1. Fox & Barrel Farm Cafe
4.5•Family restaurant•Open
Address: 11707 Frederick Road, Ellicott City, MD 21042 MapQuest+1
This café bills itself as “farm-to-table” with an emphasis on healthier alternatives including vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options. foxnbarrel.com While it has a varied menu (including some comfort-friendly items), the seasonal and locally-sourced mindset makes it a strong choice if you’re seeking a sit-down meal with intention. The atmosphere is relaxed but refined. Tip: For a lighter meal, aim for build-your-own style plates or ask about sides of steamed veggies or salad.
2. Playa Bowls
4.9•Health food restaurant•Open
Address: 9338 Baltimore National Pike Ste H, Ellicott City, MD 21042 Restaurantji+1
This is a bright, fast-casual spot ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a lighter lunch. Their menu features açaí, pitaya, green-blend and fruit-based bowls, smoothies, and cold-pressed juices. For example, the “Green Power Bowl” uses kale/banana/pineapple and coconut milk as base. Uber Eats It’s well-suited for someone looking for something fresh, vibrant and easy to customize. Tip: To keep things especially health-conscious, choose a greens or fruit-blend base, skip heavy drizzles, ask for minimal sweeteners and load up on fresh fruit toppings.
3. Georgia Grace Café (Gg’s Café)
4.6•Restaurant•Open
Address: 8333 Main St, Ellicott City, MD 21043 Sirved Mobile Solutions+1
This locally-owned café stands out for its “everything from scratch” philosophy: homemade dressings, baked goods, and an emphasis on fresh ingredients. Georgia Grace Cafe While not exclusively a “health-food” restaurant, it offers vegetarian and vegan-friendly options and identifies “healthy options” on its menu. Sirved Mobile Solutions It’s a good option for those looking for brunch or lunch in a cozy, local setting. Tip: Ask the staff about which dishes are vegetarian/vegan or can be modified (e.g., swapping out dressings or bread for lighter alternatives).
Summary
If you’re in Ellicott City and aiming for health-conscious dining:
- For a full meal with farm-fresh sourcing, go with Fox & Barrel Farm Café.
- For a fast, vibrant bowl or juice-centric meal, Playa Bowls is ideal.
- For a cozy café with made-from-scratch fare and some healthy options, Georgia Grace Café offers something more relaxed and local.