Vegetarian Journal's Guide to Natural Foods Restaurants in the U.S. and Canada

Symbol Key:

•• Vegan or vegetarian restaurant
§ Reviewer's choice

Maryland

Annapolis

India's Restaurant

257 West St., Annapolis, MD 21401

(410) 263-7900

Indian. Located in Annapolis' historic district and known for its relaxed, elegant fine dining, India's offers a menu of vegetarian specialties. Entrées include Malai Kofta (mixed vegetable balls cooked in onion and tomato sauce) and Bayngan Bhurta (whole eggplants cooked on skewers, chopped, then mixed with tomatoes, onions, and spices). Reservations recommended. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Full service, beer/wine/alcohol, take-out, catering, VISA/MC/AMEX, $$$.

Mexican Café

975 Bay Ridge Rd., Annapolis, MD 21403

(410) 626-1520

Mexican. The Mexican Café offers several vegetarian options, and their beans do not contain lard. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Full service, vegan options, wine/beer, take-out, VISA/MC, $-$$.

Potato Valley Café

47 State Cir., #100, Annapolis, MD 21401

(410) 267-0902

Café. This café offers gourmet stuffed potatoes, as well as sandwiches and salads. Their "South of the Valley" potato includes beans, papaya, corn, lime, cilantro, peppers, and garlic butter. Open Monday through Saturday for lunch and dinner. Closed Sunday. Limited service, vegan options, espresso/cappuccino, soy milk, $$.

Sun & Earth Foods

1933 West St., Annapolis, MD 21401

(410) 266-6862

Natural foods. This natural foods store features vegetarian sandwiches to take out. Open Monday through Saturday for breakfast through early dinner. Open Sunday for lunch. Take-out, vegan options, $.

Baltimore

  (For restaurant listings in the surrounding areas, see Columbia, Ellicott City, Owings Mills, Pikesville, Randallstown, Timonium, and Towson.)

Akbar

823 N. Charles St., Baltimore, MD 21201

(410) 539-0944

Indian. Akbar features authentic Indian cuisine with a wide variety of vegetarian dishes. This restaurant has consistently given great service. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Full service, vegan options, wine/beer/alcohol, catering, take-out, VISA/MC/AMEX/DISC, $$.

Ambassador Dining Room

3811 Canterbury Rd., Baltimore, MD 21210

(410) 366-1484

Indian. This restaurant is located near Johns Hopkins University and offers a formal environment with outdoor patio seating, weather permitting. Enjoy a wide selection of vegetarian Indian dishes. The food tends to be spicy, so you may want to request that it be prepared mildly. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Full service, vegan options, wine/beer, catering, take-out, VISA/MC, $$$.

Amer's Café

7624 Belair Rd., Baltimore, MD 21210

(410) 668-5100

Mediterranean. Kids make their own pizzas, a belly dancer on Friday & Saturday nights, a psychic appearing nightly plus some great Egyptian food...what else could you want from a family restaurant right off the Beltway! Open Tuesday through Sunday for lunch and dinner. Closed Monday. Full service, vegan options, delivery, take-out, wheelchair access, reservations suggested, Braille menus available, VISA/MC/AMEX/DISC/DC, $$.

Bombay Garden

5511 York Rd., Baltimore, MD 21212

(410) 323-8440

Indian. There are a variety of vegetarian dishes on the menu at this tiny Indian restaurant in the Govans area of town. Additional pluses are a daily lunch buffet and an accommodating staff. Open Tuesday through Saturday for lunch and dinner. Open Sunday for dinner. Closed Monday. Full service, vegan options, take-out, VISA/MC/AMEX/DISC, $$.

Brick Oven Pizza

800 S. Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21231

(410) 563-1600

Pizza. This pizza joint offers soy cheese upon request, as well as whole wheat crusts. Fresh tomatoes, artichoke hearts, potatoes, salsa, fresh garlic, and eggplant are some of the topping choices. Open daily for lunch and late dinner. Full service, vegan options, take-out, VISA/MC/AMEX, $$.

Dalesio's Restaurant

829 Eastern Ave., Baltimore, MD 21202

(410) 539-1965

Italian. Attractive restaurant located in Little Italy with several vegetarian selections. Terrace balcony with outdoor dining. Valet parking offered. Open Monday through Saturday for lunch and dinner. Open Sunday for dinner. Full service, VISA/MC/AMEX, $$$.

Desert Café

1605 Sulgrave Ave., Baltimore, MD 21209

(410) 367-5808

Mediterranean. At this Mt. Washington café, all soups are homemade and vegetarian. There are also salads and vegetarian Middle Eastern specialties. Enjoy live belly dancing on Saturday evenings. Open Tuesday through Thursday for lunch and dinner. Open Friday and Saturday for lunch and late dinner. Closed Sunday and Monday. Full service, vegan options, take-out, catering, BYOB, VISA/MC/AMEX, $$.

