The Land of Kush – Baltimore Magazine

50 Reasons to Love Baltimore Right Now

Aaron Hope — Mon, 21 Dec 2020 14:41:13 +0000

Our completely unranked, unofficial, unobjective love letter to the best city on earth.

Edited by Max Weiss
Written by Ron Cassie, Lauren Cohen, Janelle Erlichman Diamond, Ken Iglehart, Christine Jackson, Jane Marion, Max Weiss, and Lydia Woolever
Poster Art by Globe at Mica
Spot Illustrations by John Kachik

News & Community

Our completely unranked, unofficial, unobjective love letter to the best city on earth.

Edited by Max Weiss
Written by Ron Cassie, Lauren Cohen, Janelle Erlichman Diamond, Ken Iglehart, Christine Jackson, Jane Marion, Max Weiss, and Lydia Woolever
Poster Art By Globe At Mica
Spot Illustrations by John Kachik

Photography by Christopher Myers

1. We KEEP IT REAL

Maybe it’s our working-class roots, our pink flamingo-ed lawns, or our eccentric hometown heroes (John Waters, anyone?) that give us a strong sense of identity that makes us quirky to the core. But that’s really what separates us from other towns of similar size. Unlike some surrounding hoity-toity cities, in Baltimore we have no airs and pass no judgment. From topping our soft pretzels with blue crab to throwing toilet bowl races, we’re seriously strange. But a winking neon Natty Boh sign that keeps a watchful eye over Charm City shows just how much we’re in on the joke.

Courtesy of Light City/Jan Galvan

2. OUR FESTS ARE BEST

Absence makes the heart grow fonder, and that is certainly true of Baltimore’s many wonderful fests, most of which were canceled or completely reimagined as a result of the pandemic this year. No matter what your pleasure, Baltimore has a fest for you. The festivals reflect our diversity, not to mention our embrace of the weird, and our die hard affection for our neighborhoods. Where else but in Baltimore can you find a Best Hon contest (a staple of HONfest); elaborate, citywide light displays (Light City, pictured); the running of the pigs (Pigtown Fest); a fest with its own iconic treat (FlowerMart); and festivals named after just about every city neighborhood? Our larger festivals—like Artscape and AFRAM—show off Baltimore at its best: vibrant, multicultural, boundlessly creative, and just plain fun. Here’s hoping the fests are back in full force next year.

Spot Illustrations by John Kachik

4. CODDIES ARE MAKING A COMEBACK

It might sound like sacrilege to say, but there are days when we’d actually prefer a coddie to a crab cake. Though recently out of fashion, the fried salt cod and potato ball has been a Baltimore mainstay since the 1900s, once sold ubiquitously across the city, from candy shops to corner bars. Today, they seem to be making a comeback, and there might be no better example than the classic iteration at Dylan’s Oyster Cellar, served with Saltine crackers and an irresistible dijonaisse.

Photography by A. Aubrey Bodine

5. WE LOVE OUR ’HOODS

Mention the once working-class Highlandtown, and it might conjure up images of homeowners scrubbing their white marble steps. But dozens of Baltimore neighborhoods exude that kind of pride and sense of community, from Mt. Washington, with its active neighborhood listserv—where residents keep a wary eye on everything from community gardens to potholes— to Guilford’s beautiful Sherwood Gardens, or artist-friendly Station North. Then there’s the 24-7 security and litter-pickup team in Harbor East, the enthusiasm for Charles Village’s painted ladies, and those Hampdenites hooked on kitsch. That’s the power—and personality—of the people!

Photography by Courtesy of Steelcut Flower Co.

6. STEELCUT FLOWER CO. MAKES A BANG

Perhaps you’ve seen them—the “Greatest City in America” benches draped in hydrangeas and sunflowers or the Federal Hill cannons filled with roses and baby’s breath. The florist team behind Steelcut Flower Co. has built a handful of floral “bombs” or “splashes” across the city over the last few years, with whimsical installations adding a touch of public art, natural beauty, and joy to local landmarks, always serving as a little love letter to Baltimore.

7. We Hang on to our heritage

From our old bank buildings with soaring ceilings to the 19th-century fieldstone factories along the Jones Falls, to some rare examples of historic iron facades, Baltimore is a town that preserves its architectural roots. We rarely tear stuff down, but instead readapt the classic old structures, turning them into hip restaurants, high-end condos, or unique office spaces. And it makes those spaces—and the city as a whole—feel a lot warmer, even a little more Old World, than the endless steel and glass monstrosities in other metro areas that reflect the glare of the sun, but not history.

8. PIRATE RADIO CONCERTS BROUGHT LIVE MUSIC DURING THE PANDEMIC

How do you safely host an outdoor concert during a pandemic? Trade in the stage for a boat, of course. Just when we thought all hope of attending traditional shows was lost, the masterminds at WTMD and Stages Music Arts teamed up with Urban Pirates to organize these floating performances against the backdrop of the sparkling Inner Harbor. Since launching in August, masked groups have gathered along the shore, from Canton Waterfront Park to Locust Point, to enjoy the music.

Spot Illustrations by John Kachik

Photography by Ron Cassie

10. Trails Are Cooler Than Roads

The Baltimore area boasts some terrific multipurpose paths for biking and walking, most notably the 20-mile Torrey C. Brown Trail and the 13.7-mile Baltimore and Annapolis Trail. In the city itself, the 15-mile Gwynns Falls Trail offers a unique trek through green sections of Southwest and West Baltimore. Now, with the completion of its final phase—from Cylburn Arboretum to Mt. Washington—the Jones Falls Trail provides city bicyclists, joggers, and stroller pushers with another top-notch example of trail infrastructure for local for exercise and/or bike commuting. Officially, the 11-mile Jones Falls Trail starts down at the Baltimore Visitors Center at the Inner Harbor, but it really gets fun as it heads up through Druid Hill Park and then past Woodberry’s Rockrose Park. From there, it travels by the arboretum and then up through its new wooden bridges, winding through a small forest before reaching Mt. Washington. After that, it’s just a short hop over to the Corner Pantry for a bite or the Ivy Bookshop’s new location for a read.

11. STREATERIES HAVE SPRUNG UP

As restaurants opened for outdoor dining, a new trend began to take shape. Suddenly, “streateries,” with their socially distanced tables—along with yards of string lights, umbrellas, and greenery—sprouted up all over city streets, sidewalks, and public plazas, allowing restaurants and cafes to serve customers safely. (Shoutouts should also go to our government officials for cutting through the red tape by bending permit rules and hastening processing times for applications.) From Cazbar in Mt. Vernon to Kooper’s Tavern in Fells Point, outdoor dining has never been more appealing—and whole ’hoods feel like they’re throwing one big festive street party. In a post-pandemic world, we hope this idea sticks around for a while.

12. Single Carrot Continues to Redefine Theater

Last year, Single Carrot Theatre left behind its Remington performance space in search of a different type of theater experience. And when COVID took over the spring performance season, boy did they get one. But the ever-innovative team continues to adapt and impress. After a fully outdoor performance of the interactive yet contact-free Keep Off The Grass: A Guide to [something] this fall, the company will return in the new year with Healthy Holly’s Hidden Hideaway, a cheeky mystery that takes place entirely via calls and texts. We can’t wait to see what they think of next.

