Bmore Foody - Ask me about my mise en place

Foody Weekend in Maryland

2011-04-30T11:49:00.004-04:00

UPCOMING FOODY EVENTS
This weekend is an amazing weekend to be a foody in Maryland...

The 2011 Annapolis International Food Wine & Hops Festival
http://www.annapolisinternationalfoodfest.com/
April 30th
12-5pm
$25 per ticket
Limit 750 tickets being sold

Taste of the Town (Chestertown)
http://www.tasteofchestertown.com/
May 1st
12-3
$12

Winefest at St. Michaels
http://www.winefestatstmichaels.com/
April 29th - May 1st
GATE TICKETS WILL BE $50 PER DAY

Towsontown Spring Festival
http://www.towsontownspringfestival.com/
April 30th - May 1st

Amazing Deal for Point of Sale System for a Bar, Restaurant, Retail or Multi Unit Establishment

2011-01-13T13:04:00.008-05:00

Every once and a while there is a deal that sounds to good to be true...
A Free POS System sounds like one of them.

This is no Mercury POS System, where they jack your rates after your locked into their POS System and need to buy a $1300 Datacap Modem to leave them.
This is not a Micro's System... Your First Born down and a large service contract paid quarterly and giftcards, credit cards, loyalty programs are all additional modules which means more money.

Also United Bank Card is the owner of HarborTouch POS Systems. So all the credit card, gift card, loyalty card software is 100% integrated.

Basically the deal is you pay a monthly support contract, they supply the system.
Basic Package is about $59.00 a month per unit with more accessories that cost can go up.

The Free POS Systems should be available by the end of January 2011.
They are currently selling the same unit for about $2500-$3000.
Free does not mean a cheap system here.

For More information Contact
Matthew E.
CEO@YourProcessingCompany.com

Knob Hall Winery

2011-01-11T11:26:00.003-05:00

So I was at a networking event last night and met the owner of Knob Hall Winery... Very Nice gentleman... As we were chatting he was telling me about his upcoming wine selection and a contest...

Pick a Name...Win a Case!

This Spring, we will bottle a new white wine blend. It will be a mid-range priced wine. Help us pick a name and if we choose your name, you will win a case of the wine! The name should be along the theme of our Jealous Mistress label, so it should have a romance or love connotation. Send your potential names to info@knobhallwinery.com
http://www.knobhallwinery.com/

A great up in coming Local Maryland Winery, won 3 Gold Metals in the Governor's Cup in 2010.

They also have a Women Who Wine club... Someone in the group of guys who were chatting said I think I already know a few women who are members of that club... lol...

Friend's Blog

2011-01-08T21:37:00.002-05:00

One of my close friends Alex, is now blogging at The Manly Oven... take the time to check out her out on this blog... http://www.manlyoven.com/

Restaurant Review (Atlanta Bread Company) Severna Park

2010-12-16T10:10:00.005-05:00

551 Ritchie Hwy
Severna Park, MD 21146
(410) 315-7887
Website

I've eaten here a few times before writing this review.

This restaurant has completely turned around from a few years ago... a remodel, new owner, better management and a well trained staff. The quality and consistency of the food has increased and they even bring the food to your table when you dine in. My only complaint is they can get a little busy at lunch, sometimes a line out the door. So come early, come late, phone in your order. The soup, salad and sandwich selection are amazing... My personal favorites are the hot pastrami, any of the panini's, corn chowder and brocoilli and cheddar soup. I was shocked and pleasantly surprised to find out they serve breakfast all day and they use real eggs, none of those frozen egg patties here. I would suggest sitting over by the fireplace and TV to relax while eating your meal. Every Tuesday and Thursday night is kids night and on Wednesdays Senior Citizens get 10% off all purchases all day.

I've even used them for catering and they deliver literally. Any order over $200 and they will bring the food to you... The food is the same great fresh quality trayed up for your needs... I have used their website for catering but I find it easier just to call the store and ask for the catering manager.

Hiatus

2010-11-30T19:00:00.001-05:00

Bmore Foody will be back from Hiatus in the New Year.

