I’ve been trying to wrap my head around this whole quarantine thing. Trying to write something meaningful or helpful. But I just keep writing sappy notes about the places and people I miss. So, I’m going with that.

I miss Old Fashioneds at Lobo and Manhattans at Peter’s Inn. Negronis at Sugarvale and Orto. Martinis at La Cuchara and The Prime Rib.

I miss driving by Dylan’s and scoping out a parking spot and miraculously snagging the last seat at the bar. Then, a cocktail, kale salad and whatever else sounds good that night.

Chef Brigitte Bledsoe of Miss Shirley’s Cafe was supposed to be in school.

But, no. She was busy working at Ocean Pride in Lutherville. And that’s where it all started. Born and raised in Towson, Bledsoe attended Dulaney High School and Essex Community College (now known as CCBC) and then, she got bitten by the chef bug.

I’ve realized in the last few years of writing about food, I’m only really truly snobby about two things: beer and pizza. And, Baltimore has plenty of excellent options for both. Soon, we’ll have one more in my ever-expanding smorgasbord of a neighborhood, Hampden. God, I love my hood.

A few of my friends are involved with a new craft brewery opening soon in the Hampden/Woodberry area this fall. Waverly Brewing Company is led by Brewmaster Roy Fisher, a longtime beer brewer here in Baltimore. His team gave me a little sneak peek tour of the space, which includes a tasting room, gallery-lounge space and, of course, brewing room. It is located near the corner of Union Avenue and Clipper Mill Road, just a stone’s throw from the also amazing Union Craft Brewing.

For food options, Waverly will be working with a small number of caterers (folks they know personally) who will set up shop outside. Not food trucks per se, but creative casual fare to go with the beers on tap inside.