NEWS

Water for Chocolate: Last week, chef Sean Guy unveiled the newly renovated and expanded version of his beloved brunch spot in Upper Fells Point. After two months of upgrades, the space now features a warmer feel with additional seating, wooden accents, modern backsplashes, and interior greenery. “We want to provide a better dining experience that’s on par with the food that we serve,” Guy said in a video announcing the changes back in May. Though the interior has gotten a fresh look, diners can still count on Guy’s tried-and-true dishes such as barbecue shrimp and grits, raisin bread French toast, and stuffed breakfast burritos.

Azumi: This Japanese steakhouse in Harbor East is taking teppanyaki to a whole other level. Come October, the Atlas restaurant will debut a brand new room for chefs to prepare meals in front of guests at two scheduled seatings per night. Equipped with six tables that can accommodate 36 diners, the room will feature a special menu with options such as king crab, lobster, scallops, Miyazaki wagyu, and kobe beef. Along with the addition to the space, Azumi has also brought on chef Anthony Micari as its director of Asian cuisine. Micari—who previously headed up the kitchen at Makoto in Miami—will work alongside executive chef Andy Gaynor at Azumi, while also helping to develop a future Atlas concept. Stay tuned for more details.

Doug Atwell Announces New Bar in Fells Point: We’ve been following Doug Atwell’s career since his days behind the bar at Rye (back when it was at its old location on South Broadway). Since then, the veteran bartender has gone on to head up the celebrated programs at Blue Pit BBQ and Dylan’s Oyster Cellar. Now, he’s getting ready to open a spot of his own. The Baltimore Business Journal reported earlier this week that Atwell is in the process of converting the former home of Santa Clara Bar & Restaurant in Fells Point into a new cocktail bar with a classic vibe. The spot will highlight killer Manhattans and Old Fashioneds, as well as interior touches like tin ceilings and a jukebox.

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With Love Company: The Parkville dining scene recently welcomed this healthful hangout on Harford Road—whose mission is summarized in a hand-painted wall mural that reads: “Everything begins and ends with love.” The eatery incorporates its plant-based and gluten-conscious philosophies into dishes such as lentil burgers, raw veggie lasagna, and sweet potato salads. To complement all of the eats, the menu also lists holistic juices and smoothies in varieties like pineapple-mango and peach-banana.

Pure Raw Juice: Speaking of juice, this local detox destination recently debuted its newest location at The Rotunda in Hampden. The new spot adds to the health-conscious community in the mixed-use development, neighboring other tenants like MOM’s Organic Market, Brick Bodies, and Corepower Yoga. For those in need of a post-workout pick-me-up, Pure Raw offers its signature smoothies, juice blends, and açai bowls like the “Electric Pink” filled with dragon fruit and granola.

Chilango’s Tequila Bar & Grill: Earlier this summer, we told you about this new Mexican destination taking over the former home of Modern Cook Shop in Fells Point. Now, owner Carlos Cruz has officially unveiled the restaurant—which is a sister spot to his Highlandtown haunt Carlos O’Charlies. Stop by to sample the strong margaritas paired with Cruz’s house recipes ranging from baked tilapia with tequila and garlic to a grilled flatiron steak in a spicy tomato chili sauce. The space itself has been completely transformed with classic cantina touches like wooden paneling and decorative sombreros.

COMING SOON

The Original Pancake House: Soon, Canton locals will be able to feast on flapjacks and fluffy omelets at this international breakfast favorite. Situated next to Outback Steakhouse in the Canton Can Company, the diner will mark the chain’s first Baltimore location. Be on the lookout for signature items including a lemon Dutch Baby, cherry crepes made with sweet Danish wine, and an apple pancake smothered in cinnamon sugar,

EPICUREAN EVENTS

8/13: Entré Amigos
Earlier this week, mayor Bernard C. “Jack” Young signed an executive order directing city agencies to protect immigrants. Local restaurants Bar Vasquez, Alma Cocina Latina, and Puerto 511 are also coming together to support the cause by launching this new dinner series that will benefit Families Belong Together—an organization that works to permanently end family separation and detention. “Baltimore welcomes diverse and creative entrepreneurs,” says Bar Vasquez co-owner Tony Foreman, who will host the series at the restaurant. “We all serve the many good people of this city and are proud to do it.”

For the next three Tuesday nights, the teams from Alma Cocina Latina (August 13), Puerto 511 (August 20), and Clavel (August 27) will head to the Argentinian restaurant to prepare passed appetizers, welcome cocktails, small dishes, a meat course, and a collaborative dessert with Bar Vasquez chef Marion Caño Catalan. The menus will collectively reflect all of the restaurants’ distinct regions and styles. Highlights from the first meal next week will include risotto-style arroz con pollo and mango flan.

8/12-18: Stone’s Throw Hash Pop-Up at R. House
This sweet potato hash concept, which prides itself on sourcing ingredients from purveyors just a stone’s throw away, is setting up shop at the R. House’s rotating pop-up stall next week. Founder Ben James created Stone’s Throw eight years ago, when he discovered that he was allergic to wheat. Gluten and paleo-friendly bowls to to try include the “Bay Be Blue Crab” (Chesapeake blue crab, free range eggs, pickled carrots, and Old Bay), “Wakey Wakey Apple Bacy” (shredded apples, seasonal greens, and pastured bacon) and the vegan “Buddha Hash” with crispy tofu and organic beets.

