Love it or hate it, the Black-Eyed Susan cocktail is as synonymous with the Preakness Stakes as jockeys and wide-brimmed hats.

Although the annual thoroughbred horse races have been postponed until the fall due to the coronavirus outbreak, (a special virtual event reliving American Pharoah’s run to the Triple Crown will stream on Facebook Live on Saturday, May 16 at 6 p.m.), fans of the track and fruity cocktails alike can still carry on the tradition at home with key ingredients.

The traditional recipe calls for a mix of vodka, bourbon, orange juice, and sour mix, but the folks at Mt. Washington Tavern—a popular spot during race weekend—put their own spin on the classic drink.

Owner Rob Frisch says they’ve perfected the Black-Eyed Susan by combining elderflower liqueur, grapefruit vodka, and ginger beer, and, in typical Baltimore fashion, serving the concoction as a cocktail or a crush.

“We serve about 450 to 500 every Preakness weekend,” Frisch says. “The Black-Eyed Susan is comforting; it’s all about the nostalgia.”

To say that Rob Frisch and Dave Lichty have spent over half of their lives at the Mt. Washington Tavern together would not be hyperbole.

Frisch joined the staff as a bartender in 1986. He was 26 at the time. One week later, a then 19-year-old Lichty was hired to work as Frisch’s barback.

“I remember the first day because I’d never worked in the restaurant business before,” says Lichty, “and just wandering around behind-the-scenes in a restaurant was different than being out in the front. I was never a barfly when I was younger—I didn’t have a fake ID like the other kids.”

From those early days on, their paths paralleled. Both transitioned to cooking then management; both married Tavern employees; both pick the Tavern Steak as their favorite menu item; both choose to hang out with one another on their days off.

“All of the sudden, the years clicked by,” Frisch says wistfully.

One could say that the men have grown up with the Tavern, which turns 40 on November 17, while Frisch and Lichty turn 59 and 53, respectively. They have spent the past 11 years as owners, after original owner Ted Bauer (who now operates Oregon Grille and The Valley Inn) sold it to them.

“Ted approached me and said, ‘I’m thinking about pulling back my work load.’ And he asked if would I be interested in buying it,” recalls Frisch. “And I said, ‘Absolutely.’ But the place was too much for me on my own, so I called Dave. I said, ‘Dave, there’s something I want to talk to you about, and when I asked him, he said, ‘Shit, yeah.’”

Chimes in Lichty, “There was no thought at all. It was 100 percent, ‘Yes.’”

On a late summer’s day, wearing baseball caps and Bermuda shorts and sitting on the scenic deck of the Tavern’s Sky Bar, Frisch and Lichty have an easy camaraderie and seem more like best friends—which they are—than business partners. They finish each other’s sentences, laugh at each other’s jokes, and consider each other family.

When Frisch became a grandfather for the first time on Thanksgiving Day last year, Lichty was hoping to be first on the scene, but the baby arrived after he had tucked in for the night. “My wife Cathy and I made it there early the next day,” he says. “People tell us that most co-owners don’t get along like we do. I know I push Rob’s buttons sometimes, but you can’t hold a grudge in this business.”

They also spend plenty of time at the bar drinking with customers, many of whom they know by name. “Let’s just say that we like to stand at the bar and imbibe cocktails with customers,” says Frisch with a grin.

They also enjoy reminiscing about the good old days when the Tavern first became a haven for sports teams, Preakness partiers, and the occasional celebrity.

“Clint Eastwood was here,” recalls Frisch. “He was filming Absolute Power, and came every night for oysters. He sat out back one Sunday night and Cathy was bartending out there with just Steven Spielberg and Eastwood. It was pouring rain so the deck was closed. Nicolas Cage was also here when he was shooting Guarding Tess and Danny DeVito and Rhea Perlman ate in The Chesapeake Room.”

There was also the time a visit from the Milwaukee Brewers caused a serious stir. “Girls were leaving their boyfriends because there were a bunch of baseball players upstairs and one guy didn’t want to hear it,” says Frisch. “[One of the players] actually went on the disabled list because when he was running after someone at the old raw bar, his wrist got caught on the handrail and he wrenched his wrist and had to go on the disabled list.” Adds Lichty laughing, “That didn’t make the newspaper.”

Sadly, some of the memories are bittersweet, including the Tavern’s devastating two-alarm fire in 2011, which left millions of dollars in damages. From the outset, there was no question that they were going to rebuild.

“The contractor was Jim Macko,” says Lichty. “He lived right up the hill. After the fire, it was just getting light out and my mother was across the bridge. We were standing there, and I had tears in my eyes. I looked at him and said, ‘Jim, can you rebuild it?’ And he said, ‘Yes.’ We shook hands and that was pretty much it.”

With their trademark humor and sense of joie de vivre, both men did what they’ve done to survive in the restaurant business—made lemons out of lemonade. “A lot of people were wishing us well and someone had the excellent idea of getting a cooler with ice, cocktails, and fried chicken,” recalls Frisch. “It was a Monday morning, so everything in the village was closed. Mustapha, who owns the creperie [Le Bistro Du Village] across the street had the keys to DK Salon in the village and we sat at DK, ate fried chicken, and poured cocktails.”

When the new Tavern reopened a year later, the duo threw a party for friends and family on the first night in the renovated space. “People were calling our GM and saying, ‘I’m friends with Rob and Dave, why weren’t we invited?’” says Frisch. Laughs Lichty: “The GM told them, ‘It was only 500 of their best friends.’”

These days the Tavern is not only back—it’s better than ever. Although the fire was heartbreaking, it also allowed the men to give the iconic spot a much-needed modern update.

As visitors come through the new side entrance of the landmark space, a burnt floor joist is now part of a sign that welcomes patrons into the building, and a valuable wooden decoy that somehow survived the blaze sits under a glass case. Both relics are a reminder of what it means to rise from the ashes.

Now that the Tavern has been given new life, Lichty and Frisch have been able to enjoy second, third, and even fourth generations of customers—and every baby who comes through the door is given a branded bib.

