a fine selection of wine, liquor, and cocktails, while the food emphasizes fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

Hessian Barracks

A historic barracks and school building built during the French and Indian war, the Hessian Barracks and School was occupied by British General Edward Braddock.

There is further proof that the area was later used as a prison.

The history is long and exciting. From a state armory to a hospital and later as a silkworm farm, the barracks served several purposes over the years.

The Hessian Barracks was used as the Agricultural Fairgrounds and the Maryland Institute for the Deaf.

However, it has been officially listed as a historic place since 1971.

Are You Ready for an Epic Vacation?

If you’ve never been to Green Valley, MD, there are several fascinating places to explore nearby.

Here’s an interesting blog on the top twelve things to do in Damascus. We have plenty more on our blogs page.

If you like this blog and find it informative, let us know in the comments section below.

If you have suggestions for us, contact us. We’d love to hear your feedback!

10 Amazing Things to do in Mount Airy MD in 2022

by ClueIQ Team | Jan 15, 2022 | Mount Airy MD

Here’s everything you need to live the country life and explore some of Maryland’s prettiest counties like a local.

Sandwiched between Frederick and Carroll counties is picturesque Mount Airy, a small Maryland town surrounded by majestic countryside.

The region is famous for its wineries and craft breweries, most of which locally produce hops and grapes.

The locals perfectly juggle urban and rural lifestyles.

For instance, you can pick up farm-fresh milk, ice cream, and other dairy products, grow your vegetables, and still order a hearty dinner at a posh restaurant, attend pottery classes at Firehouse Pottery & Arts, or play an escape room game.

The 10 Best Things to do in Mount Airy Maryland in 2022

These are the top 10 local attractions in Mount Airy, MD:

Black Ankle Vineyards
Gaver Farm
Linganore Winecellars
Elk Run Vineyards
MISCellaneous Distillery
Clue IQ Escape Rooms
Milkhouse Brewery
Audrey Carroll Audubon Sanctuary
The Links at Challedon
Firehouse Pottery & Arts

Black Ankle Vineyards

Located at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Black Ankle Vineyards is renowned for having one of the best tasting rooms in the region.

Participate in the elaborate wine tasting sessions on the fly or order your favorite beverage at the table.

Complimentary tours are organized every weekend. You can also buy wine by the glass or bottle and enjoy it on the property.

Visitors are encouraged to bring home-cooked food and enjoy a picnic on the grounds.

You can order finger foods like bread, cheese, or meat in the tasting room.

Gaver Farm

An established family farm that has been around since 1978, Gaver Farm is the best place to visit for a cozy day-long excursion.

Schedule your visit between September and December to participate in the elaborate Fall Fun Festival, featuring a corn maze, plenty of kids’ games, and a petting zoo.

Gaver Farm offers some fantastic entertainment for the entire family.

Take the kids to pick apples and pumpkins as soon as they’re in season, and enjoy the free hayrides on the weekends.

Celebrate the holiday season at Gaver Farm between November 29 and December 23 every year.

You can pick and harvest Christmas trees right from the fields, pay, and take them home.

Linganore Winecellars

Nestled in a majestic estate right outside Mount Airy, Linganore Winecellars is a family-owned business sitting across 230-acres of prime country land.

The winery has been producing some of the region’s finest wines since 1976. It produces over thirty wines, including red, white, sweet, and dry varieties.

Visitors can also buy honey and fruit wines for an additional kick.

The winery operates seven days a week except for public holidays.

You can join one of the several complimentary guided tours hosted every day.

Hang around till lunch for an elaborate wine tasting session.

Elk Run Vineyards

Perhaps the best-known winery on the East Coast, Elk Run Vineyards, is famous for producing high-quality wine using a combination of traditional and modern techniques.

The tasting room is open throughout the week, and the staff will gladly suggest a beverage based on a quick read of your taste.

Visit during the weekends for a complimentary tour of the property.

If you have a group of over ten people, the staff at Elk Run will organize a special tour with a wine and cheese tasting session during the afternoon.

Designated picnic areas are open to the public all year long, while you can enjoy live music between May and October.

MISCellaneous Distillery

Known for its range of award-winning spirits, MISCellaneous Distillery is owned and operated by a husband-wife duo.

You must take a tour of the 2000-square-foot facility where the distillation occurs and drop by the tasting room for a complimentary sample.

Visitors can also get behind the bar and try their hands at whipping up a novel concoction. While the visiting hours vary upon the season, you can request a private tour outside operating hours.

MISCellaneous Distillery sources most of the grains locally from nearby counties.

Clue IQ Escape Rooms

Located in nearby Frederick, Clue IQ is the best escape room in Maryland.

Drop in with friends or family and enjoy 60-minutes of pure adrenaline rush.

Pick your favorite escape room game from a long list of exciting puzzles and test your limits in an immersive and safe environment.

Clue IQ also hosts a range of events like corporate team-building sessions, college reunions, and more.

You can also celebrate a birthday, date night, or a private event at escape room IQ.

So, what are you waiting for? Book your slots today!

Milkhouse Brewery

Built on a 47-acre plot, Milkhouse Brewery is one of the most famous breweries in Mount Airy.

Visitors can choose from a rotation of six different beers in the tasting room, and most of the ingredients are locally sourced.

You can bring your food or buy from an assortment of cheeses, bread, and meat from the store.

Sparkling wine is also available on tap as outside alcohol isn’t permitted.

The brewery is open to the public between Thursday and Sunday and often hosts special events like live performances and special appearances from celebrated food trucks.

Audrey Carroll Audubon Sanctuary

Spread across 129-acres of prime land, Audrey Carroll Audubon Sanctuary was formerly a private farm donated to a local conservation society during the late 90s.

The resulting nature reserve is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise.

You can often spot spotted turtles in the marshes and butterflies throughout the fields.

The conservatory is home to over 155 bird species, so don’t forget to carry a pair of binoculars.

Long winding, well-maintained trails meander through the property. And guided tours are organized every month.

While the sanctuary is open to the public throughout the year, its highlights include the annual spring and fall bird migrations, the native plant sale in April, and the monarch butterfly tagging in September.

The Links at Challedon

The Links of Challedon is a par-72 public golf course featuring eighteen beautiful water holes and large green open spaces suitable for brushing up on your golfing skills.

Beginners can sign up for personal lessons while the course has a magnificent practice area for putting green.

Other attractions include a practice sand trap and a driving range.

Golfers can take a welcome break near the 18th hole at the restaurant and bar that serves some of the best cuisines in the region.

You can also book the clubhouse for a private event, which can accommodate up to 50 people at a time.

Firehouse Pottery & Arts

Firehouse Pottery & Arts is an ideal place for letting your creative instincts flow.

Located a few miles from Mount Airy, the studio offers many creative art & craft classes like paint your pottery, paintings on canvas, glass fusion workshops, and more, depending on the time of year.

You can even participate in an exclusive painting party or a seasonal-themed art-making night.

Regular events include sip and paint classes in the evenings, while you can book the venue for special occasions like bridal showers, kids’ birthday parties, and more.

Are You Ready for an Awesome Vacation?

Mount Airy is home to some excellent rural adventures.

From the abundant countryside to excellent wine tasting opportunities, and mesmerizing sanctuaries to a blood-pumping escape room, there is no shortage of adventure here.

If you’re visiting Mount Airy MD for the first time, you should definitely check out some of the local attractions.

These are the top seven getaways in Maryland.

If you enjoyed this blog and would love to read more, follow our blogs page for more such awesome content.

For queries, get in touch now!