For many city dwellers, stopping by a neighborhood farmers’ market has become a part of the weekend routine. But what happens when you run out of farm-fresh vegetables and herbs in the middle of the week?

Merritt Dworkin, the mastermind behind the Fells Point Farmers’ Market, has launched a new producers-only bazaar that allows locals to restock their bounty on Wednesday afternoons through October. Featuring more than 20 vendors, the Canton Waterfront Farmers’ Market runs Wednesdays from 3:30-7:30 p.m. at Canton Waterfront Park.

“Finding the right location was so key,” Dworkin says. “Initially we wanted to do it on [O’Donnell] Square, but logistically we would have to shut down the street and it would really limit the number of vendors we could get in there. The waterfront seemed like a more natural fit—the view and the background are perfect.”

Aside from the sparkling backdrop, Dworkin says that the park’s location on Boston Street makes the market convenient for people running errands around Canton Crossing, or headed toward I-95 on their commute home.

The neighborhood was previously home to a farmers’ market on South Ellwood Avenue that ended in 2014. Since then, various groups, including the Canton Community Association, have been pushing for a family-friendly market on a consistent basis.

In only two weeks since it began, Dworkin has expanded the event’s footprint from 19 to 24 vendors. Many of them—including Ekiben, Gundalow Juice, One Straw Farm, and Boordy Vineyards—are regulars of the Saturday-morning market in Fells Point. (There will also be live acoustic music in Canton, similar to Fells Point.) But Dworkin has brought in a few newbies and amped up the number of prepared-food purveyors.

Looking ahead to next season, Dworkin hopes to extend the market’s run past October, giving patrons more opportunities to shop local year-round.

“With more farms now having greenhouses and hot houses, we’re hoping it will make it easier to expand our dates,” she says. “For me, it’s all about providing an event to help people support local whenever it’s available.”

Whether you’re heading over for an afternoon treat, or grabbing ingredients to whip up dinner at home, here are a few vendors to look out for at the new Canton market:

A Friendly Bread: Get your carb fix from this North Baltimore-based breadery—which bakes artisan loaves in varieties like walnut-date, pumpkin seed, whole wheat, caramelized onion, apricot cardamom, and chocolate chip.

Black Bottom Farms: This family farm brings its bounty straight from the small town of Galena on the Eastern Shore. Peruse produce including beets, eggplant, heirloom tomatoes, English cucumbers, and sweet basil.

Cheese Galore and More: If you can’t make it to Cheese Galore and More’s new digs on South Charles Street in Federal Hill, visit owner Sharon Johnson at the waterfront fête across the harbor. The specialty shop offers everything you need to create a bona fide charcuterie board—including baguettes, gourmet crackers, meats, olives, antipasti, and, of course, plenty of artisan cheeses.

Migue’s Magnificent Mini Doughnuts: These fried-to-order circles—made popular by the Fells Point market and the Baltimore Farmers’ Market under the JFX—are the ideal mid-week treat. Bury your order in DIY toppings like powdered sugar, chocolate syrup, sprinkles, or a seasonal mango-chili sauce.

Phil’s Dills and The Baltimore Whiskey Company: Dworkin, who intentionally stationed these two vendors side-by-side, encourages patrons to create their own pickleback shots with juice from Phil’s Dills and spirits from The Baltimore Whiskey Company, which is settling in a new home at Union Collective. Pro tip: Try the Sweet & Spicy bread and butter pickles backed by Epoch Rye.

Thai Street: Get a little taste of Bangkok by way of Canton with the authentic grub prepared by this local pop-up. Dishes to look out for include spicy tofu panang (a nutty red Thai curry), sweet mango sticky rice, and classic pad Thai noodles.

When helping customers choose the perfect gift at Bin 604 in Harbor East, general manager Matt Anderson suggests abiding by one golden rule: “Try to get somebody something that they wouldn’t get for themselves,” he says. This philosophy certainly applies to whiskey, which is always a popular choice at the wine and spirits shop around Father’s Day.

“The versatility and range of whiskies out there right now allows you to get something really unique,” adds assistant manager Elizabeth Samolis. “The stories behind the people who are making these products are what really grab you.”

Though they admit it is a bit easier to do with wine, the team at Bin 604 has gotten quite good at being able to pair a bottle of whiskey to a customer’s personality. For example, they suggest a fruit-forward bottle, like the Koval single-barrel bourbon, for someone whose tastes are a bit more outside of the box.

