CH-CH CHANGES

Little Bird: Hampden locals were still getting to know this six-month-old subterranean spot when co-owners Paul and Caroline Benkert recently decided to close it and pivot in a new direction. Come May, the space will be transformed from a European-inspired cafe to an extension of the Bluebird Cocktail Room—which the owners operate upstairs in the same Hickory Avenue building. “Upstairs will remain the cocktail room, and downstairs will be the pub,” explains Paul.

Bluebird’s literary-themed aesthetic will carry over into the pub, which will showcase deep blue walls, built-in banquettes, and dim lighting with candles. The food options will differ slightly, however, highlighting more traditional offerings like fish n’ chips made with whole fish filleted in house. Other pub additions will include a large global whiskey selection, more beer, a daily lunch menu, and brunch service on the weekends.

“The Baltimore community has been incredibly supportive during these first two years,” Paul says. “The Bluebird needs room to grow, and unfortunately, the Little Bird concept doesn’t allow that to directly happen.” He goes on to say that pub will remedy the long wait times that diners experience at Bluebird on busy nights. “In a single weekend, we lose nearly 400 guests,” he says. “We’re very much looking forward to providing many of those guests with a similar experience downstairs while they’re waiting.” 3600 Hickory Ave. 667-303-3263

OPEN

R&R Taqueria: Window signage teasing a new location of this Guy Fieri-approved taco joint has been on display at the corner of Charles and Lombard streets for a while now. And earlier this week, the beloved taqueria finally made its downtown debut. Stop in to see chef/owner Rodrigo Albarran—more fondly known as Chef Rod—serving up the restaurant’s signature tacos, burritos, fajitas, and burgers including the “Fuego” topped with sriracha mayo and ghost pepper cheese. Decorated with colorful dia de los muertos wall murals, the 3,600-square-foot space is a far cry from Albarran’s original tiny location inside an Elkridge gas station. The new digs offer 80 seats, space for live music performances, a mezzanine level, and a full bar with plenty of margaritas and Mexican beers to go around. 30 Light St. Ste 2.

NEWS

Food & Wine Makers Issue Gives Love to Local Producers: Don’t be surprised to see some familiar faces while flipping through the current edition of Food & Wine magazine. The publication’s first-ever Makers Issue spotlights more than 30 “game-changing craftspeople who are reshaping cuisine in America and abroad by redefining ingredients, drinks, tools, restaurant design, and experiences.” Among those people is our own Spike Gjerde of Woodberry Kitchen, whose writeup mentions his go-to growers including Colleen and Michael Histon of Shepherds Manor Creamery in Carroll County and Rob Miller of Distillery Lane Ciderworks in Frederick County.

James Beard Nominations: Speaking of representing Baltimore on the national level, in case you missed it, Clavel and Chef Cindy Wolf were both names James Beard Semifinalists this week. The Remington mezcaleria was given a nod for Outstanding Bar Program and Chef Wolf was nominated for an impressive 12th time in the category of Best Chef Mid-Atlantic. The more narrowed list of finalists will be out March 27 and the James Beard Awards will be presented in Chicago on May 6. Hoping that beginner’s luck—as well as patient perseverance—are on our side this year.

Le Comptoir du Vin: After three months of serving non-stop sourdough and swordfish, the team at this new Station North bistro is taking a brief hiatus to rest, recoup, and conduct some culinary research abroad. The staff is going on a winter vacation to eat their way through Montreal, Copenhagen, and Oaxaca, and will return in time to reopen Le Comptoir du Vin on March 5. When dreaming up their plans for the wine bar, co-owners Will Mester and Rosemary Liss were inspired by the intimate spots they encountered while traveling throughout Europe—so we wouldn’t be surprised to see a few new dishes make their way onto the menu after they return from their current trip. 1729 Maryland Ave. 443-297-7384

