What an amazing national treasure and a great place to spend an afternoon with friends or family. Walking through the Fort transports you back in time and gives you an overwhelming feeling of national pride. Not to mention, the film documentary at the end of your visit has a truly special surprise at the ending you don’t expect! Do yourself a favor if you’re in Baltimore and go visit Fort McHenry.

Short but informative video to start the tour. Rangers are very knowledgeable about the fort's history. I arrived in time for the flag changing ceremony, which they allow guests to help participate in. Lovely views of the harbor from the fort or walking trails.

SO MUCH FUN! I went for a school field trip, and it did not disappoint. We walked the whole thing, and I loved the preservation of old rooms. My favorite was the one execution cell. The place has high educational value, but it's also a good exercise and it's very interesting. I would love to go again with my family. It was so pretty.

Fort McHenry is truly a gem. If you’re ever in downtown Baltimore, it’s an absolute must-visit—not just for the scenery, but for the powerful history tied to the War of 1812 and the origins of our National Anthem, born from Francis Scott Key’s famous poem. Every time I go, I learn something new. It’s incredibly informative, and the park rangers are consistently outstanding. A special shout-out to Ranger Brannon—competent, sharp, and engaging. He explained to us not only the deeper historical context, but also why Fort McHenry became a historic shrine rather than simply a national park. It was a great piece of information that really added to the experience. Also, for military veterans and active-duty service members, don’t forget to get your Gold Star and Veteran Pass. It’s a lifetime membership that gives you free access to all national parks across the country. This is a must-see anytime you’re in Baltimore. A true treasure.

Our family of four had a great visit. We purchased tickets for the shrine, kids were free. Visitor Center has interactive exhibits and 20 min video thats worth staying until the end. Decent gift shop, no food or cafe to speak of. The grounds, views, restorations, rangers, history, and setting are all amazing.

Had an awesome experience learning about Fort McHenry and the buildup to the battle that inspired the Star Spangled Banner. Started off in the visitor center and watch the film and look at all the information panels. Going outside gives you amazing views of the bay, and exploring the fort is an awesome experience. Each building has information about the fort and it's history. I would absolutely come back and would recommend others do the same.

The NPS Rangers' lack of enthusiasm at this site prevents us from giving it a 5th star. You have to pay extra to walk out to the fort and take a self-guided tour. During our visit, the temperature was extremely high at around 98°F, which may explain the absence of reenactments or ranger-led tours; however, the rangers were still present at the site. The fort's rangers were just standing in the shade, maybe due to the heat. They could have been giving some kind of presentation or talk. We did not get a discount due to the heat, but the experience of being at the historical location was well worth the 4 stars.

Baltimore Museum of Art – A Cultural Treasure Open Late Thursday! 🎨🌙 Visited the Baltimore Museum of Art on a Thursday evening, and what a treat! The museum stays open until 9pm (Thursday Only), making it the perfect spot for some post-work art immersion. ✨ Highlights of the Visit: From Rodin's iconic "The Thinker" to Monet’s dreamy brushwork, the collection spans continents, centuries, and galaxies of imagination. Loved the contrast between classic beauty and modern curiosity—you’ll wander from tranquil Buddhist sculptures to experimental abstract forms that challenge perception. The African and Indigenous art rooms are not to be missed—bold, spiritual, and incredibly powerful. 📸 Excellent photo ops throughout. Whether you're drawn to the quiet power of a bronze sculpture or the chaos of contemporary color, the Force is visually strong here. 🚗 Parking was super reasonable at just $9 after 5pm—a rare find for a museum of this caliber. Easy to access and well-marked. 🕘 Extended hours = quiet magic. The evening vibe is calm, uncrowded, and contemplative—ideal for art lovers and peace-seeking wanderers alike. With free admission to the main collection and plenty of space to roam, this place is a gem—whether you’re a casual visitor or a Force-sensitive art sage.

