Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Essex

13 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Michael's Cafe White Marsh/ Middle River restaurant

1. Michael's Cafe White Marsh/ Middle River

4.6

Exceptional(838)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • White Marsh

Booked 18 times today

At Michael's Cafe in White Marsh, Baltimore, the essence of a great steakhouse is vividly brought to life. Celebrating over 40 years of culinary excellence, this restaurant has become a beloved staple in the community, especially since its re-establishment in 2019. What makes Michael's stand out is their unwavering commitment to quality and service, as highlighted by a patron who raved, "the weekend prime rib special is to die for." Their approach combines traditional steakhouse favorites with innovative dishes, ensuring every visit is both familiar and exciting. Guests consistently praise the atmosphere and the food, with remarks like "Always a great spot to grab delicious food" underscoring their satisfaction. Michael's Cafe is a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic steakhouse experience with a modern twist.

2. Bygone

4.6

Exceptional(3584)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary american • Harbor East

Booked 37 times today

At Bygone in Harbor East, Baltimore, diners experience a delightful blend of Contemporary French / American cuisine that captivates both the palate and the imagination. Nestled in a prime location with "unbeatable views" of the city, Bygone merges "modern energy with a classic feel," creating an atmosphere that is both luxurious and welcoming. Reviewers rave about the "amazing" service and food, highlighting dishes like the signature prime rib and lamb chop, which are consistently described as "absolutely delicious." The restaurant's dedication to quality is evident, with guests recommending it for anyone wanting to experience top-notch dining, where even the cocktails are crafted to perfection. Whether it's a special occasion or a casual outing, Bygone promises an "exquisite" dining experience that is truly exceptional.

A photo of Kona Grill - Baltimore restaurant

3. Kona Grill - Baltimore

3.3

Good(2507)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Inner Harbor

Booked 9 times today

Welcome to Kona Grill Baltimore, a gem located next to the Baltimore Convention Center at the vibrant Inner Harbor. Renowned for its exceptional sushi, this restaurant is a haven for aficionados of authentic and innovative sushi cuisine. The menu boasts an award-winning array of sushi that combines classic techniques with modern twists, ensuring a unique dining experience. Guests rave about dishes like the "Fire Dragon Sushi Roll," celebrated for its exquisite taste and presentation. One patron enthused, "Sushi was also delicious," highlighting the impeccable quality and flavor. Whether you're seeking a sophisticated sushi dinner or a delightful happy hour, Kona Grill Baltimore promises an unforgettable culinary journey with its top-tier sushi, crafted to perfection.

4. Monarque

4.6

Exceptional(1185)

Price: Very Expensive

• Contemporary american • Harbor East

Booked 13 times today

Monarque in Baltimore's Harbor East is a gem where the spirit of a French brasserie is beautifully married with contemporary American flair. This acclaimed venue is not just about dining; it’s an extravagant experience "where culture boomed and extravagance flourished." With a food menu that receives rave reviews like "one of the best onion soups I have ever had" and "the gnocchi was the best," Monarque stands out for its culinary excellence. The restaurant's vibrant atmosphere is complemented by an impressive entertainment lineup, making every visit memorable. Guests praise not only the "amazing food" but also the "phenomenal experience" from the combination of live performances and impeccable service, ensuring a unique and delightful dining adventure every time.

A photo of Cindy Lou's Fish House restaurant

5. Cindy Lou's Fish House

4.2

Awesome(10)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Fells Point

Booked 9 times today

Cindy Lou's Fish House, nestled in the Canopy by Hilton Baltimore Harbor Point hotel, offers not just a meal but an exquisite dining experience with a breathtaking waterfront view. This restaurant stands out for its dedication to fresh, high-quality fish cuisine, capturing the essence of Baltimore's rich seafood heritage. Patrons rave about the "incredible seafood" and specifically highlight dishes like the "fresh, light, fluffy and flavorful" crab omelette and the "delicate and flavorful" catfish. The atmosphere is praised as "top-tier," perfect for savoring the meticulously cooked branzino, which has been described as "cooked perfect." With its stunning views of the harbor and a menu that celebrates seafood in every dish, Cindy Lou's Fish House is a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic and delicious fish cuisine in Baltimore.

A photo of Loch Bar - Baltimore restaurant

6. Loch Bar - Baltimore

4.6

Exceptional(1432)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Harbor East

Booked 20 times today

Nestled in the illustrious Four Seasons Hotel with a breathtaking view of Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, Loch Bar is a paragon of Contemporary American cuisine with a strong emphasis on seafood. Celebrated for its expansive raw bar and a menu that adds a modern twist to classic dishes, the restaurant's culinary finesse shines through its offerings like the unrivaled seafood tower and scrumptious scallop ceviche. Patrons rave about the "fresh and delicious oysters" and the "outstanding crab cakes with no filler, just great crab." The ambiance is equally praised, with live music enhancing the dining experience every night. Loch Bar not only promises a delightful meal but also an invigorating atmosphere, making it a must-visit destination in Harbor East, Baltimore.

7. Magdalena

4.8

Exceptional(1205)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Mt. Vernon

Booked 8 times today

Magdalena, nestled in Baltimore’s historic Mt. Vernon neighborhood, is a gem of a bistro that epitomizes the charm and culinary craftsmanship of Maryland. Renowned for its “from-scratch” fare, this restaurant at The Ivy Hotel turns local ingredients into spectacular dishes, each reflecting the richness of the Chesapeake Bay region. The authenticity of Magdalena’s bistro cuisine is bolstered by the expertise of Executive Chef Ülfet Ralph, whose decade-long experience in Relais & Châteaux properties infuses each plate with innovation and elegance. Glowing reviews often highlight not just the food but the entire dining experience, such as one patron who reminisced, "My wife and I celebrated our anniversary at Magdalena last night, and it was an absolutely wonderful experience from start to finish." With its Wine Spectator-awarded wine list and a revered whiskey collection, Magdalena is a must-visit for anyone seeking a truly memorable bistro dining experience in Baltimore.