Restaurant Review (Zella's Pizzeria)

2010-09-04T00:02:00.005-04:00

1145 Hollins St
Baltimore, MD 21223
(410) 685-6999
www.zellaspizzeria.com

Just off West Lombard in the Hollins Market/Sowebo neighborhoods. There is the best pizza I have had in Baltimore so far. This bar sits on the corner hidden by the Hollins Market. One of the smaller markets, unlike Cross Street and Lexington Market... The prices are very affordable for what you order. The crust is pillowly with a nice chew to it. The toppings are plentiful and fresh. We had tried the margarita and the Eggplant, Olive, Roasted Red Pepper and Feta pizza. They were both done well... The staff was pleasant and attentive. They pour their mixed drinks strong, and have a number of beer in bottles and on tap. A great place to sit and chat with friends in a relaxing environment. There is also plenty of street parking, even on a friday night. I would recommend this pizza place and it is worth the short drive out to this out of the way neighborhood.

Restaurant Review (JTB's Kitchen)

2010-08-30T21:47:00.004-04:00

http://jtbskitchen.com

I've know Jenn the Baker of JTB's Kitchen for a little over a year now. Her and her husband Phillip run JTB's Kitchen. They are avid motorcyclist. And her products got started by bringing some cookie bars to the track days. It is a nice story I've heard from Jenn the Baker a few times.

The products are very tasty and are great gifts for any occasion. She sells cookie bars, crispy treats, pumpkin rolls and other tasty treats. They even have monthly subscriptions of most of their products. All the products I've tasted have been moist and tender with the right balance of sweet and crispiness. I would recommend them for gifts or treats. Order the larger size because they will go quick.

JTB's Kitchen gives a discount to all orders shipping to a United States Military member receiving mail to an AF, AP, AA, AC, AE, or AM address, qualify for a 20% discount on all orders $10 or more. They also have multiple order and shipping specials.

Rant/Review (Yellow Cab of Baltimore)

2010-08-29T18:28:00.005-04:00

410-685-1212
http://www.yellowcabofbaltimore.com/

I would not recommend Yellow Cab of Baltimore!!!

Living in the city of Baltimore, sometime driving does not make sense. So I have an iphone pull up a cab on an app... I've used this company 4 times. I've had 4 issues.

Drivers not show up for an hour... Called back the company and they sent out another cab in 20 minutes or so. This has happened 3 times. Twice was the same drivers who did not show on different events.

The one time that the cab did not show up for an hour, and we had called the company for a new cab to come out. We had paid for the cab via credit card... The cab that never showed up and we were charged my card 46.50... I know crazyness...

The yellow cab dispatch didn't really do anything... After the 3rd call I got the corporate information for Veolia Transportation. After decrypting there secret code to get to an operator. And about 4 phone calls over 5 days. I got my refund. This is a crazy process. They did not make it easy and I would not recommend using them.

Restaurant Review (Tapas Teatro Cafe)

2010-08-28T11:07:00.007-04:00

1711 N Charles St
Baltimore, MD 21201
(410) 332-0110
www.tapasteatro.net

After eating at Tapas Teatro Cafe, I will have to say this an amazing restaurant. The server's are educated, and polite. They make recommendations based on your tastes and wants. The chef and cooks prepared the food very well. The overall impression of the meal was very positive.

We had ordered a glass of wine Pinot Grigio from Italy. The wine was from Alois Lagader "Riff". This is about a $15.00 - $20.00 bottle of wine in a wine shop. The flavor was very balanced and the fruity notes were mild with low acid. I am not a fan of Pinot Grigio but this was a very good Pinot Grigio.

We had started with baby potatoes, boiled baby potatoes dusted with salt and a dollop of sweet garlic aoli. The potatoes were tender and smooth with a creamy aoli. This is a simple dish and none remained shortly after arriving at the table. We also had the haricot verte and asparagus salad. This salad with green bean, asparagus, sweet garlic cloves, and peppers, dressed with a vinaigrette.

For the entrées we had for dinner were the lamb and lentils. This skewered lamb medallion was grilled and served with creamy and not to spicy lentils. The lamb was not gamey. We also ate the pincho moruno, a grilled pork medallion marinated in cumin, paprika, garlic. This pork was moist and tender and had a nice smokey taste.

For dessert we had chocolate royale a plated 3 layer chocolate dessert with crispy and smooth layers and a raspberry sauce on the plate.

This restaurant also sits right next to the charles theatre.

Restaurant Review (G&M Restaurant & Lounge)

2010-08-19T20:27:00.003-04:00

G&M Restaurant & Lounge
804 N Hammonds Ferry Rd
Linthicum Heights, MD 21090
(410) 636-1777
www.gandmcrabcakes.com

I'm not a fan of the decor or the wait at this restaurant, but they make an amazing crab cake. This crab cake can even be shipped uncooked and on dry ice to your door. Make a great birthday, or Christmas gift. So you know what to get me...