This place completely exceeded my expectations. I really had no idea what I was getting into, and the Baltimore Museum of Art turned out to be deceivingly massive. From the outside you’d never guess how much is packed inside. You could easily spend an entire day here and honestly, you should just to take everything in without rushing. They have this interactive section that’s actually fun (not one of those awkward “pretend to touch this screen” situations), and the historic art rooms are stunning. You walk in and it feels like you’ve stepped into another time. There’s a sculpture garden too I didn’t even make it that far because there was just so much to see plus entire areas dedicated to Mediterranean art, European pieces, and these beautifully curated exhibits that really pull you in. One thing I loved is how organized everything is. The museum feels intentional, thoughtful, and incredibly well put together. Even the flow from room to room makes sense, which is rare for a museum this big. Overall, it’s just an extraordinary place. If you’re anywhere near Baltimore, this is absolutely worth your time. I genuinely can’t recommend it enough it’s incredible.

A must-see in Baltimore! The Baltimore Museum of Art offers an impressive and thoughtfully curated collection. The Cone Collection is especially stunning — a true gem with extensive works by Matisse, Picasso, and Van Gogh. I also enjoyed seeing pieces by Georgia O’Keeffe, Monet, Klimt, Gauguin, Botticelli, Raphael, and Sir Joshua Reynolds. The galleries are spacious, peaceful, and well-lit, allowing you to take your time and really experience the art. The museum store is well-stocked with unique, themed gifts and books — perfect for thoughtful souvenirs. A top-notch experience, and free admission is a bonus!

I’ve visited the Baltimore Museum of Art a few times over the years and always enjoy the experience. I went recently to see the Amy Sherald: American Sublime exhibition, which is open until April 5, 2026. It’s a popular show with timed entry tickets ($18 + tax/fees for adults; free for members). I was able to find paid street parking right in front of the museum, and there’s also a dedicated paid lot. Check in at the front desk when you walk in, and the team will point you toward the exhibition. It’s up a few flights of stairs if you prefer to walk, and there’s an elevator route as well. The lobby currently features a colorful, quirky display of large-scale abstract figures covered in beads. Throughout the museum, there’s a wide mix of modern and classical works, and the layout flows nicely through different galleries and a central courtyard. It’s a beautiful building and very thoughtfully curated. Since my visit was focused on American Sublime, a few highlights: Once your ticket is scanned at the entrance, you’re immediately met with bold color, striking compositions, and larger-than-life portraits of African American subjects in distinctive attire. The standout pieces include the iconic portrait of former First Lady Michelle Obama and the moving tribute to Breonna Taylor. The short film about Amy Sherald at the end is absolutely worth watching for more insight into her process. Before you head out, the museum store is a great stop that is filled with art-inspired books, jewelry, and gifts. There’s also Gertrude’s restaurant and bar on-site if you want a bite or a drink before or after exploring the galleries. Note: there’s also a quiet room available for visitors if they need a space to nurse, pray or have a quiet moment.

The BMA has an attractive collection of paintings, statues and other beautiful pieces from around the globe. I really enjoyed seeing pieces by Monet, Degas, Rembrandt and Botticelli to name a few. Entry is free except for certain exhibitions and open until late on Thursday evening.

The BMA is a Baltimore and mid-Atlantic treasure! This museum- with its thoughtful, perceptive, and equitable representation healed all the art school BS I experienced in the late 90s. Free and open to the public, every exhibit that I have seen there has been moving, potent, and restorative. I will return again and again - and will be purchasing a membership. Can't celebrate the creative and community work they do at the BMA enough! Check it out!

To pass some time for an event I was attending in the BMA, I sat in their East Lobby. I then noticed certain things (within that area) that caught my attention. Next to me on the bench was a bead-encrusted figurine. On parts of the ceiling, I saw brood X cicadas (they were encased in something). Hanging from the ceiling was a figure within a cocoon and it was in a multi-tiered chandelier. I later discovered it is part of an exhibit by artist Raúl de Nieves. I didn't catch everything in the lobby, so you'll have to check it out for yourself. The overall display is pretty neat and is there until December 2026.

This is a truly wonderful museum. A true gem of Baltimore. The collection is very large and varied art and artifacts from all parts of the world and including European and American pieces and eastern art as well. The displays are very professional and accessible and the staff always very friendly. And, it’s FREE! I have found that parking in the general area is easy to find and not expensive. If you find yourself in Baltimore make time to visit this beautiful museum.