“This place is a like a security blanket,” says Lichty. “People come because they know that they’re going to be comfortable.”

Whether you’re a new recruit or a diehard fan, there’s no escaping the Ravens hype that washes Charm City in a wave of purple as the NFL season gets underway. Less than a week away from the home opener, the Ravens Flock is hungry for some big wins—and we’re hungry for big specials at some Baltimore’s best restaurants, bars, and tailgates. (With all eyes on Lamar Jackson, try not to get distracted by delicious wings and discounted kegs.) Grab your Ravens gear, gather your squad, and check out these game day deals you won’t want to miss.

Drinks for Days

Fish Head Cantina: Serving up drink specials including $2.50 Natty Bohs, $4 craft drafts, and $5 Crushes, Fish Head Cantina has a lot to offer Ravens fans. Swing by the stylish tiki bar for drink deals, live music—oh, and did we mention the entire game day menu is 25 percent off? Whether you’re loading up on nachos or sushi, this is a can’t miss for foodie fans. 4802 Benson Ave, 410-247-2474.

Grotto Pizza: For fans who love the Ravens and also pizza, Grotto Pizza has the best of both worlds. Grotto’s game day menu features $6 personal pizzas and chili dogs, as well as $7 loaded nachos. And don’t worry—they’ve got drinks covered, too, with $4 Coors Light big beers all day. Plus, if you’re feeling lucky, you can play the Pig Skin Pick ‘Em for a chance to win a $500 Amex gift card. 7075 Minstrel Way, Columbia, 443-583-8200.

Italian Disco: As if delicious pizza and burgers weren’t enough to entice you, Italian Disco celebrates Ravens games with $10 domestic beer pitchers and $8 pizzas or orders of wings. Do some game-day bird watching on any of this chic Harbor East hangout’s flat screens, enjoy the throwback disco vibes, and dig in. 1006 Fleet St., 410-605-0444.

Lee’s Pint & Shell: Lee’s Pint & Shell opened up to its Canton neighborhood about three years ago after a major rebranding, and it’s been packed practically every day since. Game days are no different, except you might notice a higher-than-usual number of patrons decked out in purple. For the Ravens flock, Lee’s serves up $2 Miller Lites and $4 Jack Daniels shots and cocktails, as well as $4 Ravens Bombs (you’ll have to stop for yourself to find out what’s in a Ravens Bomb—we don’t want to spoil the surprise). 2844 Hudson St., 410-327-2883.

Mt. Washington Tavern: If you’re looking for a lunch spot that rewards Ravens pride before game day, look no further than Mt. Washington Tavern’s Purple Fridays. Come for lunch specials, including the Blackjack Burger or the Black and Purple Salad, and stay for the drink deals like $2 Narragansett lager cans, $4 Old Hilltop drafts, and $6 Tito’s vodka drinks. While you’re at it, try your hand at a final scorecard prediction for a chance to win a $25 tavern gift certificate. 5700 Newbury St., 410-367-6903.

Pratt Street Ale House: Just a short walk from the stadium, Pratt Street Ale House offers Ravens fans a taste of local brews, with $5 pints from Oliver Brewing Co. The game-day fixture also highlights $5 glasses of wine and a selection of $3 beers to enjoy before, during, and after the game. Plus, satisfy your hankering for wings with 10 for $12, 20 for $23, and 30 for $34. 206 West Pratt St., 410-244-8900.

Sports Bar Scene

Donna’s Tavern: Between the $1 Naturday cans, $2 Bud Lite drafts, and $3 Pinnacle grape bombs, and free shooters after every Ravens touchdown, Donna’s Tavern in Dundalk can keep you busy on a game day budget. And don’t worry, they won’t let you go hungry—take advantage of delicious deals like an $8 crab pretzel. 6607 Pine Ave, Dundalk, 410-633-6677.

Game: Located just a stone’s throw away from M&T Bank Stadium, Game makes birdwatching easy with 25 flatscreens and six 100-inch projection screens. Traditionalists can stick to delicious wings, but go for the crab cakes if you fancy some local flavor. With $10 32-oz. drafts and Orange Crush buckets, and $20 domestic buckets, Game has plenty to offer dedicated sports fans. To show their appreciation, they’ll cover your first round after the game. 1400 Warner St., 410-385-0100.

The Greene Turtle: If you like apps, the Greene Turtle in Fells Point is the place for you, with a range of $5 and $7 appetizers on game day, as well as burger specials starting at $6. And if that’s not enough to float your boat, throw in a bucket of five Bud Lights for $13 or a pitcher for $9. Grab your Ravens gear, get your squad together, and stop by this beloved hangout to turn the Greene Turtle purple. If you’re not around Fells Point, all Greene Turtle locations will offer their own NFL game day deals. 277 South Broadway, 410-342-4222.

Looney’s Pub: With an extensive game day menu, you’ll want to head back to Looney’s Pub again and again to try the different combo specials, like the $17 dozen wings and domestic pitcher deal. If you’re just looking for food, don’t worry—get two footlong hot dogs for $10, or try the buffalo shrimp for $14. If drinks are more your speed, Looney’s has you covered with everything from $4 stadium cup drafts and $12 Orange Crush buckets to the $20 White Claw and Bud Light bucket. 2900 O’Donnell St., 410-675-9235.

Tailgate Checklist

Mother’s Grille: At some point this season, be sure to stop by the legendary Purple Patio tailgate that Mother’s Grille hosts before every Ravens home game. Just a few blocks from M&T Bank Stadium, Mother’s paints the outdoor parking lot to look like a football field—although you might not be able to see the details under a crush of purple-clad partygoers sipping $35 all-you-can-drink beers and Bloody Marys, watching the pregame on one of 65 TVs, or getting amped beneath the DJ booth. 1113 S. Charles St., 410-244-8686.

