Daytripping in Frederick and Essex

Photo by Eddie Applefeld

I promise you’ll be exhausted by the time you get to the end. We’ll be doing some serious motoring. So find a comfortable spot and let’s get going. First stop, Frederick Maryland.

I’m guessing you’re already hungry so before we go to the Historic area let’s grab a bite at Madrones, 7810 Wormans Mill Road in the Wegmans shopping center. I was here about two years ago and remembered the excellent salmon. I was curious if it was still available. Hey, it is.

Madrones is open seven days for lunch and dinner with brunch on weekends. There’s a Happy Hour from 4 to 7 with food specials. The chef prepares menu specials that change monthly. Parking is not parking, 24 draft beers, most of the desserts are made right there (try the key lime pie), there’s a three-sided bar with six TV’s and they certainly adhere to all social Protocols. Say hi to Max, one of the managers, and chef Chaz.

I didn’t order it, but I did see people who attempted the 18 ounce Cowboy Ribeye ($33.50).  Two other favorites are the Chop House Salad with Grilled Chicken ($16.00) and the Ahi Tuna Platter ($22.00).

Reach them at 240-439-4010 or madrones.net. Okay, stomachs full? Let’s do some walking.

About 10 minutes away is the historic area of Frederick. There is much to see, like the burial plot of Francis Scott Key, but this time I’m sticking to one place, Carroll Creek Park. This area has been re-done and it might be the most popular tourist attraction in town, with apologies to the Frederick keys.

The town was laid out on both sides of the creek in 1745. It was basically at that time the lifeblood of the town. Now the Creek is about a mile long and as you walk you’ll pass shops, businesses, restaurants, pedestrian bridges, and a 350 seat outdoor amphitheater. This is ideal for a daytrip.

For more information about the city of Frederick call 301-600-4047.

Pizza Johns. (Photo by Eddie Applefeld)

Okay, get in the car we’re headed to Essex and perhaps a bit of Italian food at Pizza John’s, 113 Back River Neck Road.

They have been in business since 1966 and they always seem to be busy. Open six days (closed Monday), plenty of onsite parking, they ship pizzas anywhere, carry-out (a big part of their business), and just about everything is made on-premise.

Of course, they do a tremendous business with pizza, but when I go I usually get the salad and shells. It’s topped by their very own made in house sauce. And it is available for take home.

The business is run by Pete and Brett. One of them is always there. I’m told when you’re running a business it’s a very important one of the owners always be there. When you’re as busy as they are, there’s so much to do and oversee.

By the way, Pizza Johns is now selling wholesale to grocers. They too are adhering to social protocols.

Reach them at 410-687-7733 or pizzajohns.com.

Actually, I have one more restaurant on my list, but I think I’ll save that for next time. It’s Bone Fish Grill in Owings Mills. And I’m going to tell you about a local food business serving Baltimore since 1961.

One last thought – very sorry about the arson fire that destroyed Jilly’s Ale House in Pikesville. A local favorite for over 40 years. Owner Scott says they will be back. I hope so.