Nestled just off Route 197 and the Baltimore-Washington Parkway, Montpelier isn’t just one of Laurel’s leafiest, family-friendly neighborhoods—it’s also home to a quietly booming food scene. Whether you’re a local foodie, a hungry traveler, or a resident on the hunt for your next favorite spot, Montpelier beckons with an exciting mix of eateries, cafés, and sweet shops. From casual bites to culinary gems tucked into shopping plazas, the neighborhood serves an array of flavors, price points, and experiences.
Casual Eats & Local Favorites
Montpelier’s most vibrant dining cluster is found along Laurel-Bowie Road (Route 197) and Muirkirk Road—a crossroads where locals and commuters meet for coffee, lunch, or dinner. Here are some beloved go-tos:
- Ledo Pizza (14609 Baltimore Ave)
A Maryland-born institution, Ledo Pizza is a must for anyone craving unique, rectangular pizza with a crisp, flaky crust and sweet sauce. It’s family-friendly, affordable (pizzas start around $10), and a local fixture for both dine-in and carryout. The pepperoni pizza and their signature Ledo sauce are particular standouts.
- Sardi’s Pollo a la Brasa (14609 Baltimore Ave, inside the shopping center)
For under $15, you can feast on smoky rotisserie Peruvian chicken, zesty yuca fries, and tangy sauces. Sardi’s is an area favorite for fast-casual with a Latin flair. It’s perfect for both lunch breaks and family dinners, and their fried plantains are not to be missed.
International Delicacies & Unique Cuisine
Montpelier’s dining scene is anything but monotone—along the edges of the neighborhood (especially at the Muirkirk/Laurel-Bowie intersection), you’ll find flavor from across the globe.
- Pho 98 (Montpelier Shopping Center, 14633 Baltimore Ave)
This cozy Vietnamese spot brings fragrant, steaming bowls of pho to Montpelier. Priced under $15, their special beef pho comes loaded with tender slices and fresh herbs, making it ideal for a chilly day or a nourishing lunch. Don’t skip their crispy spring rolls or Vietnamese coffee!
- Café Bagel (13524 Baltimore Ave, by Muirkirk Rd)
Need a quick, satisfying breakfast? Café Bagel is a local gem for fresh bagels, creative breakfast sandwiches, and strong coffee. Their bagel variety—everything from classic plain to sun-dried tomato—is baked fresh daily, and the lox bagel is a community favorite.
- Blue Sky Chinese Café (14939 Baltimore Ave)
For reliable Chinese fare, Blue Sky offers tasty classics like sesame chicken, veggie lo mein, and pork dumplings, all at wallet-friendly prices (entrees typically $11-$15). It’s great for both takeout and dine-in, especially on busy weeknights.
Sweet Treats & Bakeries
Montpelier’s sweets scene is anchored by small independent bakeries and treat shops, often tucked unassumingly into local strip malls:
- Touche Touchet Bakery & Café (14300 Baltimore Ave)
While technically just west of Montpelier proper, Touche Touchet has a devoted following throughout Laurel. Their cakes and cupcakes are perfect for birthdays, but locals also flock here for espresso drinks and melt-in-your-mouth scones. The atmosphere is cozy, and it’s the spot for a morning pick-me-up or an indulgent afternoon break.
- Duck Donuts (14700 Baltimore Ave, Laurel Town Center)
A short drive up 197, Duck Donuts lets you customize your own fresh, warm donut with all sorts of glazes and toppings. It’s an absolute treat for families and donut lovers, providing affordable sweetness ($2-3 per donut) and a fun create-your-own experience.
Food Trucks & On-the-Go Eats
While not always anchored in one spot, Montpelier’s food truck scene is especially lively during warmer months—often clustered at the Montpelier Shopping Center parking lot or nearby office parks. Some regulars to watch for:
- La Arepa Zone
A DMV favorite, this Venezuelan food truck brings crave-worthy arepas and empanadas to Montpelier, with fillings like shredded beef, chicken, and black beans. Expect prices around $9-$12, and an always-fresh, made-to-order experience.
- Tacos El Rey
Another beloved visitor, Tacos El Rey serves up juicy street tacos, burritos, and elote. Their tacos al pastor and steak quesadillas are local legend, and the truck’s schedule can be checked via social media for real-time updates.
Hidden Gems & Off-the-Beaten-Path Finds
Sometimes the most memorable meals are at places that don’t shout for attention. Montpelier boasts several underrated culinary spots:
- Caribbean Heat (14709 Baltimore Ave)
For those seeking bold flavors, Caribbean Heat offers mouthwatering jerk chicken, curry goat, and roti in a no-frills, welcoming environment. Portions are generous and prices reasonable (entrees $13-$18). Their housemade drinks—like sorrel and ginger beer—add a festive, tropical twist.
- Capitol Coffee & Desserts (opposite Montpelier Shopping Center, 14713 Baltimore Ave)
This cheerful café is a quiet haven for espresso drinks, herbal teas, and decadent cakes. With free Wi-Fi and comfy seating, it’s a favorite for work-from-home locals or those in need of a sweet spot to unwind.
Local Food Traditions & Community Staples
Montpelier’s food scene is also tied to a sense of community:
- Summer Food Festivals at Montpelier Arts Center often feature local food trucks, craft vendors, and pop-up bakeries.
- Many longtime residents have a tradition of Saturday breakfasts at Café Bagel, followed by a stroll through the leafy neighborhood.
- Holiday dessert platters from Touche Touchet or Duck Donuts are a staple at community gatherings.
Why Montpelier’s Food Scene Shines
What sets Montpelier apart is its mix of locally owned businesses, cultural variety, and welcoming vibe. Walk along Baltimore Ave or Muirkirk Rd, and you’ll find everything from global flavors to classic Maryland comfort food, served by people who care about their craft. Prices tend to be moderate, parking is friendly, and there’s truly something for every palate.
So next time you’re hungry in Laurel, skip the chains and explore Montpelier—the neighborhood where local flavor meets community warmth.