In a word….. Wonderful. We had a late lunch here. It did not disappoint. The brunch hamburger was good but the smoked salmon Benedict was amazing! Would have licked the plate if I would not have gotten odd stares. Also Lorenza was wonderful. I was unsure about a wine to get and she not only brought me the one I asked to try but two more similar. That’s service. Please go. You won’t regret it.
Overview
If you're in Annapolis and craving a memorable meal, Preserve is the place to be. Nestled at 164 Main St, Annapolis, MD 21401, this charming restaurant offers a perfect blend of fresh, seasonal dishes and a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Whether you're a local or just passing through, the unique culinary experience here will keep you coming back for more.
One of the first things you'll notice about Preserve is the dedication to high-quality ingredients. The menu changes seasonally, ensuring that you're always getting the best of what nature has to offer. Each dish is thoughtfully crafted, showcasing the creativity and skill of the chefs who focus on using local, sustainable produce. From the moment you step inside, you’ll feel the warmth of a place that takes pride in supporting the community while delivering exceptional food.
A perfect example of this commitment to freshness is their signature farm-to-table approach. A standout dish is the roasted root vegetable salad, which features a vibrant mix of beets, carrots, and parsnips, drizzled with a tangy balsamic reduction. It’s a great option for vegetarians or anyone looking to enjoy a lighter, yet flavorful dish. And for those with a bigger appetite, the seared salmon, perfectly cooked and accompanied by a delicate lemon butter sauce, is an absolute must-try.
But it’s not just the food that makes Preserve stand out. The atmosphere here is equally impressive. The cozy interior combines rustic charm with modern elegance, featuring wooden tables, soft lighting, and exposed brick walls. Whether you're here for a casual dinner or a special celebration, the ambiance creates the perfect setting for any occasion.
For dessert, the chocolate lava cake is a crowd favorite. Rich and decadent, it’s served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side, making for a sweet ending to an already wonderful meal. If you're more of a fan of lighter desserts, the lemon mousse with fresh berries offers a refreshing and slightly tangy alternative.
What really sets Preserve apart, however, is the staff. The servers are friendly, attentive, and always happy to offer recommendations. They truly enhance the dining experience, making sure every detail is taken care of. It’s clear that everyone at Preserve takes pride in making your meal unforgettable, from the chefs in the kitchen to the front-of-house team.
Looking at reviews from visitors, many mention the great attention to detail and the ability of the team to consistently deliver delicious meals. One review highlighted how accommodating the staff is, even going so far as to suggest wine pairings for different dishes. The general consensus is that Preserve offers one of the most refined dining experiences in Annapolis without feeling stuffy or unapproachable.
For anyone planning a visit, be sure to check out the daily specials, as they often feature unique dishes that showcase the chef's creative flair. Plus, with an impressive selection of local wines, beers, and cocktails, there’s no shortage of options to complement your meal. Whether you’re dining with family, friends, or a special someone, Preserve offers something for everyone.
The location on Main Street is perfect for a post-meal stroll, allowing you to take in the charm of Annapolis’s historic district. Many visitors enjoy walking around the area after a meal at Preserve, making it a full experience that combines great food with beautiful surroundings.
In terms of pricing, Preserve offers a range of options to suit different budgets. While it’s not the cheapest option in town, the quality of food, service, and overall experience makes it well worth the price. Whether you’re here for a casual lunch or a more elaborate dinner, you’ll leave satisfied and eager to return.
Overall, Preserve is a standout choice in Annapolis, offering delicious meals, a welcoming atmosphere, and outstanding service. If you haven’t already, it’s definitely worth making a reservation for your next night out.
Good to know
From the business
✓ Identifies as veteran-owned ✓ Identifies as women-ownedService options
✓ Outdoor seating ✓ Takeaway ✓ Dine-in ✓ DeliveryHighlights
✓ Fast service ✓ Great beer selection ✓ Great cocktails ✓ Great coffee ✓ Great dessert ✓ Great wine listPopular for
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Solo diningAccessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible entrance ✓ Wheelchair-accessible seating ✓ Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
✓ Alcohol ✓ Beer ✓ Cocktails ✓ Coffee ✓ Comfort food ✓ Healthy options ✓ Organic dishes ✓ Small plates ✓ Spirits ✓ Vegan options ✓ Vegetarian options ✓ WineDining options
✓ Brunch ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Dessert ✓ Seating ✓ Table serviceAmenities
✓ Bar on site ✓ Gender-neutral toilets ✓ Toilet ✓ Wi-Fi ✓ Wi-FiAtmosphere
✓ Casual ✓ Cosy ✓ Trendy ✓ UpmarketCrowd
✓ Family friendly ✓ TouristsPlanning
✓ Brunch reservations recommended ✓ Dinner reservations recommended ✓ Accepts reservationsPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cards ✓ NFC mobile payments ✓ Credit cardsChildren
✓ Good for kids ✓ High chairs ✓ Kids' menuParking
✓ Paid parking lot ✓ Paid street parking ✓ ParkingPets
✓ Dogs allowed outsidePhotos
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Location
Reviews
- No ratings yet 799 reviews
Excellent restaurant in downtown Annapolis. We originally only planned to grab wine here before heading elsewhere for dinner, but the menu looked so fantastic we stayed. Everything was super delicious, well presented, and creatively crafted. The scallops were probably my favorite and had such an unreal texture!! The servers were also very helpful in choosing wines to enjoy.
Small menu, but very tasty! We had crab hashbrowns (our favorite bite!), the most amazing chili sourdough focaccia, pickled beets (LOVE), and pork bites (decent — a bit small and not as tender). The steak frites was also tasty — so tender, too. The service was excellent. I wish there were more entrees that appealed to us, especially given the high price, but we were delighted with the food we split! The fresh lemonade was also great.
I recommend trying this restaurant. Food was good. I ordered the cheese burger and fries and have no complaints. The whiskey drink and bread were phenomenal. I highly recommend ordering both, and if full take the bread pudding home. Staff and server were pleasant to be around. Nothing wrong with the atmosphere, but also nothing above my expectations. A little small on the inside, but as expected for the area.
Had a fantastic experience here. The staff is extremely welcoming and kind. Cocktails were amazing. Food was fantastic. Crispy Kale was a favorite.
Let's talk food! If you're on the hunt for a cozy, intimate spot with serious flavor, make your way to Preserve in the heart of downtown Annapolis. This place is ideal for a memorable lunch, brunch, or dinner. Fellas, trust me—you'll want to bring your special someone here. The food? Incredible. We kicked things off with the crispy kale, which was fresh and packed with flavor—highly recommend! Our main event was the Preserve Burger, and it didn’t disappoint. Juicy, fresh, and perfectly cooked, with a side of hand-cut fries that were downright addictive. Plus, their house-made sodas are a fun, refreshing twist! So if you’re in Annapolis, don’t miss out on Preserve. Amazing food, great vibes, and a perfect way to make any meal feel special.
A wonderful Main Street gem! The staff on-duty were extremely friendly and welcoming. The staff off-duty sitting around at the bar were extremely rude and disrespectful —be mindful. Aside from that blip, the food is absolutely excellent and well-prepared. Excellent drinks! I highly recommend the Fennell lemon salad & red blend wine.