As spring settles in, the sun shines brightly, and soft-shell crabs make their much-anticipated return, the food scene in Baltimore is bustling with activity. Here’s a look at what Germantown and Montgomery County residents can expect in the coming days:
New Ventures and Announcements
The team behind Silver Queen Café is excited to announce their latest project. They will be taking over the space previously occupied by Emma’s Tea Spot on Harford Road, and are set to launch The Market at Hamilton. This deli will not only focus on sandwiches but will also offer a variety of specialty food items, including artisanal cheeses.
Congratulations are in order for Sotto Sopra, which recently celebrated 30 years of culinary excellence on April 9.
In exciting news for food lovers, Truong Tien, a beloved Vietnamese restaurant based in Northern Virginia, is set to open a second location at Live! Casino & Hotel Maryland. Anticipation builds as this new establishment is expected to welcome guests by late May.
In another delightful development, Burnt Hill Farm has announced that it is now accepting reservations for its Chef’s Counter, with seating beginning May 1. Reservations, available exclusively to those on the Burnt Hill email list via a Tock link, are expected to fill up quickly due to the intimate seating arrangement of just twelve. Chef Tae Strain’s renowned cooking certainly makes it a worthwhile endeavor.
Beginning on April 18, HEX Superette will debut a new breakfast menu, featuring offerings such as shakshuka, breakfast burritos, and a selection of fresh pastries. This menu will be complemented by a full coffee and espresso program and will be available on weekends starting at 8 a.m.
Changes Ahead for Baltimore Spirits Company
In a significant shift, Baltimore Spirits Company has announced plans to discontinue its wholesale distribution as of May 1. While their products will no longer be stocked in retail stores, they will still be available for purchase at the tasting room and at the Cocktail Gallery in Union Collective.
Spring Fling at Old Line Spirits
On Saturday, Old Line Spirits will commemorate nine years of success with its annual spring festival, held in partnership with Monument City Brewing Co.. Attendees can look forward to unique cocktails, tastings, gourmet offerings from Smashdads Burgers and Unhinged Desserts, as well as live music performances.
Dining Experience at Pierpoint Restaurant
Later that evening, Pierpoint Restaurant invites guests on a culinary journey back in time, offering dishes inspired by the signature foods of Little Italy favorites.
The Duchess Hosts Special Afternoon Tea
On Sunday, The Duchess will host a unique (and ticketed) afternoon tea experience, themed after the popular show Bridgerton.
Greek Easter Celebration at Cypriana
Disaronno Godfather Week Pop-Up at Rye Baltimore
On Tuesday, April 14, Rye Baltimore will pay homage to the classic Disaronno cocktail known as the Godfather, as part of a global Godfather Week event.
Gunther & Co. to Host Chef’s Cycle Fundraiser
Also on Tuesday, Gunther & Co. will open its doors for a cocktail party fundraiser aimed at supporting Jerry and Nancy Trice’s upcoming 200-mile bike ride to raise funds for No Kid Hungry. This event will feature a silent auction, raffle, and samples from a variety of popular local establishments, including Huck’s American Craft, Old Line Spirits, Alma Cocina Latina, The Capital Grille, Dutch Courage, Bunny’s Buckets & Bubbles, Knotty Pine, The Dive, The Corner Pantry, Of Love & Regret, True Chesapeake, The Food Market, and Sally O’s.
Cooking Class and Dinner at Cosima
Wednesday will see Cosima hosting a delightful dinner and interactive cooking class led by Chef Donna Crivello and beverage expert John Brown. The menu will feature baked stuffed artichokes, lamb, and ricotta cheesecake.
Wine Dinner Wednesday
On April 15, oenophiles have two excellent options to consider.
In Roland Park, Johnny’s will host the winemaker from Honig Winery in Napa Valley for a three-course meal that includes wine pairings and discussions.
Simultaneously, The Black Olive in Fells Point will showcase wines sourced from the Nemea region of Greece.
Ekiben Collaboration with The Urban Oyster
Also on Wednesday, Ekiben will collaborate with The Urban Oyster for a limited-time meal offering – tickets are available for purchase, and meals can be picked up from Ekiben’s location in Hampden.
Tequila Thursday at The Corner Pantry
On Thursday, The Corner Pantry and Spirit Shop are partnering for a special five-course dinner that will take diners on a journey through the flavors of tequila. This will include dishes like lobster ceviche and beef seasoned with coffee and smoked salt.
Book-Inspired Dinner at Hersh’s
Also on Thursday, Hersh’s will join forces with The Ivy Bookshop for a dinner celebrating Jung Yun’s All the World Can Hold. The menu will be buffet-style and cruise-themed, featuring items such as shrimp cocktail and prime rib.
Spring Ingredients Shine
With the arrival of spring, fresh ingredients are now in abundance. Menus are beginning to incorporate ramps, which are highly revered during their brief season at Foraged, receiving a considerable amount of focus from the kitchen team.
Manor Tavern will introduce its new spring food and drink menus on Friday night, perfectly timed for The Manor Races on Saturday.
Excitingly, Magdalena is about to unveil its new spring menu, with ramps also taking center stage among the offerings.
A defining aspect of spring: soft-shell crabs are beginning to grace local menus, including those at The Food Market, Thames Street Oyster House, and The Milton Inn.
Upcoming Events to Note
Save the dates:
April 18-19: Spring Welcome Picnic at Juniper Farm
April 22: Dinner with Brian Lavin at Boordy