Jimmy’s Famous Seafood: If you’re a tailgate buff, you’ve got to try out Jimmy’s Famous Seafood’s self-proclaimed TailGOAT (that’s Greatest Of All Time) and decide for yourself whether it lives up to the name. At a new location just steps from the stadium, TailGOAT boasts an open bar with eight beer selections, a hand-crafted buffet, and live music to prove that the only season worth celebrating is football season. 333 West Ostend St., 410-633-4040.

Bmore Around Town: BMore Around Town stands as the pioneer of the #PurpleTailgate, organizing blowouts for home games and road trips for the most dedicated fans. This year, #PurpleTailgate patrons will enjoy an open bar with unlimited beer cans and Deep Eddy crushes, catering from All Y’all BBQ and Mother Shuckers oysters, and raffles to benefit the Kamryn Lambert Foundation. 152 West Ostend St., 443-865-5935.

OPEN

Gangster Vegan Organics: A franchise of Gangster Vegan Organics will open in Cross Street Market on August 23. The menu will include items that are organic, unprocessed, raw, soy, and gluten-free. The spot is owned by husband-wife duo, James and Taneea Yarborough. Taneea is a survivor of ovarian cancer who switched to a plant-based diet as part of her wellness regime.

FOOD NEWS

Ekiben Pop-Up at Fadensonnen: Steve Chu and his business partner Ephrem Abibe at Ekiben are launching a new Taiwanese noodle bar pop-up at Lane Harlan’s Fadensonnen in Old Goucher every Wednesday, for the next six weeks. The new project is called Ojichan, which means grandad in Japanese. Look for handmade wheat noodles with ground pork, scallions, and soy egg. The noodles are served cold to retain their bouncy texture and served with a warm broth. “Ephrem and I had a hankering for the super bouncy noodles we had in Taiwan, but couldn’t find in America, so we decided to make them,” said Chu on his Instagram page. The announcement of the pop-up led one Instagrammer to comment, “You guys are public servants.”

New Beer Garden: A beer garden is planned for the 108-year-old American Ice Building at 2100 West Franklin Street in West Baltimore. The space will include an events area and art hub under a proposed $18.7 million project, according to the Baltimore Business Journal. “It is a diamond in the rough,” Washington D.C. developer Ilay Alter recently told the BBJ. Alter has partnered with local developer Bill Struever who has rehabbed many area industrial sites including the Woodberry-Hampden area of Baltimore, where Woodberry Kitchen is now located. Alter opened a similar such space the Dacha Beer Garden on a vacant lot in D.C.’s Adams Morgan neighborhood in 2013.

Tapas Teatro: The beloved tapas spot in Station North is undergoing a renovation. A new bar area will create more space for a communal table, larger parties, and a new look.

EPICUREAN EVENTS

7/25: La Cuchara Farm Dinner with the Maryland Farmers Market Association and Hex Ferments

La Cuchara is hosting a farmer’s market dinner in conjunction with the Maryland Farmers Market Association and Hex Ferments on Sunday, from 5-8 p.m. Dinner will include a map of the Saturday and Sunday Baltimore farmers markets showing where some of the ingredients for the meal are sourced from. Hex Ferments will provide cocktail pairings and a portion of proceeds will support the Maryland Market Money program, which provides matching dollars to low-income families who use their benefit at area farmers markets.

7/25: Col Bol Pop-Up at Grind House Juice Bar

Chef Carleen Goodridge of Le Monade will host a pop up called Col Bol, which means “cold bowl.” The event will take place this Sunday at 11 a.m. at Grind House Juice Bar on Saint Paul’s Street. Carleen is honoring her Liberian heritage with dishes like eggplant stew and cassava leaf and plantain porridge.

7/29: Chez Hugo Collaborates with Sacré Sucré

Chez Hugo Bistro will collaborate with Sacré Sucré pastry studio for a six-course tasting menu with all things sweet and savory. Each kitchen will present three courses. Look for dishes such as a blackberry crisp tuile with buckwheat cream, candied beets, and preserved summer fruit and fromage blanc and corn cheesecake with cornbread crumbs, pepper jam, fermented honey, and glazed fresh corn. The cost of the tasting menu is $50. The event runs from 7-9 p.m.

Happy Birthday to You!

Area restaurants celebrate big numbers.

City Café turns 25 on Sept. 4.

The Helmand turns 30 this fall.

Mt. Washington Tavern kicks off its 40 years in business celebration this November.

OPEN

Fishnet: Summer temperatures always tend to put us in the mood for seafood, and this new destination inside Mount Vernon Marketplace has everything you need to quell your cravings. The College Park staple recently debuted its second location inside the food hall, and its hosting an official grand opening party on July 12 from 4-7 p.m. to celebrate. The menu offers locally caught fish dishes including fried salmon croquettes, tempura-battered catfish and chips, and Baja fish wraps with citrus slaw and garlic sour cream. There are also nods to chef/owner Ferhat Yalçin’s upbringing in Istanbul, where fisherman grill their catch and make it into a sandwich within minutes of pulling it from the sea. Yalçin’s versions of the delicacy—called “Balik Ekmek” in Turkish—include a Faroe Island-grilled salmon sandwich and a local catfish version topped with baby greens and tomatoes.

COMING SOON

Walker’s Tap & Table: Downtown diners (and Hippodrome theatregoers) may remember chef Chad Wells’ innovative dishes at Alewife. During his six-year stint at the now-closed beer bar, Wells became known for his wild boar sliders and pork belly mac-and- cheese fries—which were featured on Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives. He later moved on to work with the Columbia-based Victoria Restaurant Group, and now, Wells is attached to a new project in his native Howard County. He’s set to head up the kitchen at Walker’s Tap & Table, a seasonal spot slated to open this fall. The menu will feature farm-to-fork fare and scratch-made pizzas fired in the restaurant’s own brick oven. The eatery joins newer concepts including The Turn House and The Brewer’s Art Tavern in the Howard County dining scene.

