After a week of hunkering down in between shoveling sessions, it’s a great time to head out to lunch or dinner. Here’s what’s happening in the Baltimore restaurant world this week:
Openings & announcements
In case you missed it: Canton has a new speakeasy, Highball, located inside the Bank St. Deli. The bar, which is Wednesday through Saturday, is a cool space for a cocktail and a bite to eat.
After a brief closure last week, Charming Elephant is now back up and running, with hours every day of the week.
Snow follow-up
Last week’s snowstorm and cold temperatures forced many restaurants to close their doors for a day or two, as it was too difficult for staff (and diners) to get out and about. Given that, local spots could really use extra business right now – it’s a great time to patronize your favorites or try someplace new.
While restaurants around town have made sure their parking lots are plowed, several have also pointed out that if you don’t want to lose your own parking space, delivery is an option, too. Delivery apps work but it’s also worth it to check to see if restaurants offer delivery services of their own – like Raffy’s on 36th, which offers an option to order online for pickup or delivery (within a certain area).
The weather has also prompted some changes – like a reschedule for Silver Queen Café’s Dark Beer Dinner. It was originally planned for Jan. 29 and has been moved to Thursday, Feb. 5 – to make sure people can get out to make it to the dinner and to make things easier on their delivery crews.
Restaurant weeks still ticking
Baltimore Restaurant Week is still kicking – it officially runs through Sunday, Feb. 1. However, keep an eye on the social media accounts for your favorite spots; many may extend the promotion, especially given the challenging weather this past week. Sotto Sopra, for example, will offer its restaurant week menu in addition to its regular menu throughout the month of February.
La Caleta at Alma
Alma Cocina Latina’s rum-focused pop-up bar –La Caleta – makes an appearance this week. On Monday, Feb. 2, the Alma bar will feature rum cocktails and arepas, which sounds like an excellent antidote to the freezing temps.
Baltimore on TV
On Feb. 4, Baltimore’s own Jason Hisley will appear on Netflix’s “Is It Cake?” Valentine’s Day special. During the episode, the Cake by Jason chef will compete along with his partner Tyler vs. two other in-real-life couples, as they try to convince celebrity judges that their concoctions are, in fact, cake and not fakes.
Carnevale at Cinghiale
Cinghiale is reprising its extravagant Carnevale masquerade party this year – on Friday, Feb. 6. The event starts with drinks in the Enoteca followed by a four-course Venetian meal accompanied by a performance of Vivaldi’s Four Seasons by musicians from the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra.
Planning for the future
Mark your calendars for:
Feb. 20: The Long Table Supper Club with H3irloom Food Group
Feb. 25: Sazerac dinner at Cece’s
March 5: British Classics Cooking Class at The Corner Pantry
