Howard County is a great place to live, offering a variety of transportation options from the Regional Transportation Agency (RTA) to the Maryland Transit Administration (MTA). With a destination, method of transportation, and ideal travel time in mind, residents can easily explore the area's restaurants and cafes located along Main Street or the Baltimore National Pike. From Ethiopian and Korean cuisine to savory vegetarian dishes and American classics, Ellicott City's zip codes offer a wide range of flavors from around the world. Start your culinary journey with Nora's Kabob, a Mediterranean café specializing in gyroscopes and a variety of skewers.
Locals recommend going to lunch, as the special offers justify ordering lots of food at an affordable price. Sample local favorites like lamb kabab and hummus or opt for a Greek salad for a leafy bed of vegetables. Don't forget to order a chicken gyroscope to go and savor the flavors of shirazi salad and spicy feta cheese after your initial visit. For classic American dishes with an Irish influence, head to Kelsey's, a bar-restaurant hybrid.
Start with Irish stew, a mix of tender vegetables and potatoes dipped in a meaty sauce. Sandwich experts should try the half-pound burger or Rueben, which places corned beef under sauerkraut and Swiss cheese. Cheap daily deals, such as half-price wings, attract hungry customers while Guinness mussels and chili nachos with braised meat keep them coming back. Don't forget to save room for dessert - locals say heavenly desserts like apple-vanilla bread pudding are divine.
Ellicott City's nightlife is comprised of a number of pubs that offer after-hours entertainment, such as karaoke and live bands. Judge's Bench on Main Street offers locals a healthy selection of craft beers to enjoy while listening to the tunes of regular live performances. Judge's offers the best of a lounge with large sofas, large screen TVs, and pool games - with a closing time well after midnight, locals can stay for a night out any day of the week. Beer lovers should also check out White Oak Tavern on the Baltimore National Pike.
Regular visitors recommend ordering a beer flight to enjoy the best beers in the tavern, although snacks also generate some debate. Be sure to visit Blue Point on Thursdays for an optical illusion and round of fun facts. Waverly Gardens Senior Community (62+) is conveniently located steps away from the main campus buildings and close to public transportation hubs. Features and room types vary depending on the building - new first-year students are encouraged to live in on-campus housing during their first year.
The RTA, managed by First Transit and overseen by the Howard County Transportation Office, offers 15 local fixed bus routes in Howard, Anne Arundel, Prince George's and the City of Laurel Counties. Other local agencies such as NeighborRide, Humanim, and the Howard County ARC also provide transportation services.