Spot Illustrations by John Kachik

14. We’re Fans of Sail in the City

Thanks to the nonprofit Downtown Sailing Center (DSC), sailing isn’t just for wealthy types with waterfront properties. Located at the Baltimore Museum of Industry on the south side of the Inner Harbor, DSC has something for just about everyone. That includes recreational sails and adult instruction, youth camps, outreach programming that incorporates STEM curricula, and sailing-instructor certification. There are also programs for those with disabilities. And companies can play, too: Think corporate outings and team building, racing, and cruising. Come sail away!

Photography by Scott Suchman

15. WE CAN EVEN RALLY BEHIND A NEW ORLEANS SNO-BALL STAND

When Ice Queens opened in Locust Point Memorial Day weekend, the pandemic wasn’t their only obstacle. Perhaps even more challenging was the fact that they were bringing a New Orleans-style sno-ball to snowball-obsessed Baltimore. Who the heck spells a snowball like that? For clarification, a sno-ball is a Louisiana confection made with finely shaved ice and flavored cane sugar syrup—the ice is soft and fluffy verses a traditional snowball that is coarse, crunchy, and granular. (The idea is that a sno-ball better absorbs the syrup—but that’s a discussion for another day.) And the corner store soon won over the neighborhood, especially during the dog days of summer, when kids would ride up on their scooters and bikes and safely wait for their desserts topped with whipped marshmallow and gummies and fresh fruit and sprinkles. So it was super upsetting when the Black-owned business became the target of repeated racist incidents, from property destruction to items being thrown at customers. Community support swelled (as did the lines), and the establishment felt the love. Owner Dasia Kabia is still serving her treats (including seasonal flavors such as Cinnamon Stick and S’mores and, if you’re lucky, made-to-order beignets) at least through December, when all snowball stands must disappear like Brigadoon until the spring.

Photography by Schaun Champion

16. KEVIN BROWN IS THE POPE OF STATION NORTH

The colorful longtime head chef and co-owner of Nancy by SNAC on North Avenue (he calls his spot “Baltimore’s cultural canopy”), Kevin Brown has served on the board of directors for Station North Arts for more than a decade. But his history with and commitment to the city arts district—along with that of his partner and cafe co-owner, Bill Maughlin—dates back much further. In the early 1990s, Brown opened his first cafe, The Metropolitan Theatre Cafe at NIRVANA, in what was then known as Charles North. In 2006, he opened the Station North ARTS Cafe Gallery, which has since morphed into the current restaurant, arts space, and salon—and that’s salon in the classic sense of the word, meaning a gathering and discussion place for people from Baltimore’s arts, business, nonprofit, education, and media communities. Brown, who is a playwright as well, is also the founder of the National James Baldwin Literary Society, and deserves a shoutout for introducing, and reintroducing, an incalculable number of Baltimoreans (and others) to the great writer’s work. That said, it’s Brown himself and his sparkling sense of fun and “artmosphere,” as he puts it, that is the best reason to visit the arts cafe and gallery. Oh, and you won’t be disappointed by the southern-style breakfasts and lunches at his cafe, gathered from six generations of family traditions, recipes, and a commitment to “small batch from scratch” cooking.

Photography by Justin Tsucalas

17. THE CRAB PIE AT MATTHEW’S EXISTS

If crab pie didn’t exist we would have to invent it—which is exactly what the folks at Matthew’s Pizza did, a little more than 10 years ago. It seems strange that it took so long, considering that New Haven White Clam Pizza has been a thing since the ’60s. After all, as is well documented, anything that’s good with clams is even better with crab. (Not that we’re biased or anything.) The Matthew’s recipe is deceptively simple: crabmeat, two kinds of cheese, chopped onion, all baked into a gooey symphony on top of their crunchy, bready pizza dough. Full disclosure: The crabmeat here is pasteurized. We’re okay with that. Marylanders will take their crab any way they can get it.

Summoning, 2020, Acrylic, Aerosol, Oil, Flashe on Wood Panel, by Shanequa Gay/Courtesy of Galerie Myrtis

18. FROM STREET MURALS TO GALLERY WALLS, DIVERSE ART SHINES HERE

In this time of reckoning, our city’s cultural stewards are working to both lift up BIPOC artists and preserve the moment for future generations. From Mickalene Thomas’ A Moment’s Pleasure proclaiming “Black Lives Matter, errday, erday, aerday!” at the BMA, to the reopened Reginald F. Lewis’ plans to chronicle oral histories of Black Marylanders living through our current crises, there are myriad options for experiencing and supporting BIPOC art and culture. And though COVID has kept many away from viewing works in person, virtual events offer wider access to exhibitions such as SHAN Wallace, Akea Brionne Brown, and Savannah Woods’ Close Read (a collection of video pieces inspired by the AFRO archives) or Galerie Myrtis’ Women Heal through Rite and Ritual, pictured, which highlighted women’s roles as “custodians of traditional African and Mexican religions and customs.” Whether in person or virtually, there has never been a better time to explore what these spaces have to offer.

Spot Illustrations by John Kachik

Photography by Shawn Hubbard/Flashes of Hope

20. WE ALL LOVED MO GABA

When Mo Gaba, the 14-year-old sports superfan whose lifelong battle against cancer never dimmed his spirit or smile, passed away this summer, Baltimore mourned collectively. Gaba’s quick wit, gentleness, and indomitable good cheer was something of a lodestar for us all. And our local sports teams responded accordingly: The Orioles inducted Gaba into the team’s Hall of Fame mere hours before his passing. The Ravens filled one entire section of the stands for their first home game with cardboard cutouts of Mo’s likeness—Mo’s Rows they called them—and even painted the M and O of “Baltimore” in the end zone gold as tribute. To Mo, the players on those teams were his heroes. To those of us in Baltimore, Mo was the real hero.

Photography by Scott Suchman

21. WE’RE SMALLTIMORE

Everyone knows what Smalltimore means: If you’ve lived here long enough, you can’t seem to go anywhere without running into someone you know. Mostly, the term is used affectionately, a sign of our friendly ways. But sometimes it’s used pejoratively, because our Smalltimore networks are often segregated along racial and socioeconomic status. (The good news is, we’re seeing improvement on that front.) In terms of square miles, the city is indeed one of the smallest big cities in the country. And we all know that most of us live in our tightly knit, distinct rowhouse neighborhoods. This intimacy—enhanced by our beautiful parks, the harbor, and gardens—engenders a sense that the city is truly home.

23. THE WAVERLY FARMERS MARKET KEEPS THE CITY FED

This spring, when the global shutdown led to apocalyptic grocery aisles, both city and county dwellers made their way to the 32nd Street Farmers Market, where no signs of food shortages were in sight. As many other markets chose to wait out the pandemic, this year-round Saturday gathering in Waverly kept calm and carried on, providing their community vital access to fresh meat, dairy, and produce, and showcasing the strength of a local food system.