EPICUREAN EVENTS

3/1-3: Suspended Brewing’s One-Year Anniversary Celebration
In the year since this neighborhood microbrewery opened its doors in Pigtown, it’s released a stellar beer lineup while also educating the masses about the importance of being socially and economically sustainable. To celebrate its big birthday, Suspended is hosting a weekend-long celebration featuring new releases, raffles all weekend, Friday-night trivia, and a sold-out Sunday drag brunch. Stop by the wood-stained taproom throughout the weekend to toast the milestone with a flight of new beers like the “Clockwork Universe” (French saison brewed with oats and orange peel) and “Caterpillar Schemes,” a hazy IPA brewed with 50 percent oats and hopped with azacca and Nelson Sauvin hops. 912 Washington Blvd. 410-926-8847

3/4: Plenty More Fish in the Sea
Salmon and rockfish often take the spotlight in the fine-dining world. But the brains behind South Baltimore staples Minnow and Rye Street Tavern are coming together to host this collaboration dinner in an effort to highlight lesser-known fish that are oftentimes more sustainable. (Think everything from blowfish tails to frog legs.) Rye Street’s chef Brian Plante and Minnow’s Ben Lefenfeld will present a five-course menu including oven-roasted salmon collars, smoked bluefish pierogies with lemon and capers, and wood-grilled Boston mackerel in a red wine jus. Rye Street Tavern, 13 Rye St. 6:30. $79

OPEN

Charmed Kitchen: Early risers in Butchers Hill are in for a treat this week as this new community cafe officially opened its doors for breakfast service starting at 6:30 a.m. The community spot from longtime neighborhood residents Lindsay and Andrew Crummey debuted with an opening menu of coffee, pastries, and breakfast sandwiches on fresh-baked breads. The plan is for executive chef Christa Bruno to roll out dinner service in the coming weeks, featuring dishes that reflect her Italian roots. (Think pasta, risotto, meats, and fish cooked with local produce.) Until then, the shop will offer a variety of coffee drinks, as well as breakfast and lunch fare, during the day. 123 S. Chester St. 443-627-8369

COMING SOON

Saffron Grill: The dining options in Fells Point are becoming increasingly diverse, with new restaurants opening along the waterfront, an array of vendors preparing to open inside Broadway Market, and now, this new Indian and Pakistani concept opening in the area. Slated to debut in February 2019, Saffron Grill will focus on Middle Eastern staples including authentic kebabs, lamb chops, and gyros. “We look forward to adding a different option to the standard American fare in Fells Point,” said owner Syed Zaidis in a statement. The spot will neighbor new women’s boutique Mint & Major in the mixed-use Marketplace at Fells Point on South Broadway. 616 S. Broadway.

NEWS

The Bluebird and Little Bird Welcome New Chefs: A new chef duo is at the helm of Hampden’s Bluebird Cocktail Room, as well as its subterranean sister-spot Little Bird Coffee Bar. Newly appointed executive chef Chance Jones and sous chef Bri White met Bluebird owners Paul and Caroline Benkert in their former roles at Woodberry Kitchen. At Bluebird, diners can expect to see more locally sourced ingredients incorporated into the dishes and drinks. Downstairs at Little Bird, Jones and White are hoping to introduce special pairing dinners that showcase seasonal ingredients from regional purveyors such as Caputo Bros. Creamery in Southern Pennsylvania. 3600 Hickory Ave. 667-303-3263

Baby’s on Fire Joins Retail Coffee Market: Be on the lookout for a new signature coffee blend at record store-cafe Baby’s on Fire in Mt. Vernon. Husband-and-wife owners David and Shirlé Koslowski recently partnered with Bryce Roszell of Open Seas Coffee Roasters on Kent Island to create their own blend, which incorporates grinds from Brazil, Sumatra, and Guatemala. Used in espresso and drip drinks, the coffee features notes of cinnamon, vanilla, almond, and earthy cedar with a hint of citrus. For every 12-oz. bag of Baby’s On Fire Blend purchased, 10 percent of the profits are invested back into sustainable coffee farming projects and communities. 1010 Morton St. 443-885-9892

