From crab cakes and fall cocktails to spooky squid ink and Spanish cheese, this week is full of fun and unexpected ways to enjoy the Baltimore culinary scene. Here’s a look at what’s happening:

Openings & announcements

Mick O’Shea’s, which has been under construction since the underground fire that took place on N. Charles St. in late September, finally reopened on Wednesday.

Vessel, a new bar and lounge, has opened at the ROOST Baltimore hotel and apartment building. Vessel has both indoor and outdoor spaces and a cocktail menu with plenty of nods to port-city drinks.

Congratulations to Walker’s Tap & Table, which celebrated five years in business this week.

Speaking of anniversaries, Woodberry Kitchen marked 17 years in business this week. Congrats to the Woodberry team for its longevity and the impact its had on Baltimore’s dining scene.

In fast food news, Towsonites are getting a new Chick-fil-A this week. The restaurant, which is in the old Bob Evans spot, opens on Tuesday. To celebrate, the company is running a sweepstakes: people who live in nearby zip codes can enter to win free Chic-fil-A entrees for a year.

Café Campli has some lunchtime changes in the works. Starting Nov. 11, the Hamilton restaurant will begin opening at noon on Sundays, adding lunch to the lineup. However, starting Nov. 1, they will no longer serve Friday or Saturday lunch.

Sadly, Pavan Foods, the Indian restaurant and grocery in Parkville, closed this past Wednesday, after 24 years in business.

Happy 100^th to Grandma Beall

Grandma Beall, the matriarch of the Ledo Pizza empire, celebrated her 100^th birthday this past week. In honor of her birthday, Ledo’s is offering $1 fountain drinks through Sunday.

Oyster champs

Congrats to Dylan’s Oyster Cellar shucker Sydney Moran for taking home first place in the 2024 Women’s National Shucking Championship at the US Oyster Festival last weekend. Moran not only shucks at Dylan’s – she’s also the pastry chef.

New menus

Cosima has launched a new menu featuring more pizzas and comfort food as well as Sicilian street food-inspired dishes.

Magdalena’s updated fall cocktail list draws on local history, with drinks like the Homecoming Cocktail – a mix of Uncle Nearest Whiskey, apple spice and lemon olio, and a full Jazz Menu with drinks dedicated to legendary Baltimore jazz artists like Blanche Calloway and Ethel Ennis. These drinks will be available through November – so now is the time to go to try them.

Fried Chicken Thursdays are back at The Tilted Row. Every Thursday, the restaurant’s popular fried chicken dinner makes an appearance on the menu.

Maryland Crab Cake Festival

On Saturday, the Maryland Crab Cake Festival takes over the Carroll County Farm Museum. The kid-friendly event features live music, crab cakes from a bunch of great local restaurants, food trucks (it’s not all crab!), beer, wine, and fun vendors.

Ekiben at Black Ankle

The Ekiben crew is heading to Mt. Airy for a Saturday afternoon pop-up at Black Ankle Vineyards. The menu includes Neighborhood Birds, Tofu Brahs and more.

Ryes Up

On Sunday, the Baltimore Bartender Guild’s annual Ryes Up fundraiser for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation of Maryland takes place at The Winslow. The party is always a hit, with excellent drinks and food from local restaurants and bars – all benefiting a worthy cause.

Bunny’s turns Upside Down

Starting on Monday, Bunny’s becomes the Upside Down, with a spooky week of pop-ups planned. From Monday through Saturday, Bunny’s will welcome a killer lineup of chefs, winemakers, brewers and more – including Carlos Raba of Clavel and Nana, Tae Strain of Ggoma Supperclub, Jonah Kim (formerly of Pabu), and the crews from Toki Underground, Old Westminster Winery, and Peabody Heights – plus some additional surprises that have yet to be announced.

Taco Tuesday at Heritage

On Tuesday, the crew at Heritage Smokehouse has plans for a whole hog BBQ and an evening of pork (or vegetarian) tacos with all the fixings. The theme will kick off during a taco lunch featuring barbacoa, chicken and chorizo options, and continue through dessert – churros.

Pumpkins at Swallow

Also on Tuesday, Swallow at the Hollow hosts its 9^th annual pumpkin painting contest. Paint a pumpkin (for free), win prizes and enjoy food and drink specials while you get in the Halloween spirit.

A Wicked Affair at True Chesapeake

On Wednesday night, True Chesapeake Oyster Co. brings back its Wicked Affair Dinner, just in time for Halloween. The four-course meal includes dishes like squid ink spaghetti with sea urchin sauce, along with wine pairings and “eerie” cocktails.

Halloween happenings

On Halloween itself, there’s plenty to do, even beyond trick-or-treating.

The Brewer’s Art has a lot going on for Halloween, including a Clue-inspired mystery game on the main floor, a Nightmare Before Christmas theme downstairs, and a generally spooky vibe.

Monarque is teaming up with Sweet Gwendoline Gin for a three-course dinner and themed Halloween show.

Spanish cheese at Pierpoint

Pierpoint in Fells is always doing something cool – and that’s especially true this week. On Friday, Chef Nancy Longo will lead a lesson on Spanish cheeses, including a tasting of a variety of different cheeses along with dishes made from each cheese. The courses will be paired with tastes of Spanish wines and sangria.

Planning for the future

Mark your calendars for:

Nov. 2: Clavel x Alma Cocina Latina Día de Muertos Collaboration

Nov. 3: Día de los Muertos at La Calle

Nov. 16: Chili Cookoff at Waverly Brewing

Whiskey, oysters, and spooky surroundings – the Baltimore food scene this week captures everything that’s great about October in Charm City. Here’s a look at what’s on tap:

Openings & announcements

Atlas Restaurant Group has announced that its new Chinese restaurant in Cross Keys will be called Nine Tailed Fox; the kitchen will be helmed by Executive Chef Jeffrey Mei. Atlas also released renderings of the spot, which is due to open next spring.

Speaking of Atlas, throughout the month of October, all Atlas restaurants are donating $1 for every glass of rosé sold to the American Cancer Society – making it very easy to support research for breast cancer and all cancers.

Pusser’s, which will close in Annapolis on Halloween, is moving north. The longtime waterfront favorite signed a lease to open in Lighthouse Point Marina in Canton. The restaurant will take over the spot formerly housed by Bo Brooks, and is slated to open next spring, after renovations of the space have been completed.

Supporting Keswick families

The Hampden community – and Baltimore as a whole – was rocked this week by a five-alarm fire in Keswick that, sadly, resulted in the death of two residents. The community has rallied together to support those impacted by the fire, organizing multiple ways to give.

On Saturday, numerous Hampden businesses will donate a percentage of sales to the Keswick Fire Fund and on Sunday, Blue Pit BBQ will host a fundraiser starting at 3 p.m. Food businesses participating in the Saturday event include: BMORE Taqueria, Catalog Coffee, The Charmery, Chuck’s Trading Post, The Food Market, Golden West Café, Harmony Bakery, The Local Fry, Maillard Pastries, Paulie Gee’s (who has been instrumental in organizing the support), r. bar, Taharka Brothers, and Urban Oyster.                                                                                                                                             

Rare & Obscure at Max’s

From Friday through Sunday, the annual Rare & Obscure Festival will be underway at Max’s Taphouse. The Fells Point bar will be tapping 15 kegs of unique beers featuring ingredients like lemon peel, Thai basil and Tahitian vanilla (not all at once), plus numerous other draft and bottle offerings.

The weekend also includes multiple fun events, like karaoke, a comedy show, and a signing event with Orioles legends.

Peach & Rye release

On Saturday, Baltimore Spirits Co. will release Singularity #15, which is a peach and rye whiskey. At the same time, Jinji Chocolates is releasing a chocolate bar using BSC’s Epoch Rye, toasted rye grains and peach – a perfect pairing. During the release event, BSC will offer peach cocktails and chocolate cocktails – very sweet. 

Dylan’s gets shucking

Dylan’s Oyster Cellar will be closed on Saturday evening, as the crew heads down to St. Mary’s City for the annual U.S. National Oyster Festival – and the National Oyster Shucking Competition. Three shuckers from Dylan’s will participate in the contest, hoping to bring home the big prizes – and all the bragging rights.