22. VEGAN SOUL FOOD HAS FOUND A HOME HERE

The award-winning vegan soul food restaurant The Land of Kush, which sits on the western edge of Mount Vernon, has long been a go-to for in-the-know Baltimoreans, not to mention the likes of Angela Davis, Russell Simmons, and Stevie Wonder. Everything on the menu, dare we say, we love, but especially the restaurant’s weekend special vegan crab cakes—made with a mix of Old Bay and seasoned, textured vegetable protein and pan-fried in olive oil. Two years ago, it was voted one of the top 10 vegan seafood dishes in the country by the advocacy organization People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA). The restaurant, which offers small tables and counter stools for dining-in, has always done brisk carryout business, making it feel even more indispensable than ever in recent months. When chef Gregory Brown and his wife and coowner, Naijha Wright-Brown, pictured, launched The Land of Kush in 2011, it seemed like a radical concept, but to its credit, the restaurant has helped build a burgeoning vegan soul food movement in Baltimore while remaining as fresh and unique as ever. Wright-Brown, who co-created the annual Vegan Soulfest and Maryland Vegan Restaurant Week, also now serves as executive director of the Black Vegetarian Society of Maryland. And she maintains a lively YouTube channel at Naijha Speaks!, where folks interested in eating, growing, and cooking vegan soul food can meet and learn from real-life practitioners.

Spot Illustrations by John Kachik

25. WE DON’T HAVE ANY CONFEDERATE MONUMENTS

While many cities dealt with serious confrontations between Black Lives Matters protestors and police, Baltimore’s protests remained peaceful. Which is not to say they lacked urgency or passion. They were large, creative, often youth-led, and authentic responses that Baltimore should be proud of and pay heed to. The credit for their peacefulness has to go to the local activists who have been leading a steady call for police reform since the death of Freddie Gray in 2015. To the city’s credit, Baltimore’s four bronze Confederate statues came down three years ago, a symbolic start that suggests we’re moving in the right direction.

Photography by Shawn Hubbard/Baltimore Ravens

26. OUR QB REINVENTED THE GAME

Pocket passer or running QB? For years it's been a hotly debated subject among NFL analysts. What Ravens QB (and last year’s league MVP) Lamar Jackson proposes is: Why not both? Sure, it’s Jackson’s speed and uncanny escapability that gets the most attention, but his passing game is improving every day. And the league is (literally) scrambling to catch up.

Photography by Amanda White-Iseli

27. WE HAVE THE GREATEST BALLPARK IN AMERICA

What is a summer without a baseball season? This year, we found out, and while we eventually got to watch the O’s from afar, it really cemented one thing: We frickin’ love Camden Yards. We would give most things to have had just one hot, humid evening in the nosebleeds with a Natty Boh tallboy in hand, rooting for mustard in the Esskay hot dog race, singing “Thank God I’m a County Boy” during the seventh inning stretch, watching as the setting sun behind the old Sun clock oozes out across the city skyline. In that moment, whatever the score, we fall in love with Baltimore all over again, and we don’t need any critic to tell us that we have one of the best ballparks in the country (it was ranked number two by Bleacher Report in 2018). Fingers crossed we’ll be back in the stands next year.

Spot Illustrations by John Kachik

29. EVERYTHING’S CLOSE AT HAND

Want proximity to an Atlantic beach, or maybe the largest estuary in the U.S.? Check. Mountains? 10-4. Rural hiking, biking, horseback riding, and canoeing? Yup, greater Baltimore has endless destinations on that front. But what really sets Charm City apart from New York, Boston, or Philly is that you can get to most of those things quickly from downtown. Jump in the car and in half an hour, you can pick from Patapsco State Park or the Gunpowder or go rock climbing in Harford County’s Rocks State Park, sailing on the bay, pedaling along the C&O canal, or jogging the wide, flat Torrey C. Brown Trail. That last one’s really close: It extends 20 miles from Hunt Valley to the state line.

Photography Courtesy of Ekiben/Billy Carnes

30. EKIBEN UNITES US OVER STEAMED BUNS AND RICE BOWLS

This Asian-fusion fixture, with locations in Hampden and Fells Point, is at the top of every Baltimorean’s list. Here’s why: The flavor combinations—from the Taiwanese fried chicken steamed buns topped with Ethiopian spices and spicy mayo to the Thai chicken meatballs in a coconut peppercorn sauce—are out of this world. (Not a tofu person? Let the crispy peanut-flavored “Tofu Brah” nuggets make you a convert.) But beyond that, co-owners Steve Chu and Ephrem Abebe let their passion for Baltimore shine through. Whether they’re planning a pop-up fundraiser or collaborations with other chefs, they always show up for the community. As Chu once told us: “It’s good people who really care about what they’re doing—that’s what Ekiben is.”

Photography by Matt Roth

31. OUR CITY IS A CANVAS

IF YOU’RE EVER LOOKING for a way to pass time, hop in your car, grab your bike, or even throw on your sneakers and take to the city streets in search of its plethora of public murals. Every few blocks, you’ll stumble upon another towering masterpiece: hands spelling out “LOVE” like shadow puppets, a trio of alligators moving in the direction of traffic, Billie Holliday singing into a microphone, a larger-than-life portrait of legendary drag queen Divine. In Baltimore, art is everywhere, and it stands as a monument to the essence of our city—colorful, creative, industrious, hopeful. These works of art have been painted by renowned artists, from rising street artists Gaia and Nether to veteran muralists like Tom Miller, Bob Heironimus, and Ernest Shaw. Recently, several local artists, led by Shaw, restored and reimagined the hallowed “Wall of Pride” mural in West Baltimore. The original, created by Pontella Mason in 1992, paid homage to African heritage and leaders in the Black community. After a decade of planning, the new iteration carries that same torch, depicting new and old heroes alike, from Nina Simone to Colin Kaepernick.

Photography Courtesy of Myth and Moss

32. OUR MAKER COMMUNITY COMES TOGETHER

One thing the pandemic has confirmed—makers gotta make. These small, creative businesses need to create art and soaps and prints and jewelry, and we, in turn, need to support them. We were thrilled to see so many virtual events, from this spring’s “Pile of Craft” by the Charm City Craft Mafia to BaM Co-Create’s “Fall for Shopping Small” maker’s market. The Codex Club—with 50-plus Baltimore makers—popped up at R.House, and Taken, a home goods shop featuring all Maryland-made products, is safely opening in Towson, just in time for the holiday season. And what would December be without Holiday Heap? Like everyone else, the Heap team has done the pandemic pivot and put everything online. We’ve already marked the three-day handmade extravaganza (December 4-6) on our calendars so we can shop. It won’t be the same as being squeezed into the 2640 Space, elbowing our way to the front of the line, but it’ll do.

Photography by Justin Tsucalas

33. OUR CORNER BARS ARE ICONIC

How do we love our city’s bonafide dive bars? Let us count the ways: Orioles on the television, Utz behind the bar, Keno squares, a broken cigarette machine, a stillworking jukebox. Maybe if you’re lucky, a last bottle of white-label Pikesville Rye. And of course, Natty Boh, everywhere. With the pandemic closing many of these beloved watering holes for months, and likely some for good, we’ve never wished so badly to belly up between strangers at a sticky bar top, to hear that surly barkeep yell over the crowd, “What can I get you, hon?,” to order just one more at last call, before stumbling out beneath the neon sign into the lamplit dark of a city night. There’s something about these tiny, unpretentious neighborhood hangouts that epitomize Baltimore—an everyman’s place, maintaining the essence of this blue-collar town. When we gather there safely again, the first round will be on us.