“Some people like very tough, aggressive, rustic whiskies,” Anderson says. “And some like something with a little more curves. It’s been a lot of fun to discover what it is people like and how they match themselves to their whiskey preference.”

Aside from the flavor versatility, cocktail professionals agree that the production stories behind most whiskies make it a thoughtful gift.

“Whiskey is such an expressive spirit,” says Max Lents, co-owner of The Baltimore Whiskey Company (BWC), which will soon debut its new facility at Union Collective. “There are so many decisions put into it, and there’s such a wide breadth of brands and stories behind it.”

Locally, the BWC—which will soon officially change to The Baltimore Spirits Company to better reflect the range of its products—has one of the most compelling success stories. After a five-year aging process, the distillery recently released its new Epoch Rye Whiskey. The spirit marks the first of its kind to be distilled in Baltimore in more than 50 years, and last month, Epoch took home the coveted double gold medal (all judges gave it a unanimous gold rating) at the prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

“We’re thrilled about the response,” Lents says. “With Epoch, all of the decisions we made ended up being very quality-oriented rather than efficiency-oriented. That lead to a lot of long days and nights, but it all paid off.”

Lents attributes Epoch’s uniqueness to its mash bill with more than 30 percent malted rye, open-top fermentation method, and double distillation process through a copper pot still—which is similar to what many early-American distillers used.

Bin 604 is highlighting other locally made bottles like the white whiskey from McClintock Distilling in Frederick for Father’s Day gifting. Anderson and Somalis also suggest the Belle Meade sour mash bourbon from Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery in Nashville, and the Longmorn Distillery’s single-malt scotch—a spirit that was introduced to Anderson by Bin 604 owner Tony Foreman.

“You think about how people say, ‘Oh I’ve found my person.’ When I first tasted this is was like, ‘I’ve found my whiskey,’” Anderson quips. “It’s so mature, and has a way of revealing itself that other whiskies just miss.”

Above all, experts agree whiskey has a metaphorical quality that makes it a great gift for dads. (And many moms enjoy it just as much.)

“Great whiskey takes a lot of time, patience, and attention to detail,” Lents explains. “These are all things that parents put into raising kids. Making whiskey requires the same sort of dedication.”

NEWS

Baltimore Whiskey Company Brings Home The Gold: It’s been an exciting week for the Baltimore Whiskey Company (BWC). The Remington distillery’s new Epoch Rye Whiskey—the first of its kind to be distilled in Baltimore in more than 50 years—has been awarded a double gold medal by the prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Competition. The coveted double gold distinction indicates that the spirit was given a unanimous gold rating by all judges. “Epoch Rye is the light at the end of a five-year tunnel for us, and we couldn’t be happier with our product,” BWC co-owner Max Lents said in a statement. “It’s amazing to see some of the most accomplished spirit tasters list it among the best Rye Whiskeys in the world.” The distillery was also recently awarded multiple gold medals from the New York International Spirits Competition. Aside from being named Maryland Distillery of the Year, BWC took home gold medals for its Shot Tower gin and coffee-flavored amaro from its Baltamaro line. The accolades come as BWC prepares to unveil its brand new facility and ramp up production at Union Collective this summer.

Heavy Seas Expanding its Taproom: Changes are on the horizon at Heavy Seas’ 23-year-old facility in Halethorpe. Next summer, the brewery will unveil a renovated taproom and new 15-barrel brewhouse that will allow the team to get creative with a limited-edition series unique to the taproom. Local designers have already begun planning their vision for the taproom, which will be seven times larger than the current space and feature reclaimed wood tables and a private event room. The facility will remain open throughout renovations. 4615 Hollins Ferry Road, 410-247-7822

Smoke Temporarily Closing at Cross Street Market: This weekend will be the last for diners to snack on brisket and pulled pork sandwiches at Smoke’s Federal Hill pop-up. After six months, the Cockeysville ’cue joint is closing up shop while construction continues inside Cross Street Market. But a post to Instagram indicates that the spot has every intention of coming back: “We can’t wait to return to the new market,” the post reads. “This thing is going to be sick!” The first phase of renovations on the Light Street side of the market are slated to debut this fall. In the meantime, diners can feast on Smoke’s fingerlickin’ fare at its flagship location in Cockeysville. 1065 S. Charles St.