The Red Star Bar & Grill Debuts New Winter Menu: If you haven’t had a chance to visit the new Red Star location in Charles Village since its grand opening last summer, stop in this season to sample eats off of a brand-new winter menu. Executive chef Francisco Lopez—formerly of Ryleigh’s Oyster in Federal Hill—debuted a selection of comforting dishes at the new location in Charles Village, as well as the Red Star flagship in Fells Point, earlier this week. Among them are a pot roast French dip with horseradish sauce and a $10 “Red Star” burger stacked with American cheese. Equipped with warm woods and dim lighting, the cozy Charles Village space also hosts beer-and-burger specials on Mondays, half-priced wine for neighborhood locals on Tuesdays, and other nightly specials. 3224 St. Paul St. 443-948-5539

EPICUREAN EVENTS

12/8: Diamondback and Order & Chaos Coffee Stout Launch Party
For the third year in a row, South Baltimore neighbors Diamondback Beer and Order & Chaos are teaming up to unveil a limited-edition coffee stout. Order & Chaos general manager Rachel Harris worked alongside Diamondback head brewer Tom Foster to dream up the beer, which is brewed with dark specialty malts and cold brew coffee. This Saturday, pair the specialty brew—which has notes of chocolate, dark fruit, and roasted almonds—with Order & Chaos’ signature Belgian waffles at an official launch party at Diamondback from 12-4 p.m. If you can’t make it to the event, the beer will be available in the taproom throughout the beginning of January. 1215 E Fort Ave. Ste. 008

SHUT (FOR NOW)

Stang of Siam: For the time being, Stang of Siam regulars are going to have to get their Thai fix elsewhere in Mt. Vernon. A sign posted to the front door of the restaurant on North Calvert Street indicates that the eatery closed, but will reopen under new management in the coming weeks. “We expect all of you will still be pleased with the quality of food and service,” the sign reads. The statement goes on to explain that the new owners operate multiple Thai restaurants in Washington, D.C., and plan to do some renovating before reopening with a new name. 1301 N. Calvert St.

We don’t always drink in the morning, but when we do, we like a good spritz. That’s why we’ve fallen head over heels for the adorable Little Bird Coffee Bar (3600 Hickory Ave., 667-303-3263), the newest project from the owners of The Bluebird Cocktail Room, located in the same building just a few floors above.

The basement café feels very Italian in flair, décor, and menu. One especially nice touch is the row of bright blue al fresco tables and chairs lining the sidewalk. Venture inside and you’ll find an authentically rustic space with exposed brick walls, hanging vintage plates, and tablecloths with a distinctive, toile-like pattern. There’s a semicircular marble-topped bar and simple black-and-white letter board that lays out the Ceremony Coffee offerings including espresso, Americano, Cortado, and cappuccino.

If it’s a different kind of buzz you’re after, Little Bird has plenty in that department, too, with a heavy focus on all things spritz, which is a fancy way to say sparkling. But there certainly isn’t anything flashy about the spritzes, which come in Aperol, Campari, Cynar, and Elderflower varieties—simply a balanced ratio of each base spirit mixed with crisp Primaterra Prosecco, club soda, and an orange twist.

We also gave the Amaretto Sour a try, since it’s something we drank a lot in our younger years. This version was the best we’ve had, thanks to fresh lemon juice and Angostura bitters. We certainly didn’t miss the artificial sugars and additives.

You can also get wine at Little Bird in European-style liters and half-liters, various types of amaro, and two options of beer (Peroni and the requisite Natty Boh). And, while we particularly love the café with morning light shining through, it also features a great “aperitivo hour” Thursdays-Saturdays, from 5-8 p.m., where spritzes are $1 off and 75-cent snacks are available.

The food menu is affordable and approachable with items such as savory and sweet buns, antipasto, baguette sandwiches, and desserts. Try anything with mozzarella (it gets pulled daily) and end your meal with a refreshing watermelon granita.

We’re sure thankful that Little Bird has opened in Hampden, because it will save us so much airfare to Italy.