One of the best museums I've ever been to. It starts from the very entrance: they have that beautiful idea with the cards to make your own tour around the museum. Moreover, wherever you go, you see a lot of materials next to the exhibits which give you plenty of ideas and information for a deeper insight. I loved it! And of course, their collection is just overwhelming! There are so many exhibits and all of them are well displayed in intelligently organized spaces. It's the only museum I didn't go to its cafe. There was no time for it. I wanted to squeeze as much as I could from every minute of my being there. Highly recommended to all art-lovers!

It's a gorgeous museum with great art pieces. They have a cool medieval like staircase too. My boyfriend and I got through the museum within abt 2-3 hours, but that's because we skimmed through mostly and stopped to look at and read about the pieces we found most captivating. If you're the type to stop and look at every piece, plan for more time. 😉 I also saw a woman with a wheelchair making her way around the museum so I assume it's atleast somewhat accessible. And it's all free!

The Walters Art Museum is an exceptional center for those who love art, particularly art that spans across thousands of years. I would recommend to start from the upper floor (4th floor) and work one's way down. The fourth floor houses the collection of East Asian items from China, Japan, India, and the Middle East. The collection spans thousands of years of eastern art, and includes manuscripts, ceramics, burial treasures, and many other items. The third floor contains the prized medieval collection which is one of the greatest collections of medieval art in the United States. There are sections that indicate Early Byzantine, Early Medieval, and Gothic eras. There is also an exhibit dedicated to how cats are represented in manuscripts. There is also a representation of a venetian home from the late medieval era, showcasing a merchant's collection that they could accumulate. The third floor also consists of Renaissance and Baroque art. These are mostly from Italy, and have sections for each century of Italian art. The second floor is dedicated to the ancient world as well as armor and collection displays. the ancient section includes art from Ancient Egypt, the Ancient Near East, Ancient Greece, and Ancient Rome. All are detailed and give one an idea of the living and dying rituals of the past. The armor collection is a nice touch, having armor mostly from Germany from the Renaissance that is highly decorative. There is a collector's room that details how a person from the 17th Century would house their collections. There is also a wonder room that showcases how one would collect items in the Early Modern Era. There is also a representation of a Dutch home filled with Dutch art primarily from the 17th Century. The first floor houses the temporary exhibit. This year, the exhibit details the mummification practices of various animals. The museum shop also has a variety of prints, mugs, stickers, books pertaining to their collection, journals, and jewelry that reflects the items in their collection. In terms of accessibility, there are elevators and even wheelchair lifts in spots so that everyone can see their entire collection. There is no fee to get in as of 2025, but you do have to pay around twenty dollars for parking across the street from the entrance. Overall, this is a must see if you are in the Baltimore area, and be sure to donate as they rely on donations to keep the place running for free for all visitors.

The Walters was the first place I visited after checking into my hotel around the corner. It’s a beautiful building with a great collection of art from all over the world. It’s easy to get through on a 2-3 hour visit and open until 8 on Thursday evenings.

Very nice museum. The staff is very knowledgeable and friendly. I definitely recommend checking them out. Add this spot to your list of free things to do in Baltimore!

Amazing museum with a variety of art. As a potter, I always get ideas for my next project. Such variety and a great place to spend the afternoon. I saw this stirrup jar (see picture) and went straight home to make my own (see picture: greenware -early stages of my creation). Will definitely be back 🌞

We went for the first time and we choose labor day to go. It actually wasn't that bad. We had no wait to get in. But some of the exhibits had a crowd before you could get to see it decently. We did not do any of the experiences or were we able to see the dolphins though we did try. They were being feed when we were there and we didn't wait long enough to see them. If you have anyone in your group that has mobility issues and needs to use elevators they do have them and they can fit wheelchairs plus a person or two. They are not near where the other entrance to the floor is for those that do not have mobility problems. I say this for those who have parties of mixed capabilities. There is one area that those who cannot do stairs can access and that is the birds area. There is a way for wheelchairs to go through the area but there is 2 platforms that you can't get to. The aquarium was nice and the employees we came across were all friendly. The are some rather large attractions and lots of smaller ones just like any other aquarium or zoo. They have an area with horseshoe crabs and jellyfish that you can touch the animals. We were hoping that there was an area you can feed manta rays of something like it but they did not. We got to see how they clean some of the tanks and some of the divers that we found out that all the divers are volunteers. The guy made a joke saying that they work for free bottled air. Some of the tanks look difficult to clean so I don't envy them. They some frogs and birds and some other animals. I was not expecting to see any other animals but I thought it was cool. There are some really good views of the harbor as well. They have a spot that you can sit and rest while looking at the harbor. All in all we will probably go back and definitely recommend.