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EarthShake: Locust Point locals will be happy to hear that this fuel-up spot has officially made its return to the neighborhood. The juice bar, which originated on Fort Avenue in 2016, relocated to Fells Point last year. But earlier this week, the owners opened a second location back where it all began. The new shop features all of the signature açai and pitaya (dragonfruit) bowls, cold-brew coffees, smoothies, and cold-pressed juices that regulars remember from the original EarthShake. And, in keeping with the wellness vibe, it also offers CBD gummies, protein balls, and Fire Cider shots with habanero pepper and apple cider vinegar. 1442 E. Fort Ave. 410-276-0777

Aveley Farms Coffee: In recent years, the dining scene has been lucky to welcome java joints that focus on educating consumers about the process of how coffee ultimately ends up in our mugs. Now joining the likes of Vent Coffee Roasters and Sophomore Coffee is Aveley Farms—a new cafe and roastery that officially opens in Harbor East on May 18. The project is the brainchild of Towson native Corey Voelkel, who was inspired to open the shop after spending some time in San Diego. “I want to teach consumers about the knowledge shared between roasters, importers, and baristas,” Voelkel said last fall. “That’s something the West Coast does really well.” Inside the 900-square-foot space—which features warehouse windows overlooking the neighborhood skyline—locals will be able to enjoy global grinds, unique Aveley Farms blends, collaborative brews with other local roasters, and pastries sourced from area wholesalers. 1400 Aliceanna St. 443-465-8057

Ramen Utsuke: The retail-and-residential skyscraper at 414 Light Street debuted its first eatery earlier this week. Ramen Utsuke, a sister-spot of Kippo Ramen in Fells Point, has officially opened in the downtown building, serving steamy bowls of drinkable broth topped with add-ins like sprouts, soft-boiled eggs, and seaweed. In addition to the noodles, the restaurant, whose name translates to “ramen crazy,” will also serve dishes such as sushi, avocado salad, and pork gyoza. “There are some people who are against ramen stores offering any other dishes,” owner Shigehiko Okiebisu told us last year. “I wanted to do something a little different and crazy that other people wouldn’t do.” Featuring a contemporary design, the 80-seat spot boasts a large open kitchen, outdoor patio, a mix of booths and communal tables, and glowing lanterns hung overhead. Ramen Utsuke will be joined by two new vegan concepts setting up shop inside the building this summer. 414 Light St. 443-563-2977

COMING SOON

Stone’s Throw Hash: As its name signifies, this new pop-up highlights filling sweet potato hashes that are sourced from purveyors just a stone’s throw away. The concept was inspired eight years ago, when founder Ben James discovered that he was allergic to wheat. He started experimenting with different gluten-free and paleo-friendly recipes, and recently began booking local pop-ups and catering gigs. A food truck is expected to hit the streets in the fall, but until then, Stone’s Throw will be popping up at breweries and farmers’ markets around town. Specifically, you can catch James at Full Tilt Brewing in Govans on Friday, May 24 and Sunday, May 26. Bowls to look out for include the “Bay Be Blue Crab” (Chesapeake blue crab, free range eggs, pickled carrots, and Old Bay), “Wakey Wakey Apple Bacy” (shredded apples, seasonal greens, and pastured bacon) and the vegan “Buddha Hash” with crispy tofu and organic beets.

CH-CH CHANGES

Ashley’s Sweet Beginnings: In conjunction with its recent menu refresh, this cafe and sweets spot inside The Shops at Kenilworth is transitioning into new digs this summer. Ashley’s is moving to the first floor next to Kenilworth mainstay Italian Gardens—a space which is also neighbored by new health-food spot Lyfe Cafe. Aside from her signature soups and sandwiches, owner and pastry chef Ashley Krauk has become known for creating colorful custom cakes, macarons, brownies, and hand pies. Updated offerings now include Silver Spring-based Moorenko’s ice cream and Instagrammable mason jar milkshakes. 816 Kenilworth Drive. 410-337-6991

EPICUREAN EVENTS

5/18: Baltimore Mac and Cheese Festival
Head to Power Plant Live for this massive celebration of one of the most comforting dishes out there. Spend the day strolling around the entertainment district to sample bourbon and whiskey, dance to live music, and revert back to your childhood self with mac and cheese varieties from more than 30 different vendors and food trucks. Attendees will be able to try everything from classic baked macaroni to over-the-top dishes inspired by the classic comfort food and vote for their favorite submissions. 34 Market Pl. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. $20-55

5/24: Big Softy CREAM Pop-Up at Union Collective
Mark your calendar for the return of Big Softy’s CREAM (Crabs Rule Everything Around Me) pop-up at Union Collective next weekend. The recurring event—whose name is a culinary play on the classic Wu-Tang Clan anthem—is spearheaded by Big Softy founder Craig Falk, who is also the brains behind The Lunchbox Lady. Stop by to indulge in Falk’s signature soft shells, crabby collaborations by Well Crafted Pizza, Union beers, and, of course, Wu-Tang-inspired ice cream flavors from The Charmery. DJ Impulse will be spinning throughout the party from 6-9 p.m. 1700 W. 41st St.