Cellar Door Restaurant

Richard Zane Belles set a high bar for Cellar Door, the modern industrial-style cocktail lounge he opened in 2009. When the spot once occupied by the long-gone area staple, The Brown Pelican, became available, the seasoned restaurateur jumped at the opportunity. After renovating the subterranean space, he created a Maryland Chesapeake-influenced menu along with a well-stocked bar, and a unique schedule of entertainment.

The main menu's two most popular appetizers are the Maryland crab dip (lump and claw, with cheddar jack cheese, scallions, Romano crostini, carrots and celery), and the seafood empanadas (Old Bay glazed, crab dip, shrimp scampi, cheddar jack cheese and ancho chili crema). Among the outstanding entrees is Belles’ favorite: Brisket Zane, which is slow roasted with a bourbon glaze, smoked gouda, pickled red onion, and a grilled brioche bun. There’s also the Saint Street Smash Burger, consisting of two ground beef patties, sautéed onions, cheddar cheese, Bibb lettuce, Cellar sauce on a grilled brioche bun).

All Cellar’s burgers and sliders, Belles noted, use locally-sourced beef from Shuff’s Meat Market in Thurmont, and all the salmon they serve is exclusively wild-caught.

In addition, the menu features two homemade soups, four fresh salads, three varieties of loaded fries, chicken wings and tenders and six scrumptious handheld sandwiches.

Cellar Door’s popular Sunday brunch has its own menu featuring eight made-to-order options including the very popular Chicken and Waffles with whipped cream and bacon bourbon maple, and Brisket and Eggs with tiger sauce and brunch potatoes. Bottomless Sangria, Blood Marys, Mimosas, and Orange and Grapefruit Crushes are available for $25 per person.

A special Drag Brunch, featuring drag dance performers. The popular event, especially with women, has completely sold out on every occasion, so Belles recommends buying tickets a month in advance.

The separate drinks menu for happy hour, has eight handcrafted cocktails, red and white wines, craft cans, and domestic and imported draft beers.

Nightly entertainment ranges from local musicians, open mic nights, and even comedy shows every Sunday. Cellar Door also specializes in accommodating private events for all occasions.