This week, the restaurant scene in Baltimore is buzzing with festivities, ranging from the Preakness Stakes to delightful picnics. Here’s a roundup of the latest happenings:
Openings & Announcements
We extend our congratulations to Gunther & Co., as they mark their 10th anniversary by revisiting some of their most cherished dishes from the past decade.
Keep your eyes peeled for Slicen Dyson Smoked Meats. This new establishment is set to open on Joppa Road in Parkville on June 5.
This week, the Lord Baltimore Hotel announced a change at the culinary helm. The new Executive Chef and Food & Beverage Director is Jerome Talley, a name to watch as he leads the LB Bistro & Bakery and the reopening of LB Skybar.
Kneads Bakeshop has exciting news! They have formed a partnership with South Mountain Creamery, bringing an array of fresh new delights to their menu.
Unfortunately, Dulceology made the difficult announcement that they are closing, due to the owner relocating to California in pursuit of new opportunities.
Preakness Plans
The 151st Preakness Stakes is set to create excitement this weekend, bringing the city of Baltimore to life once again.
Although the race will be held at Laurel due to ongoing construction at Pimlico, the renowned Black-Eyed Susan Day and Preakness winners’ blankets are still being crafted in Baltimore. At the Giant Food location in York Road Plaza, a dedicated team is working on these special blankets; this marks the 29th year they have been made at this location. Shoppers are invited to witness the craftsmanship on Friday, May 15.
To kick-off the festivities, Cece’s is hosting a Black-Eyed Susan Day party on the evening of May 15 in their courtyard, setting a delightful tone for the weekend.
There will be numerous locations to catch the Preakness Stakes, including options on the water. On Saturday, the Lady Thames will embark on her inaugural cruise from Fells Point, offering a two-hour celebration complete with oysters from ProShuckers, small bites from Little Havana, Maker’s Mark cocktails, and multiple televisions showing the races.
Ryleigh’s will host a ticketed Preakness party featuring live music and a charitable element: $1 from each Crush sold will benefit the Cool Kids Campaign.
As the official brewing partner of the Preakness, Guinness is excited to unveil a special edition beer dubbed the Preakness 151 Lager, available both at the racetrack and at the Guinness Baltimore location, in cans or on tap for those celebrating at home.
Whiskey on the Waterfront
Sagamore’s Whiskey on the Waterfront series will return this Saturday, May 16. Taking place on the third Saturday of each month from May through October, this event features live music, cocktails, and food trucks. This month’s lineup will include favorites like Das Bier Hall, Jimmy’s Seafood, Mexican on the Run, Pizza Di Joey, Nina’s Cookie Explosion, Tipsy Scoop, and BMore Greek Grill.
Spirit Shop Tasting
This Saturday afternoon, Spirit Shop on Falls Road will be welcoming Moxie Chocolatier for a complimentary tasting event. Attendees can also enjoy specially crafted cocktails made by Mark Adams, known for his creative posts on the Artist with a Cocktail social media account.
Gin Fling at Dutch Courage
On Sunday, May 17, Dutch Courage will host a Gin Fling, where guests will enjoy an afternoon filled with gin tastings, music, oysters, cheese, and charcuterie, including offerings from over 20 different brands.
Chili Cook-Off at OLAR
A highlight on Sunday afternoon will be Of Love & Regret‘s 6th Annual Chili Cook-Off & Block Party, which supports the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation. The event promises live music, all-day happy hour, and over twenty chili entries vying for the title.
Cosima x Topside
Save the date for Wednesday, May 20, when the culinary teams from Cosima and Topside will collaborate for a one-night-only dining experience. This five-course menu will feature seafood, housemade tagliatelle, and buttermilk panna cotta, among other exquisite dishes.
Alma Picnic
On the same Wednesday, Alma Cocina Latina will offer an all-you-can-eat picnic-style meal, highlighting a fusion of Venezuelan flavors with Korean culinary traditions, created by guest chef Peter Serpico.
Wine Explorers at Citron
Also on Wednesday, Citron is hosting a session of its popular Wine Explorers series. This month’s event will focus on wines from Guilia Monteleone, from Sicily, paired with a thoughtfully curated tasting menu to complement her selections.
Biggie Night at Sally O’s
Next Thursday, Sally O’s will celebrate their annual Biggie Night in honor of the iconic Notorious BIG. The menu will feature special food and drink items while his legendary music plays throughout the evening.
Storytelling at Midlina
On Thursday night, Midlina will host a unique five-course meal inspired by the tale of Little Red Riding Hood, offering a culinary narrative experience.
Planning for the Future
Mark your calendars for these upcoming events:
May 23-24: Brew at the Zoo
May 28: Booze & BBQ at Louthan Distilling
June 17: Michael Leonard Dinner at Boordy
