If you’re looking for a dining experience that’s truly unique, Monarque in Harbor East should definitely be on your list. The French brasserie is an ode to the opulence and extravagance of French culture during its era of prosperity.The atmosphere at Monarque is immersive and takes you back to another time and place. The classic menu created by Chef Martin Gonzalez is a true representation of French cuisine, with dishes like escargot, foie gras, and steak frites. To perfectly complement the menu, Monarque has an extensive beverage program with over 500 French wine labels, as well as a collection of cognac and armagnac....
But what really sets Monarque apart from other restaurants is its entertainment. Every weekend, Monarque hosts a rotation of acts on stage, including dancers, singers, musicians, contortionists, sword swallowers, poets, and more. This adds a whole new layer of excitement and energy to the dining experience.
The ambiance at Monarque is chic and sophisticated, with velvet booths, brass accents, and moody lighting. The space is grand and expansive, making it perfect for special occasions or a romantic date night.
But with all that said, it’s important to note that Monarque is not just a place to see and be seen. The food, wine, and cocktails are all expertly crafted and thoughtfully presented. Whether you’re looking for a traditional French dish or something with a modern twist, the menu at Monarque has something for everyone.
Ekiben is a small but mighty restaurant located in the heart of Fells Point in Baltimore. Known for their Asian-inspired street food with a twist, Ekiben has quickly become a local favorite since its opening in 2014....
One of their most popular dishes is the “Neighborhood Bird,” which is a creative take on the classic fried chicken sandwich, featuring a perfectly fried chicken thigh, slathered in a sweet and spicy sauce made with honey, Old Bay seasoning, and the restaurant’s secret blend of spices. The chicken is then topped with a refreshing slaw made with pickled daikon and carrots, and nestled between a soft and fluffy steamed bun.
But the Neighborhood Bird is just one of many dishes on the menu that showcases Ekiben’s creativity and attention to detail. From their pork belly bao buns to their Korean fried chicken rice bowls, every dish is made with care and the freshest ingredients.
The atmosphere at Ekiben is casual and laid-back, with communal seating and a no-frills interior. But the food is anything but basic. The restaurant has received numerous accolades over the years, including being named one of Bon Appetit’s Best New Restaurants in America in 2016.
Located in Harford County, The Local is a true gem that brings the farm-to-table concept to life. The chef’s dedication to hyper local and seasonal ingredients has garnered them the coveted Best Chef of Maryland award from the Restaurant Association of Maryland. The Local’s changing menu features the freshest produce, meat, and seafood, all sourced from within a 100-mile radius. With a focus on supporting local farmers and businesses, dining at The Local is not only a delicious experience, but a sustainable one too....
For meat-lovers, the beef wellington is a must-try, with tender beef wrapped in flaky pastry. The shrimp and grits is another standout dish, showcasing the freshest local seafood. And for those looking for a truly indulgent experience, the 48-hour short rib is a melt-in-your-mouth delight.
The intimate atmosphere and cozy decor make for a delightful dining experience. Be sure to arrive early to secure a seat and indulge in The Local’s unique cocktail menu, featuring locally sourced ingredients and creative twists on classic drinks.
If you’re in Harford County or nearby, make sure to check out The Local for a taste of the best Maryland has to offer (trust me, it’s worth the drive).
A true standout in the city’s culinary scene, Foraged takes the concept of farm-to-table dining to the next level. Each item on the menu is crafted using only the freshest, local, and seasonal ingredients, hand-picked by the chef himself. And with a culinary ethos deeply rooted in the woods, you can expect to find an array of unique and delicious dishes that you won’t find anywhere else. But it’s not just the food that makes Foraged special – it’s also the chef’s commitment to sustainability and ethical food sourcing. This commitment is reflected in every aspect of the restaurant, from the carefully crafted menu to the cozy and eco-friendly decor....
And it’s no wonder that the chef behind Foraged has been nominated as a James Beard semi-finalist for Best Chef Mid-Atlantic. With a commitment to quality, sustainability, and local sourcing, Foraged is truly a one-of-a-kind dining experience that you won’t want to miss. So why not take a walk on the wild side and give Foraged a try?
Get ready to loosen your belt and satisfy your taste buds with some of the best comfort food in Baltimore. The Food Market, located in the quirky neighborhood of Hampden, is a foodie’s paradise.First up on our list of must-tries are the French Onion Rings. These crispy, golden rings are so good, they’ll make you forget all about those boring regular onion rings....
But wait, there’s more! The Food Market’s 1-pound crab cake is a seafood masterpiece that’ll have you feeling like a king (or queen) of the sea. And the crab spaghetti? Well, let’s just say it’s so delicious, you’ll want to take a bath in it.
But it’s not just the food that makes The Food Market so special. It’s the elevated comfort food experience, with cozy decor and friendly staff that’ll make you feel like you’re dining in your own home (if your home had really, really good food).
And let’s not forget about the neighborhood. Hampden is a quirky and charming area with unique shops and plenty of character. It’s the perfect backdrop for a meal that’ll leave you feeling warm and fuzzy inside.