To-go drinks from Mr. Nice Guy Cocktails in Canton. Spot Illustrations by John Kachik

Photography Courtesy of Evon Dior Michelle/Rudolf at Studio 5

35. OUR DRAG QUEENS AND KINGS RULE

Even with the days of sweaty dance parties on pause and cornerstone Grand Central permanently closed (RIP), Baltimore’s drag scene remains a shining light of fun and artistry, from the R.House patio, to the Creative Alliance stage, to Power Plant Live!, to Enoch Pratt. And whether they’re donning a face shield and gown for a sunset show at Sandlot or setting up a webcam for a virtual Drag Storytime through your local library, these talented performers give it their all. We’re lucky every time we get to bask in their glittery glow.

36. OUR YOUTH POETS ARE THE BEST

For two decades, Baltimore has been a hotbed of youth poetry and our youth poets have consistently made a name for themselves—and the city—at national slams. That’s largely thanks to Dew More, founded in 2012, a community-based organization with the mission of using poetry and art to promote civic engagement and social change. It has helped sustain an infrastructure that both supports the craft of writing and the performance of spoken word. The Baltimore Citywide Youth Poetry Team, a program of Dew More, enables local youth to compete in regional and national events, as well as the Brave New Voices International Youth Poetry Slam Festival. Special kudos to Baltimore teenager Maren Lovey Wright-Kerr, who was named one of just a handful of National Youth Poet Laureate finalists last year.

Photography by Justin Tsucalas

37. BENGIES DRIVE-IN IS A BLAST FROM THE PAST

For decades, bengies drive-in was one of Baltimore’s best-kept secrets, with a select group of film buffs treasuring the old-school, al fresco movie theater in Middle River. That is, until COVID hit and our indoor social lives ground to a halt, sending Americans in search of safer outdoor venues—including our country’s dwindling number of drive-ins. Suddenly, Bengies, open since 1956, was the hot new place—although you wouldn’t know from visiting it. Everything has stayed the same (thank God). You still follow Eastern Avenue until it becomes Eastern Boulevard, where you’ll be greeted by red, white, and blue flags and a giant block-letter marquee that beckons you to a trip back in time. An old snack bar hawks popcorn, hamburgers, and cotton candy, while classic cartoon commercials play on the 52-foot screen before the main feature, and a grassy lawn is speckled with cars all tuned in to the same radio station. Many come for the latest blockbusters, but the best nights lie in its throwback screenings, such as The Sandlot, The Goonies, or Jaws.

Photography by Peter Tran

38. GOOD NEIGHBOR AND THE GREENHOUSE MAKES US HAPPY

The first time we had the full experience at this new Hampden-adjacent spot, we were smitten. We perused the home goods—ceramics, stylish chairs, and glassware—inside the coffee shop before ordering a matcha latte and rosemary lemon sourdough toast topped with sesame seeds and microgreens (try a new toast each time—trust us!). We lounged on the hill amongst all the beautiful people before making our way up to the garden shop that features a a DIY dried flower bar and fantastic houseplants. We’re embarrassed to say how many times we’ve been back since.

Photography Courtesy of Atomic Books/Rachel Whang

39. WE HAVE GREAT INDIE BOOK STORES

You can judge a city by how well-loved its bookstores are—and in Baltimore, the independent bookstore scene is thriving. Off the top of our heads, we’ve got Greedy Reads, Charm City Books, Ivy Bookshop, Normal’s Books & Records, Atomic Books, Red Emma’s, Red Canoe, Ida B’s, and Bird in Hand. We’re sure we’ve missed a bunch. That’s the point. We have an embarrassment of riches. Not to mention our beloved Book Thing exchange. In short, buy books, shop local, support things that are cool.

Spot Illustrations by John Kachik

Photography Courtesy of The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore/Kaitlyn Ulrich

41. two words: baby chimps

When the zoo reopened at the end of June, we made our reservations and hightailed it to the Chimpanzee Forest Building to visit our babies. Lola, who turned one in July, and Violet, who turns one at the end of December, continue to be a delight. They tumble and climb and wrestle and swing on ropes and cling to their mamas, Bunny and Raven. They come up to visitors and make funny faces, and for a few minutes everything else is forgotten. (The best part: A new baby girl chimp from another zoo, pictured, is being hand-reared by our zookeepers!)

42. OUR Airport is...good?

Airports are a nightmare of parking, finding your gate, waiting on long lines, discovering you’re in the wrong terminal, taking a shuttle to the right terminal, getting lost, and so on. Except for when they’re . . . not? BWI happens to be one of the most accessible large airports in the country. It all takes place in one terminal and is quite easy to navigate. Plus, the dominance of Southwest Airlines means there are cheap fares to be had to anywhere the ever-expanding discount airline flies. And, most impressive, it actually has good food. Travel website Wanderu determined that BWI had the eighth best food of all major airports—no doubt attributable to the Obrycki’s, Phillips Seafood, and Silver Diner, among others. Heck, we’ve even been known to volunteer to drop a friend off there.

43. Guinness Picked Us

There are several reasons Guinness chose Halethorpe, Maryland, as the site of their only American outpost: Our central location—ideal for tourism—and our great tradition of craft brewing, to name two. But we also like to think they looked at us and said, “Yeah, those folks in Maryland really enjoy a pint.” We’ll drink to that.

Photography Courtesy Of Homebody Band/Anja Schutz

44. tHE CROWN MAKES MUSIC FOR aLL

Venues have come and gone, but few have been more vital to the local arts scene than The Crown. Over the past seven years, the Station North performance space has become a mecca for creatives of every medium, from patrons looking to have a go at weekly karaoke nights, to DIY artists seeking a stage to perform their poetry, comedy, or music. The North Charles Street venue was an early stomping ground for some of the city’s top acts and continues to be a proving ground for the next generation of performers. Thanks to their scrappy attitude and art-school aesthetic, everyone is welcome at The Crown, and its eclectic lineups, even in the midst of COVID, are among the most diverse and dynamic in town.

Photography by Garcia At Patterson Park/Ciarra Pollard

45. Patterson Park is the Best Backyard in America

To residents of Butcher’s Hill, Upper Fells Point, Little Italy, Highlandtown, Linwood, and Canton, Patterson Park has long been known as “the best backyard in Baltimore.” In 2015, the beloved, tree-lined, 137-acre park was named of one of best city parks in the country, and during the pandemic, its walking trails, dog park, duck pond, picnic space, outdoor sculptures, and most recently, open-air art Black Lives Matter installations became even more essential. It also attracts an amazingly diverse mix of Southeast and East Baltimoreans, with a cross-section of adults and kids spread out among its baseball, football, and soccer fields; on its basketball and tennis courts; and, in the warmer months, at the pool or on the park’s nearby hillside, eating handmade ice cream from Eastern Avenue’s BMore Licks. The entire city, most obviously, in time of COVID-19, owes a huge debt of gratitude to Baltimore’s Recreation and Parks staff and volunteers, and groups like Friends of Patterson Park.

