Multi Cultural Cooking Network

The Restaurant

Friendly Farm is a charming restaurant in Upperco, Maryland.

Entering the grounds of the farm is a beautiful experience with a scenic gazebo overlooking a pond with a lovely waterfall to greet you. Plenty of places to walk around or just sit and gaze at the property. You won’t get too far before you notice all kinds of ducks walking around free-range.

(Photo from Friendly Farm Facebook page)

Walking into the restaurant, there’s a big lobby where you can buy baked goods, get carry-out, or t–shirts, sweatshirts, and other Friendly Farm paraphernalia, so I’m guessing this a pretty popular tourist spot.

The menu has plenty of options like jumbo lump crab cakes, fried chicken, roast beef, and filet mignon, among other offerings. All meals Include sugar biscuits, dinner rolls, cottage cheese, apple butter, homemade coleslaw, French-fries, vegetables, and pickled red beets. Get it all or choose what you want.

Unlimited beverages are also included with your meal as well as an option for hand-dipped ice cream.

Ice Cream Options

Vanilla

Chocolate Moose Tracks

Almond Joy

Sherbet

Ice Cream of the Day

My favorite offering was the sugar biscuits.

It’s a nice serving. They’re soft, warm, and the dusting of sugar evokes those Frankie Beverly Happy Feelings. Smear a little apple butter and you’ve got a happy treat.

(Pictures (above and below) from Friendly Farm Facebook Page)

Famous Fried Chicken

I ordered the Famous Fried Chicken. I know what you are thinking, but I will not be shamed, even if it’s trite. I never order fried chicken unless I’m getting fast food; however, in my defense, it’s literally the first thing on their menu, plus it’s called ‘Famous Fried Chicken.’ The fried chicken is one of the main menu items Friendly Farms is known for. They also have a pretty good takeout business with their fried chicken. I can attest that I have definitely heard good things, so I wanted to try it.

What I was struck by was the lightly battered, lightly fried texture. I’m used to a harder fry, but I had no complaints. It allowed the taste of the meat to shine through. Plus, it’s a farm so the meat was as fresh as could be.

Baked Goods

Like I mentioned earlier, Friendly Farm also sells baked goods. Love homemade desserts? This is the place to be. The menu includes apple and cherry turnovers, seasonal favorites like apple cranberry and peach pie, and steady favorites like lemon meringue, apple crumb pie, and old fashioned cinnamon rolls.

So, enjoy your meal then take a parting gift for a little later.

(Pictures from Friendly Farm Facebook page)

Service with a Smile

Last, but definitely not least, let’s talk about Friendly Farm’s service. I came alone. I sat by myself in a crowded dining hall. I was seated by a large window which is great for gazing out on the farm. My server came quickly and was so gracious. She lived up to their name. Yes, she was super friendly as she explained the menu and the massive appetizer list. She also took time, on a very busy day, to check in on me quite often. I appreciated that.

I can see myself coming back with a group. It’s the kind of place you can relax and enjoy a good conversation, a good old-fashioned meal, good old-fashioned service and a chance to slow things down for a little while.