Ding How

631-637 S. Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21231

(410) 327-8888

Chinese. This old-fashion style Chinese restaurant has great service and offers many vegetarian items including appetizers, soups, and tofu and vegetable entrées. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Full service, vegan options, wine/beer/alcohol, take-out, VISA/MC/AMEX/DISC/DC, $$.

Dukem Restaurant

1100 Maryland Ave., Baltimore, MD 21201

(410) 385-0318

Ethiopian. Newly remodeled, cozy restaurant near the University of Baltimore. Try the wonderful vegetarian combo platters consisting of spicy lentil stew, yellow peas, greens, cabbage and potatoes, and/or salad. Open Monday through Saturday for lunch and dinner. Closed Sunday. Full service, vegan options, VISA/MC/AMEX, $$-$$$.

Egyptian Pizza

542 E. Belvedere Ave., Baltimore, MD 21212

(410) 323-7060

Middle Eastern/pizza. This café has great tasting Middle Eastern food with steaming hot pita bread and unique pizza combinations such as the India pizza served with curry. All pizza available without cheese or with soy cheese (contains casein). Open daily for lunch and dinner. Full service, vegan options, take-out, VISA/MC, $$.

•• Emily's Café & Desserts

4901 Spring Garden Dr., Baltimore, MD 21209

(443) 682-9721

Vegan/bakery/café. Emily's Café & Desserts offers 100% vegan foods and baked goods with many gluten-free options. Enjoy cookies like Double Chocolate Chip, Coconut Cranberry, and Oatmeal Cherry Chocolate Pecan. Or try a baked donut in flavors Cinnamon Sugar, Glazed, or Chocolate Dipped. Emily Desserts is 100% wind powered. Menu changes daily. Open Sunday for brunch. Open Monday through Friday for breakfast and lunch. Closed Saturday. Limited service, take-out, catering, soymilk, espresso/cappuccino, VISA/MC, $-$$.

Indian Delight Restaurant

622 Frederick Rd., Baltimore, MD 21228

(410) 744-4422

Indian. Vegetable Samosa, Vegetable Korma, and curries are served, as well as many other vegetarian options. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Full service, vegan options, fresh juices, catering, take-out, VISA/MC/AMEX/DISC/DC, $$.

Kyro

900 Cathedral St., Baltimore, MD 21201

(410) 962-8859

Middle Eastern/pizza. With a New York City-type atmosphere, this bustling café has great-tasting Middle Eastern food, steaming-hot pita bread, and unique pizza combinations such as pizza served with curry. All pizza is available without cheese or with soy cheese (contains casein). Open daily for lunch and dinner. Full service, vegan options, take-out, delivery, VISA/MC/AMEX/DISC, $$-$$$.

Lebanese Taverna

719 S. President St., Baltimore, MD 21202

(410) 244-5533

Lebanese. This longtime DC favorite now has a Baltimore location overlooking the Harbor East Marina. Located in the new Spinnaker Bay condominium, this lovely new restaurant offers many vegetarian appetizers, salads, and sides. There are also a number of interesting main dishes such as Fatteh Bel Bathenjan. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Full service, vegan options, take-out, catering, beer/wine/alcohol, espresso/cappuccino, reservations recommended, VISA/MC, $$-$$$.

•• Liquid Earth

1626 Aliceanna St., Baltimore, MD 21231

(410) 276-6606

Vegetarian/natural foods/juice bar. Liquid Earth is best-known for its smoothies and fresh juices, but it also serves light vegetarian fare with many vegan options. They offer inexpensive soups, salads, sandwiches, and raw foods, using organic and local ingredients whenever possible. Cash only. Open Sunday through Friday for lunch and early dinner. Open Saturday for lunch and dinner. Limited service, vegan options, take-out, catering, fresh juices, soymilk, smoothies, espresso/cappuccino, $-$$.

Mughal Garden Restaurant

920 N. Charles St., Baltimore, MD 21201

(410) 547-0001

Indian. Sample vegetarian masalas, dals, and other vegetable creations, along with fresh baked tandoori breads. Try the Alu Methi -- ités excellent. Lunch buffet everyday. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Full service, vegan options, take-out, wine/beer/alcohol, VISA/MC/AMEX/DISC, $$-$$$.

OK Natural Food Store

11 W. Preston St., Baltimore, MD 21203

(410) 837-3911

Natural foods store. Located in the theater district near Penn Station, MICA, and the University of Baltimore, this natural foods store offers supplements, groceries, herbs, organic produce, and boxed sandwiches for lunch. Open Monday through Friday for three meals. Open Saturday for lunch and dinner. Open Sunday for lunch and early dinner. Take-out, vegan options, VISA/MC.