Photography Courtesy of Globe Collection at Mica/Allison Fisher

46. Print LIVES AT Globe at mica

In a nondescript brown building on Mount Royal Avenue, the windows are filled with signs in bright, bold, Day-Glo colors—highlighter yellow, hot pink, neon orange—all printed inside at the iconic Globe Collection and Press at the Maryland Institute College of Art. Once revered for its energetic music and entertainment posters, Globe has gained new purpose in addressing social justice, from collaborating with Rock the Vote to standing in solidarity with Black Lives Matter, even printing free protest signs during this summer’s citywide protests. Globe gives new meaning to freedom of the press. (P.S. We love them so much, we asked them to create our cover!)

47. ceasefire won’t give up

Launched three years ago, Baltimore Ceasefire 365 began with rallies, marches, and vigils designed to quell violence over three-day weekends. The first Ceasefire in early August 2017 included more than 50 events—and a low two homicides, which is a start—and the momentum hasn’t waned since. The initiative has proven effective at keeping the spotlight on the epidemic of gun violence and reducing homicides, while also becoming a hub for organizations and residents to support one another. Today, Baltimore Ceasefire 365 serves as a citywide call to action. Thanks to founder Erricka Bridgeford, also executive director of Community Mediation Maryland, Ceasefire has additionally turned into something of a spiritual movement, hosting regular Sacred Space Rituals at the sites of deadly violence in the city, helping Baltimoreans turn their pain into transformative healing.

Photography Courtesy of Wet City/ PJ Sullivan

48. we love our BSO

One of the few bright spots of 2020 was the rebirth of the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra. In the summer of 2019, musicians gathered outside of the Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall with picket signs after a summer-long lockout and seemingly never-ending series of contentious contract negotiations with management. But this fall, it was an entirely different scene as the orchestra reached its first long-term agreement in years, finally achieving a meeting of the minds between artists and management. It marked a new chapter—including an innovative digital concert series and an expanded artistic team with a focus on diversity—for our beloved symphony. Long live the BSO.

49. THE SPAGHETT WAS BORN HERE

The official drink of summer was born in Baltimore last year, when Bon Appétit stumbled upon the “Spaghett,” a riff on a spritz invented by the popular Mount Vernon brewery and beer bar Wet City. Consisting of three simple ingredients—Aperol and lemon juice poured directly into a Miller High Life bottle—this highbrow-meets-lowbrow cocktail became an instant cult classic, providing us with a sweet, tart, easy aperitif perfectly suited for the hottest of dog days. We’ll gladly drink them in winter, too.

Photography by Justin Tsucalas

50. WE NEVER STOPPED ROLLER SKATING

Even on the darkest days, we still strapped on our skates and whipped around our neighborhoods, parks, schools, and skate parks. Sure, it felt like a ghost town, but the wind blowing our hair back, our masks muffling our cries of delight, the ground bumpy and freeing beneath our wheels was a release. As restrictions loosened, we could meet up with friends and roll around places like Lake Montebello. It was an activity that felt normal, but safe. With each week we’d catch a glance of more and more fellow skaters. They, like us, preferred the off-hours when there were fewer obstacles (read: people) around—somewhere between golden hour and dusk. Novices strapped on skates for the first time and wobbled down driveways and sidewalks. Roller skates were soon as hard to find as bicycles—forcing many to go digging in their parents’ basements for their old skates, pom-poms and all. And now, some indoor spots are open (at least as of press time) with strict mask wearing rules in place. “These are difficult times, and we want you to have a place where you can come and just relax and enjoy yourselves,” reads the Sportsman’s Hall Roller Skating Center website. “Please leave your frustrations outside of our doors, as we do not wish to argue.” Skateland at Putty Hill, pictured, also has a “skates on, masks on” rule. And Shake & Bake Family Center is due to open soon—fingers and laces crossed.

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The Readers Speak!

(Our Instagram Followers on Their Favorite Things to Do in Baltimore!):

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I LOVE TO VISIT MARIE LOUISE BISTRO WHEN I’M FEELING FANCY AND WANT TO ENJOY SOME FRENCH CUISINE. —@LUVINLIFE_JEETZ

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PLAYING PINBALL AT HOLY FRIJOLES. —@_TINY_FRAMES

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PAPER MOON DINER PICNIC AT WYMAN PARK DELL. —@EMMEANDJAMES

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ORDERING A CHEF’S BOARD AT LOBO AND GABBING OVER ENDLESS GLASSES OF WINE. —@ROBBEN.MK

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WALKING AROUND HAMPDEN EATING A DOUBLE SCOOP OF SATURDAY MORNING CARTOONS FROM THE CHARMERY. —@MIS.KILLIN.IT

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MORNING WALKS THROUGH DRUID HILL PARK. —@OLIVEBUG21

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BRUNCH AT THE LAND OF KUSH AND LIFE REFLECTION OVER THE SIGHT OF FEDERAL HILL. —@FIREANGELOU

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CUBAN CHOCOLATE OREO ICE CREAM FROM BMORE LICKS. SO DELICIOUS THAT MY BROTHER-IN-LAW FROM PHILLY HAS TO TAKE A PINT HOME WITH HIM! —@HKSOHI

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MY ABSOLUTE FAVORITE RESTAURANT IN BALTIMORE IS DUKEM ETHIOPIAN RESTAURANT. THEY’VE GOT AMAZING OPTIONS FOR CARNIVORES AND VEGETARIANS, AND IT’S BLACK OWNED! —@GRAYLIKETHECOLOR

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THE KINETIC SCULPTURE RACE! —@REVIVEFLORALS

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BLUE MOON’S CAP’N CRUNCH FRENCH TOAST! —@NUTMEG51587

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MEAD SLUSHIES FROM CHARM CITY MEADWORKS. —@S.A.L.P.A.L

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WHAT I WOULDN’T DO TO SEE A SHOW AT OTTOBAR THIS WEEKEND —@INSTA_MINKY

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BALTIMORE BIKE PARTY! —@JULIEPAT72

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Weekend Lineup: July 31-August 2

Lauren Cohen — Fri, 31 Jul 2020 12:55:00 +0000

EAT

Aug. 1-9: Maryland Vegan Restaurant Week

Multiple locations including The Land of Kush. 840 N Eutaw St. 12-3 p.m.

On the heels of Baltimore Restaurant Week, Maryland Vegan Eats is bringing back its vegan version of the dining-out promotion, which encourages our favorite restaurants to promote healthier menus with plant-based food options. To celebrate the start of the week—which will host events and specials from participating spots like Golden West Cafe, Larder, Gangster Vegan Organics, and Great Sage—one of Charm City’s premier vegan restaurants, The Land of Kush, will be hosting a pop-up with The Bakers Nasir, Friend of Vegans on August 1 from 12-3 p.m. Stop by the restaurant to sample homemade dairy-free desserts such as bread pudding, banana bread, and bean pies.

DRINK

Aug. 1-2: Guinness’ Second Anniversary Weekend

Guinness Open Gate Brewery. 5001 Washington Blvd. 11 a.m-10 p.m. 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

As crazy as it seems, Guinness Open Gate Brewery is already turning two in August. And the team at the Halethorpe facility is pulling out all of the stops to celebrate right—starting with two new beer releases. An homage to one of Baltimore’s favorite summer treats, the 2nd Anniversary Lemon Peppermint Stick Golden Ale is a mix of a kettle sour and a golden ale that has been aged in bourbon barrels and finished with lemon and mint. (To sweeten the deal, all guests who purchase a six-pack of the new beer will receive a private Zoom code to join a guided tasting on August 13.) The commemorative 2nd Anniversary Honey Pale Ale—made with local honey from Apex Beer Company and barley from Maryland’s Dark Cloud Malthouse—is also set to debut this weekend, and District Donuts will be on hand with flavors inspired by the beer releases. Find a spot on the spacious outdoor lawn, which is currently open with significant social distancing precautions, to raise a glass to the brewery’s the big birthday.