OPEN

Little Bird Coffee Bar: There is now even more to love about The Bluebird Cocktail Room in Hampden, which debuted a sister concept in the subterranean space downstairs earlier this week. The Italian-inspired cafe offers an array of coffee and espresso drinks, as well as Campari, Negroni, and amaro cocktails. The European flair is also showcased in the food offerings, which include house-made pastries, charcuterie, a French hot dog on a petit baguette, pasta, and a marinara sauce recipe passed down from co-owner Caroline Benkert’s great aunt Holly from Sicily. The 60-seat cafe will be open from 7 a.m.-9 p.m. on weekdays, and stay open until 11 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. 3600 Hickory Ave. 667-303-3263

Poke Fish Sushi: Take a trip to Hawaii by way of Owings Mills at this new poke spot that recently opened its doors in the Valley Village Shopping Center off of Reisterstown Road. The fast-casual eatery offers ramen noodles, specialty sushi rolls and burritos, and Hibachi-style chicken and tofu. But the stars of the show are the DIY poke bowls that diners can customize with rice, fish, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and a variety of sauces. The restaurant joins Stanford Kitchen, Suya Spot, and Palio on the list of dining destinations that recently debuted in the Owings Mills area. 9163 Reisterstown Rd, Owings Mills. 410-902-8889

COMING SOON

Man vs. Pho: Patterson Park locals will be happy to hear that a new pho destination is making its way into the neighborhood in plenty of time for soup season. Catonsville favorite Pho Saigon—which was featured on an episode of Travel Channel’s Man vs. Food last month—is opening a spinoff on Eastern Avenue next to Matthew’s Pizza next week. Named after its signature “Man vs. Pho” challenge (diners are dared to slurp down four pounds of meat and noodles in 30 minutes), the Vietnamese spot will feature its DIY pho bowls with add-ins including steak, chicken, crabmeat, and fried tofu. The new location will debut in soft-opening mode on Monday, August 13, and a grand opening is scheduled for Wednesday, August 22. 3133 Eastern Ave. 410-314-8345

NEWS

Salt Tavern: After 12 years, mother-and-son duo Jane and Jason Ambrose have decided that it’s time to take their Butchers Hill tavern—best known for its duck fat fries and goat cheese doughnuts—in a new direction. The owners announced earlier this week that the last evening of traditional dinner service at Salt will be on Saturday, August 11. But they won’t be abandoning the space. Starting in October, the restaurant will be used for special pop-ups and guest chef dinners, as well as private dining events. “As we begin this transition, we want to say thank you to all of our customers, foodie supporters, food critics, suppliers, neighbors, friends, and family,” the duo said in a statement. “We appreciate what you have done for us and hope that you will continue to support us in our new venture.” 2127 E. Pratt St. 410-276-5480

The Dizz: Rest assured, Remington. The Dizz is officially reopening on Friday, August 10. After a routine health inspection late last month, the fan-favorite hangout was closed due to “unexpected mechanical failures in the kitchen,” according to a post on its Facebook page. Since then, the restaurant has taken a short hiatus to replace the equipment and refinish the floors. The spot will be back up and running starting at 10 a.m. on Friday, with plenty of beer, wings, and burgers to go around. 300 W. 30th St. 443-869-5864

EPICUREAN EVENTS

ONGOING: August Happy Hour at Bar Vasquez
With the beginning of a new month comes a fresh batch of $5 drinks and appetizers during happy hour at Bar Vasquez in Harbor East. In honor of the summer harvest, the bar is showcasing a refreshing “La Merienda” cocktail with George Dickel rye, peach and ginger syrup, fresh brewed iced tea, and lemon juice for $5 on weekdays from 5-7 p.m. The happy hour menu features plenty of snacks to pair with the cocktail, including crispy local zucchini, empanadas de queso, and shrimp ceviche. 1425 Aliceanna St. 410-534-7296

8/12: Mercado “No Se” at Clavel
Throughout brunch service this Sunday, Clavel will be hosting a special makers market featuring wares crafted by staff members and other local artists. Sip Sophomore Coffee—which will soon open a shop attached to Clavel’s new beer garden in Old Goucher—while perusing art, ceramics, mixtapes, plants, vintage clothing, zines, and more. To add to the fun, Daniel Reza Barrientos of Mexico’s La Rifa Chocolateria will be hosting an intimate chocolate tasting at 2 p.m. Learn more about the origins of chocolate while sampling truffles, cacao seeds, and a pre-Hispanic cold cacao drink. Admission to the market is free, and tickets to the tasting are $20. 225 W 23rd St. 443-900-8983. 12-4 p.m.

