Whiskey, wine, oysters, and barbecue—what more can you ask for in a week? The culinary scene in Baltimore is buzzing with excitement right now. Here’s a recap of the latest happenings:
Openings & Announcements
The proprietors of Key Neapolitan by Verde and Crushed Velvet have announced the closure of their establishments on Key Highway. They have plans to reopen as Viale Pizza at the former Paulie Gee’s location in Hampden.
In a new addition, Taco Love Grill has launched in McHenry Row. This restaurant mirrors its sister establishment, Taco Love, located in White Marsh. Another site in Cross Street Market is set to close after its lease expires in October.
The innovative Tipsy Scoop, a “barlour” mixing ice cream with cocktails, will debut on Key Highway in Federal Hill on Saturday, March 21.
As the Orioles’ Opening Day approaches, Hampden Yards is set to open its season. This outdoor beer garden will commence food and drink service on Opening Day, Thursday, March 26.
In unfortunate news, Maillard Patisserie will close both of its locations in early May.
Moreover, Oceanaire Seafood Room will shut its Harbor East venue at the end of March. This restaurant, part of Landry’s Restaurants, Inc., has been serving the area since 2005.
Big Anniversaries
This month, a couple of beloved Baltimore establishments are celebrating significant anniversaries.
On March 17, Ekiben marked a decade of service. Congratulations to the entire team on ten fantastic years in business!
The well-known pastry shop Vaccaro’s in Little Italy celebrated 70 years of operation this past week. Here’s hoping they continue to delight patrons for many more decades!
Local Oyster Seafood Fest at Union Craft Brewing
This Friday, March 20, Local Oyster will partner with Union Craft Brewing to host an exciting seafood festival. Attendees can look forward to an array of delicious options, including steamed oysters, shrimp, clams, and mussels.
BSC Full Tilt Release Party
This Saturday, March 21, Baltimore Spirits Co. will hold a launch party for Forever Tilted, a whiskey developed in collaboration with the late Full Tilt Brewing. The event, taking place in the BSC Cocktail Gallery, will feature live music, food trucks, and, naturally, plenty of whiskey.
True Chesapeake Action
True Chesapeake has a packed week ahead.
This Sunday, March 22, it will participate in the Spring Market at the Mill, a collaboration with Greater Goods Market. The event will showcase over 70 vendors along with drinks, oysters, and hot dogs from Glizzy’s, among other offerings.
On March 25, Crimson & Clover will pop up at the restaurant for Blooms & Bites, a flower arranging event that also includes food and drinks. A portion of the profits will be donated to the Baltimore Women’s Shelter at Helping Up Mission.
Wine Week
For wine enthusiasts, this week offers several delightful opportunities.
This Tuesday, March 24, Love, Pomelo will host a dinner featuring wines from the Piemonte region of Italy. This event will include four courses inspired by regional flavors, paired with selections from Cantine Povero.
On Wednesday, Linwoods will present a five-course meal inspired by Spanish cuisine, complemented by a variety of Spanish wines. The dining experience will begin with Cava Brut and feature both red and white selections, concluding with a late-bottled vintage port.
This Thursday, Charleston will welcome Theophile Gonet from Gonet-Medeville for a multi-course meal showcasing the company’s renowned Champagnes. The menu will include dishes such as calamari beignets served with basil and lime mayonnaise, and pan-roasted guinea fowl breast paired with seared foie gras.
Maryland Day
Wednesday, March 25, marks Maryland Day, and true to tradition, Towson Hot Bagel is making celebrations easy. From March 21-25, they will be selling Maryland flag bagels and donating 50 cents from each sale to the Maryland SPCA.
Tres Francais Lunch Series
On Friday, March 27, Petit Louis will introduce a new monthly event—the Tres Francais lunch. Each month, the Roland Park restaurant will serve a four-course lunch complete with Champagne and wine pairings. Tickets are currently available.
Beer, Bourbon & BBQ
This upcoming Friday, March 27, and Saturday, March 28, the Maryland State Fairgrounds will come alive again with the return of the Beer, Bourbon & BBQ Festival. This beloved event is now in its 19th edition, featuring an extensive selection of beers and bourbons, alongside cigars and, of course, plenty of barbecue.
Chesapeake Oyster Week
The Oyster Recovery Project is currently hosting Chesapeake Oyster Week, filled with exciting specials around town. Notably, Thames Street Oyster House is offering an Eastern Shore oyster stew and a variety of happy hour oyster deals.
Planning for the Future
Be sure to mark your calendars for some exciting upcoming events:
April 10: Greek Wine Tasting at Estiatorio Plaka
April 11: Lost Restaurants of Little Italy at Pierpoint
April 22: Dinner with Brian Lavin at Boordy