It was nice... I have been to aquariums with more variety... this one seems almost local species. A few empty habitats... the Jellyfish invasion is not impressive if you have seen them in other aquariums... some tanks looked like they were sick... dolphin shows are no more but you can sit and watch them... they mostly hung out in the back though, until the helpers came out to feed. That was cool. I agree with the stopping the shows and loved seeing them play. The rainforest was okay too... a couple of birds here an there... mostly just plant life with a cool water fall. Escalator was broke on one floor of the 4 floor exhibit. I think they have an elevator, they were not to informative about it though. We never looked into the Australian terrarium... chose to leave and do other things.

Had a mommy son day and it was just what was needed! Everything was clean and in order, not too many people on a school day so it was nice. Not too many lines, the staff were super friendly and knowledgeable. My 8 year old stated it was his best day in forever ❤️ Thanks! I bought the membership and its already paid off but I can see him having us there a LOT!

The design of this aquarium is very unique. I have visited many aquariums across the country. Like the Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta, the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, the Long Beach Aquarium in CA, and the Mall of America’s Aquarium. We went on a Sunday so it was super busy but getting our tickets online was a smart move. The layout of this aquarium is pretty unique and it can be actually quite confusing. Thankfully we had a friend who has been to this one multiple times and knew his way around. I do like the open design to the main attraction and the escalators to next level. That was very unusual to see. There was one escalator that was out of service but they had the service door for the stair propped open and someone standing there to help guide. Also another interesting thing was the rotating doors. I have never seen them being used inside of a facility. It was kind of annoying as only one person could go through it at a time. The best thing was all the aquatic creatures that they have. Those were a joy to watch and we got to talk to a knowledgeable guide that was showing off a turtle skull. She was fun to talk with and knew her stuff about the animals in the aquarium. I would go back for sure.

One of the best or the best aquarium that I've seen. I especially enjoyed the rainforest it was beautiful and immediately takes you back to oohs and ahs like you're a kid again. Let's not forget about being able to touch a jelly fish. Yes this is a great aquarium.

I love this aquarium, it takes about 2-3 hours to see everything without rushing. They have touch tanks that are fun for everyone and a lot of awesome exhibits. There are places to get food and drinks which is nice as well. Parking is decent and right in front of the aquarium. I normally go on the weekends and the crowds are not too bad.

I hadn't been to this Aquarium since my grade school field trip. I don't remember everything from over 30 years ago when I visited but I do know I had a great time with my 6 y/o son this past weekend. It looks amazing. There were so many beautiful attractions and aquatic life to look at. I REALLY enjoyed it. The jellyfish are awesome to watch.

Wonderful experience at Alma. Beautiful restaurant with beautiful dishes and plate ware. The ambiance was divine. We got tequenos, cauliflower, and hamachi. That was the best hamachi I ever had. It was sweet, tart, and salty. The yellow tail melted in my mouth. The Arroz con Chipi-Chipi reminded me of Paella. The Bienmasabe desert was tasty. It was sponge cake, coconut ice cream and chewy jellies for texture. The punch like a lady cocktail was refreshing not too sweet. Something about having it on the rocks took it over. We were well taken by our servers.