NEWS

Ekiben Gives Back: We’d be remiss without giving a shout out to the food scene’s favorite steamed bun superheroes this week. Ekiben owners Steve Chu and Ephrem Abebe recently set up shop at the abandoned Old Town Mall in East Baltimore to serve free Neighborhood Bird sandwiches (Taiwanese curry fried chicken thigh topped with spicy sambal mayo, pickles, and fresh herbs) to those in need, as well as passersby. The goodwill initiative is one of many that the Korean fusion restaurant has organized to bolster its mission of giving back to the community. One recent effort has included running a pop-up with Cocina Luchadoras’ Rosalyn Vera after she was the victim of a hate crime.

Sundays Makes its Return: Two years ago, fans of Dooby’s in Mt. Vernon were delighted to learn that owner Phil Han would be opening a doughnut spinoff inside Cross Street Market in Federal Hill. Though the pop-up stall was short lived (it closed after the renovation efforts at the market began), it made its marks with chocolate-topped Berger Cookie and New York bagel-flavored doughnuts. This weekend, Sundays is making its return with a one-day pop-up at Han’s Fat Tiger bar in Broadway Market. Starting at 9 a.m. on Saturday, July 13, the team will serve Boston Cream, Coconut Espresso, and Blueberry Ginger Meringue doughnuts until sell out. Pair the fried favorites with Fat Tiger’s signature coffee drinks and egg sandwiches for a fulfilling—and filling—mid-morning meal.

EPICUREAN EVENTS

7/14: Bastille Day at Petit Louis Bistro

There’s no better place to celebrate France’s Fourth of July than this Roland Park French bistro. At Petit Louis’ annual bash, enjoy wine, cheese, live music, commemorative t-shirts, and plenty of berets and mustaches to go around. Tickets are $49 and include the special menu, as well as two drinks.

7/14: No-Fun Brunch

Don’t let the name deter you. This booze-free, plant-based brunch is designed for families to enjoy something a little more holistic on their Sunday off. Head to Vent Coffee Roasters to enjoy CBD-infused coffee and health-focused drinks from Baltimore’s own “health-tender” Amie Ward. Of course, there will also be a full-blown brunch menu to pair with the drinks. Chefs from Tom Cat’s Kitchen will prepare vegan dishes such as jackfruit-and-potato hash, Wisconsin grits with crispy onions, watermelon salad with marinated tofu, and maple plantains.

TO 7/31: Crustacean Invasion at Mt. Washington Tavern
To commemorate Maryland’s signature summer dish, this Mt. Washington haunt has created an entire crab-inspired menu running through July. The à la carte list includes a crab and avocado stack, a crabmeat grilled cheese, classic Chicken Chesapeake, crab imperial, and a crab and parmesan-crusted rockfish filet. Grab a drink and head up to the top-level bar to get the full summer experience.

OPEN

Fornicolli’s: There’s a new spot to grab late-night slices after last call on weekends in Federal Hill. The team behind Das Bier Haus on Light Street has transformed the space next door into a traditional Italian eatery and carry-out. Helmed by chef Mark Dunaway—formerly of now-closed Regi’s American Bistro up the street—the menu features staples like pizza, a classic Caesar salad, chicken parmesan, baked ziti, and an Italian cold cut sub, as well as snacks like Buffalo cauliflower and fried cheese steak eggrolls. The shop is open for dinner service weekly and extends its hours until 2 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. 1538 Light St., 443-439-5137

Checkerspot Brewing: Husband-and-wife brewers Rob and Judy Neff (who has her Ph.D in microbiology), and their business partner Steve Marsh—who founded the cask program at Heavy Seas Beer a decade ago—will finally open their South Baltimore taproom to the public on Saturday, June 30 at 12 p.m. Complete with driftwood, hanging plants, and old farm pulleys, the brewery aims to bring the outside in. “We really wanted to celebrate where beer ingredients come from,” Neff says. “We’re trying to bring nature and the city together all in one place.” Checkerspot’s beers make use of ingredients from local farms like Baugher’s in Reisterstown. There’s also a cask-conditioned Keeper’s Stout, which is fortified with crab shells from J.M. Clayton Seafood Company. Other drafts to look out for throughout opening weekend include the Juniperus juniper IPA, Southside pale ale, and Saison de Fleur. 1399 S. Sharp St.

18-8 Sushi: On the heels of The Local Fry’s grand opening, The Rotunda in Hampden also welcomed this new sushi spot last week. Diversifying the dining options in the mixed-use development, 18-8 offers bento boxes, various protein entrees, and a lengthy list of colorful rolls ranging from a classic California to a “Red Diamond” with crab, salmon, tuna, and avocado in a pink soy wrapper with mango sauce. 727 W. 40th St, Ste. 138. 410-889-1888

Button: Scott Plank’s luxe pool bar opened to the public earlier this summer, and now, the team is unveiling the pool’s accompanying restaurant. Opening on July 2, the neighborhood cafe and bar on the waterfront will feature a menu from chef Allysa Storms with salads and grain bowls, wood-fired pizzas, burgers, sandwiches, and heartier entrees like Cajun Chesapeake rockfish. The laid-back spot highlights harborside seating, as well as an elevated dining deck overlooking the marina at Lighthouse Point. 2760 Lighthouse Point, 410-675-8888

The Charmery: The new Union Collective makerspace in Medfield has been gradually introduced to the public over the past few weeks. Earth Treks’ bouldering gym opened in early June and Union’s taproom debuted soon after. Now, The Charmery is ready to unveil its third retail location in the space—which also houses an expanded production kitchen that will make ice cream for all three of the shop’s locations. Officially opening on Monday, July 2, the new space is as whimsical as The Charmery’s ice cream flavors (think egg custard and the cereal-infused “Saturday Morning Cartoons”), boasting a coin-activated ice cream cone ride, giant Rube Goldberg crank-operated machine, and ice cream truck seating booth—all created by local artists and designers. 1700 W. 41st St.

