This week’s major food highlight centers around the familiar hustle at grocery stores preceding a snowstorm, where essentials like bread and toilet paper fly off the shelves. However, after being cooped up for a few days, many of us will crave a change of scenery and flavor. Luckily, Baltimore’s restaurant scene has an array of exciting plans to chase away that cabin fever. Here’s what’s on the horizon:
New Openings & Announcements
This summer, Marta is set to launch a new location, named Marta al Mare, in Harbor Point, a rising star among the city’s dining locales. This new establishment will focus more on seafood than its predecessor and will feature a brunch menu six days a week.
Residents of Bel Air can look forward to a new culinary gem, as John Brown General & Butchery revealed this week that they will take over the former Boyd & Fulford space located on Main Street.
As of last weekend, Topside at Hotel Revival has commenced offering a bottomless brunch each Saturday and Sunday, running from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
This Saturday marks the grand opening of The Day & Night Exotic Cereal Bar, which is situated in the lower level of the historic Women’s Exchange Building, once home to the Women’s Industrial Exchange restaurant.
After a fire incident last week, Chaps Pit Beef temporarily closed its Baltimore location. However, they have officially reopened.
Atlas Restaurant Group intends to shut down its first restaurant, Ouzo Bay, on February 15, although the space won’t be idle for long. Plans are already in motion to renovate the area and introduce a new dining concept in the Harbor East building by spring 2027.
Due to issues with its building, Don’t Know Tavern announced last week that it will close at the end of February. The owners are hopeful about relocating but have yet to solidify any plans.
A Note Regarding the Weather
Before heading out for a meal on Sunday or Monday, be sure to verify the status of your restaurant, as many places have already adjusted their planned events (for instance, the Clavel x Ekiben collaboration originally scheduled for Sunday) and some may choose to close during the peak of the bad weather.
James Beard Award Nominations
This week, the nominees for the esteemed James Beard Awards were announced, and four deserving Baltimore establishments made the cut.
Matthew Oetting, the chef and owner of Marta, received a nomination for “Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic.” Meanwhile, Doug Atwell of Southpaw is in the running for “Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service.” Pink Flamingo, which debuted last year in The Dizz’s former location, earned a nod for “Best New Bar,” and Café Dear Leon was recognized for “Outstanding Bakery.”
Congratulations to all nominees, and best of luck!
Restaurant Week Promotions Ongoing
Restaurant Week is still in full swing across several areas, including Harford County, Baltimore County, and Baltimore Restaurant Week, which will run from January 23 to February 1.
Midlina Celebrates One Year
Wishing a very happy first anniversary to Midlina! The restaurant opened its doors a year ago this week and will be hosting a special anniversary party on Saturday, January 24. This event will feature a ball theme with live music and will also offer a 30% discount on checks as a token of appreciation to the community.
Truffles at Charleston
This Wednesday, Charleston will pay tribute to French black truffles with a six-course dinner featuring this seasonal delight.
Bodega Garzon at The Manor Tavern
On Wednesday, a winemaker from Bodega Garzon will collaborate with The Manor Tavern to present a six-course meal that pairs dishes with wines from the Uruguayan vineyard, showcasing local terroir. Anticipate courses such as chicken and chickpea empanadas with orange marmalade béchamel and bananas, and scallops accompanied by peppadew, mint, and dill chimichurri.
Pour Decisions & Small Plates
This Thursday, the Farmers Market Supper Club invites everyone to a tapas-themed gathering at The Wine Collective. Attendees are encouraged to bring a small plate or snack to share, ideally something that pairs well with wines offered at the Collective. This event is open to everyone, requiring no tickets but does request an RSVP and deposit.
Dark Beer at Silver Queen
On the same Thursday, Silver Queen Café will host a casual event featuring a selection of dark beer. The Hamilton-based restaurant is planning a relaxed three-course dinner designed to pair with these dark beers, featuring dishes like fried oysters for starters and dark rum chocolate mousse for dessert.
Upcoming Events to Note
Be sure to mark your calendars for the following dates:
Feb. 6: Carnevale at Cinghiale
Feb. 25: Sazerac dinner at Cece’s
March 5: British Classics Cooking Class at The Corner Pantry