This is by far ONE OF THE BEST RESTAURANTS in Baltimore. We were treated like royalty! Great cocktail recommendations by Kez (Boca del Dragon!!!), wonderful food recommendations (Shrimp Solomo), and a super cool dessert (Strawberry Chantilly)! 💯 would recommend. Loved celebrating our 16th anniversary here.

food quality was less than I had expected. It had flashes of greatness, easily the best gazpacho I've EVER had. And I'm not lying when I say there is no room for improvement on that dish. Coriander and mango sorbet dessert was also wonderful. at the time , steak priced $67, was well seasoned but very , very tough. Better steaks can be had at 1/3rd the price. Service and atmosphere were wonderful. An app we ordered was pork belly and shrimp - the flavors were a little off. Smoky flavor didn't set/mesh well with dish overall. I should have gotten another dish, but I wanted to see how they would prepare a nearly 70 dollar steak, I do better at home to be honest

I’ve been wanting to try Alma Cocina Latina since I moved to the area and last night I was finally able to! 5/25/25. Thank you to Kanae, Mauricio, and Kez! You guys made a great impression and a wonderful experience in addition to a great meal 💜 Shout out to the chefs and line cooks. I can tell that these dishes are carefully thought out and curated. Everything I ate was delicious. Since it was my first visit, and was excited to see so many gluten free items, I wanted to try different dishes! Also, Punch like a lady was soooo good and compliments the food well! I’m a line cook myself and I don’t get to have food cooked for me often, so anytime I’m able to, it’s greatly appreciated. I will be returning, Thank you!

One of the best dining experiences in Baltimore!! We were blown away by the vegetarian food options, they were all unique, balanced, and delicious. Great ambiance (what amazing plants!) and cocktails. Extra thank you to Spencer and Momo for the incredible service. Can’t wait to go back!

Very hard to find authentic yummy Latin food in baltimore. They have paella! Large, unique menu. The food is bursting with flavor, even down to the salad! Great service. Wish I got more pictures.

Lovely experience here. The decor is gorgeous, there is a light and airy atmosphere yet the space still has an intimate feel. We ordered the calamari app, chicken takari, pabellòn, and passion fruit mocktails. As others have mentioned, the portions are on the smaller side but the food is so flavorful it doesn't even matter. The staff were all very attentive. Upon leaving we were approached by a complete stranger and one of the owners noticed and quickly intervened. Much appreciated. I will definitely be back.

Boy, was Cinghiale a surprise—in the best way. We were visiting from Washington, D.C. over Labor Day weekend for a quick getaway to recharge and celebrate a birthday. We tried several different restaurants during our stay, but this one was hands down our favorite. We debated where to go given its proximity to Little Italy and all the options there, but choosing Cinghiale turned out to be the best decision. They offer different menus depending on the experience you’re after—whether a more casual à la carte option or a prix fixe—and both looked amazing. The atmosphere is fantastic. It’s tucked away from the busiest streets, so dining outside is peaceful, close to the water, and great for people-watching. Inside, the white-tablecloth wine room is elegant, and even the regular dining room and bar looked inviting. We opted for outdoor seating and had a quiet, comfortable night. Service was outstanding—truly the best we had anywhere in Baltimore. Our server was warm, attentive, and full of energy. She gave thoughtful recommendations that really shaped our meal and even surprised us with a birthday glass of wine paired with our entrée, plus a candle with dessert. Those personal touches made the night feel special. And the food? Spectacular across the board. The stone fruit salad and tomato-mozzarella salad were both refreshing and beautifully presented. The duck was incredibly tender and perfectly cooked. The stuffed pasta dishes were rich, flavorful, and a highlight of the evening. From appetizers through dessert, everything was balanced, thoughtful, and made with pride. We walked away with zero complaints—just full appreciation for an incredible experience. Cinghiale set the bar high, and we’ll absolutely return on our next visit to Baltimore.

What a pleasant lunch surprise! Cinghiale just started serving lunch and they had a well curated menu that even included desserts. I enjoyed my visit so much, I invited a friend to join me. I would strongly recommend them for a solo, duo or group lunch visit. At this time, they offer this lunch special Tuesday-Friday from 11:30am-2:00pm. I will definitely be visiting again. Gracie Cinghiale and well done!