The Pizza Trust: Belvedere Square Market’s newest pizza purveyor opened to rave reviews from neighborhood locals last week. The stall owned by James Clark—who also operates Clark Burger inside the Senator Theatre up the street—offers wings, fries, salads, and quick-fired pizzas in signature varieties like the “Double Double” (red sauce, double cheese and pepperoni), “Dirty Bird” (white sauce, herbed chicken, bacon bits, and bleu cheese), and the “Funcle,” topped with truffled white sauce, wild mushrooms, caramelized shallots, and shaved parmesan. 529 E. Belvedere Ave., 443-961-8111

COMING SOON

Nori: Hampden locals might have noticed a new sign towering over the former Corner Charcuterie Bar while strolling on The Avenue recently. The space will soon debut as Nori Sushi Bar, a spinoff from the former owners of Ruby 8 Noodles and Sushi at McHenry Row in Locust Point. According to reports by Baltimore Fishbowl, the spot is aiming for a grand opening next month, complete with sushi, rice dishes, noodles, and traditional Korean rice bowls. 850 W. 36th St.

Patterson Public House: The Patterson Park community was at a loss when longtime neighborhood spot BistroRx closed its doors in the spring. But now, locals Tanya Gralto and Scott Lanphear are reopening the space as Patterson Public House—a tavern serving bar classics and locally sourced seasonal fare. Though the spot isn’t expected to debut until mid-July, the team is hosting a pop-up at R. House in Remington this week to give locals a sneak peek of what’s to come. Swing by the stall from now until July 8 to taste burgers, fries, and classic half-smokes from the restaurant’s new chefs Scott Bacon—formerly of the Brewer’s Art—and Cai Lindeman, who cut his chops at The Dabney in Washington, D.C. 301 W. 29th St.

NEWS

Gather Baltimore: This local organization that distributes its signature blue bags of surplus produce to city residents in need has officially moved from its original location on Sisson Street in Remington to 4800 Harford Road—which is also the site of Hamilton-Lauraville’s Tuesday-evening farmers’ market. Gather Baltimore founder Arthur Morgan encourages locals to follow the organization’s Facebook page for information about when to retrieve the bags, which contain everything from asparagus and potatoes to peppers and pineapple this summer. 4800 Harford Rd.

Ekiben Fried Chicken Gets Nod from Southern Living: The national praise keeps on coming for Ekiben in Fells Point, whose signature steamed buns and rice bowls have recently been lauded by the likes of The Food Network and Eater. The acclaim continued earlier this week when the Korean-fusion shop was named on Southern Living’s list of the best fried chicken in every state. “If Southern Living says we have the best fried chicken in Maryland, we know we’ve got something special,” the owners posted to Instagram. “Thanks for the love y’all.” 1622 Eastern Ave., 410-558-1914

EPICUREAN EVENTS

7/1: Crustacean Invasion at Mt. Washington Tavern
Mt. Washington’s neighborhood haunt is welcoming the summer in style by introducing a special menu of crab-inspired dishes that will run throughout the month of July. Be on the lookout for crab puffs, soft shell crab sandwiches, crab quiche, jumbo lump crab and parmesan rockfish filet, and a classic chicken Chesapeake. The menu will also be offered at the restaurant’s top-floor Skybar. 5700 Newbury St., 410-367-6903.

7/5: Tiki Thursdays at The Bluebird Cocktail Room
On Thursday evenings throughout the summer, this literary-themed cocktail bar in Hampden will be completely transformed into an island oasis. In addition, Bluebird’s regular offerings—its new summer menu features everything from a frozen absinthe frappe to a Midori sour over cotton candy—patrons can expect a special menu of tiki drinks, island music, and possibly a few Hawaiian shirts thrown in in for good measure. 3600 Hickory Ave., 667-303-3263

7/6: Sardegna Wine Dinner at Cinghiale
The team at this Northern Italian outpost in Harbor East is celebrating the island of Sardegna with a four-course wine dinner next week. Menu highlights will include grilled marinated mussels with capers and fennel, baked eggplant with ricotta and tomato, and traditional ricotta cake with honey pignoli gelato. Each course will be accompanied by a different pour inspired by the evening’s theme. 822 Lancaster St., 410-547-8282. 7 p.m. $89

So much for the first day of spring. This week might officially mark the start of the warmer season, but Winter Storm Toby has Baltimoreans stocking up on groceries and breaking out the folding chairs to reserve their parking spots. The nor’easter is expected to bring high winds, and dump nearly eight inches of snow on Charm City and the surrounding areas through Wednesday, March 21.

Although schools and offices might be closed, local bars and restaurants will be open for business—offering snow day deals to keep you feeling cozy throughout the storm. So bundle up tight, throw on a pair of boots, and head to these area watering holes to fully embrace the snowy weather. 

101 Deli Bar: This Federal Hill hangout, along with its neighboring sister-spots Banditos and Wayward Smokehouse, will all be offering all-day happy hour deals to celebrate the snow day. At 101, enjoy $2 snacks like crostinis and fried mozzarella, as well as discounted draft beers, cocktails, and wines. 1118 S. Charles St., 443-682-9480.

Blue Pit BBQ & Whiskey Bar: Bartender Doug Atwell is serving up a special spiked cocoa to help neighbors stay warm at this Hampden hangout. Snag a seat at the bar to enjoy the Cross Country #2, which combines cocoa with Mellow Corn whiskey, Fernet-Branca amaro, and Angostura rum cream. 1601 Union Ave., 443-948-5590

The Brewer’s Art: Retreat from the freezing temperatures at this Mt. Vernon gem, which will be opening for dinner service at 4 p.m. Specifically for the storm, the microbrewery is putting its barrel-aged Charm City Cherry on draft. Sample the brew while enjoying hearty dishes like chili-glazed pork belly and Roseda steak frites from chef Andrew Weinzirl. 1106 N. Charles St., 410-547-6925

Das Bier Haus: In Federal Hill, this German beer hall is giving the term “snow boots” an entirely new meaning. Grab a group of friends and down a three-liter boot of beer while digging into eats like giant pretzels and poutine. The bar is opening early at 11 a.m., and offering a special list of snow specials all day long. 1542 Light St., 443-708-8854

The Food Market: In honor of Winter Storm Toby, this Hampden dining destination is offering a $20 dinner special on steak frites with three-onion butter, truffle parmesan fries, and charred asparagus,. Plus, The Food Market’s daily happy hour specials begin at 5 p.m. 1017 W. 36th St., 410-366-0606. 

