I honestly don’t remember how I met Jim Kinney, or Jimmy, as many of his friends call him. He’s one of the most down-to-earth people I know. And at the same time, he runs The Capital Grille (that dreaded “chain” word), a place that can be a little fancy for some. By the way, he’s also a Deadhead, which I never would have guessed at first – and just maybe that adds to his warmth, kindness and the most welcoming spirit. He is a master. In addition to being the managing partner of The Capital Grille, he also is the driving force behind Bourbon & Bowties, the fabulous (and instantly sold out) food and whiskey-focused fundraising series that just had its 15th annual event, having raised $3 MILLION for local Baltimore charities.
I always say that restaurants at their core are about people. Whether it’s how a guest is waited on, how a meal is cooked or how you feel when you are leaving a place, all of those aspects (and many more) are delivered by humans. Jimmy works very hard to hire the best people and leads by example, helping his staff to become better and better. Honestly, that sort of mentoring is an art form all to itself. Knowing how fair, kind, and professional Jimmy is with his staff only makes me want to dine there more often. He runs a tight ship — not through fear or intimidation, but with thoughtfulness and intention.
If you’ve never been or it’s been a while, I highly recommend a visit to The Capital Grille. The quality of food is consistent, the people watching is top tier and the staff make you feel welcome and valued whether you’re there for a special occasion, a weeknight treat dinner or a quick drink at the bar. My favorite thing is a steak or a piece of fish with sauteed spinach or grilled asparagus. Oops…start with a martini, of course! And even though I rarely order dessert, the crème brûlée at Cap Grille is a treat – the top is always perfectly caramelized. Go treat yourself, they will take good care of you.
Now, here are Jim Kinney’s 13 answers.
Cake or pie? And, what kind?
Yellow cake with chocolate frosting.
Your most prized possession?
A quilt that my wife made for me.
What’s your favorite thing to order out at restaurants?
Steak tartare.
What’s your favorite thing to cook at home?
Étouffée.
What is your morning beverage and how do you take it?
Black coffee.
What’s your personal motto?
Surround yourself with kind hearts and good intentions.
What is your favorite holiday and why?
Labor Day. It is the start of hunting season.
Best advice you were ever given? And from whom?
Lonnie Derrick was my boss when I was an electrician. I was 19 years old when he told me to start planning for my retirement.
I listened. Every employee I have gets a sit down when they are eligible for our 401k. I give them the same advice.
What do you feel is your greatest accomplishment?
Fatherhood.
The last text you sent?
I thanked a guest that attended a wine dinner at CG last night.
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
Eating crabs while watching an Orioles game on TV and listening to the Grateful Dead.
What do you love most about food?
It’s personal. It can bring back memories. It also allows me to be creative.
Your favorite place in Baltimore?
At home in my yard and garden.
Read more Baker’s Dozen pieces at Charm City Cook.
