There are no midsummer doldrums in the Baltimore culinary world this week. From esteemed chefs making moves to special parties and dinners, the next few days are jam-packed with events. Here’s a look at what’s coming up:
Openings & announcements
Amy Hessel, who was most recently the executive chef at The Tilted Row, is taking over as the new executive chef at Hotel Revival.
Speaking of chef moves, Cyrus Keefer, who was most recently at Kneads in Harbor East, is taking over the kitchen at The Bluebird in Hampden.
Starting this past week, Underground Pizza has begun offering lunch service. The menu includes some Underground favorites as well as lunch-specific items, like sandwiches.
Baltimore Junior Chef award
A Baltimore girl, nine-year old Deniasha Burton, won the grand prize during Dole’s “Nutritious is Delicious Cook-Off,” which took place in late June and is part of the company’s Sunshine for All Cities Program.
The competition, which took place at Dole’s US headquarters in California, came down to three competitors who previously won regional competitions via Boys & Girls Clubs around the country. Burton was up against two 10-year olds – one from Merced, California and the other from Jackson, Mississippi.
Congratulations to Junior Chef Burton on her big win and for representing Baltimore well on the national stage.
Party Latino at True Chesapeake
On Sunday night, Party Latino is back at True Chesapeake Oyster Co. Starting at 9 p.m., the restaurant will offer a $20 Peruvian buffet with dishes like ceviche and chicharron de rockfish, drinks, and music from DJ Pato.
Bunny’s birthday
On Tuesday, Bunny’s Buckets & Bubbles is celebrating its first birthday with a big Cluck & Shuck Birthday Bash. The party starts at 4 p.m. and guests can either go all-you-can-eat with a $25 ticket or come by for a drink without tickets.
Happy one-year to the Bunny’s team!
Gertrude’s Crabaret
On Wednesday, Gertrude’s hosts its 22nd annual Crabaret party, supporting House of Ruth Baltimore. The event, which takes place in the BMA Sculpture Garden, features music, drinks and multiple crab dishes from the Gertrude’s kitchen.
Garden Party at Perennial
Thursday afternoon, the Perennial patio will sparkle, as the Towson restaurant hosts a Garden Party featuring light bites and Champagne from Laurent Perrier – along with live music and giveaways.
Hersh’s + The French Paradox
Thursday night, Hersh’s teams up with The French Paradox Wines for a dinner pairing dishes from four towns on Italy’s Tyrrhenian Sea with wines from the regions. The Tyrrhenian region includes the west coast of Italy – where some of the country’s most famous culinary traditions were born.
Governor’s Buy Local Cookout
On Thursday evening in Annapolis, local restaurants, chefs and even students will compete in the 2024 Governor’s Buy Local Cookout, which teams chefs up with farmers and watermen to showcase local products.
Baltimore-based chefs will be among those participating – including the team from Silver Queen Café, which will be closed on Thursday so the crew can head to Annapolis.
Restaurant Weeks begin
Mid-July marks the return of summer Restaurant Week season. This week, several local promotions begin.
Baltimore County Restaurant week starts on Friday, July 12 and lasts until July 21. Participants include dozens of restaurants throughout the county, from La Food Marketa to Manor Tavern, to Mr. Bill’s Terrace Inn.
On Tuesday, Black Restaurant Week starts in the greater Baltimore-Washington, D.C. area. The goal of Black Restaurant Week is to shine a spotlight on Black-owned restaurants across the country. In the Baltimore region, participating spots include Fishnet, Posi’s Kitchen, Codetta Bake Shop, The Land of Kush, The Empanada Lady, Sporty Dog Creations, Cuples Tea House, Berries by Quicha, The Crazy Crab Bag, England Eatery, Crazy Puddings, NuVegan Café, and Diasporan Soul.
The biggest event in the area, Baltimore Restaurant Week, kicks off on Friday, July 19. As always, there are tons of restaurants participating, covering the entire city and beyond. Participants offer special deals on breakfast, lunch and dinner menus – it’s a great way to try a new spot.
Peach season
One of the biggest indicators of high summer in Baltimore is back: the return of peach cake at Fenwick Bakery. The beloved treat is available now – but, of course, will only last as long as the fruit is in season, so grab it while you can.
Planning for the future
Mark your calendars for:
July 22: Ggoma Supper Club + Old Westminster Winery Pop-Up at Tapas Teatro
Aug. 12: Howard County Restaurant Week Begins
Aug. 17: Etiquette Class at Miss Shirley’s