Joe Squared: This Station North hangout famous for its live music and square-shaped pizzas will be throwing a special “O’ Spring Where Art Thou?” pizza party on March 20 and 21. All diners who brave the cold to visit the eatery will receive a free cheese pizza with the purchase of any other pie. There will also be plenty of drink options to wash down the eats, as Joe Squared boasts a lengthy draft list and one of the largest rum collections around. 33 W. North Ave., 410-545-0444

Lee’s Pint & Shell: Head to this Canton corner spot to welcome the storm in style with $2 Miller Lites and $5 Smirnoff bombs starting at 12 p.m., and running throughout the day and night. 2844 Hudson St., 410-327-2883

Lobo: Nothing says cozy like the toasted sandwiches and hearty soups at this corner spot in Fells Point, which will be opening early at 2 p.m. on Wednesday. Head to the bar to indulge in steamy bowls of pho, as well as happy hour specials on oysters, beer, cocktails, wine, and snacks from 2-7 p.m. 1900 Aliceanna St., 410-327-0303.

Luigi’s Italian Deli: Stay in your pajamas and head to this Hampden favorite to enjoy all-day breakfast until 4 p.m. Plus, as a one-day-only snow special, Luigi’s is offering a free bag of Utz chips with the purchase of any sandwich. 846 W. 36th St., 43-438-4195

Mt. Washington Tavern: Watch the flakes fall from this neighborhood gathering spot, which will be offering snow day specials including $2 Narragansett cans and $4 rail pints. The menu also lists plenty of cold-weather snacks including bowls of three-beef chili and Maryland crab soup. 5700 Newbury St., 410-367-6903

Parts & Labor: Grab a group of friends and head to this Remington spot to play a game of life-sized Jenga, and indulge in all-day happy hour deals. 2600 N. Howard St., 443-873-8887

The Point in Fells: Bundle up tight and walk Fells Point’s cobblestone streets to land at this community pub. The Point will be hosting an all-day snow day happy hour featuring $4 wines and drafts, $5 calls and bombs, and $6 Crushes. 1738 Thames St., 410-327-7264

The Rowhouse Grille: Brave the slushy sidewalks and make your way over to this Federal Hill neighborhood haunt to celebrate the snow day accordingly with $4 drafts and $8 burgers all day long. 1400 Light St., 443-438-7289

French fries might be the most popular complement to a hearty burger or sandwich, but there’s something to be said for a quality order of crispy kettle chips. (Though we do also love a good bag of Utz from time to time.) Some of the area’s most addictive sliced spuds can be found at Todd Conner’s in Fells Point, where longtime cook Eric Mason fries up hundreds per day.

“Surprisingly, we get a lot of people who ask for chips as a side as opposed to French fries,” says Mason, who has been manning the kitchen for the past decade. “Actually, we have quite a few regular customers who come in to order them with their lunch and then take some with them to go. And we even have some who come in and say they just want chips.”

The process, says Mason, involves thinly slicing the crisps and deep-frying them in 350-degree oil. He cooks them until they’re golden brown, drains the excess grease, and then coats both sides in a powdered ranch seasoning to give them their signature flavor.

“People really like that we serve them warm,” he says. “But other than that, there’s really no secret ingredient. We just like to put a little extra love into them, of course.”

Aside from Todd Conner’s, there are plenty of other pubs whose house-made chips are sure to satisfy snack cravings. Here are our picks:

Abbey Burger Bistro: Though it seems like the side options are endless (think waffle fries, fried pickles, sweet potato fries, and tots), you can’t go wrong pairing one of Abbey’s massive burgers with a side of golden-brown crisps. If the salty snacks leave you with a sweet tooth craving, order one of the famed Berger Cookie shakes for dessert. Multiple locations including 1041 Marshall St., 443-453-9698

Delia Foley’s: The baskets lined with green-and-white checkered paper at this Irish staple in South Baltimore come overflowing with house-cooked kettle chips. The crisps are fried until golden brown and tossed in a signature Texas dry rub seasoning (cayenne, chili powder, onion, garlic, and salt), and served alongside all of the pub’s sandwiches, wraps, and grilled cheeses. 1439 S. Charles St., 443-682-9141.

Mt. Washington Tavern: You can’t go wrong with a crab cake or shrimp salad sandwich paired with an order of fried lattice chips at this Mt. Washington haunt, which has become a go-to for dinners with friends and cocktails in the upstairs Skybar. 5700 Newbury St., 410-367-6903

Nick’s Fish House: There’s nothing quite like a crab cake, shrimp salad, or pit beef sandwich on the patio at this waterfront dining destination in South Baltimore. But to make the meal even better, Nick’s serves all of its sandwiches with a side of crispy, house-made chips. Throw on your sunglasses and treat yourself to the perfect pairing—and be sure to order an Orange Crush for good measure.

The Velvet Chocolatier: Okay, okay. Chocolate-covered potato chips might not sound like the most conventional combo. But hear us out: The unique confections made at Ruthie Carliner’s Pikesville shop are a perfect combination of salty and sweet. A 6-oz. box of dark chocolate-dipped waffle potato chips goes for $25 and can be purchased online.

RegionAle: This Canton sandwich spot—which also operates its flagship in Ellicott City—tosses its house-fried crisps with signature salt and pepper, salt and vinegar, and Old Bay seasonings. They also fry up sweet potato chips, if that’s your preference. Stop in today to pair your hearty sandwich—think: everything from a toasty Cubano to Buffalo cauliflower on a roll—with a $1 order of chips in honor of National Potato Chip Day.