This was one of the best dining experiences I’ve had in Baltimore! The staff were absolutely amazing from the moment we walked in until we left. We were celebrating our one-year wedding anniversary, and as a same-sex couple, things can be a bit unpredictable, but we were greeted with such a welcoming and friendly atmosphere. The food was just unforgettable. We also never found ourselves with an empty glass. The portions were the perfect size. We could tell it was all made with care and fresh, high-quality ingredients. I can see how some things might not fit everyone’s palette, so make sure you check the menu before you go. We have absolutely no complaints. We had a great time and can’t wait to share our experience with anyone who’s interested.

Dining at Cinghiale in Baltimore was a memorable experience that blended elegance with warmth. From the moment I walked in, the golden lighting, soft chatter, and candlelit tables created an inviting atmosphere that felt both refined and comfortable. My wife and I attended the Cinghiale Opera Salon, and it was truly a one-of-a-kind evening — the live opera intertwined beautifully with the meal, making each course feel like part of a story. The service was attentive, the pacing thoughtful, and the food exceptional. Every dish reflected care and authenticity, from the perfectly tender pasta to the rich flavors that spoke of true Italian tradition.

We just had our wedding at Cinghiale, and it was absolutely fantastic. From start to finish, the staff went above and beyond to make everything perfect. The food was incredible—every course beautifully prepared by Juan David and served with care, and the service was seamless all evening. The atmosphere was elegant yet warm, and our guests couldn’t stop talking about how amazing everything was. Planning and communication with Abbe Gould was smooth and professional, and on the day of the wedding, she and the entire executed every detail flawlessly. If you’re looking for a venue that combines exceptional food, impeccable service, and a truly special ambiance, Cinghiale delivers in every way. We couldn’t have asked for a better experience on our wedding day.

Excellent service and atmosphere! They make sure you are well taken care of and everything is seamless. However, the reason for the 2 stars is because of the food. The food is mid at best. I had the lasagna and it was bland and underwhelming. The charcuterie cheeses tasted cheap like they went to Walmart or something and got them. Again, beautiful restaurant by the water and excellent wait staff. The food just sucks.

We came to the harbor to visit. We ended up wanting to eat dinner, so we found this restaurant on Google. From the moment we walked in, we were greeted and sat down quickly. Our server Matt was phenomenal! Jake, the manager, was very professional and helpful as well! The food was really good! The short room was so good that I had two orders! The ice cream with espresso was incredible! We would definitely come back here again. As you walk in they have a station where they prepare cheese and Salamis. I was really excited to try that out until I saw the guy prepping eating a couple of bites which turned me off instantly. That was the only negative thing. I did bring it up to the manager and told him to talk with the worker to prevent that from happening again.

I think this was overall one of the best restaurants I've been to. The thing that stood out most was the service, which I would describe as Michelin-lite. Multiple employees even other than our main server coming by frequently to switch out silverware and used plates as soon as we were finished with something. Our main server was new, being shadowed by one of the managers. She did a great job and you would never be able to tell she just started so it seems the quality of the service here starts from the very beginning. There were some deals on happy hour oysters. There were 4 dipping sauces to choose from which added a lot of customization to the flavor. Being based in the DMV and used to the prices there, it really seemed like we got great value on the food. Not sure if the portion size to price ratio is good for Baltimore standards but at least for us we were very happy with what we got for the price. I can recommend all of the dishes we got, the Iceberg Summer Salad, Clam Roll and Scallops, all worth it in my opinion. I will say the two people seated near us both got the lobster roll and it looked really good as well.

First time in Baltimore and enjoyed a wonderful lunch at this place! Our server was amazing. She knew the menu very well gave us amazing recommendations and overall the experience was great. We enjoyed oysters and of course a lobster roll. The lobster roll was perfect. It was perfectly cooked not tough and deliciously buttery. Thereafter, took a stroll by the waterfront. If you’re in the area, definitely a great place to stop and grab a bite.

This was the best meal we had at Baltimore. The service was amazing. The octapus ceviche and oysters were my favourite. My partner really enjoyed the crab cakes but it was too rich for me. The calamari is greasy and I would recommend skipping it.

The food was absolutely fantastic, with the lobster rolls being the star of the show. It was loaded with tender, succulent lobster meat, lightly dressed to enhance its natural sweetness, and served on a buttery bun . The crab cake was just as remarkable, filled with jumbo lump crab, minimal filler, and a crispy, golden exterior. Both dishes really showcased the restaurant’s commitment to fresh, high-quality seafood. The service was exceptional. Our server was attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable about the menu.