Restaurant Review (Abbey Burger Bistro)

2010-08-19T17:40:00.002-04:00

1041 Marshall St
Baltimore, MD 21230
(443) 453-9698
www.abbeyburgerbistro.com

We stopped by this establishment for dinner. The food is always good... What I liked this time was the service, The bartenders, and managers interact with the customers and make it a very enjoyable experience. This is my favorite burger joint in federal hill.

Shop Review (Candy Kitchens)

2010-08-15T22:25:00.003-04:00

5301 Coastal Hwy
Ocean City, MD 21842
(410) 524-6002

This is a shop I come to for a nice sweet treat while walking the board walk. From dots to chocolate covered anything. I personally like the haystacks and chocolate covered pretzels. The fudge is good alittle rich for my liking. Any treats and sweets needed can be found here.

Restaurant Review (Greene Turtle)

2010-08-15T22:08:00.003-04:00

11601 Coastal Hwy
Ocean City, MD 21842
(410)-723-2120
www.greeneturtle.com

I'm not normally a fan of chain restaurants, but we stopped for dinner at this Greene Turtle Restaurant. We were seated right away, the drinks were nothing special. We had ordered the chicken chesapeake, a grilled chicken breast with crab dip, bacon, and melted american cheese on a toasted potato roll. The chicken was moist and the crab dip was flavorful. I was pleasantly suprised by the sandwich. We had also ordered a Southwest Chicken Chop Salad full of fresh romaine lettuce, corn, tomatoes, grilled chicken, cucumber, fresh fried onion ring. The dressing was alittle spicy but very tasty. I was suprised with the quality and quantity of the food from the greene turtle, I was not expecting something so good.

Restaurant Review (Thrashers French Fries)

2010-08-14T22:41:00.003-04:00

801 N Boardwalk
Ocean City, MD 21842
(410) 289-4150

401 N Boardwalk
Ocean City, MD 21842
(410) 289-7232

This is one of the few foods, I would wait in a 30 minute line for. Thrasher's French Fries are what french fries should be. The memory of fresh cut double fried fries, fried in peanut oil on a hot summers day at the beach, are perfect to me. No ketcup or vinegar is needed here just alittle salt. Well worth the wait anytime your in OC.

Restaurant Review (Brass Balls Saloon)

2010-08-14T22:13:00.005-04:00

1105 Atlantic Ave
Ocean City, MD 21842
(410) 289-0069

A quick dinner at Brass Balls Saloon, was very enjoyable after walking down the board walk in Ocean City, MD. After a brief wait in line, we were promptly seated and offered drinks. The manager came around and lit the teaky tourches by our table. The server made recommendations by our moods and we ended up with fried mac and cheese wedges for an appetizer, they were crispy and creamy. We shared the seafood duo for dinner. The crab cake had very little filler and lump crab meat. The tuna steak was cooked to medium. I'm not a fan of pink tuna, this tuna steak was cooked perfectly. The server recommended it to be medium instead of medium well not to have it overcooked. Brass Balls Saloon was very busy and the service was impeciable. I would come back again next time I was intown.

Restaurant Review (Fisher's Popcorn)

2010-08-14T17:10:00.006-04:00

200 S. Boardwalk, Ocean City, Md. 21842
Call: 888-395-0335
Local: 410-289-5638
Fisher's Popcorn

I love their caramel popcorn. I always stop to get at least a gallon container and I never have any left by the time I get back to the western shore. If you bring back your tub you even get a $1 off! Best Caramel Popcorn in Ocean City. Hands Down.

Restaurant Review (Bull on the Beach)

2010-08-14T17:02:00.003-04:00

17 94th St
Ocean City, MD 21842
(410) 524-2455

We stopped for lunch and dined out side. The pit ham and roasted beef were good, the meat was moist and tender. We had also ordered a ruben, which was a little messy with finely shredded corn beef, russian dressing, and swiss cheese. The fries were crisp. This is a place we always stop to eat when in town.

Restaurant Review (Angelo's Italian Cuisine)

2010-08-14T16:52:00.003-04:00

3303 Coastal Hwy
Ocean City, MD 21842
(410) 524-2855

When first pulling into the parking lot of this establishment, I was expecting the worst. The decore is dated and run down. But the service and food was wonderful. Fresh baked olive bread. Not the norm of sysco or US Foods par baked breads. That was suprising. The small salad was fresh and simple. The bruschetta was very good, fresh sliced bread toasted with tomatoes and basil and melted cheese. The Chicken Alfredo was thick and creamy but not to thick. The noodles were perfectly cooked. I really enjoyed this restaurant and it was a nice suprise to my vacation.

