Ethel's Creole Kitchen is a two-storeyed Cajun and Creole restaurant that has seating arrangements outside and also on the rooftop. From the outside, it gives an impression of a European bungalow and yellow and black colored walls and the plants adorning the railings only add credibility to the said impression. Once inside, you will come across a neatly arranged row of tables giving this place a pleasant atmosphere. The yellow walls with paintings and bright lightings give this eatery a welcoming feel, adding to its charm. However, it is not only the overall decor but also the promise of serving authentic Cajun and Creole food that brings people to Ethel's Creole Kitchen. Some of the restaurant's highlights include delicacies such as Nola Chicken, Creole Shrimp Boat, Fried Chesapeake Oysters, Mom's Crabcakes, Slow Roasted Baby Back Ribs and many more. However, the one recipe that shouldn't be missed here is the Jambalaya, a dish which was described by The Baltimore Sun as one of the city's finest single-dish meals.
One of Baltimore's largest breweries, The Brewer's Art is set in a grand townhouse on North Charles Street. Spread out over two levels, the bar and dining room lies on the ground floor and the lounge and smaller bar area can be found on the lower level. House brews include the strong Beazly, Birdhouse Ale and the flavorful Resurrection. They also offer an extensive wine list, wide selection of whiskey and other spirits. Their reasonably priced food menu features delicious pubfare (sandwiches, small plates), intriguing entrées, continental cuisine and desserts. Gluten free and vegetarian options are also available. With its happy hours, plenty of seating options, impeccable service and guided tours (every other Saturday), The Brewer's Art offers guests a unique dining experience.
Named after the chef's grandmother, Gertrude's is located in the Baltimore Museum of Art. The kitchen lavishes attention on the details of each of its Maryland-style seafood dishes, making sure that each is a unique creation. The two types of crab cakes for instance are distinctly different: the Eastern Shore is traditional, made of crabmeat and little else, while the Gertie is a more modern, spicy affair. Enjoy your meal in the chic and homey pastel dining room or on the outdoor patio.
Ruth's Chris Steakhouse welcomes you to a warm and comfortable interior, furnished with rich, dark wood and elegant fixtures. The finest aged, corn-fed USDA prime beef, broiled at 1,800 degrees, fresh seafood and meat entrees are some of the dishes that feature on the menu. Enticing seasonal delicacies, such as foie gras are also available. Take your pick from the extensive list of over 100 domestic and imported wines to complement your meal and if you have enough room, try to squeeze in one of the delicious desserts!
A casual ambiance for a nice, relaxed meal and lot of varieties of wine: that's the Iron Bridge Wine Company in Columbia. The 'small plates-great wines' combination has won many loyal patrons for this friendly neighborhood joint over the years. Some of the dishes from the sample menu are Seared Diver Scallops, Braised Lamb Shank and Mushroom Risotto. Send them an email if you want to arrange a private gathering at The Iron Bridge Wine Company. Check website for more information.
Established more than 30 years ago, Andy Nelson's Barbecue is a family-run barbecue place which is known for its hickory-smoked meat dishes like brisket, smoked sausages and pulled pork. The tradition of barbecue goes back to Andy Nelson's father Guy Nelson who was though of as one of the best barbecue cooks in the Limestone County area. Incorporating these family recipes into the Memphis-style barbecue tradition, Andy Nelson and his wife, Betty have come up with a completely unique style of barbecue which is served here. Made to simmer in a sauce with a secret family recipe after it is slow-cooked at the hickory oven, the meat here is nothing short of perfection. Critically acclaimed in the media and the recipient of many awards, this restaurant is definitely worth a visit.