One of the best seafood spots I've ever been too. The oysters were fantastic, and the sheet they give you is very informative. The place is small and busy so make a reservation asap.

The best (like really the best) oyster selection, phenomenal crab cake, and outstanding food and drinks all around. Great service. I recommend sitting at the bar - the bar tender is full of knowledge on the menu. I’ve been coming here for at least 5 years and it’s always a treat!

What a wonderful experience. This place was recommended to me on my flight into BWI. I checked into the hotel and grabbed an Uber over on a Tuesday night. It’s small and was full but they said I could put my name in at the bar. In less than 10min I was seated. Each oyster/clam was clean, fresh and delicious. The meals ordered around me all looked incredible but the crab cake looked amazing. At first glance I thought it was baked potato based on the size. Staff was all fantastic. I couldn’t recommend this more.

⭐️⭐️⭐️ 3.3/5 stars We visited The Helmand on a Thursday night and were surprised to find it almost completely empty. Just two other diners were in the entire restaurant, which gave it a strange, somewhat lifeless vibe for a place that gets so much hype online. The decor feels a bit outdated, and honestly, they could probably use some marketing help to get more people through the door. It really didn’t feel like a spot that’s supposed to be one of Baltimore’s most famous Afghan restaurants. That said, the service was excellent. The servers were super attentive, always checking on us and refilling our water without us having to ask. They were polite and knowledgeable about the menu. The food itself was… fine. A lot of the menu revolves around lamb, which was cooked well enough but didn’t blow us away. Flavors were decent, but nothing stood out as particularly memorable. It’s the sort of meal where you finish full and satisfied but not raving about it afterward. We didn’t try any of the wine or coffee, so can’t comment on those, but the prices were fair for the amount of food we got. Overall, it was a solid experience, but I’m just not sure it deserves the level of hype it gets online. Tasty, but not amazing. If you’re curious about Afghan food or just want something different, it’s worth trying at least once, but don’t go in expecting to be completely wowed.

I was first a little skeptical of visiting because I had previously DoorDash'd food from The Helmand and wasn't super enthused. However, they really delivered when it comes to in-house meals. I visited with a party of over 10 and they were able to accomodate us and serve us quickly. They have lots of fantastic vegetarian options revolving around rice, lentils, and curries. Everything we had was colorful and flavorful. Would definitely love to visit again.

We’d heard about The Helmand for years and finally got around to visiting. Went on a Wednesday evening. The naan was the best I’ve ever had. The mantwo was a good appetizer. We both had lamb shank as our entrees and really enjoyed it. The kabuli rice that came with it was extremely good. For our first time having Afghan food, I found it to be well flavored and tasty. The staff was very attentive as well. I would absolutely return.

This restaurant has gone downhill since the original owner died, which is a shame because this place was such a historic and iconic staple for the DMV Afghan diaspora. I’ve been to this restaurant in the past and always had an incredible experience. Now, the food is not authentic, the portions for some dishes are ridiculously small, and the atmosphere feels cheapened (they had paper tablecloths on the tables). The mantu appetizer only came with just a single piece of mantu. I’ve never seen that before in any Afghan restaurant I’ve been to. Most restaurants give at least 3-4 pieces. Also, the mantu was served on a plate of dal (lentils). That’s not how authentic mantu is made in Afghan culture at all. The chicken was very good, but the rice and dips really tasted like a terrible mockery/knock off of South Asian cuisine rather than authentic Afghan cuisine, which is supposed to taste more like a blend of West and Central Asian food usually. The firnee did not taste authentic at all. The pudding had no flavor and it was missing crushed pistachios—which is one of the most key ingredients for firnee. However, the falooda ice cream did taste good. Overall, this place isn’t terrible, but it’s not authentic, and you’d be much better off by going to DC or northern Virginia for Afghan food instead. This place just isn’t it anymore.