8/23: Battle of the Brands
Mark your calendar for this friendly food competition hosted by B-More Kitchen—the Govans incubator where dozens of culinary startups prepare their scratch-made goods. Stroll around the space to sip Full Tilt Brewing beers while sampling eats from the likes of Woot Granola, Wholesome Nibbles, Hiatus Cheesecake, Gundalow Gourmet, A Friendly Bread, Syriana Cafe, Tablefield Catering, and more. Winners will be crowned with bragging rights and prizes in sweet, savory, overall, and People’s Choice categories. 5609 Hess Ave. 6:30-9 p.m. $5.

COMING SOON

Little Bird Coffee Bar: Since opening last year, The Bluebird Cocktail Room has become a go-to for sipping craft cocktails in Hampden. Now, husband-and-wife owners Paul and Caroline Benkert are expanding their presence by converting the vacant space downstairs into Little Bird—an Italian-inspired cafe serving coffee and espresso drinks, a selection of house made pastries, and classic Boot Country delicacies. Specifically, diners can expect house-stretched mozzarella, homemade pastas, and a marinara sauce recipe passed down from Caroline’s great aunt Holly from Sicily. “It’s a place to come for a quick coffee, a leisurely afternoon drink, a bowl of pasta, or a soft serve ice cream with your family,” Paul said in a statement. “We found this atmosphere and authenticity in Italian cafes during our travels. And we’re very excited to bring it to Hampden.” The 60-seat cafe, which will be open for breakfast, lunch, cocktail snacks, and light dinner service, is expected to officially debut on August 1. 3600 Hickory Ave. 667-303-3263

Guinness Open Gate Brewery and Barrel House: You might remember when the new Guinness brewing facility in Halethorpe opened a test taproom last fall. But now, the real-deal debut is finally in sight. Expected to officially open to the public on August 3, the Open Gate Brewery and Barrel House will mark the first Guinness facility to open on American soil in 64 years. The multi-million-dollar construction project will yield a 100-hectoliter system, high-speed packaging line, and plenty of outdoor space for community events and concerts. While traditional stouts will continue to be brewed in Dublin, the Halethorpe headquarters will focus on pumping out Guinness Blonde American lager and a few creative brews for on-site sales. 5001 Washington Blvd, Halethorpe. 410-247-0675

Jose Tequilas Mexican Grill and Bar: New options are plentiful in the Owings Mills dining scene, which recently welcomed Italian eatery Palio to the Foundry Row development and Stanford Kitchen near the Stevenson University campus. Now, there’s even more to look forward to with the upcoming unveiling of this new Mexican cantina. Expected to open in the former home of Famous Dave’s off of Owings Mills Boulevard this fall, Jose Tequilas will serve classics like guacamole, enchiladas, quesadillas, and a range of street tacos filled with everything from mahi mahi to roasted pork tips. The family-owned chain spot also operates three other locations in Southern Virginia. 10490 Owings Mills Boulevard, Owings Mills

OPEN

Ellen’s Cafe: This new java joint opened its doors in Hollins Market late last month. Owner Ellen Vaughn presents a coffee program featuring hot and iced coffee, chai latte, espresso, cappuccino, macchiato, and Americano varieties. To accompany the drinks, the cozy corner spot offers a menu of bagels, breakfast sandwiches, wraps, muffins, and pastries. 31 S. Arlington Ave. 443-869-5835

