9 Chicken Fried Steak Spots In Maryland You Don’t Want To Miss Out On
Winter is here! And with it come the chills that set in your bones and the wind that howls from a distance.
At treacherous times like these, there’s nothing quite like a warm plate of chicken fried steak to comfort the soul!
Just imagine sinking your fork into crispy breaded goodness with a blanket of creamy gravy and the satisfying crunch that comes with each bite.
Last winter, I found myself in Maryland and with this exact craving.
Determined, I set out on a mission to find the best chicken fried steak spots in the Old Line State and I was not disappointed.
It turns out Maryland is a treasure trove of chicken fried steak spots that can make any cold day feel a little cozier.
So, if you’re planning a visit there or you’re already a local, grab a napkin and dive into this list of 9 joints you absolutely shouldn’t miss out on!
1. Broadneck Grill & Cantina
Broadneck Grill & Cantina brings a Tex Mex wink to a Maryland comfort classic, and it works beautifully.
Find it at 1364 Cape St Claire Rd, Annapolis, a quick hop from the water when the breeze feels more polar than bayside.
The chicken fried steak arrives cloaked in a blistered, golden crust that stays crisp under a spoon of peppery country gravy.
That first slice reveals a tender, well seasoned steak, pounded just right so the crust and meat follow each other bite for bite.
Mashed potatoes lean buttery and smooth, while green beans keep a snappy, garlicky edge.
If you want a little extra warmth, ask for gravy on the side and drizzle like ocean rain across the crust to keep it lively.
The plate feels like a snow day reward, especially when paired with their citrusy iced tea or a mild salsa side.
Service moves at a friendly clip, and portions land hearty without tipping into heavy.
All in all, it’s a spot you won’t easily forget!
2. Willy’s Kitchen
Willy’s Kitchen is a homey stop for from scratch comfort that tastes like a weekend morning stretched all day.
Find it at 7271 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd, Glen Burnie, where the parking lot hums with breakfast energy even on a frosty afternoon.
The chicken fried steak lands with a farmhouse crust, lightly craggy and audibly crisp, then blanketed in creamy gravy with black pepper freckles.
The steak cuts clean, no tug, with a savory backbone that reminds you why classics endure.
Add a couple of eggs for a true winter warm up, and the plate turns into a personal hearth.
Everything feels balanced rather than heavy, here and the seasoning avoids salt shocks.
The team keeps coffee topped and spirits higher!
So, if you like a touch of sweetness and a drizzle of cozy magic, make a beeline for Willy’s!
3. Cowboy Row Saloon & Chophouse
Cowboy Row Saloon & Chophouse leans into big flavors with a Baltimore swagger and a Western grin.
It sits at 2908 O’Donnell St, Baltimore, MD 21224, right in the heart of Canton where the streets feel brisk and lively.
The chicken fried steak arrives hefty, clad in a rugged crust that stays sturdy under a ladle of savory brown gravy.
Expect steakhouse vibes on the plate: a deep sear aroma, mushroom undertones, and silky mashed potatoes that catch the drippings.
The texture balance shines, with a crisp shell guarding a juicy center that cuts without fuss.
It is a great match with a soothing beverage and a seat near the window as the city hums outside like a calm winter tide.
My little tip: ask for extra gravy for slow pours!
If you do, you’ll watch the crust hold like a sturdy dock through every savory wave.
4. Texas Roadhouse
Texas Roadhouse might be a chain, but the Maryland locations deliver a reliably craveable country fried sirloin that scratches the exact itch.
I found this place while on a work trip to Columbia so if you’re wondering: 8820 Stanford Blvd is the spot!
The steak arrived hand battered, fried to a craggy golden shell, and covered with classic cream gravy dotted with pepper.
The chicken stays tender thanks to a careful pound, offering a clean bite that avoids chewiness.
Portions are generous without losing balance, while the sides add an extra special vibe to the meal.
The joint is friendly, and perfect for shaking off winter blues like snow from a coat!
But if you’re a local and don’t feel like going out, order online for swift pickup!
Trust me, you’ll be licking all your fingers by the time you’re done!
5. Honey Bee Diner
Honey Bee Diner is the kind of retro spot where breakfast comforts buzz all day.
Head to 7346 Ritchie Hwy, Glen Burnie, and step into warm lighting that makes winter feel like a suggestion.
The chicken fried steak here arrives with a velvety country gravy that hugs the edges.
Pair it with some rice or home fries for a satisfying plate that eats like a holiday morning.
The chicken fried steak itself is tender and well seasoned, with a subtle note that keeps each bite interesting.
And for those of us who can’t seem to wake up in the morning: coffee pours stay steady! Yummy, too.
Even on windy days when the bay has whitecaps, this plate lands like a sturdy anchor.
6. The All American Steakhouse
The All American Steakhouse brings a polished touch to country comfort, with a menu built for hearty appetites.
You can find the place peppered across Maryland but the one I visited was in Ellicott City.
Specifically at: 8450 Baltimore National Pike suite 120.
The chicken fried steak here boasts a robust crust, while an array of gravies tilt either creamy or savory, depending on what you like.
The portion satisfies without weighing you down! This is great if you keep the gravy on the side for that perfect ratio.
The cut is tender and pounded evenly, so the knife slides with barely a whisper.
I did notice a sprinkle of coarse pepper at the end ties everything together like a snug winter scarf.
It is an easy pick when you want comfort without giving up a steakhouse atmosphere.
7. The Farmhouse Gambrills
The Farmhouse Gambrills leans into rustic comfort with a local touch that feels like a winter weekend getaway.
Find it at 2383 Brandermill Blvd, in Gambrills.
The chicken fried steak at The Farmhouse wears a crackly shell and a uniquely herbed gravy.
The steak is tender without being mushy, and the breading seasons rather than smothers.
For sides, pick fluffy potatoes, crisp greens, or a portion of rice that hits the sweet spot between indulgent and balanced.
When the air outside bites, this plate answers back with warmth and texture.
The interior itself speaks its own story.
The dining room hums softly, perfect for lingering and cleaning every last streak of gravy with a biscuit.
The staff is welcoming and friendly, but never over-bearing, allowing you to savor each bite.
8. Miss Shirley’s Cafe, Inner Harbor
Miss Shirley’s Cafe at the Inner Harbor turns brunch into a celebration and comfort into a small event.
Find Miss Shirley’s at 750 E Pratt Street in Baltimore!
Let’s get down to the chicken business now.
The chicken fried steak shows up with a crisp, photo ready crust and a gravy that reads like brunch poetry.
The steak cuts with ease, staying juicy while the crust crackles like thin ice underfoot.
My advice?
Pick some hot sauce on the side and add a brighter note that will keep the richness in check.
The portions are generous but thoughtfully plated, meaning you’ll walk out full (and probably sleepy from the deliciousness)!
9. Sobo Kitchen & Bar
Sobo Kitchen & Bar in Baltimore gives chicken fried steak a neighborhood bistro twist without losing the soul.
To find it, type 6 W Cross St, Baltimore in your maps!
The chicken fried steak here is something else, making Sobo a “last but not least” joint for sure!
The crust lands thin and brittle in the best way, while the steak stays plush and deeply seasoned.
You can pick some roasted vegetables as a side dish to add some sweetness to the experience. This will play nicely with the savory star.
The plate feels modern yet familiar, like a favorite sweater that still turns heads.
So, go slide into a corner table, listen to the low hum of the room, and settle into a rhythm of crisp, tender, sauced, repeat.