Bluegrass Tavern

Federal Hill
Far from
the chugging frat boys of Cross Street, just two blocks from the western
terminus of Fort Avenue, sits Bluegrass, a warm and welcoming piece of
Appalachia plunked down in Federal Hill. Decorated like an upscale
hunting lodge, Bluegrass stays on theme with a vast selection of
bourbons, ryes, and whiskeys and a southern-inflected menu. (Try the
cornbread, served in a cast-iron skillet with molasses butter.) On a
recent evening, singles and families, young and old alike, could be
found at the 12-seat bar, high-top tables, and sidewalk seats. And the
staff seemed to know them all. The cocktail menu changes seasonally, and
we happily imbibed the new Fall Shandy with Templeton Rye, Carpano
Antica Sweet Vermouth, spiced brown-sugar simple syrup, and brown ale,
reveling in its autumnal richness. 1500 South Hanover St., 410-244-5101,
bluegrasstavern.com

Bond Street Social

Fells Point
It
should be no surprise that the owners of Bond Street Social, which
opened in October 2011, include investors in Mad River Bar & Grille,
just across the harbor. While Bond Street is more upscale, the bars
share a similar meat-market vibe. There is no mistaking why patrons
flock here—guys still dressed in their investment-banking suits and
girls all gussied up in barely-there dresses. But there are certainly
other reasons to enjoy the chic spot. The interior was thoughtfully
remodeled and the décor reminds us of an urban ski chalet: indoor
fireplaces, dark red walls, and log-cabin accents. The menu is filled
with contemporary concepts, like shared plates and drinks. (Cocktail
pitchers are a whopping 80 ounces.) We’re intrigued by a liquid-nitrogen
martini, which arrives smoking, and we’re warned not to drink it for
two minutes to avoid cold burns from the -320-degree-liquid. Sure, it’s
contrived, but the peach-flavored cocktail is delicious. While the house
music pulses, we realize it would be easy to judge this place, but it’s
way more fun to play along. 901 S. Bond Street, 443-449-6234, bondstreetsocial.com

DogWatch Tavern

Fells Point
Drink
at DogWatch Tavern 30 straight days and they’ll put your name on the
back of a bar stool. We start our streak after another miraculous O’s
victory on a Tuesday night in September. The place is filled with fans,
many drawn, no doubt, by the $5 Boh-and-brat special. With leather
couches more comfortable than what we have at home facing a bank of TVs
bigger than ours, it’s a fantastic place to watch a game. Or play one.
From a host of the board variety (we could spend all day playing Trivial
Pursuit while sipping $2 Natty Boh drafts) to skee ball, DogWatch is
the perfect bar for those who like a little competition with their
drink. After polishing off nachos with chicken chili, we plop down on
one of the couches and decide we’ll never leave. They politely bounce us
at closing time, but we’ll be back. Twenty-nine more visits to go. 709
S. Broadway, 410-276-6030, dogwatchtavern.com

The Harp

Nottingham
No
one at The Harp—or anywhere else on Earth—is having more fun this
Friday night than the six fiftysomethings sitting around the tall table
in the back corner of the massive bar room. The place is packed with
drinkers of all ages, none of whom are downing car bombs with as much
enthusiasm as this bunch. While people who were born in the ’80s drink
draft beer and watch the O’s, the golden group is partying with purpose
sufficient enough to make the Irish, who inspired the theme here, proud.
They’re not fooling with plates of meaty wings, fat waffle fries, or
sensational crab fritters. That would only distract from the libation.
They don’t care that they’re in a suburban strip mall, or that the
blaring band makes conversation difficult. They know a great bar is
about service, surroundings, and soul, all of which The Harp has in
plentiful supply. 8706 Belair Road, 410-529-4277, theharprestaurant.com

Hersh’s Pizza & Drinks

Riverside
This
new addition to the South Baltimore landscape—which opened just over a
year ago—is known primarily for its wood-fired pizzas. But it’s also
evident that Hersh’s quickly has become a quintessential neighborhood
bar. On this warm fall night, young families and groups of friends
gather at the eatery’s picnic-style tables outside while, inside, they
cozy up to the rectangular bar—with its smoky gray walls, mirrored
background, and a sign that reads “Pizza for President.” Another nominee
should be head bartender Jamaal Green (formerly of Charleston), who is
whipping up drinks like a scientist in a lab—a muddling station here, a
chopping area there. In between his lightning-speed work, he greets us
with a friendly smile and tosses down two napkins, “What can I get you?”
We tell him about our weakness for ginger beer and he expertly crafts
the complex, spicy-sweet Eva Peron, one of many creative cocktails on
the menu. But, don’t ignore the beer selection: On tap tonight are gems
from Union, 21st Amendment, Dogfish Head, and Ommegang. We soak it all
up with a specialty pizza and, as we look around, are envious of most of
the patrons, lucky enough to live just around the corner. 1843 Light
Street, 443-438-4948, hershspizza.com

Hudson Street Stackhouse

Canton
Camouflaged
in the neighborhood’s brick uniform, you might mistake Hudson Street
Stackhouse for just another Canton row home. But, one step inside, and
you realize this place is special. The huge Natty Boh mural painted on
the wall signifies that beer is taken seriously. Indeed, there are
nearly 40 brews on tap, with a focus on Belgian varieties. We order a
Chimay Tripel and it’s served to us in a proper goblet. The Stackhouse
could be described as a sports bar—most patrons are clad in football
jerseys and usually it’s the go-to destination for Baltimore-based
Capitals fans. (Alas, the NHL strike has prevented such excitement this
year.) However, that hasn’t stopped locals from piling in, for the
knowledgeable bartenders, cheap food specials, and those rare,
high-proof beers. 2626 Hudson Street, 410-342-0592, hudsonstreetstackhouse.com