One World Café

100 W. University Pkwy., Baltimore, MD 21210

(410) 235-5777

American. Mostly vegetarian restaurant located near Johns Hopkins University. Soups are prepared daily and smoothies are made with real fruit and 100% juice. Sample lunch items include Tempeh Reuben and Philly Steakless Sub. Dinner selections feature Thai Vegetable Tempeh Stir-fry and Tandoori Tofu. Usually will have at least one vegan dessert. Open Monday through Saturday for three meals through late night service. Open Sunday for brunch. Full service, vegan options, take-out, catering, fresh juices, smoothies, espresso/cappuccino, soymilk, beer/wine/alcohol, VISA/MC/AMEX, $$.

•• Red Emma's Bookstore & Coffeehouse

800 St. Paul St., Baltimore, MD 21202

(410) 230-0450

Vegetarian café. After you've browsed the anarchist literature, calm down with a cup of tea and a vegan scone or vegan dessert. Their menu also includes bagels, sandwiches, soups, and salads. Open Monday through Saturday for three meals. Open Sunday for breakfast, lunch, and early dinner. Limited service, vegan options, take-out, free Internet access, VISA/MC/DISC, $.

Tashes Ankh

8045 Liberty Rd., Baltimore, MD 21244

(410) 922-9196

Caribbean. Located west of Baltimore's city limits, this restaurant offers several vegetarian dishes, including curry yuba, brown stew yuba, and stewed peas with rice and vegetables. Open Monday through Saturday for three meals. Closed Sunday. Take-out, vegan options, $-$$.

Thai Restaurant

3316 Greenmount Ave., Baltimore, MD 21218

(410) 889-6003

Thai. The service and atmosphere are formal, but dress is casual. They will substitute tofu for meat in any of their dishes. Open Tues - Sun for lunch and dinner. Closed Monday.. Full service, vegan options, wine/beer/alcohol, catering, take-out, VISA/MC/AMEX, $$-$$$.

The Helmand

806 N. Charles St., Baltimore, MD 21201-5308

(410) 752-0311

Afghan. For appetizers, the staff favorite is Kaddo Borawni (pan fried and baked baby pumpkin seasoned with sugar). Favorite entrées include Vegetarian Dolma (Eggplant filled with spinach in sun-dried tomato and herb sauce) and Vegetarian Aushak (ravioli filled with leeks). Open Tuesday through Sunday for dinner. Closed Monday. Full service, vegan options, take-out, VISA/MC/AMEX/DISC, $$-$$$.

Tov Pizza

6313 Reisterstown Rd., Baltimore, MD 21215

(410) 358-5238

Kosher dairy. Pizzas and falafel are available at this primarily vegetarian dairy restaurant that serves some fish. $10.00 minimum with credit cards. Open Sunday through Thursday for lunch and dinner. Open Friday for lunch. Open Saturday for dinner. Counter service, vegan options, take-out, VISA/MC, $.

•• Yabba Pot

2431 St. Paul St., Baltimore, MD 21218

(410) 662-8638

Vegan/international. The Yabba Pot offers all-vegan international cuisine with many raw foods items. Menu selections include the BBQ Tofu Wrap, Chick-Un Pasta Salad, 'Fish' Filet Sandwich, and their very own Yabba Veggie Burger (made from sprouted lentils). Enjoy a refreshing beverage at their Roots & Fruits Juice Bar. Make sure to check out their great daily specials! Open Monday through Saturday for lunch and dinner. Open Sunday for brunch. Limited service, take-out, catering, fresh juices, smoothies, special beverages, VISA/MC/AMEX, $-$$.

Bel Air

Hunan Chef Restaurant

5 Bel Air S. Pkwy., Bel Air, MD 21014

(410) 838-2313

Chinese. Hunan Chef offers several vegetarian dishes. Open Monday through Saturday for dinner. Open Sunday for lunch and dinner. Full service, vegan options, take-out, VISA/MC/AMEX, $$.

Beltsville

El Mexicano

10413 Baltimore Ave., Beltsville, MD 20703

(301) 572-4000

Mexican. El Mexicano offers a separate vegetarian menu with a tamale platter, tacos, burritos, enchiladas, quesadillas, and more. Also, lard is not used in their beans. Open for three meals Monday through Friday. Open for lunch and dinner Saturday and Sunday. Full service, vegan options, take-out, $.

Bethesda

Bacchus Bethesda

7945 Norfolk Ave., Bethesda, MD 20814

(301) 657-1722

Lebanese. This Lebanese restaurant offers several vegetarian items, including stuffed grape leaves, hummus, baba ghanouj, stuffed eggplant, eggplant salad, potato salad, cauliflower and tahini dip, and falafel. Open daily. Full service, vegan options, wine/beer/alcohol, catering, take-out, VISA/MC/AMEX, $$-$$$.

