This week is a big one in the Baltimore culinary world, with events and news covering all the bases, from barbecue to baklava to kimbap. Here’s a look at what’s coming up:
Openings & announcements
Broadway Market gets a new BBQ option this week, when Soul Smoked BBQ opens a permanent stall on Friday, May 29. Soul Smoked has been a weekend pop-up at the market and is a regular fixture at the Baltimore Farmer’s Market, where it will continue to have a stall, in addition to its new spot in Fells.
Food lovers across the area were saddened this week by the announcement that Heritage Smokehouse will shut its doors after its lease ends in August. The Govans restaurant has been in operation for five years and is well-known for its excellent meat, drinks, and more. The owners are looking at new opportunities, so hopefully they’ll pop back up somewhere nearby this fall.
Brew at the Zoo
On May 23 and 24, the Maryland Zoo’s annual fundraiser, Brew at the Zoo, returns. The party includes live music, a watermelon eating contest, special drink stations scattered throughout the zoo, plus food and samples of more than 80 craft bevvies.
The Flavor Lab at Artscape
Artscape is also this weekend and, like in recent years, food will be front and center during the event, particularly on The Flavor Lab demo stage, where events are hosted by Baltimore’s own Chef Cat. The lineup of food vendors is a good one, with lots of different options, including favorites like Ekiben, Ethel’s Creole Kitchen, and Waiting to Oxtail.
On the grill at Manor Mill
On Wednesday, Chef Jerry Edwards visits Manor Mill in Monkton for a fun class on outdoor grilling. The class includes a demonstration of multiple grilling and smoking techniques followed by a meal of grilled dishes, from espresso-rubbed ribeye to peaches and cream.
Friuli wine dinner at Sally O’s
Also on Wednesday, Sally O’s presents a four-course meal designed to pair with the wines of Friuli in Italy.
McClintock at Magdalena
Also on Wednesday, the team from McClintock Distilling will take over the bar at Magdalena for a happy hour event. The menu will include a lineup of specialty cocktails using McClintock’s spirits, plus bar bites (and dinner service starting at 5).
Booze & BBQ at Louthan Distilling
On Thursday, May 28, head to Louthan Distilling for Booze & BBQ, a fundraiser to support the opening of The Market at Hamilton, the new venture from the Silver Queen Café crew.
The ticketed event includes tastings from a variety of distillers, wineries, and craft breweries, and there will be BBQ (from Silver Queen) available for purchase.
Tres Français lunch
On Friday afternoon, Petit Louis continues its Tres Français lunch series with a four-course meal paired with Champagne and other special wines from the restaurant’s storied cellar.
The Art of Kimbap K-Food Experience
On Friday, May 29, Motorhouse is partnering with Washington D.C.’s Korean Cultural Center to welcome chef Des So for an Asia North event, The Art of Kimbap. The event includes discussion, a live kimbap-making demonstration, and a tasting experience.
Festival season
Next weekend is a big one for cultural festivals.
On May 28, the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Annunciation kicks off its 54th annual Greek Food, Wine & Culture Festival. The three day event includes music, dance, shopping, and tons of food and wine.
And May 29 through May 31, Little Italy will come alive with its annual street festival celebrating St. Anthony. The festival, which started in 1904, includes music, games, vendors, kids’ activities, and plenty of wine, beer, and food.
Planning for the future
Mark your calendars for:
June 6: Charles Street Promenade
June 8: Meatball Monday at Johnny’s
June 17: Michael Leonard at Boordy