OktoBEARfest

On Saturday and Sunday, the Maryland Zoo’s annual fall beer festival, OktoBEARfest, returns for a weekend full of music, animals, and tons of beer and seltzer to sample. During the festival, guests have a chance to try more than 80 seasonal beverages, enjoy food from local vendors, and enjoy being in the company of all the animals at the Zoo.

Bonfire & Booze

Saturday evening, La Cuchara decamps for Zahradka Family Farm, where the two teams will join forces for a toasty Bonfire & Booze party. The menu includes fall outdoor classics, like pit beef and pulled pork, plus beer, wine and cocktails, along with live music and plenty of marshmallows to roast.

Halloween cookies at Kneads

On Sunday, Kneads in Harbor East hosts a kid-friendly Halloween cookie decorating class. The class will cover everything from the science of royal icing to ways to creatively use decorations you can by at the grocery store. Attendees will decorate and take home their own cookies, plus recipes to recreate at home.

Cashmere & Chianti at Cinghiale

Also on Sunday in Harbor East, Cinghiale hosts Cashmere & Chianti, an antipasti and pasta meal celebrating harvest season in Tuscany.

That’s Amaro at Sally O’s

Also on Sunday, Sally O’s is hosting That’s Amaro, a five-course dinner with dishes paired with Amaro cocktails.

Flavors of Maryland

On Monday, TasteWise Kids’ annual fundraiser, Flavors of Maryland, takes over Whitehall Mill. The event is a fun one, with local farmers collaborating with chefs to showcase all the best aspects of Chesapeake cuisine.  

Harry Potter returns to Johnny’s

On Monday, Johnny’s undergoes its annual transformation, becoming the magical world of Hogwarts for the Halloween season. The Roland Park restaurant will be in full Harry Potter mode, from the décor to special drinks and desserts.

Wines of Campania at Costiera

Monday evening, Costiera hosts a free wine tasting with Andrea Fabiano, the export manager for Feudi di San Gregorio. The tasting begins at 5 p.m. and is first come, first serve.

Oyster Shellebration at True Chesapeake

Our very own Baltimore Fishbowl crew is teaming up with True Chesapeake Oyster Co. on Wednesday, Oct. 23 for a fun all-you-can-eat oyster party. Tickets include two drinks, plus oysters and other food, and a portion of proceeds benefit Mr. Trash Wheel.

Raventós Wine Dinner at Cece’s

Also on Wednesday, Cece’s hosts a six-course wine dinner featuring wines from Raventós in Spain. Pairings include matchups like crispy pork belly with cicerchia bean and tomato marmalade with a 2021 Blanc de Blancs Brut and duck breast with Asian pear, turnips and cherry jus with Can Sumoi Sumoll-Garnatxa.

Community Night at Gertrude’s

On Friday, Oct. 25, Gertrude’s welcomes all for a Community Night benefiting Our Common Table, the nonprofit organization run by Gertrude’s own John Shields. During the evening, guests will have an opportunity to enter raffles to win prizes like Aquarium tickets and Lyon Distillery goodies, all while supporting a great cause.

Planning for the future

Mark your calendars for:

Oct. 30: A Wicked Affair Dinner at True Chesapeake Oyster Co.

Nov. 1: Spanish Cheese at Pierpoint

Nov. 3: Día de Muertos at La Calle

One of the coolest things about the Baltimore food scene is how often local restaurateurs join forces for special events. This week, the collaborative spirit of Baltimoreans is on display all week long – it’s going to be a good one. Here’s a look at what’s happening:

Openings & announcements

The new Diamondback Brewing x Aveley Farms brewery-café combo opened in Timonium this past Wednesday.

Bonjour Crepes in Belvedere Square will open its doors on Monday.

Cosima’s happy hour now takes place every day from Tuesday through Saturday and the menu has some new additions, including $5 spritzes and negronis.

The Arthouse, the pizza spot and gallery in Hampden, will close later this month; the owners announced on social media that they have been unable to come to a new lease renewal agreement with their landlord. The restaurant, which has been open for 11 years, will throw a going out of business party on Oct. 26.

Cocina Luchadoras heads north

Starting on Oct. 11 and continuing through October, Cocina Luchadoras will pop up at Hampden’s Hillside Garden Kitchen, the outdoor garden patio next to good neighbor, on Friday afternoons. The menu will include a variety of taco options plus sides and special drinks, and will be available to enjoy onsite or to take home.

Seafood Saturday

On Saturday morning, the 32^nd St. Farmers Market is all about the seafood. Starting when the market opens at 7 a.m., vendors like Neopol Smokery and Captain Don will be offering fresh, local seafood from the Chesapeake Bay region.

Family Table at Rooted Rotisserie

Sunday, Rooted Rotisserie hosts a collaboration with The Simple Girl Brand and ELA Eventz called “At the Family Table.” The event includes a five-course meal with wine pairings – and a focus on connection and values shared by the host organizations, including “faith, family, community, authenticity, and hospitality.”

Café Campli x Doladira x Wet City

Also on Sunday, Café Campli is taking over the kitchen at Wet City for an evening of Italian dishes like wild boar and porcini ragu with tagliatelle and pappardelle with mixed seafood and lemon butter. The crew from Doladira will also be on hand for giveaways and special cocktails.

Spanish wines at Costiera

On Tuesday, Costiera hosts a multi-course dinner showcasing the wines of Spain. Courses include crab-stuffed piquillo peppers with roasted garlic and sherry vinegar with Mar de Vinas Albarino, and grilled ribeye with black garlic and onion marmalade paired with two different red options.  

Southern Italian at Cosima

Cosima chef Donna Crivello is back this week with another in her cooking class series.  On Wednesday, Chef Crivello will instruct a class in Southern Italian cooking, including gnocchi. Upcoming classes include holiday hors ‘oeuvres and cocktails and a lesson on cooking a traditional Feast of the Seven Fishes Christmas Eve meal.

Movies at HEX

On Thursday, HEX Superette will screen the film “Darla in Space.” The movie, which has a HEX-appropriate plot involving a sentient kombucha scoby, is the brainchild of filmmakers Eric Laplante and Susie Moon.

Tickets for the showing include a glass of HEX Kombucha. The kitchen and bar at HEX will also be open during the showing.

Heritage x B. Willow

Also on Thursday, Heritage Smokehouse welcomes the crew from Remington plant shop B. Willow for a fun moss terrarium happy hour event. Tickets include a complimentary drink and guests go home with a moss terrarium they’ve constructed themselves.

The Pantry of the Americas at Alma Cocina Latina

On Friday, Oct. 18 and Saturday, Oct. 19, Alma Cocina Latina chef Hector Romero teams up with Chef Kender Lozano on a two-night dinner series showcasing the “ancestral culinary traditions” of their home countries, Venezuela and Mexico.

The prix-fixe meal includes multiple courses highlighting and creatively combining the culinary traditions of both countries. Reservations are available now.

Planning for the future

Mark your calendars for:

Oct. 20: That’s Amaro at Sally O’s

Oct. 21: Flavors of Maryland

Nov. 1: Spanish Cheese at Pierpoint

From ice cream for breakfast to Fells Point fun, this week promises to be a great one on the Baltimore food scene. Here’s a look at what’s coming up:

Openings & announcements

The Wine Source in Hampden has been sold to its employees; it is now a worker co-op and is working with Baltimore Roundtable of Economic Democracy on the shift in business model.  

Key Brewing is moving in with Monument City Brewing. While the two local breweries will retain their individual brands, they will enter a ”strategic partnership” in which production and some business operations will be streamlined. Key Brewing’s Dundalk tap room will remain open through October – and Key brews will now be available in the

The Corner Pantry, which has been undergoing a multi-phase renovation project as it expands, will be closed until November – except for its catering operation. For the rest of the month, the company will still be open for pickup and full service catering needs.

Unfortunately, the steak frites restaurant Medium Rare has closed its Rotunda location.

Fells Point happenings

This weekend is a big one in Fells Point.