Thyme Square

4735 Bethesda Ave., Bethesda, MD 20814

(301) 657-9077

Natural foods. Thyme Square offers a wide range of natural foods dishes, including many that are vegetarian. Try Vegetable Pot Stickers, Oven-Roasted Roma Tomatoes with Polenta, a Mediterranean Platter, grilled vegetables, various soups and salads, pasta dishes, and wood-burning oven-baked pizza. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Full service, vegan options, fresh juices, take-out, espresso/cappuccino, VISA/MC, $$.

Bowie

•• Fabian House Café

8519 Chestnut Ave., Bowie, MD 20715

(301) 464-6777

Vegetarian café. Fabian House Café is an all-vegetarian café offering sandwiches, salads, and soups, as well as breakfast items that are available all day. Vegan selections are noted on the menu and many items that are not vegan can be prepared so. The menu changes at the chef's whim so be prepared for delicious surprises! Enjoy dining on their outdoor porch tables in warmer weather. Fabian House Café is located within The Shops at Fabian House, an eclectic antiques shop. Open Wednesday through Sunday for breakfast and lunch. Closed Monday and Tuesday. Limited service, vegan options, take-out, smoothies, special beverages, VISA/MC, $-$$.

Capitol Heights

•• Soul Vegetarian Gourmet Restaurant

Everlasting Life Health Complex, 9185 Central Ave., Capitol Heights, MD 20743

(301) 324-6900

Vegan. Located inside a wellness center, Soul Vegetarian is a completely vegan gourmet restaurant with a bakery and a banquet hall. Their menu includes soups, salads, sandwiches, pastas, and desserts. You can choose from appetizers like Spinach Dip or Hummus, and follow those up with some Spinach Lasagna, Vegetarian Kabobs, or Grab Cakes (similar to crab cakes). Open Tuesday through Sunday for lunch and dinner. Closed Monday. Full service, take-out, fresh juices, special drinks, VISA/MC/AMEX/DISC, $$-$$$.

Clarksville

•• Great Sage

5809 Clarksville Sq. Dr., Clarksville, MD 21029

(443) 535-9400

Vegetarian/organic. This restaurant offers many wonderful, mostly organic, dishes throughout the day. For lunch, try the Portobello Flatbread Sandwich or the Southwestern Burger. Dinner selections include the Mushroom and Pecan Stuffed Tofu and The Americana. And the Hot Fudge Lava Cake é la mode is a great way to end your dining experience! Open Tuesday through Saturday for lunch and dinner. Open Sunday for brunch and dinner. Closed Monday. Full service, vegan options, take-out, fresh juices, smoothies, soymilk, espresso/cappuccino, beer/wine, reservations for parties of 8 or more, VISA/MC/AMEX/DISC/DC, $$$.

College Park

•• Berwyn Café

5010 Berwyn Rd., College Park, MD 20740

(301) 345-9898

Vegetarian. Located near the University of Maryland in College Park, the Berwyn Café has been serving organic vegetarian food since 1973. The Berwyn Café offers favorites, such as the Tofu Steak, Tofu Gyro, and VLT, as well as a vegan breakfast on Saturdays and Sunday for brunch. In addition, the café features monthly music shows and a reading room. A definite must for anyone visiting the College Park area. Open Tuesday through Friday for lunch and dinner. Open Saturday for three meals. Open Sunday for brunch. Closed Monday. Full service, vegan options, take-out, catering, fresh juices, $-$$.

•• Sprouts

The Diner @ Ellicott, University Of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742

(301) 314-8010

Cafeteria. This food station inside The Diner @ Ellicott offers daily vegan selections for lunch and dinner. Call for hours. Cafeteria, take-out, $.

Columbia

Akbar

9400 Snowden River Pkwy., Columbia, MD 21045

(410) 381-3600

Indian. See description under Baltimore, MD.

David's Natural Market I

5430 Lynx Ln., Columbia, MD 21044

(410) 730-2304

Natural foods store/café. David's Natural Market sells natural products including frozen & refrigerated foods, non-dairy milks, gluten-free items, herbs, cosmetics, and personal care products. The Columbia location also has a café with many vegetarian and vegan selections including homemade vegan soup prepared daily. Also enjoy sandwiches, wraps, and salads, all at great prices. The café has different hours than the store, so please call ahead. Open daily. Limited service, vegan options, take-out, fresh juices, VISA/MC/AMEX/DISC/DC, $-$$.

Hunan Manor

7091 Deepage Dr., Columbia, MD 21045

(410) 381-1134

Chinese. Hunan Manor offers many vegetarian dishes using mock "meat" and tofu. Be sure to request details about their vegetarian specialties. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Full service, vegan options, beer/wine/alcohol, take-out, VISA/MC, $$-$$$.