SEE

Aug. 2: Phoenix Art Yard Art Market

1320 Bayard Street. 12-6 p.m. Free.

While we are used to shopping for fresh produce and flowers at our favorite open-air markets, this weekend, switch things up with a visit to the Phoenix Art Yard. The new Sunday event hosts local artists, live music, and food vendors in Pigtown. Spend your Sunday browsing one-of-a-kind works from makers while engaging with the community from a safe distance. Organizers are still accepting vendor applications, so if you’ve got some art of your own that you want to share with the city, head to their Facebook page to get in on the action.

HEAR

Aug. 1: Super City Virtual Front Row

Creative Alliance Streaming Portal. 8- 9:15 p.m. $5-15.

Creative Alliance is ready to launch its new streaming portal, and what better way to celebrate than with a virtual concert? Indie quintet Super City will be taking the Patterson Theater stage to broadcast their old-school showmanship live for you to enjoy in the comfort of your homes. A portion of the proceeds from the concert will benefit the Equal Justice Initiative, which works to stop mass incarceration, excessive punishment, and racial inequality. Super City’s heavy, guitar-driven pop music and danceability combined with Creative Alliance’s HD stream will make you forget you aren’t dancing along in the front row.

DO

Aug. 1-2: Drive Thru Peach and Blackberry Festival at Weber’s

Weber’s Cider Mill Farm. 2526 Proctor Lane. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free.

Summer is the best time to snap up your favorite freshly-picked fruit, and Weber’s Cider Mill Farm won’t let COVID-19 stop them from serving up their juicy, sweet peaches and blackberries. The Parkville farm will be hosting a drive-thru festival so you and your family can safely get your hands on their sweet treats, including a peach-and-blackberry sundae, peach slush, peach creamsicle, and their famous cider donuts. You can even call ahead for curbside pick-up.

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Maryland Vegan Restaurant Week Aims to Offer Something for Everyone

Sarah Raymond — Fri, 07 Feb 2020 17:39:00 +0000

As plant-based restaurants continue to crop up all over the country, it seems as though the philosophy of veganism is advertised everywhere. Abstaining from the use of animal products reduces the pressure on the environment and has many health benefits. Baltimore has never been shy about partaking in the movement, and the second-annual Maryland Vegan Restaurant Week, returning February 7-23 this year, aims to further that mission locally.

Samantha Claassen, co-founder of the event, started her own Vegan Restaurant Week at Golden West Cafe in Hampden back in 2012. A few years later, she met Naijha Wright-Brown, owner of The Land of Kush, who wanted to partner to make it bigger.

“It was kismet,” Claassen says. “We thought we could make it city-wide and make it much bigger and broader.”

Claassen and Wright-Brown co-founded Maryland Vegan Restaurant Week shortly after, and the partnership has helped many other local restaurants catch on. With the motto, “something for everyone,” they want all diners to feel equal. Vegan Week encourages Maryland restaurants to create menus that are more inclusive, expanding their horizons to cater to all food restrictions.

“What goes on your plate is one of the most powerful decisions that you can make,” Claasen says. “The modern foodie realizes the power that they have when they make those choices. This echo-effect of positivity has the vegan marketplace continually growing in Baltimore.”

The bi-annual Maryland Vegan Restaurant Week, which was the first to go state-wide, returns this weekend with specials at more than 20 eateries. Participating restaurants have been challenged to showcase their most creative plant-based menu items, and this time around, exciting pop-ups will also be happening throughout the week. (Mark your calendar for a brunch at R. House on February 9 and a Valentine’s Day bingo night at L’Eau de Vie Organic Brasserie on February 14.) A portion of all profits will be donated to BARCS’ mission of helping animals in need.

With plenty of restaurants participating, here are a few recommendations to get you started:

Where to Take Your Vegan Friends

Golden West Cafe: Claasen’s Hampden cafe serves cuisine rooted in traditional New Mexican specialties and sourced from local producers. While its traditional menu serves a wide array of vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options, the team will be whipping up a vegan-specific menu for Restaurant Week. Diners can indulge in Oreo French toast, a pimento cauliflower sandwich, or the Beyond/Impossible sausage and frites. With so many menu items to choose from, your vegan friends will thank you. 1105 W 36th St.

The Land of Kush: Wright-Brown and her husband, chef Gregory Brown, have brought vegan soul food to Baltimore. Menu staples including meatless BBQ ribs, curry “chickun,” and vegan crab cakes are top sellers, and we can’t wait to see the new items they put out for the celebration. 840 N. Eutaw St.

Lunch Spots

Miss Shirley’s Café: This Charm City hotspot is known for its award-winning breakfast, brunch, and lunch, and it will be serving a vegan-specific menu for the occasion. If you’ve never eaten vegan before and aren’t sure if it’s right for you, the lengthy menu makes it easy to transition. Special dishes include avocado toast, gluten-free griddle cakes, a “Be More Beyond Burger,” and lemon-poppyseed pancakes. Various locations including 750 E Pratt St.

Sobo Cafe: If you only have time to grab lunch, this Federal Hill mainstay will be featuring options such as rosemary hummus, a grilled vegetable flatbread, and a mushroom Bahn Mi sandwich on special during Vegan Restaurant Week. 6 W Cross St.

Wicked Sisters: To help narrow down the choices, Wicked Sisters in Hampden will be offering a two-course lunch menu for $20, and a three-course dinner menu for $35 throughout Vegan Week. Choose from featured items like quinoa pancakes, the Beyond Vietnamese bowl, and a citrus almond salad. 3845 Falls Rd.

Dairy-Free Dessert

Harmony Bakery: This gluten-free, soy-free, and vegan family business serves customers savory and sweet treats daily. While they have a wide array of breakfast and lunch items, we’re a sucker for the sweets. Be sure to try the homemade strawberry pop tarts, the chocolate cake with lavender frosting, or a slice of chocolate turtle cake if you’re stopping in for a snack. Harmony also has special orders available for events. 3446 Chestnut Ave.

Vegan Twists

Alma Cocina Latina: With a menu that blends Venezuelan traditions with contemporary interpretations, Alma Cocina Latina has become a dining destination in Canton. While not traditionally vegan or vegetarian, Alma will be participating in the promotion with a special three-course fixed menu offering items such as a squash tartare and avo-chocolate mousse. 2400 Boston St.

Little Havana: While Cuban-inspired cuisine on South Baltimore’s waterfront might seem like it shouldn’t belong on this list, Little Havana is excited to switch up its menu and showcase how diverse vegan cuisine can be. The restaurant will be featuring vegan appetizers, entrees, and desserts. Be on the lookout for items like arepas and jackfruit carnitas tacos. 1325 Key Highway.