Kooper’s North

Lutherville-Timonium
The
original Kooper’s Tavern in Fells Point found a winning combination
with its appetizing pub grub, robust beer selection, inviting waterfront
location, and friendly barkeeps. Could it recreate the magic in the
’burbs? The answer is yes. Though Kooper’s North isn’t a carbon copy of
the original—the décor is more modern and the location is between a dry
cleaners and a picture framers in a Mays Chapel shopping center—it’s
still got enough of the original’s easygoing charm. The bartenders are
amiable and happy to chat when things are slow. The flat-screens are
most often tuned to sports. And the daily food specials popularized by
the original Kooper’s (fajitas on Mondays, burgers on Tuesdays, etc.)
remain intact. Try to make time for Belgian Thursdays, when the bar’s
many Belgian beers are discounted and the kitchen serves moules frites
(mussels and fries), $9, three different ways. 12240 Tullamore Road,
410-853-7324, koopersnorth.com

Leinenkugel’s Beer Garden

Downtown
Unlike
most downtown bars, Leinenkugel’s feels open and airy. The
glass-and-metal structure resembles a greenhouse, and, on nice days, the
roof retracts and doors open onto the beer garden, merging the indoor
and outdoor spaces. Outside, you’ll find groups huddled around
picnic-style tables or lounging in Adirondack chairs (with built-in cup
holders) by the fireplace. Its location adjacent to the Power Plant
Live! complex packs a lively crowd on weekend nights and before shows.
The bar boasts more drink options than its neighbors—more than 30 drafts
(priced by the pint, liter, and pitcher) include a respectable mix of
domestic craft brews and the bottle list has some import options. Heavy
on Leinenkugel’s own beers, of course, the selection also includes
regional favorites alongside well-known national breweries. In true
German biergarten style, plenty of communal seating provides the
opportunity to meet new people over a pint. Don’t miss the tables
installed with pour-your-own taps, because, let’s face it: No one likes
waiting for the next beer. 34 Market Place, 443-208-3316, leiniebeergarden.com

Liam Flynn’s Ale House

Station North
Some
“Irish” bars come on too strong. You feel like the owners would punch
you in the face with a shamrock if they could, so desperate are they to
impress you with their “Irishness.” But not Liam Flynn’s Ale House, and,
paradoxically, it’s all the more convincing for it. The 17-month-old
Gaelic-themed watering hole, with soft yellow walls and the eponymous
Flynn almost always behind the bar, specializes in British Isles ales,
whiskeys, and ciders, but also saves two taps out of its 15 for locally
brewed, cask-conditioned ales. It hosts live Irish music every
Wednesday, but you can find Beyoncé on the jukebox. It is a base for
fans of Glasgow Celtic and London’s Fulham football clubs, but will also
show the O’s game should patrons request it. In short, it does what any
actual Irish pub does and just focuses on being a good bar. Mission
accomplished. 22 W. North Avenue, 443-956-1702, pintsizepub.com

Rye

Fells Point
Fells
Point has enough suds-and-spuds bars to satisfy the college kids, the
happy-hour crowds, and the weekend warriors watching the games, but
where do you go if you want a grown-up night out? Until recently, the
options were few. But rejoice! There is now Rye. With its dark woods,
Edison light-bulb fixtures, and handsome (but sadly non-working) stone
fireplace, Rye is a perfect venue for a first date, anniversary
celebration, or other intimate occasion. An honest-to-God cocktail bar
(it doesn’t even have any taps, just a well-edited selection of bottled
beers), the bartenders really know their stuff. When we dithered about
what to order, the barkeep whipped up a refreshing, beautifully blended
gin fizz in a jiff. It’s easy to dither over a menu where cocktails from
the Gin-Gin Mule (Bluecoast American gin, ginger syrup, fresh lime,
mint, ginger ale) to the Freestone (Old Overholt rye whiskey, peach
liqueur, orange peel, and plum bitters on the rocks), all sound
delicious. Also, the small but sophisticated menu of small bites,
flatbreads, and sandwiches will keep us coming back. 807 S. Broadway,
443-438-3296, ryebaltimore.com

Silo.5% Wine Bar

Locust Point
Even
if you were expecting Silo.5%—located in the ritzy Silo Point
building—to be ultra-cool, a step inside confirms that you still might
not be wearing enough black to truly belong. The soaring ceilings,
phosphorescent under-bar lighting, techno-ambient soundtrack, and
hard-edged furniture underscore the cold, quasi-industrial nature of the
space. Thankfully, there’s warmth to be found in the accommodating
demeanor of the servers. Want your Key-lime martini without the
requisite splash of cream? No problem. Worried about the caffeine in
your espresso martini? They can make that with decaf coffee and go easy
on the espresso vodka. The ambitious menu includes more than 30 wines by
the glass, 200 by the bottle, an extensive selection of draft and
bottled beers, and a cocktail list reflective of all the current trends.
Food choices range from something as Spartan as cheese and crostini to
salads, pizzas, and entrees like Kobe culotte steak. Silo.5% seems ideal
for groups of four to six, all clad in your favorite black outfit, of
course. 1200 Steuart Street, 443-438-4044, silo.5winebar.com

Mt. Washington Tavern

Mt. Washington
Just
over a year ago, the venerable Mt. Washington Tavern suffered a
two-alarm fire and several million dollars in damages. But, somewhat
miraculously, the neighborhood staple is up and running again after just
12 months. The new incarnation has a much more open and fluid feel,
which is evident upon entrance—gone is the claustrophobic, wooden bar
room. Instead, there’s an airy, rustic space with stone accents and barn
siding. The garden room in the back now feels cozy—with a raw bar,
fireplace, and communal table for dining. Venturing upstairs, you’ll
find the Pimlico Room, a dining space that’s a virtual monument to the
race track. In the back, of course, is the ever popular “sky bar,” now
open year-round (with heating and air-conditioning, much to our
delight). This space feels more organic, with accordion doors that swing
open to the balcony. Fittingly, the reopening party is on
Thanksgiving Eve, a time when patrons—no matter their college graduation
year—have always returned to the tavern. 5700 Newbury Street,
410-367-6903, mtwashingtontavern.com