•• The Mango Grove §

6365 B Dobbin Rd., Columbia, MD 21045

(410) 884-3426

Vegetarian/Indian. Located in a shopping center near Friendlyés restaurant, The Mango Grove offers unique South Indian vegetarian dishes. Be sure to try the potato & onion filled dosai or one of their delicious curries when you visit. Open Wednesday through Monday for lunch and dinner. Closed Tuesday. Full service, vegan options, take-out, catering, special beverages, VISA/MC/AMEX/DISC, $$-$$$.

Cumberland

Gehauf's

1268 National Hwy., Cumberland, MD 21502

(301) 729-3300

American. In a lovely airy setting, you'll find Spinach Salad, mixed salad with fresh vegetables, fresh fruit plates when in season, and a few vegetarian dishes, like vegetarian chili. Open daily. Full service, wine/beer/alcohol, take-out, VISA/MC/AMEX, $$.

Forest Hill

David's Natural Market II

1523 Rock Spring Rd., Forest Hill, MD 21050

(410) 836-0808

Natural foods store. See description under Columbia, MD. The Forest Hill store is located in Rock Spring Shopping Center and does not have a café.

Frederick

Bombay Grill

137 N. Market St., Frederick, MD 21701

(301) 668-0077

Indian. Dine on Indian breads and vegetarian entrées, including vegetable kofta, potato dishes, and a grilled vegetable kabob. Dishes are prepared with vegetable or olive oil. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Full service, vegan options, take-out, catering, wine/beer/alcohol, VISA/MC/DISC/DC, $$.

Hunan Gourmet

915 W. Seventh St., Frederick, MD 21701

(301) 695-0446

Chinese. Hunan Gourmet offers a Vegetarian Menu with appetizers, soups, and vegetable dishes, and entrées made from mock chicken (gluten), beef (gluten puff), and pork (tofu jerky). They offer vegetarian versions of traditional Chinese cuisine like Kung Pao Chicken and Szechuan Beef, as well as unique items like Beef Mimosa (orange-flavored gluten puff and red pepper in a spicy brown sauce) and Sweet and Sour Spareribs (green pepper, carrots, pineapple, and dough staning in for the meat). Near Hood College and Frederick Memorial Hospital. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Full service, vegan options, take-out, delivery, VISA/MC/AMEX, $$.

Lotus Chinese Cuisine

107 Baughmans Ln., Frederick, MD 21702

(301) 694-3388

Chinese. Lotus offers authentic Chinese cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere. The menu has a vegetarian section, and the restaurant's staff will gladly accommodate vegetarians and vegans. Open daily. Full service, vegan options, wine/beer, take-out, VISA/MC/DISC, $$.

Taurasos

6 East St., Frederick, MD 21701

(301) 663-6600

American. This popular restaurant has an elegant formal dining room and a casual pub. A special vegetarian menu is available upon inquiry. Open daily for lunch and dinner. $-$$$.

Thai Rice

1770E W. Patrick St., Frederick, MD 21703

(301) 694-5512

Thai. Thai Rice offers many veggie options. Enjoy the crispy tofu for an appetizer, Drunken Noodles Jae for the main dish, and fresh mango sweet sticky rice for dessert. Each dish tastes unique and the vegetables are fresh, not canned. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Full service, vegan options, take-out, VISA/MC/DISC, $-$$.

The Common Market

5728 Buckeystown Pike, Frederick, MD 21704

(301) 663-3416

Natural foods store deli/juice bar. Located in Evergreen Square, The Common Market is a natural and organic food co-op. Enjoy tempeh or seitan at their Made-To-Order Sandwich Station. They also have a Café Beverage Bar with fresh juices, smoothies, teas and coffee drinks. Their Hot Food Bar and Salad Bar features organic produce as well as entrées and side dishes for vegetarians and vegans. Open daily for lunch. Limited service, vegan options, take-out, fresh juices, smoothies, espresso/cappuccino, $.

The Orchard

45 N. Market St., Frederick, MD 21701

(301) 663-4912

Natural foods. This completely non-smoking natural foods restaurant is located in the heart of downtown Frederick. Open Tuesday through Saturday for lunch and dinner. Closed Sunday and Monday. Full service, vegan options, wine/beer, take-out, VISA/MC/AMEX, $$.

Frostburg

Gandalf's Restaurant

20 E. Main St., Frostburg, MD 21532

(301) 689-2010

International. Gandalf's lets you choose from grilled tofu squares, kitfo (vegetarian "meatballs"), and falafel for appetizers, and seven specialty salads, many of which are vegan. There are vegetarian African, Mediterranean, and Thai dishes for entrées, as well as several vegan and vegetarian sandwiches, such as a soy Reuben. The restaurant uses organic ingredients whenever possible. Open Monday through Saturday for dinner. Closed Sunday. Full service, vegan options, wine/beer, $-$$.