Koshary by Misteka: A traditionally vegan restaurant, Koshary by Misteka serves Egyptian street food which will be expanded to include surprise menu items. Located in Clarksville, Koshary aims to provide economic stability to refugee women and fight hunger. Its #DontEatAlone initiative donates one meal for every three sold, with over 2,600 meals donated by the restaurant thus far. 12250 Clarksville Pike.

Be sure to visit Red Emma’s, The GruB Factory, Namaste Donuts, L’Eau de Vie Organic Brasserie, Stem Farm and Kitchen, Sprout Natural Choice, and Gangster Vegan Organics both during the week and after, as each of these restaurants are all vegan all of the time.

Additional restaurants that will be participating in Maryland Vegan Restaurant Week include Hampden spots Paulie Gee’s, Treehouse Cafe, and The Charmery. Roland Park Bagels, Charm School Chocolate, and Flight American Fusion are also included.

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The Land of Kush Owners Win Grant to Make Restaurant Cashless

Lauren Cohen — Wed, 11 Apr 2018 16:11:00 +0000

In a world that’s driving full speed ahead in the direction of digital, it’s no shock to hear that restaurants are leaning more toward e-wallets, rather than traditional leather ones.

Among the local spots embracing the trend is The Land of Kush near Mt. Vernon, which was recently deemed one of the 50 winners of a nationwide contest organized by Visa. The competition encouraged small business owners to turn to a 100 percent cashless payment alternative, and awarded all of the winners with a $10,000 prize to strengthen their businesses.

“We’re still exploring that option, how it will work, and if it’s the best thing for our customers,” said Greg Brown, owner of The Land of Kush. “There’s a percentage of folks who don’t have banks, access to bank accounts, or debit cards, so we have to look at how that would impact our customers who have no other option but to pay cash,” added his wife, co-owner Naijha Wright-Brown.

As part of the contest, the Browns submitted a 60-second video explaining how their restaurant would benefit if it was totally cash-free. They entered the contest on the day of the deadline, and found out they were the only winners in Maryland. Although they acknowledge some limitations with the system, they believe it’s advantageous overall.

“I just think that everything is digital,” Brown said. “It’s more efficient, and people don’t have to fumble around looking for cash in their pockets,” Wright-Brown added.

Some of their main concerns as business owners include theft and robbery by both employees and outsiders. Because of this, they feel that the cashless approach will act as a safeguard to their restaurant and customers alike.

Additionally, consumer loyalty programs depend on POS—point of sale—systems to track purchase patterns, which is only accessible through the use of credit card and digital pay. Going cash-free would give more diners specialized incentives and rewards, which would save them money in the long run.

“We’re moving to a cashless society,” Brown said. “You can see that in the trends, you constantly see updates in the way people do businesses. Technology is changing, and you have to be on the cutting edge of it.”

The plan to use the prize money to renovate their second location in East Baltimore—which is housed in an old Chinese carry-out restaurant. It’s slated to seat almost triple the number of people compared to their Mt. Vernon location, and just like the original, it will act as food resource and education hub for the local community.

“It was just the right timing, the energy was there, and I just had a really good feeling about it,” Wright-Brown said. “I was surprised, but then I was like, ‘We deserve this, we work hard, we give back to the community, so it’s only right that this is how we’re rewarded.’”

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The Land of Kush Opening Second Location in East Baltimore This Fall

Lauren Cohen — Mon, 19 Feb 2018 13:03:00 +0000

Chef Gregory Brown is a big believer in setting goals. Though he started his career in the telecommunications sector, his overall ambition was to open his own vegan restaurant.

“I didn’t want to be there,” he says. “So I started writing the things that I wanted to do in a vision book. Since I was vegan, I thought, ‘Why not open a vegan restaurant?’”

After serving his dairy-free dishes at big-name events like Artscape and AFRAM, Brown and his wife Naijha Wright-Brown—whom he met at his previous Verizon Wireless job—finally made that dream a reality when they opened vegan soul food spot The Land of Kush on Eutaw Street near the University of Maryland Midtown campus in 2011. Now, Brown is getting ready to cross yet another one of his long-term objectives off of his list.

“The goal has always been to expand,” he says. “It’s something that we’ve wanted to do from the beginning.”

Come fall, the co-owners will unveil a second Land of Kush location at the corner of Madison and Chester streets near the Johns Hopkins Medical campus in East Baltimore. The larger digs will provide the team with more breathing room to serve the spot’s signature vegan fare, including favorites like faux chicken salad, lentil burgers, and meatless crab cakes made with artichoke hearts.

“I like that our approach is a soft one,” Wright-Brown says. “We’re not bullies about promoting veganism. Our whole vegan soul food concept is strong—we have collard greens, mac and cheese, and other comfort dishes on the menu so people are drawn to try it. But you don’t have to worry about us beating you over the head saying, ‘You have to go vegan.’”

The inviting atmosphere, in addition to the food, has caused the restaurant to outgrow its 23-seat flagship location. As they were looking to expand, the owners were introduced to the new East Baltimore space by Harbor Bank CEO Joseph Haskins Jr.

After dining at the restaurant, Haskins pitched the couple the idea of helping him transform the property—a former Chinese food carryout connected to a vacant rowhome—into a restaurant.

Brown estimates that the new eatery will be around 600 square feet larger than the original location, as well as offer nearly 75 seats. The duo is looking forward to developing and designing the space from the ground up—something that wasn’t necessary for the first property, which came equipped with refrigeration, light fixtures, and furniture.

Specifically, they’d like the interior to have an eclectic vibe that incorporates earthy tones and Afro-futuristic pieces by local artists.

“If I had magic hands, I would really create our current space how I see it, and it would look completely different,” Brown says. “Now we get the opportunity to really do that with the second location. We can create what we want it to look like.”

Brown is also excited to get creative in the kitchen. He hopes to experiment with more international dishes inspired by his wife’s Spanish heritage.

“We’ll be able to do a lot more,” he says. “We’re looking to add some more innovative things to the menu that can give the community something new to dig into.”

The new restaurant is expected to open its doors in September. Aside from serving their meatless fare, the owners say that they are also looking to build relationships within the East Baltimore community—whether it’s through their all-ages cooking tutorials, job-training assistance, or vegan outreach programs.

“It’s not just a business for us,” Brown says. “We also want to be socially involved in the city. We all know the things that the city is going through, and we want to help to be the facilitators of its change.”

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Open & Shut: Bistro Rx; The Land of Kush; Modern Market

Lauren Cohen — Thu, 15 Feb 2018 11:56:00 +0000

CH-CH CHANGES

Bistro Rx: Patterson Park locals have come to love this corner staple, which has been offering al fresco drinks, rotating dinner dishes, and weekend brunch fare since it opened in 2010. Last week, owner Wayne Mahaffey—who also owns Mahaffey’s Pub in Canton—took to Facebook to announce some major changes in the works at his spot on the corner of East Baltimore and South Luzerne streets. For now, the pub’s last night of service will be Friday, February 16. It will be open for weekend brunch until the spring, when new owners are expected to resume regular hours daily. “It’s a transition,” Mahaffey writes. “I am confident that the new owners will bring the same kind of neighborhood revitalization force that it has been my pleasure to provide for you over the last seven years.” 2901 E. Baltimore St., 410-276-0820

The Land of Kush: This vegan mainstay on North Eutaw Street near the University of Maryland Midtown campus has had a lot going on recently. In the midst of headlining initiatives like Vegan Restaurant Week and the month-long Black Restaurant Challenge, husband-and-wife owners Gregory Brown and Naijha Wright-Brown are preparing to open a second location. Slated to debut next fall, the new spot on the corner of Madison and Chester Streets in East Baltimore will be significantly larger than the current digs. The owners are looking forward to becoming ingrained in the community, and serving neighbors their signature non-dairy dishes including lentil burgers, gluten free “chickun” salad, and the weekends-only vegan crab cakes seasoned with Old Bay. 801 N. Chester St.