Video (Roy's Food Repair)

2010-08-12T20:00:00.004-04:00

Video (Drive Thru)

2010-08-10T16:31:00.004-04:00

I do not support stealing or repeating this stunt. This was posted for entertainment purposes only.

Video (The Duck Song)

2010-08-10T16:11:00.004-04:00

A great song about lemonade and grapes on this hot summer day!

Restaurant Review (Icedgems Baking)

2010-08-10T15:34:00.005-04:00

Mobile Cupcake Wagon
Baltimore, MD
IcedGemsBaking.com

I was told about this mobile cupcake truck that travels all over Baltimore city, and county, by a friend of mine. Who rants and raves about the concept and almost threw their SUV into a 180 turn with the emergency brake to get a cupcake. The owner Christine Richardson studied under the TV chef Rick Stein at his restaurant in Devon, England. The cost of a cupcake is $2.50, a half dozen $12.50 and a full dozen $24.00. This is a cash or check only business also. No Credit Cards are accepted here.

We started with a half dozen to get a wide variety of product and flavors.

We got a:

Vanilla Vanilla Cupcake

Vanilla Chocolate Cupcake

Chocolate Vanilla Cupcake

Chocolate Chocolate Cupcake

Red Velvet (Red Velvet cake with Cream Cheese Butter Cream)

Duche de leche - (Caramel)

So after tasting these cupcakes, I will have to say she makes an amazing Italian butter cream. The piping is done by hand and needs some work, and is not consistent on all the cupcakes. The taste of the cupcakes while made from scratch, were bland and nothing to write home about in my opinion. The Red Velvet cupcake was the best cupcake out of the half dozen selected.

Yes, this is a nice treat every once and a while, no I would not go out of my way to follow her on Facebook or Twitter and drive to her location to get more cupcakes. I like the food concept, mobile cupcake truck but the concept was not done well here.

Baltimore

Restaurant Review (Texas Roadhouse)

2010-08-09T15:38:00.004-04:00

4465 Mountain Rd
Pasadena, MD 21122
(410) 439-0233

On Saturday evening I went out to Texas Roadhouse in Pasadena, MD. The food is decent, the service is decent and this time was the first time out of maybe the last 5 visits to this location they were not out of Prime Rib. This steakhouse is not fine dining, their is sawdust and peanut shells sitting in the waiting area. (Not a place for people with peanut allergies) We were seated promptly. The server was pleasant, the service was nothing to right home about. The food came out of the kitchen hot in a timely manner. I ordered the 12oz Prime Rib cooked medium rare. I looked to me like the only difference between the 10 and 12 oz prime rib was a piece of fat they cut off the end of your steak. One person in our party got a country critter salad. The salad was not over dressed and had a mellow taste. Nothing really popped in the salad. The Margarita's are large, well prepared and served strong. So watch how many you drink if you are driving.

I eat at this restaurant maybe twice a year. Just long enough to forget about the mediocre food and service.

Baltimore

Good Causes (Dining Out for Life)

2010-08-09T15:25:00.003-04:00

Dining out for Life - Baltimore

I couldn't say it better then what the website said itself.

"On September 23, 2010, thousands of people in the Greater Baltimore Metropolitan Area will be participating in one of the most rewarding dining experiences of the year. Moveable Feast's Dining Out for Life event raises tens of thousands of dollars, thanks to the generosity of community-minded restaurants, sponsors, and those who dine out with their families and friends that day to help our neighbors in need.

By simply eating out at one of the participating restaurants, at least 20 percent of proceeds that day will go to help feed hundreds of men, women, and children right here in our community living with HIV/AIDS, and other life-challenging conditions such as breast cancer."

This gives you a great morally responsible and charitable reason to eat out at your choice over 40 establishments on 9/23/10.

Baltimore City Paper - Best of Baltimore Readers Poll 2010

2010-08-05T08:41:00.004-04:00

Best of Baltimore Readers Poll 2010

Voting must happen by September 1st.
You have to vote in at least 25 categories.

City Paper Readers Poll 2010

Don't forget to vote for BmoreFoody.com for Best Local Blog.

Events (Farmers Markets)

2010-08-04T22:25:00.003-04:00

There are so many farmers markets in the area with fresh produce and products find one near you.