The Fells Point Fun Festival, which has been taking place since 1967, is back again from Friday through Sunday. The festival is all about music and fun – and food and drinks. The menu includes everything from festival favorite Ekiben to Paradise Island Cuisine to Layton’s Chance wines from the Eastern Shore.

Given the action in Fells Point proper, the weekly Fells Point Farmers Market is moving its Saturday operations to its home away from home – Central Plaza at Harbor Point. The market will be as vibrant as ever – and is an easy stop on your way to the Festival.

Baltimore Taco Festival

Just a few steps away from Fells, Power Plant Live! also has a big weekend on the books, with the 7^th annual Baltimore Taco Festival. The festival, which takes place on Saturday and Sunday, includes over 25 taco (and other food) vendors, margarita bars, tequila flights and shots, chili pepper and taco eating contests, and even Lucha Libre wrestling.

Das Best Oktoberfest

The county is also buzzing this weekend, with the return of Das Best Oktoberfest to the Timonium Fairgrounds on Saturday. Tickets are available now for the party, which includes hundreds of beers, wines, ciders and schnapps to sample, live music, German sausages (and other food), and a sports stadium where guests can participate in competitions like stein holding, tug of war, and wiener-slinging.

Spirits of Maryland

The annual Spirits of Maryland event, celebrating the local craft spirits industry, takes place on Saturday, Oct. 5 at the Sagamore Spirit Waterfront. During the event, which features live music and food trucks, guests can meet the makers behind many local spirits, sample the goods and purchase bottles. Tickets are available for purchase now.

Honey Harvest Festival

On Sunday, Oregon Ridge Nature Center hosts its annual Honey Harvest Festival, a fun day of learning about beekeeping and honey, among many other things. The event also includes food trucks with smoothies, beer, coffee, donuts and barbecue, craft vendors, and live music.

Brunch business

Not only will Cece’s in Cross Keys start serving brunch this weekend, Johnny’s is also launching a bottomless mimosa special during Saturday and Sunday brunches.

This week’s Remington Brunch Club pop-up, which takes place on Saturday starting at 9 a.m. at Mount Royal Soaps, features a special collab from Big Softy and The Charmery. Among other things.

Whiskey & Cigars at True Chesapeake

On Monday, True Chesapeake Oyster Co. hosts a whiskey and cigar pairing event on its outdoor terrace. In addition to cigars and whiskey from Heaven Hill, the event includes roasted oysters and other snacks.

Café Campli wine dinner

On Tuesday, Café Campli will showcase the wines of Tenuta Giustini during a special wine dinner.

Dining Out for Life

Thursday, Oct. 10 is Dining Out for Life, the annual fundraiser for the nonprofit Moveable Feast. The event makes it so easy to contribute to a worthy organization – simply dine at one of the participating restaurants and they will donate a portion of proceeds to Moveable Feast.

As always, there are a ton of local restaurants participating – spots located all over the city and surrounding counties, from Café Gia to Papi’s Tacos to Silver Queen Café – and many more.

This year’s biggest donators are Clavel and Gertrude’s – each will contribute 50% of their proceeds to the cause.

Tagliata Wine Experience

Also on Thursday, Tagliata hosts an installment of its Wine Experience events. This one, called “USA Road Trippin’” is focused on wines from American wine regions like the Finger Lakes, Virginia and Michigan. The event includes a discussion of wine and history, plus a wine tasting and small bites.

Planning for the future

Mark your calendars for:

Oct. 12: Seafood Saturday at 32^nd St. Farmers Market

Oct. 16: Southern Italian Cooking Class at Cosima

Oct. 21: Flavors of Maryland

From brunch goodies to wine education, the Baltimore food scene covers a lot of bases this week. Here’s a look at what’s coming up:

Openings & announcements

Kneads Bakeshop is opening a new location in The Shops at Canton Crossing. The café, which is slated to open in a few months, will offer breakfast, lunch, pastries and – eventually – brunch cocktails.

Bread & Circuses has gotten a cool facelift by way of a new mural honoring F. Scott Fitzgerald. If you’re in the Towson area, stop by to check out the vibrant artwork.  

Congratulations to Ammoora for making an appearance on the New York Times’ 2024 best restaurants list.  

Cece’s adds Sunday brunch to its lineup next week – starting on Oct. 6.

Remington Brunch Club

There’s a brand new brunch option in town, starting this Saturday – and returning every week. The Remington Brunch Club is a pop-up event that will take place in the parklet of Mt. Royal Soaps. This week’s lineup includes Café Los Suenos coffee and food from Nana, Illegal Tender, and Mr. Roast Beast.

Kimchi workshop

On Saturday morning, HEX Superette hosts a kimchi workshop, run by HEX Ferments co-founder Meaghan Carpenter. The class includes understanding the steps of making kimchi and a hands-on element resulting in a jar of kimchi to take home.

Bees Knees Week

Gunther & Co. is celebrating Bees Knees Week – an annual event sponsored by Barr Hill Gin – with the introduction of a new gin and honey cocktail called the Thomas Jasper Cat.

Dutch Courage is also in on the Bees Knees Week action, with new concoctions available daily, like the Lisbeth Salander, which combines Barr Hill Gin with Earl Grey tea, Kronan Swidish Pumsch, honey and lemon.

At Bunny’s, there are multiple Bees Knees-style cocktails to choose from this week.

During Bees Knees Week, participating restaurants, shops and individuals can get involved by posting photos and tagging Barr Hill. In exchange, for each post, the gin maker will plant bee habitats to help protect the bees.

Peabody Night at Sotto Sopra

On Sunday, Sotto Sopra will showcase local artists and Peabody students during its monthly Peabody Night event.

Wine Wednesdays at Magdalena

Starting on Oct. 2, Magdalena will host a monthly Wine Wednesday event. The first Wednesday of every month, the restaurant’s “Wine Guy” will lead a tasting and discussion focused on a specific wine region.

Greek Night at Ouzo Bay

On Friday, Oct. 4, Ouzo Bay will be even more Greek than usual, when the Harbor East restaurant celebrates Greek Night. The party includes live music, drink specials, traditional foods and some plate smashing, to add to the vibe.

Ggoma Supper Club x Jonah Kim

Tickets have gone live for the next Ggoma Supper Club event – and it’s a good one. On Monday, Oct. 28, Ggoma chef Tae Strain will team up with Jonah Kim, who became a Baltimore favorite during his time at PABU, the much-missed sushi restaurant that was located in the Four Seasons Hotel. Reed Cahill of Royal Blue will handle beverages.

The dinner, which will take place at Foraged Eatery, will focus on produce from the Mid Atlantic and flavors from Japanese and Korean cuisines.

Planning for the future

Mark your calendars for:

Oct. 12: Seafood Saturday at 32^nd St. Farmers Market

Oct. 16: Southern Italian Cooking Class at Cosima

Oct. 21: Flavors of Maryland

This week is full of good news on the Baltimore restaurant scene, from oyster festivals to wine dinners to news of big crowds at old favorites. Here’s a look at what’s happening:

Feeling good about local dining

Just a few weeks ago, Heritage Smokehouse sounded the alarm about their business’s dry spell. In response, the community showed up, dined in, and helped the restaurant stay afloat.

Last week, the owners of Silver Queen Café shared similar struggles on social media, admitting that if business didn’t improve, its doors might close.

Again, Baltimore food lovers rallied. In response to the news, the Hamilton restaurant was packed over the weekend – and hopefully will be again this week.

Wine dinner at Citron

On Friday, Sept. 20, Citron welcomes Anne Cannan from Clos Figueras winery in Priorat, Spain. Cannan will be sharing her story with guests at the restaurant, who can choose from Citron’s regular a la carte menu or opt for a Catalonian menu designed to pair with Clos Figueras wines.

The dinner is not a ticketed event – though reservations are a good idea.

4^th Annual Susquehanna Wine & Seafood Festival

Havre de Grace is the place to be on Saturday afternoon, when the 4^th Annual Susquehanna Wine & Seafood Festival takes place at the Concord Point Lighthouse.

The festival is a huge celebration of local food and drinks, featuring cooking demos, live music, steamed crabs and more.