COMING SOON

Cake by Jason: A grand opening date for Jason Hisley’s new Baltimore County bakeshop is slated for April. Back in October, the former La Cakerie owner and executive chef announced that he would be parting ways with his business partners to start a bakery of his own. “My vision for La Cakerie was to introduce a small, cozy shop where our community could enter in one mood, and leave happier when they entered,” Hisley wrote on Facebook. “As the brand became more recognized by a national audience, it became less recognizable as the vision I had when the journey began.” Though the Timonium shop, Cake by Jason Hisley, will have a new look and feel (fresh signage is already hung at the store in the Padonia Village Shopping Center), its menu will feature the chef’s classic cupcakes, donuts, pastries, coffee, and custom cakes. 47 E. Padonia Road

The Regal Beagle: Three’s Company fans most likely recognize the name of this new Canton cocktail bar, which is expected to open in the former home of Jack’s Bistro in April. According to reports by The Sun, former Jack’s owner Ted Stelzenmuller—who recently closed the restaurant to open new concept Blair’s on Hudson around the corner—will oversee the menu, while veteran bartender Ryan Sparks will head up the beverage program with cocktails inspired by the ’70s and ’80s when Three’s Company aired. Stay tuned for more details. 3123 Elliott St.

OPEN

Modern Market: Columbia diners welcomed this new all-day eatery with open arms earlier this week. The Colorado-based chain offers a menu of light fare, including avocado toast and oatmeal for breakfast, a variety of salads and grain bowls, brick-oven pizzas, and proteins ranging from lemongrass pulled pork to sesame tofu. The lean-and-green concept takes inspiration from renowned food and environmental author Michael Pollan, who advises a plant-fueled diet mixed with healthy fats. 6181 Old Dobbin Lane, Columbia, 443-583-3337

EPICUREAN EVENTS

2/16: Asian Pop-Up at The Corner Pantry
In celebration of the Chinese New Year, chef Neill Howell is offering a one-day-only menu of Asian-inspired eats at this Mt. Washington favorite. (The upcoming Year of the Dog serves as a fitting nod to the The Corner Pantry’s mascot, which just so happens to be the owners’ English Bulldog, Bessie.) Expect special dishes including kimchi pancakes, charcoal-grilled Korean short ribs, soba noodle salad, steamed buns, shrimp toast, Peking duck, and egg custard tartlets. 6080 Falls Road, 667-308-2331

2/18: Stranger Things Brunch & Trivia
If you haven’t binged Stranger Things since the second season dropped on Netflix in the fall, it’s time to brush up on your knowledge of the Upside Down. Jimmy’s Famous Seafood in Dundalk is embracing the sci-fi series by hosting an ’80s-themed trivia brunch this weekend. Dress in your finest vintage get-up to chow down on brunch fare including benedicts and bagels (and possibly Eggos?) while answering questions about Mike, Hopper, Eleven, and the rest of the gang from 2-4 p.m. There will be plenty of prizes for the teams that know Hawkins best. 6526 Holabird Ave., Dundalk, 410-633-4040, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

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Black Restaurant Challenge Urges Diners to Try African-American-Owned Spots

Lauren Cohen — Mon, 22 Jan 2018 10:48:00 +0000

The inspiration for chef Casey Jenkins’ Black Restaurant Challenge dates back to the summer of 2014, when it seemed like everyone with a Facebook page was dumping a bucket of cold water on their head to boost awareness and collect funds for ALS research. The viral videos, which were reported to have raised more than $115 million for the cause, prompted Jenkins to create a social media campaign of his own.

“One day I was sitting at Terra Cafe having lunch, just relaxing and joking like I always do,” Jenkins recalls. “And I was on my phone looking at all of the Ice Bucket Challenge videos. I remember thinking, ‘Hey, we could do our own challenge.’”

His idea was to create an online charge urging locals to spend their dining dollars at two African-American-owned restaurants per week. Though it took a few years to work out the kinks, Jenkins—who formerly owned Darker Than Blue in Waverly and now operates Birdland Cafe on Belair Road—is finally gearing up to launch the inaugural Black Restaurant Challenge from February 3-25.

During that time, he is asking locals to frequent the participating eateries at least twice per week and post about their experiences on social media using the hashtag #BlackRestaurantChallenge.

“The thing that has always been a little troubling to me about Baltimore City is the lack of representation for African-American-owned restaurants,” Jenkins says. “You’re talking about a city that is comprised of over 60 percent African-Americans. We strive to put [these restaurants] out there ourselves.”

Throughout the past year, Jenkins has been meeting with city leaders including Visit Baltimore president and CEO Al Hutchinson, Downtown Partnership president Kirby Fowler, and Harbor Bank CEO Joseph Haskins Jr. to flesh out the concept and gain support.

“It only took one phone call to each one of these people,” he says. “It didn’t take much convincing to explain that this is a feather in the cap for tourism in Baltimore.”

The challenge will begin with a kick-off event featuring live music and bites from a handful of the participating eateries at the Baltimore Visitor Center on Friday, February 2. The free event, which has attracted interest from more than 40,000 people on Facebook, has reached its capacity, but there is room to RSVP on a waitlist.

Following the kickoff, chefs from African-American-owned restaurants throughout the city will be offering specials and discounts to help promote the three-week initiative. The participating eateries include downtown vegan soul food spot The Land of Kush, Terra Cafe in Charles Village, Peace & A Cup of Joe in Ridgely’s Delight, R. House pop-up The Urban Oyster, Teavolve in Harbor East, Sully’s Seafood & Barbecue on Belair Road, The Big Bean Theory inside the Mount Vernon Marketplace, Connie’s Chicken & Waffles at Lexington Market, food truck Sharif’s House of Wraps, and Water for Chocolate in Upper Fells Point.

Water for Chocolate owner and executive chef Sean Guy says that he has already begun preparing for the influx of diners—testing possible specials such as charred octopus and scallops, and teriyaki chicken livers with bacon-parmesan grits and poached eggs. Guy mentions that, compared to other city-wide dining promotions that lock owners into a fixed price point, the Black Restaurant Challenge allows him more flexibility.

“It’s tough for me to participate in the regular Restaurant Week because I have to set my price point at a place where I can compete,” he says. “With this, the parameters were a little wider. It’s going to give the consumers a look at a variety of cuisine and what there is to offer here. It’s a good deal.”

Looking ahead, Jenkins is already hoping to expand the challenge, with possible plans to launch a summer iteration corresponding with Juneteenth (the anniversary celebrating the abolition of U.S. slavery), and has even been asked to speak about his experience organizing the event at an African-American chefs conference in Atlanta this March.

“There are some solid African-American-owned restaurants in this city,” Jenkins says. “You just have to give them a chance.”

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