Local Brunch Spots Awarded by OpenTable: Four Charm City restaurants were recently named among the 100 best brunch spots in the country by OpenTable. This year’s list gave nods to The Food Market in Hampden, Gertrude’s at the BMA in Charles Village, Rusty Scupper in the Inner Harbor, and Woodberry Kitchen in Clipper Mill. The list was narrowed down from more than 45,000 OpenTable reviews of brunch destinations throughout the country.

COMING SOON

Ludlow Market, Bar & Bottle Shop: Owner Christopher Spann is breathing new life into his restaurant and adjoining wine shop in the historic Foundry Building in Locust Point. The space was the longtime home of Spann’s Wine Market Bistro, which he closed in March due to lack of business. “The bistro side wasn’t hitting the necessary numbers,” he told us. Now, he is planning to launch a reimagined concept next month. Ludlow Market will offer an “upscale neighborhood” menu of shareables, sandwiches, and entrees sourced by local purveyors. Heading up the kitchen will be chef Christopher Audia, a Baltimore native whose resume includes stints at Tail Up Goat in Washington, D.C. and No. 9 Park in Boston. The Bottle Shop, which remains open throughout the turnover, will upgrade its offerings to focus more on beer and wine, as well as cured meats, cheeses, and other takeaway items. 921 E. Fort Ave. 410-244-6166

Italian Disco: A grand opening date has been set for this new ’80s-inspired pizza joint from Atlas Restaurant Group—which also owns Ouzo Bay, Azumi, Loch Bar, Bygone, and Tagliata in the area. Italian Disco will debut on Monday, May 18, featuring an elevated DJ booth and Wurlitzer jukebox. The menu will highlight wood-fired pies, sandwiches, and entrees paired with 50 craft beers on tap. 1006 Fleet St.

Papi’s Tacos: Come fall, Hampden locals won’t have to leave the neighborhood to chow down on Papi’s signature build-your-own street tacos. The Fells Point taqueria recently announced plans to open a second location in the former home of Dimitri’s Tavern on Falls Road. The spot will mimic the vibe of its flagship, with interior touches like exposed brick, strung lights, greenery, and plenty of sugar skulls. 3820 Falls Road.

OPEN

Urban Deli: This Federal Hill outpost quickly became a go-to for deli sandwiches and hangover breakfasts when it opened on Light Street in the spring of 2016. And it recently reopened in larger digs a few blocks north. Taking over the former home of Wok & Roll at 1025 Light Street, the new cafe features its signature coffee counter, bar seating, and pops of bright yellow throughout. The menu consists of deli sandwiches, wraps, paninis, salads, soups, and local Towson Hot Bagels. 1025 Light St., 443-708-0495.

EPICUREAN EVENTS

5/10: Creative Alliance Date Nights at Verde
Thursday evenings throughout May, Verde will be offering a special pairings dinner that includes a $20 discount on tickets to Thursday-evening shows at the Creative Alliance in Highlandtown. Head to the restaurant to enjoy a three-course prix fixe menu with options including roasted beet salad, burrata caprese, classic margherita and pistachio pesto pizzas, tiramisu, and imported hazelnut gelato. Mark your calendar for performances like Tuareg musician Mdou Moctor on May 10, musical comedian Dina Martina on May 24, and percussive dance quartet Duo Duo on May 31. 641 S. Montford Ave., 410-522-1000

5/17: Dinner for the Mamas of Baltimore: Flowers While I’m Here
Mother’s Day continues into next week at Ida B’s Table, where five female leaders will gather to host this intimate dinner and conversation. Enjoy a three-course menu from chef Dave Thomas while listening in on a discussion between MacArthur fellow Joyce J. Scott, actress Maria Broom, and performance artists Kibibi Ajanku, Rashida Forman-Bey, and Kay Lawal Muhammad. All five women are featured in the restaurant’s most recent art exhibition, SEEN, A Mother’s Intention, which will be on display from May 2-31. Ida B’s Table, 235 Holliday St., 6-8 p.m., $50.

SHUT

The BBQ: It was a short-but-sweet run for this Greenmount Avenue spot, which quickly became a destination for mouthwatering barbecue and sides when it opened last summer. Among the many foodies taking to social media to mourn the loss are the owners of Dovecote Cafe in Reservoir Hill. “Fam, running a small, black-owned business is extremely hard,” they posted to Facebook. “Please support our businesses, not just when it’s trending or ‘Small Business Week.’ We’re heartbroken.” The BBQ was recently named among Eater’s 12 hottest new restaurants in Baltimore. 2602 Greenmount Ave.