Nana x HEX

On Saturday, Nana’s Carlos Raba will take over the kitchen at HEX Superette for a day-long pop-up event. The a la carte menu includes fun dishes like chicken enchiladas covered in mole poblano made with HEX black garlic, and pozole rojo made with HEX kraut-chi.

The Big Dill pickle party

On Saturday, The Big Dill returns to Power Plant Live! for a fun day celebrating all things pickle  The event sold out – but the organizers released an additional 300 tickets earlier this week, so there’s still an opportunity to get there.

Alma x Ekiben – and more

On Monday, the Ekiben crew will pop up at Alma Cocina Latina to collaborate on a family-style meal celebrating the cuisines of both restaurants – with a Baltimore twist.

Alma will keep the party going into the week, too. On Wednesday, the Venezuelan restaurant hosts Nesti Bajda, the winemaker from Catena, for a special four-course meal showcasing flavors that pair well with Catena wines.

Magdalena wine dinner

On Thursday, Magdalena showcases the wines of M. Chapoutier with a six-course meal featuring pairings from the winery. Courses include a starter of oysters, caviar, lime crema and fennel pollen paired with La Combe Pilate Viogner, and a dish of foie gras and Rohan duck ravioli in mushroom broth with fig chutney paired with La Bernardine Rouge.

Speaking of Magdalena, congratulations to its home, The Ivy Hotel, which has been awarded the Two Keys distinction by The Michelin Guide.

The World Is Your Oyster Fest

On Thursday, The World Is Your Oyster Fest returns to the B&O Railroad Museum for an evening of oysters, wine, education and fun.

The event, which benefits Oyster Recovery Partnership, includes oysters from a dozen regional oyster purveyors and farmers, and food from a bunch of local restaurants and food businesses, including The Atlantic Food & Spirits, The Beaumont, The Capital Grille, Chef’s Expressions, Faidley’s, Federal House, Graul’s, La Food Marketa, The Local Oyster, Mama’s on the Half Shell, Mt. Washington Tavern, Nick’s Fish House, One Eleven Main, Phillips, Prigel Family Creamery, Rye Street Tavern, State Fare and Thames Street Oyster House.

There will also be a shucking competition, a live oyster reef demo, an opportunity to have a caricature drawn by Frederick artist Goodloe Byron, and a paint and sip class taught by Annapolis artist Kim Hovell.

Galbani Maryland Italian Festival

Starting on Friday, Sept. 27, the Galbani Maryland Italian Festival – the state’s largest Italian festival – will take place at the Harford County Equestrian Center.

The event’s headline sponsor is Galbani Cheese – and there will be a lot of that to taste. The festival also features rides, live entertainment, cooking and wine demos, and tons of food and drink to enjoy.

Fig Picnic pre-orders open

Pre-orders are now open for Juniper Farm’s Fig Picnic, which takes place on Sept. 28-29. The chef The Tradition Begins will be on hand creating grazing boards and a Fig Sweets Box. Pre-orders are required, so the farm can manage inventory; when you pick up your order at the designated time, you can find a spot on the grass or at the farm’s community tables to settle in for your picnic.

Pawpaw season

Pawpaws are back in season again and a few restaurants are making the most of the brief season.

At Dylan’s Oyster Cellar, pawpaw pudding, made with recently-foraged fruit, is topped with vanilla whipped cream and homemade nilla wafers.

At Foraged, they’re all over the menu – including in drinks like the Meemaw’s Cordial, a mix of pisco, rye, lemon, honey and pawpaw puree.

Baltimore Fishbowl’s own Oyster Shellebration

On Oct. 23, Baltimore Fishbowl is teaming up with True Chesapeake Oyster Co. for a fun celebration of all things oyster. Tickets for the event are on sale now – with early bird pricing through Sept. 30. Each ticket comes with two drinks, all you can eat oysters, plus more of True Chesapeake’s excellent food.

Planning for the future

Mark your calendars for:

Oct. 12: Seafood Saturday at 32^nd St. Farmers Market

Oct. 16: Southern Italian Cooking Class at Cosima

Oct. 21: Flavors of Maryland

This week is jam-packed with events, from dinners showcasing historical flavors to deals and new releases celebrating Baltimore sports teams. Here’s a look at what’s coming up:

Openings & announcements

Caribbean restaurant Jerk at Nite will open in the theater-area space that formerly housed Alewife. The restaurant, which was briefly open in Poplar Grove a few years ago, is scheduled to open its doors on Sept. 19.

Gertrude’s is undergoing some kitchen upgrades and, during construction, will have slightly different than normal hours. Throughout the weekend, the restaurant will be open as usual, but on Monday, Gertrude’s will close at 3 p.m. and on Wednesday, it will be closed for lunch (but open again for dinner).

Sports partnerships

It’s a fun time of year, with both the Ravens and the O’s playing at once – and partnering with local culinary businesses, too.

Guinness Open Gate Brewery has collaborated with the Orioles on a new amber ale called “Birds on the Lawn.” The brew will make its debut on Saturday, during a Splash Watch Party for the O’s game. The beer will be available on tap and in to-go cans for a limited time.

Atlas Restaurant Group and the Ravens are partnering this season, teaming up on events and specials (like a $12 burger + Miller Lite) at multiple Atlas restaurants, including Watershed, James Joyce, The Valley Inn, Italian Disco and Waterfront Hotel. There will also be special promotions offered via the Atlas app – and fans can keep up with events and deals via social media and the app.

Fells Point Oyster Fest

From Friday through Sunday, head to Broadway Square for live music, fun activities, lots of food and tons of oysters during the Fells Point Oyster Fest.

Fells Point Farmers Market – moving for the weekend

Given all the oyster activity happening in Fells Point this weekend, the weekly Fells Point Farmers Market is moving to the Jackson Wharf parking lot on Saturday morning. The market will be packed with its usual fun mix of food, gifts and treats, and is still right in the heart of Fells.

Oyster planting

Lovers of oysters and the Chesapeake Bay have an opportunity to do something good this week, when the Chesapeake Bay Foundation and Baltimore’s Waterfront Partnership join forces for the Great Baltimore Oyster Partnership’s 12^th oyster planting season.

On Saturday morning, from 10 a.m. to noon, the public can assist with the installation of an oyster garden at the new Lighthouse Point Marina. The addition of oysters to the Harbor helps with water quality – and the help of volunteers makes the project run more efficiently.

The organizations ask that volunteers RSVP if they are planning to come, either to Rida Dhanani (rida@profilespr.com) or Valerie Keefer (vkeefer@cbf.org).

Maryland Wine Festival

On Saturday, the 40^th annual Maryland Wine Festival takes over the Carroll County Farm Museum in Westminster. The event, which takes place outdoors, includes live music, lots of vendors and – of course – tons of local wines.

Nana x Wet City

On Sunday, Carlos Raba of Nana will pop up at Wet City for dinner service. Mal Bien mezcal will also be on hand for smoky, spirited drinks. The menu includes options like elote, chilaquiles topped with grilled cactus, a pulled chicken sandwich and more. 

Living Classrooms dinner at Marta

On Monday, fans of Living Classrooms Foundation can support a great cause with an excellent meal at Marta. The Butcher’s Hill restaurant is teaming up with LCF for a fundraising dinner featuring five courses showcasing caviar and paired wines.

Salvage Arc fundraiser at Max’s

On Tuesday, Max’s Taphouse hosts a dinner raising funds for Salvage Arc Foundation. The meal will honor Salvage Arc’s focus on historical reclamation and restoration with a special menu inspired by the flavors and techniques of the 1860’s. Courses, which are paired with beers and other drinks, include dishes like classic Baltimore broiled oysters, a red wine-braised lamb shank, and dessert of grilled Peach Melba.  

Tasting menu at La Calle

On Wednesday, La Calle celebrates the flavors and history of Puebla in honor of Mexican Independence Day. The Fells Point restaurant will offer a tasting menu featuring a variety of dishes showcasing the best of the region.

Meet the 21224 Makers at Gunther & Co.