8. Phillips Seafood

4.3

Awesome(2365)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Inner Harbor

Booked 9 times today

At Phillips Seafood in Baltimore's vibrant Inner Harbor, seafood lovers can indulge in a truly authentic experience with dishes crafted from the freshest ingredients. Renowned for their "award-winning crab cakes," Phillips delivers a taste of Maryland's best, right at the waterfront. Guests rave about the "delicious and fresh" seafood, highlighting favorites like the "succulent crab cakes, all crab and no fillers" and "melt-in-your-mouth scallops." Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual outing, Phillips Seafood is celebrated for its "great food and atmosphere," making every dining experience memorable. As one diner put it, "Phillips is an institution," underscoring its status as a must-visit for anyone craving exceptional seafood in Baltimore.

A photo of Blackwall Hitch Baltimore restaurant

9. Blackwall Hitch Baltimore

4.3

Awesome(1552)

Price: Expensive

• Contemporary american • Inner Harbor

Booked 20 times today

Nestled in the vibrant Inner Harbor of Baltimore, Blackwall Hitch Baltimore offers a true taste of American cuisine with a delightful local twist. Praised for its "beautiful ambiance and delicious food," this restaurant stands out for its commitment to seasonally driven and locally sourced ingredients, ensuring each dish is both fresh and flavorful. Patrons rave about the variety and quality, from the Baltimore crab Benedict to the Chesapeake Alfredo, highlighting the authenticity and regional flair of the American dishes offered. With glowing reviews like "the food was exquisite and the service was excellent," and an atmosphere that complements its culinary standards, Blackwall Hitch Baltimore is a must-visit for those seeking a genuine American dining experience in the heart of one of the city's most scenic locales.

A photo of Twist Fells Point BYOB restaurant

10. Twist Fells Point BYOB

4.6

Exceptional(669)

Price: Moderate

• Contemporary american • Fells Point

Booked 14 times today

Dive into the heart of Fells Point, Baltimore, at Twist Fells Point BYOB, where the Moroccan cuisine's authenticity shines brilliantly through its menu, thanks to the rich heritage of Executive Chef Jose Joel Molina, whose parents lived in Morocco. This culinary gem stands out with its unique blend of traditional Moroccan flavors, as crafted by a chef fluent in Arabic and deeply familiar with the culture. Customers rave about the "best lamb I’ve ever had" and the "deliciously made eggs" which pair wonderfully with dishes like lamb shakshuka, highlighting the restaurant's commitment to authentic Moroccan fare. Twist Fells Point BYOB not only offers a taste of Morocco but does so with a flair that keeps locals and visitors coming back for more.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

S
Scottvip
Connecticut •17 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
We were staying at an airport hotel overnight and needed a good dinner. What we found was this spectacular jewel of a restaurant! Our party of 4 tried the crab cakes (DELICIOUS) the mushroom soup (hearty and hit the spot on this chilly evening) the Rock Fish special (YUM) the demonico steak (tender and perfectly prepared) the Elk Osso Bucco with paparadelli (unusual and tasty!) and the lamb shank (fall off the bone tender and perfectly seasoned). The chef visited our table to check on us (smiles all around) the waitstaff was attentive without being annoying. The classical music in the background was quiet and soothing and set the atmosphere for a perfect dinner out. We felt as if we were dining in the home of an experienced host. Incredibly rare to find this kind of intimacy and hospitality these days!
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The Elkridge Furnace InnPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Elkridge
•
4.9
D
Dennis
Baltimore / Maryland •1 review
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Great food and service. The sea bass and the fried green tomatoes were incredible. Definitely recommend.
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Michael's CafePrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Timonium
•
4.7
D
Darry
Washington, D.C. Area •1 review
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Lovely décor, beautiful farm tables, the food was excellent better than some said to be upscaled restaurants, this is definitely and upscale restaurant uncover, with fresh foods with a home cooked touch, this place deserves 5stars excellent from door to service. Thank you
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The Farmhouse - GambrillsPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Gambrills
•
4.3
AN
AlyN
Greater Boston •1 review
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
One of the best meals of my life. Service, vibe, food, cocktail were all impeccable but in a completely not pretentious way. Every bite on the tasting menu was complex and flavorful, that left you considering and thinking after each bite. It was simply SO GOOD.
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BrescaPrice: Expensive• Contemporary French / American• U Street Corridor
•
4.6
M
Meg
Washington, D.C. Area •6 reviews
5.0
Dined on Nov 15, 2024
We can always count on a great experience at Michael's. Tonight our server was Darron and he was fantastic! I really appreciate such wonderful customer service in an era where it can be difficult to find. Thanks Darron!
More info
Michael's Cafe White Marsh/ Middle RiverPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• White Marsh
•
4.6

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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Essex

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13 restaurants available nearby

1. Michael's Cafe White Marsh/ Middle River

2. Bygone

3. Kona Grill - Baltimore

4. Monarque

5. Cindy Lou's Fish House

6. Loch Bar - Baltimore

7. Magdalena

8. Phillips Seafood

9. Blackwall Hitch Baltimore

10. Twist Fells Point BYOB

See what locals rave about

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