Not too long ago, if you searched for American restaurants in Towson, you’d find mostly familiar chains. We’ll always love those classics, but there are a lot more options now: from elevated gastropubs, to modern Southern kitchens, to artisanal burger specialists. Narrowing down your list can take some work. That’s where this guide—updated as we try new spots—comes in. Whether you’re craving comfort food or seeking something new, these restaurants will do you right.
Rain 903
$$ | (410) 321-7400 | WEBSITE
There’s often a lively crowd at the bar at Rain 903, even on weeknights, and you might see regulars chatting with the efficient, friendly bartender. This restaurant, located within a hotel, is so good at creating a vibrant atmosphere, it’s possible to overlook how delicious their American dishes are. Start with the best flatbread, and delve into the pasta with shrimp and chicken or gumbo if you’re hungry.
Don’t worry about finishing everything, because the portions are generous enough to take some home. Note they do serve breakfast buffet with a nice selection, as well as drinks.
Peri-Peri Original
$ | (443) 282-3386 | WEBSITE
For some fantastic American comfort food, try Peri-Peri Original in Towson—it’s been a solid choice for locals and visitors alike for years. From chicken sandwiches and burgers to vegetarian options like the veggie pita, there’s really nowhere you can go wrong on the menu, but the spicy honey butter chicken sandwich is a must-get. It’s well-breaded and comes with that delicious sauce—save some of that for your fries, too.
Towson Tavern
$$ | (410) 337-7210 | WEBSITE
This neighborhood American spot in Towson really goes above and beyond with the quality of food they serve. On the menu, you’ll find different styles of seafood and salads that are thoughtfully prepared, with generous portions. For the starters, you get to choose from options like calamari or crab dip, along with additional bread if you or anyone you’re sharing with wants to make their own bites. And don’t skimp on their happy hour specials, which we personally like to enjoy with the mussels.
THB Bagelry & Deli of Towson
$ | (410) 337-0006 | WEBSITE
Just off the main drag in Towson, this bagelry and deli delivers reliably satisfying, carb-centric comfort food, in a bright space that feels like a neighborhood anchor. Even the bustling morning rush is oddly comforting. Grab a reassuringly chewy bacon, egg, and cheese bagel, a perfectly balanced iced latte that could probably jumpstart any day, and bagels that have us looking up synonyms for the word ‘authentic.’ Bring a friend, and an appetite so you can try as much as possible.
The Cheesecake Factory
$$ | (410) 337-7411 | WEBSITE
Towson’s most popular cheesecake destination, The Cheesecake Factory at Towson Town Center is a bustling sit-down spot with good curbside service. They serve amazing portions of Tuscan Chicken, a recommended low-calorie choice. The Salted Caramel Cheesecake is supremely decadent, and so are other options, like their carbonara or Spicy Chipotle Pasta. Everything on the wide menu is worth trying once, and The Cheesecake Factory also serves gluten-free dishes.
Have yours with some family or friends, or a takeout order. It’s pretty close to the top of convenient choices for dining out, especially for those looking to enjoy a meal.
The Rec Room
$ | (410) 337-7178 | WEBSITE
The only thing you’ll regret about your extraordinarily fun evening at this casual American spot is everything you didn’t try. From the friendly staff who make you feel instantly welcome, The Rec Room is decorated with festive pool tables and filled with groups enjoying 80s music while savoring great food. Don’t skip the incredibly satisfying crab burger—served with excellent beer and drinks—and the crisp chicken quesadilla that achieves the perfect balance between hearty and flavorful.
Gino’s Burgers & Chicken
$ | (410) 583-0000 | WEBSITE
At this long-time local favorite in Towson, there’s no real way to tell what time of day it is in the welcoming, sports-themed room. That’s a great excuse to stay a while for a feast of classic burgers, and wonderfully crispy ol bay fries, with fried onion rings and a variety of milkshakes. Don’t skip their grilled chicken sandwich.