On Thursday, Gunther & Co. welcomes the teams from two neighboring businesses, Monument City Brewing Company and Old Line Spirits, for a draft takeover and tasting event. Tickets include a 51 Rye draft beer and a shot of 51 Rye Whiskey – and the makers of both will be on hand to discuss the drinks and everything else they’re doing.

Picnic in the Park

On Friday, Sept. 20, help celebrate Parks & People’s 40^th anniversary with a picnic at the P&P headquarters. The event, which will raise money for the organization, includes live music and food from Eleven Courses, Ekiben, Hue Café, Brick N Fire and Taharka Brothers Ice Cream.

Hollins Market renovation reveal

This week, Hollins Market prepares for its grand reopening, revealing the results of its recent renovation. The Market, which officially reopens on Saturday, Sept. 21, now boasts seven stalls, a pop-up stall, and a grocery stall run by Baltimore Public Markets Corporation, which will sell basic household goods like pantry staples and paper goods.

Planning for the future

Mark your calendars for:

Sept. 21: 4^th Annual Susquehanna Wine & Seafood Festival

Sept. 21: Carlos Raba Kitchen Takeover at HEX Superette

Sept. 26: The World Is Your Oyster Fest

School is in session, football is back, and the Baltimore food world is heating up for a fun fall season. Here’s a look at what’s happening this week:

Openings & announcements

After a brief break and refresh, The Tilted Row is reopening to the public on Friday, Sept. 6. The Bolton Hill restaurant has new faces on board and a reworked menu with creative nods to Cajun and Creole flavors, from an appetizer of Louisiana steak pies to short ribs served with fried andouille rice, pickled cabbage, truffle BBQ sauce and cilantro-peanut salad.

ZaVino Italian Marketplace is now open in Cross Keys. ZaVino, which opened earlier this week, offers a casual Italian menu created and executed by Baltimore favorite Chef Andrew Weinzirl.

Atlas Restaurant Group has announced that it has signed a new lease in Annapolis and will open a restaurant in the old Stevens Hardware space on Dock Street. 

Purple everything

Now that football season is back, it’s time to focus on what we’re eating and drinking throughout the season.

At the Old Line Spirits’ courtyard bar and The Ready Room, the team has put together a lineup of cocktails just for the season, including the Dawn Watch, an energizing drink blending cold brew coffee and other ingredients with the distillery’s Flagship Whiskey, an the Blackberry Single Malt Smash, a fun purply cocktail made with Flagship Whiskey, blackberries, lemon juice and demerara syrup.

Sally O’s has a new drink on the menu for football season: the Ravens Old Fashioned. The drink is made with Old Forester Single Barrel 100 Proof Bourbon – picked by the Ravens themselves.

On Friday, Sept. 13, Watershed will host an extra-special Purple Friday with the Ravens’ marching band, the Ravens Caravan, and a visit from the mascot, Poe – along with a special beer and burger deal for $12.

Eddie’s turns 80

Eddie’s marks 80 years of business this fall and is kicking off the celebration on Friday, Sept. 6 with a party at its North Charles Street location, including giveaways, live music, and a tasting with Mouth Party Caramels.

Plus, Suzanne Loudermilk and I will be on hand from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 6, signing copies of our book, Lost Restaurants of Baltimore. Come say hello!

Ja Rule + BSC

Baltimore Spirits Co. is collaborating with the one and only Ja Rule on a new spirit called “Amber & Opal” – a honey botanical whiskey made with Maryland Straight Rye Whiskey, honey and a tea blend. 

The Charmery turns 11

Happy 11^th anniversary to The Charmery! The ice cream shop, which now has a bunch of locations, is celebrating its “Spinal Tap” birthday with free baby scoops with purchase, rock & roll-themed flavors, a “Sound Check” sampler sundae, a great playlist and free merch while supplies last.

Franchising The Local Fry

Rotunda fries-and-wings spot The Local Fry is in expansion mode. The popular casual spot is now offering franchise opportunities, so hopefully soon Baltimoreans will be able to grab the restaurant’s creative, international take on loaded fries, wings and sandwiches in spots all over the place.

End of summer crab feast at The Choptank

The Choptank is hanging on to the last bit of summer with an all you can eat crab feast on Sunday, Sept. 8. Tickets for the event are on sale now and include steamed crabs, tons of sides (from fried chicken and corn to salads and brownies), and a limited edition t-shirt.

32^nd Street Farmers Market town hall

On Tuesday, the 32^nd Street Farmers Market is welcoming the community – including farmers, neighbors and shoppers – to a town hall event to discuss the Market’s activities and how the community can get involved.

The Market is celebrating its 45^th anniversary next year and is already starting to think about ways to honor the occasion and improve based on community and patron needs.

Local Grains at HEX Superette

On Wednesday, HEX Superette will welcome the Common Grain Alliance, along with the bakers from Motzi Bread and Migrash, to discuss the how and why behind baking with local grains – and to share bread with the community.

Bromo Arts Fall Art Walk

On Thursday, Sept. 12, the Bromo Arts District will host its eighth Art Walk – an event showcasing the many creative organizations located within the downtown district, including multiple food businesses, like Cajou Creamery and the vendors of Lexington Market.

Maryland Restaurant Week

Starting on Friday, Sept. 13 and running through Sunday the 22^nd, local restaurants will participate in Maryland Restaurant Week. During the event, restaurants will offer special menus and promotions, like a three-course meal for $35 at Nacho Mama’s or two courses at Miss Shirley’s for $25.

Hunt Valley Mediterranean Festival

Starting Friday, Sept. 13 and running through the weekend, Hunt Valley’s St. Mary Antiochian Orthodox Church will host a Mediterranean food festival, featuring a variety of food and wine, plus folk music and traditional dances.

Murder Mystery at the Zoo

On Sept. 13, the Maryland Zoo will host a fun murder mystery dinner. The event, dubbed Fatal Fauna, is a glamorous masquerade ball with an immersive murder mystery show accompanied by a gourmet meal.

Fells Point Oyster Fest

Also starting on the 13^th and running through the weekend, the Fells Point Oyster Fest will take over Broadway Square. The party includes live music, family-friendly activities and a variety of food and drinks – with lots of oysters, of course. There will also be a shucking contest and all you can eat ticket packages are available for purchase.

Planning for the future

Mark your calendars for:

Sept. 14: 40^th Annual Maryland Wine Festival

Sept. 21: Carlos Raba Kitchen Takeover at HEX Superette

Sept. 26: The World Is Your Oyster Fest

This week, the Baltimore restaurant scene is celebrating the last few moments of summer and looking ahead to a fun and busy autumn. Here’s what’s on tap:

Keith Lee comes to Baltimore

Influential TikTok restaurant reviewer and personality Keith Lee and his family made a quick trip to Baltimore this week – and loved it. Lee, who shines a light on casual, everyday places, visited Rooted Rotisserie in Hollins Market and Kahler’s Crabhouse in Rosedale.

At Kahler’s, Lee’s family tried steamed crabs and loved the flavors (though they’re not the most experienced crab pickers).

At Rooted Rotisserie, Lee gave both the food and the customer service extremely high marks, which were not a surprise to the restaurant’s customers, and spoke well of Baltimore’s food scene overall. Lee and his family (including his wife Ronni, who has a devoted fanbase of her own) also left a $4,000 tip for those working in the restaurant and $2,000 to cover guest meals.

The trip to Baltimore was a side-jaunt during a longer visit to the Washington, D.C. area – where Lee was somewhat underwhelmed by some of the options. Social media commenters have been quick to suggest that Lee should spend more time in Baltimore, since Charm City is full of the kind of places he loves most.

Nana’s at Melanie’s

On Saturday, Aug. 31, Nana’s will pop up at Melanie’s Griffith’s Tavern in Hampden. The popup, which starts at noon and lasts until 5 p.m. (or sell out), features a variety of tacos, including grilled meat, pork belly and cactus.

Asia in a Bite

Also on Saturday, the Asia in a Bite food festival makes its monthly appearance at Rash Field. The event, which takes place the last weekend of every month from April through September, is free to attend and showcases the cuisine of many Asian cultures.