Giuseppe's

11 Bowery St., Frostburg, MD 21532

(301) 689-2220

Italian. Located in a small town near a ski area, this unique Italian restaurant offers many lacto-ovo choices and a tasty plain sauce for vegans. Giuseppe's will accommodate special needs. Open daily for dinner. Full service, vegan options, wine/beer/alcohol, take-out, VISA/MC/AMEX/DISC, $$.

Mountain City Coffeehouse and Creamery

60 E. Main St., Frostburg, MD 21532

(301) 687-0808

Coffeehouse/café. Mountain City Coffeehouse and Creamery is a cozy and welcoming place to relax. They offer a vegetarian special that changes every other day. Some past specials include vegetable tart with side salad, vegetarian wrap, and a roasted veggie sandwich. Their regular menu has hummus sandwiches, flat bread pita sides, and assorted Indian food. Their slogan is 'catering to the community' and they do that by hosting community events and showcasing local artists' work. Open Tuesday through Thursday for breakfast and lunch. Open Friday and Saturday for three meals. Open Sunday for breakfast and lunch. Closed Monday. Limited service, vegan options, take-out, catering, smoothies, soymilk, espresso/cappuccino, special drinks, VISA/MC/AMEX/DISC, $-$$.

Gaithersburg

El Mexicano

12150 Darnestown Rd., Gaithersburg, MD 20878

(301) 330-5620

Mexican. See description under Beltsville, MD.

•• Madras Palace

74 Bureau Dr., Gaithersburg, MD 20878

(301) 977-1600

Vegetarian/Indian. This restaurant specializes in both north and south Indian cuisine, including a variety of curries, dosa, and rice specialties. A buffet is served for lunch. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Full service, fresh juices, take-out, catering, reservations recommended, VISA/MC, $$.

Thai Sa-Mai Restaurant

8369 Snouffer School Rd., Gaithersburg, MD 20879-1502

(301) 963-1800

Thai. The menu features original spicy Thai foods and 30 vegetarian dishes made without MSG. "The Washingtonian" magazine named Thai Sa-Mai's curry the best. Open Monday through Saturday for lunch and dinner. Closed Sunday. Full service, vegan options, wine/beer, take-out, VISA/MC, $$.

•• Woodlands

239 Muddy Branch Rd., Gaithersburg, MD 20878

(301) 990-4348

Vegetarian/Indian. See description under Langley Park, MD.

Gambrills

David's Natural Market III

871 Annapolis Rd., Gambrills, MD 21054

(410) 987-1533

Natural foods store. See description under Columbia, MD. Please note that the Gambrills location does not have a café.

Germantown

La Mexicana

13016 Middlebrook Rd., Germantown, MD 20874

(301) 972-0500

Mexican. See description under El Mexicano in Beltsville, MD.

Greenbelt

China Pearl

7701 Greenbelt Rd., Greenbelt, MD 20770

(301) 441-8880

Chinese. The menu features vegetarian spring rolls, tempura, and 21 vegetarian Chinese selections. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Full service, vegan options, alcohol, take-out, VISA/MC/AMEX/DISC.

•• Madras Palace

8839 Greenbelt Rd., Greenbelt, MD 20770

(301) 552-3353

Vegetarian/Indian. This casual establishment is the sister restaurant to Madras Palace in Gaithersburg. It specializes in south Indian cuisine, including idly, medhu vada, dosas, utthapam, soups, curries, thails, and breads. Two of the desserts and some drinks are dairy-based, but most of the rest of the menu is vegan. Open Tuesday through Sunday for lunch and dinner. Closed Monday. Counter service, vegan options, special drinks, VISA/MC, $-$$.

Hunt Valley

Jesse Wong's Kitchen

118 Shawan Rd., Ste. EE, Hunt Valley, MD 21030

(410) 329-1088

Asian. Although Jesse Wong's is not entirely vegetarian, they have an extensive vegetarian menu. It includes imitation meats and seafood, all made from vegetable products. Notable meals are spicy tofu with mushroom and gluten in brown sauce, crispy duck with seasonal greens, and pineapple shrimp. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Full service, vegan options, take-out, catering, beer/wine/alcohol, non-alcoholic beer, VISA/MC/AMEX/DISC, $$-$$$.

Langley Park

•• Woodlands

8046 New Hampshire Ave., Hyattsville, MD 20783

(301) 434-4202

Vegetarian/Indian. Woodlands serves an ample selection of cuisine from Southern India, such as curries, breads, appetizers, and regional delicacies. Their house specialties include Poori Bhaji (whole wheat bread that is fried and puffed then served with potato and chickpea curry) and Malabar Adai (pancake made of mixed lentils and vegetables). Their daily lunch buffet is a great value. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Full service, vegan options, take-out, catering, special drinks, VISA/MC/AMEX, $$.