Kerb restaurant
$ | (443) 900-9656 | WEBSITE
This classic Towson spot has been serving locals for years, and a big reason why is the showstopping cheesesteak that’s been perfected to rival Philadelphia’s best. Each sandwich comes piled high with delicious, well-seasoned fillings that are served super fast. Another excellent option is whatever Masoud recommends, which comes with his friendly, engaging conversation that makes the meal even more enjoyable.
Use his amusing stories as entertainment to accompany the food, which somehow makes everything even more memorable. There’s just the one location in Towson, but it’s worth the trip for what might be the best meal of your life.
The Real Thing
$ | (410) 583-7211 | WEBSITE
This Towson cheesesteak spot makes sandwiches we’d happily devour after a long day’s work—but also when we’re just craving something truly satisfying. The cozy dining room from the same owner who’s been running it for over 30 years is filled with regulars having a personal moment alone with steaming cheesesteaks, particularly the popular ‘The Real Thing’ cheesesteak with its perfect blend of cheese and special hot sauce.
Cosmic Wings – Towson
$$ | (410) 296-7077 | WEBSITE
There are two standout dishes on the menu at this bustling, straightforward spot in Towson and they’re both pretty great. That includes your classic wings in various sauces, but also their surprisingly delicious green beans. The green beans with their simple seasoning might sound like an afterthought, but they’re actually pretty wonderful—just like their wings when the service is attentive.
Bread & Circuses Bistro & Bar
$$ | (410) 337-5282 | WEBSITE
This charming Towson bistro is almost always buzzing, but we have never been happier to squeeze into such a cozy corner. (We’ll be checking out their bar seating on our next visit soon.) They do a range of dishes well, whether that’s the fantastic fra diavolo sauce, the super delicious catch 22 rockfish, or appetizers like blackened shrimp over julienne veggies and peach. Consider the personal drink creations from the bartenders—a refreshing sangria or a perfectly balanced martini—mandatory.
7 West Bistro Grille
$$ | (410) 337-9378 | WEBSITE
From the team that brings consistent Mediterranean flavors to Towson, this bistro serves excellent versions of classics like rack of lamb and salmon bites, but we’d highly recommend exploring their standout tapas selection as well—like the lamb chops praised for their delicious flavor, and the wings and steamed shrimp during happy hour. Don’t skip the blush sangria either.
The service from staff like Georges provides attentive, focused, and outstanding hospitality, while the ambiance feels upscale yet cozy, making it suitable for a fun dining experience. Parking is convenient on the street or nearby, adding to the overall welcoming atmosphere.
CVP Towson
$ | (410) 821-8155 | WEBSITE
Patrons often settle in for the long haul at this Towson spot, where sports games play on the screens and high-top tables create a casual, elevated perch. You’ll be content to stay awhile—especially once you bite into their smash burger with an absolutely perfect char. We also appreciate the variety of affordable beers, the lively brunch atmosphere, and the kind staff who do their best despite being stretched thin.
Sushi Hana
$$ | (410) 823-0372 | WEBSITE
In Towson, Sushi Hana serves outstanding sushi—including some of the freshest rolls you’ll find anywhere. The popular restaurant also offers classic Japanese flavors in their dishes, like their Crispy Mango Roll, and a Cooked Dynamite special. The lunch specials provide excellent value, making it a local favorite that has been supported for years. The atmosphere features a charming koi pond, though the space feels somewhat dated with an unmaintained fish tank.
Still, the extensive menu gives plenty to explore on return visits.
The Brass Tap
$$ | (410) 842-6041 | WEBSITE
The Brass Tap is a go-to in Towson for great beer and casual eats. From their classic burgers to dishes like wings and Brussels sprouts, there’s a lot to love here. Their fries are some of the most outstanding fries we’ve had, and one of the first things you should order. Another excellent option is their drink specials, which come with a wide selection of beers to choose from. We usually go for the wings, Brussels sprouts, and (more) fries.