Wonderment Wine Supper

On Thursday, The Manor Tavern hosts a multi-course wine supper showcasing the wines of Wonderment. The menu features a variety of flavors and combinations, like a goat cheese souffle paired with a salad of arugula, grapes and pistachios, complemented by a 2020 Sauvignon Blanc, and braised short rib with a crispy potato pancake and bacon onion soubise paired with Wonderment’s 2017 Burton Ranch Zinfandel.

There are also vegetarian options available for each course.

Sunset Jams are back

Starting on Friday, Sept. 6 and running every Friday through October, the Sunset Jams concert series will pop up at Rash Field Park.

In addition to fun live music, the parties are a great food destination, featuring a rotating lineup of food trucks, including Fuzzies, Craving Potato and Koshary Corner. Plus, One Do Coffee Roasters, which recently opened a Rash Field outpost, will sell beer and wine, along with a handful of special cocktails, during the events.

Passion for Food and Wine

The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation’s annual event, Passion for Food and Wine, is Friday, Sept. 6. As always, the lineup of participating restaurants is impressive, including Alma Cocina Latina, BLK Swan, Azumi, The Bygone and And 4 Dessert.

Bev menu evolutions

It’s an exciting time for cocktail menus in Baltimore, as restaurants create options to highlight late summer and early fall flavors.

Cocktail bar Order of the Ace has a new drinks menu including summer-into-fall options like the Golden Dawn, a mix of gin, sherry, raisin, almond and rose flavors.

La Cuchara is making the most of the end of tomato season on the plate and also in the glass, which drinks like the Aqua de Tomate, a gin-based drink with ginger, lime, coconut milk and tomato syrup.

Silver Queen Café is also hanging on to the last bits of summer with drinks blackberry and watermelon-based mojitos.

At Foraged, peach and tomato are in the spotlight, with options like the Early Girl, a mezcal-based drink with a lacto-peach and tomato puree.

Planning for the future

Mark your calendars for:

Sept. 13: Fells Point Oyster Fest

Sept. 14: 40^th Annual Maryland Wine Festival

Sept. 26: The World Is Your Oyster Fest

Summer is starting to come to a close and – just in time for school – the Baltimore restaurant scene is heating up with theme nights, parties and more. Here’s a look at what’s on tap this week:

Openings & announcements

The Tilted Row has announced a new Chef de Cuisine: Derrick Reed. Chef Reed is a Baltimore native but has spent a few years working in Los Angeles – but is now back in his hometown. The Bolton Hill restaurant is currently closed for renovations but is on track to reopen at the end of the month, with a new Southern-inspired menu developed by Chef Reed and Tilted Row culinary director Jacques Van Staden.

Slurp Noodle Bar will open a south Baltimore outpost in the Rye House apartments in Baltimore Peninsula, sometime next year.

Cypriana’s new Maple Lawn location is getting closer to opening – the Greek restaurant is hiring staff.

The Food Market is now partnering with EZcater, so you can easily order catered workplace lunches for delivery.

Ekiben Night Market

On Saturday night, Ekiben is teaming up with tons of local food and drink purveyors – plus some guest stars from DC and NYC – for a Night Market. The party starts at 4 p.m. and will take place in the parking lot of Ekiben’s Hampden location.

Participants include everyone from Nana and Chef Rey Eugenio to The Local Fry, The Wine Collective, Old Line Spirits, Peabody Heights, and El Paraiso. Plus many more!  

Tequila x Perennial

Also on Saturday, Perennial hosts a patio garden party. This week’s event features drinks from Don Julio tequila and light bites to match.

Potato Girl Summer at Southpaw

On Sunday, Southpaw will be spud central, with a menu lineup featuring potato-themed cocktails and a plethora of styles of fries to share and try. Guests can vote on their favorite fry cuts and sauces and at 8:30 p.m., champions will be declared.

Sally O’s Bday Cookiout

On Tuesday, Sally O’s is hosting an all-you-can-eat cookout to celebrate its birthday. The cookout, which will include a whole hog BBQ plus lots of vegan and vegetarian options, doubles as a school supply drive benefiting the community. Guests who bring something to donate (from the approved donation list) will be treated to a free drink.

Jazzy cocktails at Magdalena

Magdalena, in the Ivy Hotel, is launching a new jazz-inspired cocktail menu this week – and celebrating the introduction with live jazz music in the restaurant Courtyard on Thursday and Friday evenings.

Agave spirits at Silver Queen Café

Silver Queen Café has announced the next in its popular series of cocktail dinners. This one, which is scheduled for Sept. 12, will showcase tequila and mezcal – both spirits made with agave. The meal includes four courses, each with a paired drink, and a sampling of the spirit. Tickets are on sale now.

Courses include dishes like Maryland crab and shrimp ceviche as a starter, and an entrée choice of either flank steak with chimichurri, tostones, peach, tomato and corn salad and crème fraiche or Chesapeake blue catfish with smoked Gouda grits, poblano and corn succotash, and tomato salsa.

Heritage – and more

This week, the owners of Heritage Smokehouse shared a message on social media that is a good reminder for all the fans of Baltimore restaurants. Along with an announcement that the restaurant is serving ham hocks this week, they shared that this summer has been a slow one for the Govans restaurant and noted that they’ve pared down the menu to some key favorites – and that they hope to fill the restaurant and fill as many catering and carryout orders as possible, so they can make up for the quiet months.

This is a good reminder that so many of the local restaurants we love are very small businesses and need consistent support to keep the doors open and to keep serving us the food we all love.

Planning for the future

Mark your calendars for:

Sept. 13: Fells Point Oyster Fest

Sept. 14: 40^th Annual Maryland Wine Festival

Sept. 26: The World Is Your Oyster Fest

Mid-August might be the best time to eat locally in the Chesapeake region. This week, Baltimore restaurants are going all-in on local produce, seafood and more. Here’s a look at what’s happening:

Openings & announcements

Atlas Restaurant Group has been granted the necessary licensing to move forward with its newest Fells Point venture, The Undefeated, a Key West-inspired cocktail bar (named for a Hemingway short story).

Sotto Sopra has a big deal happening through the end of summer: buy two pasta dishes and get a third free.

Red Pepper Sichuan Bistro celebrates five years in Towson this month – congrats to the Red Pepper team!

BSC + Chuck’s Tropical BBQ

On Friday, Aug. 16, Baltimore Spirits Co. and Chuck’s Trading Post team up for a Tropical BBQ at BSC headquarters. The menu includes BSC cocktails designed to accompany fun tropical food, including suckling pig.

This event was supposed to take place a few weeks ago but had to be postponed – fortunately, it’s made its way back onto the calendar this week.

Miss Shirley’s Etiquette Brunch

On Saturday, Miss Shirley’s Café is reprising its popular etiquette class for children ages seven to 15. The class, which has two sessions broken out by age, includes education around appropriate dining behavior and the reasons behind the rules.

Classes take place on Saturday morning, over a two-course brunch.

Frozen desserts at Cosima

On Wednesday evening, Cosima chef Donna Crivello will lead a class in how to make frozen Italian desserts, including gelato and sorbetto – an excellent topic for steamy end-of-summer days.

End of summer goodness

Local spots are all about late summer produce and proteins right now, on the plate and in the glass.

True Chesapeake Oyster House’s snakehead (an invasive species) is paired with fried green tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, basil bread crumbs and roasted tomato beurre blanc – all kinds of summertime bounty.

At La Cuchara, fried green tomatoes with oregano, Dijon, wildflower honey and Rosette de Lyon is back for a bit.

The Food Market’s Peach-a-loma is a perfect summer cocktail for any time of day.

The Corner Pantry is reaping the summertime pepper harvest with a dish of charred shishitos paired with burrata, lime and peanuts.

Gertrude’s summer dessert menu includes treats like Charlottetown Farm cheesecake topped with cherry-orange compote.

Silver Queen Café is leaning hard into local seafood right now, from blue catfish to Maryland crab to scallops. Plus, now through Sunday, Aug. 18, all teachers and administrators get 20% off their total check at the restaurant’s new bar (with a valid school ID).