Monkton

•• Monkton Village Food Market & Café

1900 Monkton Rd., Monkton, MD 21111

(410) 472-9821

Vegetarian/natural foods. Whether you're hiking on the NCR railroad trail or just want to try something different, stop at this organic goods and vegetarian café. For breakfast, thereés Tofu Scramble; for lunch try the Lemon Tempeh Grillers, Sunny Sunburgers, and Tofu Meatball Subs. Open daily for three meals. Limited service, vegan options, take-out, VISA/MC, $-$$.

Mt. Rainier

•• A Quest for Health

4009 34th St., Mt. Rainier, MD 20712

(301) 887-1998

Vegetarian café. A Quest for Health is a 90% raw restaurant that also has soups and steamed vegetable dishes. Nori Kush rolls and the banana pudding are the crowd favorites. Open Tuesday through Friday, and Sunday for lunch and dinner. Closed Saturday and Monday. Limited service, vegan options, fresh juices, $$.

Olney

Olney Ale House

2000 Olney-Sandy Spring Rd., Olney, MD 20832-1602

(301) 774-6708

Natural foods. This cozy restaurant with a fireplace during winter months offers several vegetarian dishes, such as chili, tofu and Sunburgers, salads, and homemade breads. It's very crowded on weekends, so expect a long wait. Open Tuesday through Sunday. Closed Monday. Full service, vegan options, wine/beer, take-out, VISA/MC/DISC, $$.

Owings Mills

Egyptian Pizza

Valley Village, 9161 Reisterstown Rd., Owings Mills, MD 21117

(410) 902-9020

Middle Eastern/pizza. There are many vegetarian options available at this café. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Full service, vegan options, take-out, VISA/MC, $$-$$$.

Pasadena

The Bangkok Oriental

8043-F Ritchie Hwy., Pasadena, MD 21122

(410) 766-0973

Thai. This restaurant offers a variety of Thai specialties, including Sautéed Spicy Vegetables; Mixed Vegetables with Tofu, Snow Pea, Baby Corn, and Black Mushrooms with Rice; and Thai Curry Vegetables. Open Monday through Saturday for lunch and dinner. Closed Sunday. Full service, take-out, VISA/MC/DISC, $$.

Pikesville

Kyro

1809 Reisterstown Rd., Pikesville, MD 21208

(410) 653-6868

Middle Eastern/pizza. See description under Baltimore, MD.

Mr. Chan Szechuan Restaurant §

1000 Reisterstown Rd., Pikesville, MD 21208

(410) 484-1100

Chinese. Unique items for vegetarians. Great hot and sour soup, vegetarian sushi, delicious orange seitan, tempeh dishes, yuba with kale and much more. Try the vegan chocolate mousse with nuts for dessert. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Full service, vegan options, take-out, delivery, catering, macrobiotic options, wine/beer/alcohol, VISA/MC/AMEX/DISC, $-$$.

Randallstown

Akbar Palace

3541 Brenbrook Dr., Randallstown, MD 21133

(410) 655-1600

Indian. Authentic Indian cuisine with a wide variety of vegetarian dishes. Their specialties include Vegetable Jalfrezi, Alu Gobi Masala and Vegetarian Biryani. They have consistently given great service. Open daily. Full service, vegan options, take-out, catering, wine/beer/alcohol, VISA/MC/AMEX/DISC, $$.

Rockville

Bombay Bistro

98 W. Montgomery Ave., Rockville, MD 20850

(301) 762-8798

Indian. Bombay Bistro serves vegetarian dishes from North and South India, including vegetable samosas, vegetable biryani, and oothapam (a savory pancake of lentils and rice with onions and tomato). Open daily for lunch and dinner. Full service, vegan options, espresso/cappuccino, take-out, VISA/MC, $$.

•• Café Masala

705 1st Street, Rockville, MD 20851

(301) 294-2937

Vegetarian/Indian. This restaurant offers a wide range of Indian-style vegetarian cuisine, such as grilled kabobs. Open daily for lunch. Buffet, $$.

•• The Vegetable Garden §

11618 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD 20852

(301) 468-9301

Vegan/Chinese. If you are in the D.C. area and you like Chinese food, this restaurant is a must. It has dozens of vegan and vegetarian dishes, especially seitan and wheat gluten items, and interesting soups, such as Sizzling Rice. A non-fat menu is available. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Full service, take-out, fresh juices, wine/beer, non-alcoholic beer, special beverages, VISA/MC/AMEX, $-$$.

•• Yuan Fu Vegetarian

798 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD 20852

(301) 762-5937

Vegetarian/Chinese. Yuan Fu's owner, Chef Tai, has 20 years of experience with vegetarian cuisine. They make all of their mock meats, using wheat gluten, tofu, and tofu skin. The inexpensive lunch menu includes moo shi vegetables and sweet and sour "chicken". Open daily for lunch and dinner. Full service, vegan options, VISA/MC, $$.

