The big food news this week has, of course, been the usual pre-snow grocery store rush for bread and TP. But after a few days inside, we’re all sure to be itching for something different. Fortunately, later in the week, Baltimore restaurants have tons of plans to cure that cabin fever. Here’s a look at what’s coming up:
Openings & announcements
This summer, Marta will open a new outpost, Marta al Mare, in Harbor Point – which is quickly becoming the city’s hottest dining destination. The new spot will be more seafood-focused than the original Marta, and it will offer a brunch menu six days a week.
Bel Air residents have something new to get excited about, as John Brown General & Butchery announced this week that it is taking over the Boyd & Fulford space on Main Street.
As of last weekend, Topside at Hotel Revival is serving bottomless brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
On Saturday, The Day & Night Exotic Cereal Bar opens in the lower level space of the Women’s Exchange Building – the storied former home of the Women’s Industrial Exchange restaurant.
Following a fire last week, Chaps Pit Beef Baltimore location temporarily closed – but they are now back up and running.
Atlas Restaurant Group will close its first fine dining restaurant, Ouzo Bay, on Feb. 15 – but the space won’t be idle for long. Atlas has plans to redo the space and open a new concept in the Harbor East building during the spring of 2027.*
Don’t Know Tavern announced last week that due to problems with its building, it will close at the end of February. The owners hope to relocate but do not have any firm plans yet.
A note about the snow
Before trying to head out to eat on Sunday or Monday, be sure to double-check that your destination is open. Some spots have already rescheduled planned events (like the Clavel x Ekiben collab originally planned for Sunday) – and some others will likely opt to close during the worst of the weather.
James Beard Award nominees
The James Beard Award noms were announced this week and four very worthy Baltimore spots made the list.
Marta chef and owner Matthew Oetting received a nomination for “Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic;” Doug Atwell of Southpaw is nominated for “Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service;” Pink Flamingo, which opened last year in The Dizz’s former space, got a nod for “Best New Bar;” and Café Dear Leon was nominated for “Outstanding Bakery.”
Congratulations to all the nominees – and good luck!
Restaurant weeks still ticking
Restaurant week promotions are still in full swing around town, including Harford County, Baltimore County, and Baltimore Restaurant Week, which starts Jan. 23 and runs through Feb. 1.
Midlina turns one
Happy first anniversary to Midlina, which opened a year ago this week. The restaurant is celebrating with a one year anniversary party on Saturday, Jan. 24. The event is ball-themed and includes live music – as well as 30% off checks as a thank you to the community.
Truffles at Charleston
On Wednesday, Charleston celebrates French black truffles, with a six-course dinner featuring the seasonal delicacy.
Bodega Garzon at The Manor Tavern
On Wednesday, the winemaker fromBodega Garzon will join the team at The Manor Tavern for a six-course meal pairing the Uraguayan winery’s offerings with dishes representing its terroir – think courses like chicken and chickpea empanadas with orange marmalade bechamel and bananas, and scallops with peppadew, mint and dill chimicurri.
Pour Decisions & Small Plates
On Thursday, the Farmers Market Supper Club is hosting a tapas-themed event at The Wine Collective. Guests are asked to bring a small plate or snack to share – something that will pair well with a wine from the Collective. The event is open to all and does not require tickets, though an RSVP and deposit are requested.
Dark beer at Silver Queen
Also on Thursday, Silver Queen Café goes dark…beer. The Hamilton restaurant is hosting a casual three-course dinner featuring dishes designed to complement paired dark beers. Courses include dishes like fried oysters to start and a dark rum chocolate mousse dessert.
Planning for the future
Mark your calendars for:
Feb. 6: Carnevale at Cinghiale
Feb. 25: Sazerac dinner at Cece’s
March 5: British Classics Cooking Class at The Corner Pantry
*Note: An earlier version of this article referred to Ouzo Bay as Atlas Restaurant Group’s first restaurant, though it is actually its first fine dining concept.