At Tagliata, one summery dish is a mezzaluna stuffed with eggplant parm and smoked mozzarella, then topped with local Sun Gold tomatoes and basil from Atlas Farms.

The kitchen at Of Love & Regret has been lucky enough to work with overflow from a friend’s urban garden – including a batch of fresh figs. Speaking of figs, a recent steak special included the sweet fruit, seared and served alongside melted Brie, caramelized onions and crispy potato croquettes.

Heritage Smokehouse had a gorgeous peach melba cake on the menu this week.

Planning for the future

Mark your calendars for:

Aug. 24: Ekiben Night Market

Aug. 27: Cosima Wine Dinner

Sept. 13: Fells Point Oyster Fest

This week, Baltimore restaurants are all about wine, oysters, and new developments. Here’s a look at what’s coming up:

Openings & announcements

The Waterfront Partnership of Baltimore and Baltimore Development Corporation announced this week that Canton favorite OneDo Coffee Roasters will open a Rash Field outpost in the park’s BGE Pavilion. The café, which is slated to open in the spring of 2025, will offer coffees and teas as well as sandwiches and salads.

The group behind Blackwall Hitch has opened a new restaurant in Gambrills. The Farmhouse has a “rustic” vibe and works with local farmers and fishermen to build its menu.

Big things are happening at The Corner Pantry. The restaurant and coffee spot has begun a three-phase construction process to expand into the space next door, which formerly housed clothing store Mason Mayes.

Bunny’s announced a handful of changes to its schedule that will go into effect on Monday, including Monday happy hour deals lasting all night long, 30% off of wines and bubbles over $100 on Wednesdays, and opening at 5 p.m. (instead of 4 p.m.) Monday through Thursday.

Restaurant Weeks

While restaurant week promotions have died down around most of the area, Maryland Vegan Restaurant Month is still going strong. Plus, one locality – Howard County – saves its Restaurant Week for the end of summer.  

Howard’s event, which is officially a combo of Restaurant Week and Craft Beverages Week, kicks off on Monday, Aug. 12. The lineup of participating restaurants includes dozens of spots all over the county.

Plate It! Baltimore is back

Baltimore-based cooking show “Plate It! Baltimore” is back for its second season next week. The show, which is hosted by Chyno The Baltimore Foodie, features local chefs and businesses competing against one another in challenges. They’re judged by Chyno, along with The Local Oyster proprietor Nick Schauman and cookbook author Jessica Formicola.

This season will include appearances from chefs representing tons of local businesses, including Codetta Bake Shop, The Tre’von Clark Experience, Bmore Big Softy, Café Campli, Mexican on the Run, Taste Food Truck, Table at Home, Fox’s Den, Soul Smoked BBQ, Rooted Rotisserie, Ejji Ramen and Jimmy’s Famous Seafood.

The show can be viewed on the Very Local App, which is available here.

National Oyster Week

National Oyster Day was last week but Thames Street Oyster House is celebrating the bivalve all week long. Throughout the weekend, the Fells Point restaurant is offering a special plate of grilled Chesapeake oysters that helps support the Oyster Recovery Partnership.

Gertrude’s is also in on the action, with $2 off all half-dozen orders of oysters on the half shell and a $1 donation to ORP from every oyster appetizer and entrée sold.

Gunther & Co. is recycling the oyster shells from all of its oyster dishes and is offering a couple oyster deals this week, including $1 War on Hunger oysters on the half shell and the addition of four cornmeal-crusted fried oysters to any dish for $12.

The Cookout

On Saturday afternoon, Center Plaza in downtown will be the place to be during the second annual iteration of The Cookout. The free event, which is organized by Sumayyah Bilal, owner of Codetta Bake Shop, brings together a variety of Black-owned small businesses, including artisans, home goods purveyors, and chefs.

Food options include goodies from Codetta as well as items from Emmanuella’s Haitian Cuisine, Soul Smoked BBQ, The Cookie Chemist and more.

Fennec at HEX Superette

On Sunday starting at 11 a.m., Chef Scott Bacon brings his operation, Fennec, to the HEX Superette space for a kitchen takeover. During the event, Chef Bacon will work with HEX’s fermented offerings to create a fun menu available a la carte.

Black Ankle x Foraged

On Wednesday, Foraged Eatery teams up with Black Ankle Vineyards for a multicourse wine dinner showcasing selections from the excellent Maryland winery. The menu includes pairings like cantaloupe, cherry, jalapeno and goat cheese salad with Black Ankle’s 2023 Bedlam, and a peach cobbler dessert paired with Terra Dolce IX fortified dessert wine.

Wine happy hour at Magdalena

On Thursday, Magdalena sommelier Guy Freshwater will host a happy hour tasting and discussion centered around three selections from the Magdalena cellar.

Italian heritage wine supper

On Thursday, Chefs Expressions pops up at the Gramercy Mansion for a wine dinner celebrating the cuisine and wines of Italy. Courses include dishes like fresh fish with tortellini in lemon basil brood paired with Cantina Colterenzio Pinot Grigio, and roasted herb chicken with a salad of summer tomatoes and mint paired with Podere Poggio Scalette Chianti.

Planning for the future

Mark your calendars for:

Aug. 17: Etiquette Class at Miss Shirley’s

Aug. 24: Ekiben Night Market

Sept. 13: Fells Point Oyster Fest

From watermelon salad to the science of cocktails, this week includes a wide variety of activities for Baltimore food lovers. Here’s a look at what’s coming up:

Openings & announcements

The Tilted Row is closing briefly for renovations. The Bolton Hill restaurant closed down after service this past Monday and will be under renovation for the month of August, with plans to open back up in September.

Downtown restaurant Prim & Proper is now called Proper Cuisine and is also changing the format from fine French dining to a more casual vibe.

Foreman Wolf will no longer be involved with Cindy Lou’s Fish House. The Harbor Point restaurant will remain Cindy Lou’s for the time being but will be rebranded next year.

Remembering Michael Clarke

Michael Clarke, the owner of Claddagh Pub in Canton and a longtime supporter of the neighborhood, passed away on Sunday, July 28. Clarke was a beloved fixture in Canton and beyond and his presence will surely be missed.

Claddagh’s will be closed on Friday, Aug. 2 and Saturday Aug. 3 for visitation and his funeral mass.

Lobsterama

Gertrude’s popular late summer event, Lobsterama, is back. Every Thursday in August, the restaurant offers a pair of lobster options – simply steamed or Maryland-style, stuffed with crab imperial.

National Oyster Day

Monday, Aug. 6 is National Oyster Day – and Ryleigh’s Oyster has big plans to celebrate. Throughout the day, the restaurant will give away 1,000 oysters. At 5 p.m., expert shucker George Hastings will make an appearance, and at 5:45, you can learn how to shuck from professionals.

Spagett Day

On Tuesday, Aug. 6, Wet City is teaming up with Aperol for an inaugural celebration of Spagett Day – a day honoring the now famous Miller High Life and Aperol cocktail.

Nana x The Royal Blue

The Nana crew is popping up at The Royal Blue on Tuesday, from 5 p.m. until they sell out. The menu includes smash quesadillas, Caesar salad, steak and cheese, and more.

Science + cocktails

On Thursday, The Wine Collective and the Maryland Science Center are teaming up for a fun event all about science and wine. Tickets are on sale now.

Summer treats

Local restaurants continue to make the most of summertime’s amazing produce.

Last week’s Whimsical Wednesday at The Food Market was all about watermelon, from pickled rind served with raw tuna and peanut noodles to grilled shrimp and watermelon kabobs with mint chimichurri and whipped feta. Keep an eye out for more seasonal Wednesday menus at the Hampden spot.  

The Corner Pantry is also using watermelon in interesting savory dishes, like a yellow watermelon Greek salad.

Gunther & Co.’s Farm Summer Pasta dish pulls together all kinds of hyper-seasonal produce, including zucchini, tomatoes, wax beans, green beans and basil, all tossed with crispy bacon, house-made tagliatelle, and parmesan cream sauce.