Live! Casino & Hotel: This entertainment destination, located just a short drive down I-95 in Hanover, officially cut the ribbon at its swanky hotel earlier this week. And it has plenty of dining options if you’re hoping to book a staycation this summer. In between pressing your luck on the casino floor, fuel up with a bite at The Prime Rib, noodles and dim sum-spot Luk Fu, En Vivo Cocina Latina, sweet shop Luckie’s, and David’s—a 24-hour spot highlighting breakfast staples and globally inspired dinner dishes like hot and sour sea bass, Korean barbecue short ribs, and rockfish imperial. 7002 Arundel Mills Circle, Hanover

NEWS

Local Spots Continue to Eliminate Plastic Straws: Throughout the summer, there has been a bigger push to reduce the use of plastic straws at area bars and restaurants in an effort to clean up our waterways. Starbucks made a huge statement when it decided to ban plastic straws for good earlier this week, and local establishments are following suit. The growing list of spots offering sipping alternatives now includes The Greene Turtle, Order & Chaos, DiPasquale’s, Birroteca, The Nickel Taphouse, Hotel Revival, The Laughing Pint, and all six Atwater’s locations. The Baltimore Office of Promotion and the Arts is also eliminating Styrofoam and encouraging all of its vendors to use paper straws at this year’s Artscape festival. Read more about the issue here.

Wit & Wisdom Recognized by Wine Spectator: For the sixth consecutive year, Wit & Wisdom inside the Four Seasons Baltimore has received a Best of Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator magazine. “It is our great pleasure to be acknowledged by Wine Spectator, the leading wine authority, again,” lead sommelier Dawn Trabing said in a statement. “The award embodies the passion and continuous effort from my team.” The awards, which began in 1981, recognize wine lists across the globe based on their breadth, producer choice, and superior presentation. 200 International Drive. 410-576-5800

BASTILLE DAY BASHES

7/14: Peasant Dinner and Celebration at Chez Hugo

Celebrate Bastille Day with French-born chef Steve Monnier at this bistro downtown. In honor of the peasant uprising that ultimately lead to the French Revolution, the chef is whipping up a communal feast featuring grilled zucchini salad, arugula-stuffed tomatoes, whole monkfish tail, roasted chicken, potatoes with parsley sauce, and classic Baked Alaska. The all-out bash will also highlight mimes, costumes, and festive champagne toasts. 206 E. Redwood St. 443-438-3002, $65

7/14: Outdoor Festival at Petit Louis Bistro
Head to this Roland Park favorite for a French Independence Day soiree complete with food, wine, and live music by the Hot Club of Baltimore Trio. The all-inclusive menu includes eats such as couscous salad, charcuterie, grilled flank steak, shrimp and cherry tomato skewers, saffron rice, classic frites, and assorted macarons. 4800 Roland Ave., 410-366-9393. 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. $49

7/14-15: Storm The Bastille Sale at Ma Petite Shoe

Nothing says France like shoes and chocolate. At this Parisian-inspired boutique on the Avenue in Hampden, snack on single-origin chocolates and locally made caramels while perusing discounted designer shoes from as far as Israel and Portugal. The “Storm The Bastille” sale—which alludes to the storming of the Bastille fortress prison in 1789—will begin at 11 a.m. on Saturday, followed by a celebration with French music and champagne at 5 p.m. 832 W. 36th St. 410-235-3442

SHUT

Charm Kitty Cafe: It was a short-but-sweet run for Baltimore’s cleverly named cat cafe. The Clipper Mill coffee spot that allowed locals to hang out with adoptable cats will close its doors later this month. In an announcement posted to Facebook last week, owner Cam Tucker focused on the positive: “Since the opening, there have been many triumphs, the biggest being that we have found homes for more than 100 adult cats,” he wrote. “This is not the end of cat cafes in Baltimore, and we are excited to be a resource for anyone who is looking to start the next cat cafe.” Until then, residents looking to adopt a cat in need can contact the Baltimore Humane Society, which partnered with Charm Kitty on its efforts. 3300 Clipper Mill Road. 410-343-9821