This list is long overdue, Nomsters so thank you for your patience! I’ve been spending more time exploring Gaithersburg, and I’m excited to finally share ten of my personal favorite spots in the area. I’ll be posting more reels like this, so feel free to request locations in the comments.
Someone already asked for Rockville next, so keep an eye out – that one’s coming soon! And as always, drop your own favorite Gaithersburg restaurants below so I can keep checking out new gems.
That Rockville post is up, and MaLa Canteen is one of the first stops I recommend, a Sichuan spot in Rockville Town Square doing incredible mala dry pot.
1. Ixtapalapa Taqueria
One of my absolute faves. Their food is delicious, super affordable, and always hits the spot. A must-try if you’re in the mood for bomb Mexican eats.
📍 411 N Frederick Ave, Gaithersburg, MD 20877
⏰ 10-10PM daily
2. Gemelli’s Italian Market
A charming Italian deli and market packed with imported goods, housemade dishes, and crave-worthy bites. Their pizzas are fantastic and the subs are great as well! Highly recommend checking them out.
📍 12169 Darnestown Rd, Gaithersburg, MD 20878
⏰ M-F 10-8PM, Sa 10-7PM
3. Chennai Hoppers
If you love South Indian cuisine, this place is a dream. Their dosas are incredible, and they offer tons of vegetarian/vegan options. Huge fan, and they’ve gotten a lot of love from local journalists as well.
📍 136 Paramount Park Dr, Gaithersburg, MD 20879
⏰ T-F 11:30-2:30PM, 5-9:30PM, Sa 11:30-3PM, 5-9:30PM, Su 11:30-3PM, 5-8:30PM
4. Taco Bar El Guero
You already know I have a soft spot for gas station gems, lol. This is another solid Mexican spot serving up delicious, authentic bites in the most unassuming location. Love to see it.
📍 200 Ellington Blvd, Gaithersburg, MD 20878
⏰ Currently in the process of moving to a new location
5. Peter Chang Gaithersburg
Full transparency – they’re a NOM Digital client, but I promised I’m not biased. Their food is just consistently excellent, and I have yet to have a mediocre meal. Pro tip: they also offer AYCE dim sum on weekdays, which is a huge bonus. Go between 11-3PM to indulge.
📍 637 Frederick Rd, Gaithersburg, MD 20879
⏰ M-Th 11-3PM, 4:30-9PM, Fr-Sa 11-10PM, Su 11-9PM
6. Barking Mad Café
A great brunch spot with genuinely friendly service. If you’re looking for cozy vibes, tasty plates, and a relaxing meal, put this one on your list.
📍 239 Spectrum Ave, Gaithersburg, MD 20879
⏰ M-Th 7-2:45PM, F 7-2:45PM, 4:30-9PM, Sa 10-2:30PM, 4:30-9PM, Su 10-2:30PM
7. Lapu Lapu
A standout spot for breakfast and lunch, run by the same chef behind Kuyaja aka one of my all-time favorite spots in Maryland. Their Filipino handhelds are so good, and you gotta get their ube soft serve when you go.
📍 216 Market St W, Gaithersburg, MD 20878
⏰ W-Su 7-3PM
8. Hot Pot Hero
LOVE this place. Hot Pot Hero is perfect year-round, but it especially hits during winter. The broths are comforting, the ingredients are fresh, and it’s always such a fun dining experience. Def one of the better hot pot spots in Maryland IMO.
📍 100 Paramount Park Dr, Gaithersburg, MD 20879
⏰ Su-Th 11:30-10PM, F-Sa 11:30-10:30PM
9. Firehouse Deli
This deli is owned by the sweetest Korean couple, and their sandwiches are excellent. They also offer a huge selection of vegan items (with actual vegan “meats”), which is amazing for those with dietary preferences.
📍6 Montgomery Village Ave, Gaithersburg, MD 20879
⏰ M-F 8-5PM, Sa 9-3PM
10. Pho Nom Nom
For those of you who love pho, this is a great pick. The broth is rich and aromatic, the portions are generous, and they also serve grilled meats, bánh mì, and more. Definitely a great option if you’re craving something comforting in the area.
📍842 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD 20852
⏰ 10-9PM Daily
Have you been to any of these spots in Gaithersburg? Let me know your favorites in the comments, and tell me where else I should go next, Nomsters! And for more on yum Maryland eats, click here.
And if you’re looking to end any of these meals on a sweet note, make sure you check out Pâte à Cake, a cozy French-Asian pastry shop right inside Spectrum Town Center that does some of the lightest, most beautiful cakes I’ve tried in the area.