Planning for the future

Mark your calendars for:

Aug. 12: Howard County Restaurant Week Begins

Aug. 17: Etiquette Class at Miss Shirley’s

Sept. 13: Fells Point Oyster Fest

This week, Baltimore’s restaurant scene is bustling, with lots of big and interesting news, from moves to upcoming openings. Here’s a look at what’s happening:

Openings & announcements

The Village of Cross Keys has been busy adding tenants recently. Recent lease announcements include a new dining option, Sol Oaxaca. Mexican spot is a new outpost of a popular Bel Air spot, and will open next spring in the space formerly occupied by Donna’s.

Cocina Luchadoras has moved. The restaurant was closed this past Wednesday and Thursday for the move and reopens Friday, July 26 in new digs at 1801 E. Lombard St.

Foreman Wolf has announced its plans for the former Café Hon space. The Duchess, which is slated to open this fall, promises to be an interesting mix of cultures. The look and feel will be English pub-inspired while the menu, from Executive Chef Kiko Fejarang, a Foreman Wolf veteran and native of Guam, will focus on the flavors of the Mariana Islands.

After a weekend po-boy pop-up event, Le Comptoir du Vin will close for a summer break from July 31 through August 3. The restaurant will reopen for dinner on August 7. 

Changing plans

Unfortunately, the Baltimore Spirits Co. cocktail competition scheduled for Sunday, July 28 has been canceled.

The Friday Nights Live events taking place downtown are back this week, on July 26, but in a new location from now through the rest of the series. Now, you can find the event at Hopkins Plaza – stop by for includes (free) beer from Guilford Hall, cocktails from Chase It Bartending, and food and drinks from Bird Box Express, Little Miner Taco, Tia’s Italian Ice, and Vegan Juicology.

Restaurant Weeks continue

Restaurant Week season is still going strong.

The big Baltimore Restaurant Week promotion, which includes a huge number of local restaurants, lasts through July 28 – so if you haven’t gotten out to take advantage of the deals, now is the time.

Maryland Vegan Restaurant Month kicks off on Friday, Aug. 2. The event, which is organized by Samantha Claasen of Golden West Café and The Land of Kush’s Naijha Wright-Brown, is a monthlong celebration of vegan dishes. Participants include a variety of restaurants across the region, from Miss Shirley’s to Ammoora to Woodberry Kitchen.

New design at Silver Queen Café

The team at Silver Queen Café has been busy. Over the past few days, they’ve reworked their interior, adding a bar with seating, and retooled their menu to include more appetizer/snack items perfect for grabbing with a drink at the new bar.

The Hamilton restaurant still has its local, seasonal focus and casual vibe – but now with even more reason to stop in to grab something small.

La Cuchara honored by Wine Enthusiast

La Cuchara has been included on Wine Enthusiast’s lists of the top 50 wine restaurants in the country. Congratulations to the beverage team – and everyone – at the restaurant.

Mocktails at Gertrude’s

In response to customer requests, Gertrude’s is adding a mocktail lineup to its regular menu. Cheers!

Burritos in the city

On Saturday, July 27, Nana will kick off a new monthly series: breakfast burrito pop-ups at Mt. Washington Soaps and Café Los Suenos on Huntington Ave. The event starts at 9 a.m.

Tomato Brunch at Juniper Farm

This weekend, Juniper Farm hosts a fun Tomato Brunch – a tomato season picnic with treats from Sophomore Coffee, Humble Hearts Catering, vegan baker Rainey Days, and Modern World.  

Pasta workshop & dinner at Woodberry

On Wednesday, Chef Chelsea Day will host a pasta workshop and dinner at Woodberry Kitchen. The event starts with light bites, followed by hands-on instruction in handmade pasta making from Chef Day.

Then, attendees will share dinner made with their own pasta, plus salad, bread, dessert and wine.

Costeria x Fennec

On Thursday, Scott Bacon of Fennec pops up at Costeria for a multi-course collaborative meal. The evening will start with smoked rockfish crudo and then will be followed by several savory and sweet courses, with wine and non-alcoholic pairing options.

Tickets are available now.

Planning for the future

Mark your calendars for:

Aug. 12: Howard County Restaurant Week Begins

Aug. 17: Etiquette Class at Miss Shirley’s

Sept. 13: Fells Point Oyster Fest

From restaurant weeks promotions to a long-awaited opening, this week is a hot one in Baltimore. Here’s a look at what’s on tap for the city’s culinary scene:

Openings & announcements

Rye Street Tavern, which closed during the pandemic and is now under new ownership from Clyde’s Restaurant Group, opens on Monday. The restaurant has big plans for the rest of the summer, including the reintroduction of live music on the patio every Thursday through Sunday.

Dutch Courage has a new face in the kitchen: local chef Pete Davis. He’s debuting a new menu this week, including some exciting seasonal plates.

After ten years in business, Atwater’s has closed its Canton Crossing location. Fortunately, the restaurant/shop’s other locations remain open.

Restaurant Weeks are here

Mid-July marks the return of summer Restaurant Week season. This week, some local promotions begin and others continue.

Baltimore County Restaurant Week is well underway and lasts through July 21. Baltimore Restaurant Week starts on Friday, July 19 and lasts until the 28^th. As is standard, tons of local restaurants are participating in one of these promotions, offering menus that showcase some of their best dishes at a lower-than-usual price. It’s a great way to try somewhere new.

Summer Soirées at Petit Louis

Petit Louis has a new fun reason to head out on Friday and Saturday nights this summer. From 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. on weekend nights, the Roland Park bistro is in celebratory mode, with live music, small bites and half-price bottles of non-vintage champagne.

Cureate application deadline

The application deadline for Cureate is coming up soon: Saturday, July 27. Curate is a small business accelerator program that aims to “educate and connect” food and beverage entrepreneurs offering health-conscious options.

The 10-week program includes online and in-person study opportunities and coaching. AT the end of the program, participants can compete for two $5,000 prizes.

There are twenty slots available for the upcoming session and applications are open now.

Soha Street Market

On Sunday, head to Harford Road for the Soha Street Market – an afternoon event featuring live music, tons of artisans, and food and drinks from a bunch of local businesses, including Café Campli, 1215 Global Health + Wellness, Emmanuella’s Cuisine, Frank’s BBQ, Lemontopia, Sweet Tea + Cornbread, Wight Tea Co., Wet City and Zeke’s.

Ggoma x Old Westminster x Tapas Teatro

On Monday night, Ggoma Supper Club and Old Westminster Winery team up with beloved local restaurateur Helmand Karzai for a “Summer Bounty” dinner pop up at Tapas Teatro. The menu includes snacks like marinated peaches with peanuts and plum vinegar, a Thai-style Wagyu beef salad, a blueberry tart with cornbread ice cream, and so much more.

National Tequila Day

Wednesday, July 24 is National Tequila Day – and mid-July is just about the perfect time for a tequila cocktail.

At Alma Cocina Latina, tequila-based options include the Serenata, which pairs Cazadores Tequila with mezcal, yellow chartreuse, pineapple-infused Aperol and a frothy egg white. And at Maximón, choices include a classic margarita along with the Solamente, which includes pineapple, Amarillo, honey and chamomile.

Olympics cocktails

The country’s best summer sport athletes are posted up in Paris for the Olympics and here in Baltimore, we can honor their work the most fun way possible – with thematic drinks.

The Bygone in the Four Seasons has a special twist on the French 75, in honor of the Olympics location, called the Fine and Dandy. And downstairs in the same hotel, Loch Bar will have the Olympics on TV, so you can cheer on Team USA over oysters and crushes.

BSC Cocktail Competition

Baltimore Spirits Co. is hosting its second annual Cocktail Competition on Sunday, July 28 – so now is the time to buy tickets. Last year’s event sold out.

During the competition, eight members of the Baltimore Bartenders Guild will square off against one another in a battle to see who makes the best drink. The winners will receive cash prizes – and guests can sample all the drinks and vote for the People’s Choice winner.

Planning for the future

Mark your calendars for:

July 27: Tomato Brunch at Juniper Farm

Aug. 12: Howard County Restaurant Week Begins

Aug. 17: Etiquette Class at Miss Shirley’s