Silver Spring

Thai Derm Restaurant

939 Bonifant St., Silver Spring, MD 20910

(301) 589-5341

Thai. The noodle specialities and all other dishes are made without MSG upon request. Open Monday through Saturday. Closed Sunday. Full service, wine/beer, VISA/MC, $$.

Spencerville

Edgewood Inn

16101 Oak Hill Rd., Spencerville, MD 20905

(301) 421-9247

American. Located in a historic house, Edgewood Inn offers a vegetarian buffet, including Nut Loaf, Eggplant Parmesan, Lasagna, Spinach Pie, Rice Casserole, Potato Salad, homemade breads, and Pineapple Cream Cake. Call for hours. Buffet, catering, $$.

Takoma Park

•• Takoma Park Silver Spring Food Co-Op

201 Ethan Allen Ave., Takoma Park, MD 20912

(301) 891-COOP

Vegetarian/deli. This co-op has the area's largest olive selection, "direct from the grower." The deli only does take-out, with a selection of vegan, low-fat, low sodium, wheat-free, dairy-free, and other vegetarian foods. Open daily. Take-out, macrobiotic/vegan options, VISA/MC, $.

•• Udupi Palace

1329 University Blvd. E., Takoma Park, MD 20192

(301) 434-1531

Vegetarian/Indian. Udupi Palace offers a large variety of South Indian vegetarian foods such as Vada (lentil donuts), Uthappam (Indian-style pancakes), Pullavs (rice dishes), and Dosai (Indian-style stuffed crepes). Enjoy soups, samosa, curries, Indian breads, and more! Open daily for lunch and dinner. Full service, vegan options, take-out, catering, fresh juices, special beverages, VISA/MC/AMEX/DISC, $$-$$$.

Timonium

Café Isis

12240 Tullamore Rd., Timonium, MD 21093

(410) 666-4888

Middle Eastern/pizza. See description under Kyro in Baltimore, MD.

•• Natural Brothers' Deli & Café

2149 York Rd., Timonium, MD 21093

(410) 560-3133

Vegetarian/natural foods/juice bar. Located in the The Natural health food store, this vegetarian deli offers a selection of tasty wraps and sandwiches. Try the California Wrap or TuNOfish Wrap -- both are served on organic, spinach tortillas. The Sunny Sun Burger is really good, too! Open Monday through Saturday for lunch. Closed Sunday. Counter service, vegan options, take-out, fresh juices, smoothies, VISA/MC, $-$$.

Towson

Zia's

13 Allegheny Ave., Towson, MD 21204

(410) 296-0799

Café/juice bar. Zia's uses organic and local ingredients to provide an inexpensive menu of natural foods in a bright and cheery setting. For breakfast, try the Tofu Scramble. For lunch, enjoy the vegan Tofu Wrap or a vegetarian sandwich such as the Sunflower Powerhouse or Garden Grill. A vegan soup is offered each day along with some vegan baked goods. Zia's has an extensive menu of fresh fruit & vegetable juices and smoothies. Free wi-fi is available too. Open Monday through Friday for three meals. Open Saturday for breakfast, lunch, and early dinner. Closed Sunday. Limited service, vegan options, take-out, catering, fresh juices, smoothies, soymilk, espresso, VISA/MC/AMEX/DISC, $-$$.

Wheaton

China Chef

11323 Georgia Ave., Wheaton, MD 20902-4619

(301) 949-8170

Chinese. This Chinese restaurant offers several vegetarian entrées. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Full service, wine/beer/alcohol, catering, take-out, VISA/MC/AMEX, $$.

Dusit Thai Cuisine

2404 University Blvd., Wheaton, MD 20902-4510

(301) 949-4140

Thai. Dusit features vegetable and tofu dishes, noodle entrées, and vegetarian soups. Open daily for lunch and dinner. Full service, wine/beer/alcohol, take-out, VISA/MC/AMEX, $.

Nut House Pizza

11419 Georgia Ave., Wheaton, MD 20902

(301) 942-5900

Kosher/pizza. Experience Nut House's pizza made with soy or kosher cheese, falafel, vegetarian burgers, and vegetarian pitas. Open Sunday through Thursday for lunch and dinner. Open Friday until one hour before sundown. Open Saturday one hour after sundown to late night. Limited service, take-out, catering, VISA/MC/AMEX, $.

Saigonese

11232 Grandview Ave., Wheaton, MD 20902

(301) 946-8002

Vietnamese. A large vegetarian menu features appetizers, soups, and several tofu and gluten dishes daily. Lunch specials are available on weekdays. Open Monday through Friday for lunch and dinner. Open Saturday and Sunday for dinner only. Full service, $$.