Huntington, a quiet yet vibrant neighborhood tucked into the northwestern pocket of Columbia, MD, has quietly evolved into a must-visit destination for food lovers. Whether you’re a seasoned local or a Columbia newcomer, the Huntington food scene is a delightful mix of multicultural standouts, family-run eateries, cozy cafes, irresistible bakeries, and a few surprises on wheels. From Main Street clusters to secret neighborhood gems, here’s your ultimate guide to dining your way through Huntington.
The Main Event: Standout Restaurants
A stroll along Little Patuxent Parkway and Old Annapolis Road quickly reveals why Huntington is a rising destination for diverse cuisine. These top restaurants buzz with local flavor:
- La Palapa Too
*Cuisine*: Mexican
*Where*: Snowden River Parkway & Old Annapolis Road
*Why Go*: This sister location to the historic Ellicott City favorite is lively, casual, and always a party. La Palapa Too dishes out generously portioned classics — think sizzling fajitas, creamy queso, and housemade margaritas that locals swear by. The patio is perfect for warm evenings, and their “Taco Tuesday” is a community tradition.
- Royal Taj
*Cuisine*: Indian
*Where*: 8874 McGaw Road (near the Huntington border)
*Why Go*: You might spot a line out the door most evenings, and for good reason: Royal Taj’s luxe-yet-relaxed vibe and upscale curries, tandoori specials, and pillowy naan have earned it a serious reputation. Staff treat everyone like family, and the weekend lunch buffet is one of the best bargains around.
- Maiwand Kabob
*Cuisine*: Afghan
*Where*: Centre Park Drive
*Why Go*: Beloved for its chargrilled kabobs and fragrant rice, Maiwand Kabob is Huntington’s answer to authentic Afghan food. Regulars crave the lentil soup and warm naan, and prices are refreshingly friendly for families and solo diners alike.
Casual Eats & Cafés: Coffee, Comfort, and Community
Craving a low-key bite or the perfect coffee shop for studying, chatting, or unwinding? Huntington serves up some stellar pit stops:
- Mad City Coffee
*Where*: 10801 Hickory Ridge Road
*Highlights*: You’ll find baristas pulling classic espresso drinks alongside a bakery case of tempting muffins and scones. Open-mic nights add a touch of local flavor. The cozy seating and colorful art make this a beloved community hub.
- Bagel Bin & Deli
*Where*: Cedar Lane & Hickory Ridge Road
*Claim to Fame*: Columbia’s best spot for New York–style bagels. Get here early for a hot everything bagel with cream cheese, or stay for a lunch of piled-high deli sandwiches. Locals swear by their breakfast sandwiches to start the day.
- Bon Fresco Sandwich Bakery
*Where*: 6945 Oakland Mills Road (nearby, technically Oakland Mills, but a Huntington favorite)
*Why Visit*: A hidden gem for anyone who loves fresh, European-style breads, Bon Fresco blends artisanal baking with hearty sandwich fillings. The turkey asiago and roast beef baguettes are hits, but the chocolate croissant is the under-the-radar star.
Sweet Spots: Treats and Bakeries
For dessert cravings and sweets moments, Huntington delivers — no matter your sugar preference:
- YouCake Custom Cakes
*Where*: 6935 Oakland Mills Road
*Why It’s Special*: This by-appointment bakery crafts stunning personalized cakes. Locals turn to YouCake for birthdays, graduations, and seasonal events—if you dream it, they’ll bake it and decorate it.
- Linda’s Bakery
*Where*: Snowden River Parkway
*What to Order*: Traditional Filipino pastries and breads, like fluffy ensaymada and savory pork buns. It’s a hidden spot but well worth seeking out. Don’t miss their ube cupcakes, which routinely sell out.
Food Trucks & Fast Finds
Huntington’s office parks and shopping plazas attract a fleet of rotating food trucks, bringing eclectic flavors to lunch hours and community events.
- Rolling Fajitas Food Truck
*Cuisine*: Tex-Mex
*Where*: Often parked at community festivals (check local Facebook groups for schedule)
*Why Try*: Grilled-to-order meats, veggie options, and zesty street corn liven up any weekday.
- Nomad Dumplings
*Cuisine*: Asian Fusion
*Where*: Various; frequently parks on Little Patuxent Parkway
*What’s Cool*: Handmade, pillow-soft dumplings with seasonally inspired fillings — from classic pork chive to vegan mushroom and ginger.
Clusters & Intersections: Where to Start Your Tasting Tour
- The intersection of Snowden River Parkway and Old Annapolis Road is a can’t-miss for first timers—several of Huntington’s most popular global eateries are steps from one another.
- Cedar Lane and Hickory Ridge Road boasts multiple morning favorites for a breakfast crawl, from locally roasted coffee to bagels and pastries.
- Don’t forget the Centre Park business corridors—daytime eats are plentiful, including several “sleeper” Korean, Chinese, and vegetarian-friendly lunch spots tucked among the offices.
A Few More Neighborhood Favorites (Hidden Gems Worth the Hunt)
- Sushi Sono (on the lakefront, just outside Huntington): Famed for super-fresh, creative sushi and a serene setting—perfect for special occasions.
- El Rey Mexican Grill: Small, family-run, and tucked in a modest plaza, but the street tacos and homemade agua frescas are legendary.
- Mekong Delta Cafe: Vietnamese comfort food in an unassuming strip mall, with impeccable pho and crispy banh mi.
Local Traditions & Foodie Culture
Huntington’s annual food festivals and Columbia’s wide-reaching Restaurant Weeks mean residents are never short on chances to sample menu specials and meet their culinary neighbors. From summer taco throwdowns to fall bakery showcases, Huntington’s food scene buzzes with creativity, diversity, and a proudly independent spirit.
Whether you’re a chef’s table trophy hunter or simply looking for your next weekday lunch staple, Huntington is the Columbia neighborhood where every palate finds its perfect flavor. Bring your appetite, and you just might end up making Huntington your new favorite food district in central Maryland!