We had occasion to dine here while on a weekend getaway to Baltimore. Staying in Mount Vernon we tried to look for the best of the best to fill our long weekend. Seeing the Helmand come highly rated and never having tried Afghan cuisine before we were intrigued. The restaurant didn't disappoint. At first when we entered it looked like the restaurant wasn't full, but that was deceptive as we merely entered the corridor where single tables are lined up in a row. Around the corner we entered the spacious dining room and were given a seat near the windows to appreciate the ambiance of the whole restaurant while enjoying the outdoor views of the sunset. From the beginning, our waiter team was courteous and professional. The wine, beer, cocktail, and non-alcoholic beverage selection was excellent. Try the Riesling from Australia, it really complements the spices of the meal to follow! The appetizers and main courses were extremely well done, expertly spiced, presented simply but with impeccable precision. After dinner the desserts were an added surprise. Who knew that goat cheese would add such depth to a cheesecake and that a touch of pomegranate syrup would elevate it to five-star class? While the restaurant was a bit loud as it began to get crowded, I never couldn't hear my dinner companions nor was others' conversation intrusive, even those sat right next to us. Overall, if you're looking for authentic cuisine and a great atmosphere and have time to spend in Mount Vernon, give The Helmand a try!!

Absolutely loved our experience at The Helmand. We ordered the Chicken Kabuli and Zardaaloo Challow, along with their refreshing summer yogurt and cucumber drink — everything was top-notch. The flavors were rich and beautifully balanced, easily among the best Afghan dishes we’ve had. The service was just as impressive — our food arrived within 10–15 minutes, and the servers were attentive, warm, and professional. The ambiance is elegant, cultured, and rich with character, making it a great spot for everything from casual meals to special occasions. Highly recommend for anyone looking to enjoy incredible Afghan cuisine in a welcoming and refined setting. We’ll definitely be back!

Clean, well lit, friendly and knowledgeable servers. Wonderful vegetarian/vegan options. Good food, flavors well balanced, textures smooth, well prepared and beautifully presented. Really good rice!! If I liked cilantro, which was in an optional side dip, I would have loved every single bite. Great stuffed baklava and goatcheesecake dessert. Wine and beer menu too.

This is the BEST restaurant in Baltimore, period. If you like a good dirty martini, this is definitely the place to go. Like the menu, they really have a "perfect dirty martini", smooth and delicious. We visited 5 times so far in the past two months and loved every dish we ordered!

Absolutely divine evening. Charming place with a fan moving the air through this dark, authentically French spot. The food was delicious and the wine options were great. I highly recommend and think it’s one of the best restaurants in Baltimore.

This is the best restaurant in Baltimore. In fact, for “French” cuisine, I’d claim it’s a contender for the best on the entire east coast - if not beyond. From a simple, curated wine selection to the creative drinks to the divine and perfectly executed menu. You’ll feel like you’re in a Paris bistrot, not a typical city block of Baltimore. If that’s your jam, you’ll love it here too. Sit outside, sit at the bar, stand at a little table. Get the bread and butter. Get the pate. Get the salad. Get all the desserts.

We were looking forward to trying this restaurant and we had a delicious meal! The unique Caesar salad, tile fish with lobster sauce, and the lentils with beets and ricotta were all wonderfully prepared. Our server was knowledgeable and helpful. But the music—goodness it was awful. Who wants to hear loud, old, bad disco when you’re enjoying a special meal?

incredible service, food, & atmosphere — a special shout out to will who was so knowledgeable about the food and wine and really was the cherry on top of a great experience. The only thing I’d change next time is that we would choose to sit in the wine shop vs the main dining but you really can’t go wrong! Highly recommend this amazing hidden gem of a French restaurant

We had an absolutely lovely dinner here with amazing wine selections. The atmosphere and ambience while sitting at the bar was fantastic. We enjoyed getting to look into the kitchen from our bar seats to witness all the food preparation magic. Very friendly and not overbearing service. Can’t wait to come back!

Le Comptoir du Vin is classy, cozy, and full of French charm! The wine selection is excellent, the cheese and charcuterie boards are top-notch, and everything feels thoughtfully curated. Warm, attentive staff and a relaxed atmosphere make it perfect for a date night or a chill evening sipping wine with friends.