Rachel New American Cuisine: Speaking of short-lived spots, this Riverside restaurant has shuttered its doors after only 16 months. Regretfully, we are no longer open for service,” management posted to Facebook earlier this week. “The staff and ownership of Rachel are incredibly grateful to everyone who has supported our endeavor. Thank you to each of our guests and the entire Fed Hill community for allowing us to serve you.” Rachel, which was a hangout for charcuterie and cocktails, brunch, and dinner service—is the latest in a string of restaurant closures occurring throughout the area. There’s no word yet on what will become of the building. 554 E. Fort Ave.

 EAT

April 29: Bottomless Drag Brunch

Minnow, 2 E. Wells St. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. $69. 443-759-6537

Nothing says “Sunday Funday” like sipping on bottomless morning cocktails, noshing on tapas-style eats, and watching drag queens lip-sync and dance between tables. At this monthly drag brunch, sample from Minnow’s signature brunch menu (think crispy chicken biscuits, sour cream doughnuts, and fried oysters), and cheer on local divas like Bombalicious, Abbi Kadabra, and Desiree Dik as they sashay through the South Baltimore restaurant.

 DRINK

April 28: The Last Party at Sisson St.

The Baltimore Whiskey Company, 2800 Sisson St. 12-6 p.m. Free. 443-687-9099.

The Baltimore Whiskey Company’s Remington distillery holds a lot of special memories; after all, that’s where their team concocted the first rye whiskey produced in the city since the Prohibition era. But change is inevitable, and as the BWC prepares to move into their new digs at Union Collective this spring, it’s time to say farewell to the beloved distillery at Sisson Street. During this final parking-lot party, featuring the second release of the award-winning Epoch Straight Rye, raise a glass to the distillery’s next chapter and dig into eats from local food truck Farm to Charm.

 SEE

April 28: Women of the World Festival Baltimore

Notre Dame of Maryland University, 4701 N. Charles St. 9 a.m.-7 p.m. $6-20. 410-435-0100

The past year was defined by female voices—from speaking out against sexual harassment to becoming a tenacious political force. Now in its second year, the Women of the World (WOW) Festival returns just in time to explore women’s issues through panels, performances, and activities. This Saturday, head to Maryland’s only all-women’s college and get inspired by keynote speakers Tarana Burke, the #MeToo founder who was named a Time magazine “Person of the Year,” and Roxane Gay, cultural critic and The New York Times best-selling author of Bad Feminist and Hunger. After the keynote speeches, drop by sessions like Self Care for Women of Color and Trailblazing Women of Baltimore, peruse through women empowerment-focused vendors, and grab bites from local food trucks. 

 HEAR

April 27-18: Charm City Bluegrass Festival

Druid Hill Park, 900 Druid Park Lake Dr. Fri. 4 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m. $30-170. 410-396-6106.

The Charm City Bluegrass Festival has proven time and time again that Baltimore’s Americana music scene is a force to be reckoned with. Now in its sixth year, the festival has upped the ante, expanding to a two-day celebration featuring three stages, 21 bands, local food, and homegrown brews from Union Craft Brewing. This weekend, experience a little slice of Americana heaven with performances by headliners The Devil Makes Three and The Travelin’ McCourys, plus local acts such as Caleb Stine, Haint Blue, and The Honey Dewdrops.

 

 DO

April 28: Roots and Raíces Festival 

128 W. North Ave. 1 p.m.-2 a.m. $10-15. 410-752-1513.

In collaboration with the Court Appointed Special Advocates, Roots and Raíces, a local communications platform for immigrants and people of color, presents its inaugural music and arts festival that highlights immigrant and minority-led performances, vendors, and organizations. This Saturday, hear nationally renowned artists like EDM influencer Dave Nada, DJ and producer Happy Colors, and four-piece band Conjunto Bruja, as well as local artists :3LON, Nikilad, and Genie. Browse through artwork and crafts in the El Mercado, participate in a piñata-making workshop, meet with immigrant-rights advocates, and fill up on eats from local favorites Cocina Luchadoras and The Cupcake Fairy.