Farmers market near you

Restaurant Review (Abbey Burger Bistro)

2010-08-02T21:11:00.005-04:00

1041 Marshall St
Baltimore, MD 21230
(443) 453-9698
www.abbeyburgerbistro.com

This is an adult burger joint... They have a diverse menu with salads, burgers, vegetarian options, desserts, and spiked milkshakes. But the reason I go here is for the build your own burger!

9 Proteins: from Black Angus, and bison to turkey and wild boar.
Temperature cooked how you like it: from mooing to charcoal.
7 Breads to put your burger on.
10 Cheeses that can be put on your burger.
13 Topping you can put on your burger ranging from: bacon, peanut butter, and a fried egg to white truffle oil, crab dip and chili.
19 Free Toppings that can be applied to your burger.
6 Side you can get with your burger.

Come for the make your own burger. There are so many options you will be coming back just to try more. The portions are large and the pricing is fair. This kitchen is open to midnight to feed the young professionals and drunk socialite masses of Federal Hill.

Now the added bonus with Abbey Burger Bistro besides the vast selection or beer and wine is their spike shakes. What is better then a Burger, Fries, and a Milkshake except the milkshake is loaded with alcohol. I recommend the Berger Shake: Berger cookies, vanilla ice cream, Stoli vanilla, and Godiva liqueur.

Restaurant Review (The Haute Dog Carte)

2010-08-02T15:25:00.005-04:00

6070 Falls Road
Baltimore, MD 21209
(410) 608-3500

Driving up falls roads about noon today. I stopped at this food cart, The Haute Dog Carte. This mobile food stand sits on falls road just off west lake ave. I had spicy italian sausage dog. It was cooked well and had a nice snap to it. For a dollar more I upgraded with a drink and chips. Well worth the value. Very quick and easy.

You can follow The Haute Dog Carte on Twitter

This is the best hot dog stand I have seen in Baltimore. Hands Down

Opening Soon (Sonic in Maryland)

2010-08-02T11:32:00.005-04:00

In about 11 days, the first sonic in the Baltimore area will be opening its doors and drive thru's on the corner of 8212 Liberty Road. and Rolling Road.

I know some people will be very excited!

Rant (Late Night Commericals)

2010-07-31T19:07:00.006-04:00

So I was watching TV late last night and saw about ten commericals for La Cordon Blue, ITT or Lincoln Tech. All had success stories from chefs and bakers in the industry who have awesome jobs. The colleges and tech centers are selling dreams... Very Few graduates from those schools will be owning their own restaurant or a executive chef without either past experience or years of experience.

As a Culinary School Graduate from Johnson & Wales University Charlotte Campus I had the realization of how much culinary graduates make in their first year and following years after that. Then, how much these programs cost. I love the passion people have for cooking but if you have ever been on a campus of some these tech schools the campus is always old and run down and second rate instructors.

I would recommend locally:
Baltimore International College
AACC HCAT Program

Top Culinary Schools in the Country:
Johnson & Wales University (RI, NC, FL, CO)
Culinary Institute of America (Upstate NY)
Institute of Culinary Education (NYC)

Restaurant Review (Courtney's Bagel Cafe & Deli)

2010-07-31T16:28:00.004-04:00

11000 Owings Mills Blvd # 1A
Owings Mills, MD 21117
(410) 363-4331

Courtney's Bagel Cafe and Beli has fresh hand rolled bagels, and lightly whipped cream cheese. If she doesn't have your favorite type of bagel left its because they have sold out and you need to show up earlier. She also does lox really well. The location is great for take-out bagels, however I believe the location is well overdue for a remodel. The restaurant is named for their daughter Courtney who is a major inspiration in their lives. It is definitely the best bagel place in the area.

Event Review (Big Glen Burnie Carnival)

2010-07-30T17:23:00.005-04:00

July 30th - August 6th
Fields Near Glen Burnie Court House

In Glen Burnie, starting the last Friday in July and runs for a week, except for being closed on sunday. The Big Glen Burnie Carnival has rides, games and food. Hosted by the Glen Burnie Improvement Association, this event has been running for over 100 years. This event is run completely by volunteers.

In the GBIA building they are serving a number of foods.

Crabcakes
Chicken Tenders
Hot Dogs
Nachos
Fries
Pizza by the slice
Pit Ham
Pit Beef
Pit Turkey
Italian Sausage
Icecream
Snowballs
Funnel cakes
Candy Cotton
Candy/Caramel Apples
Lemonade
Coke
Bottle of Water

It is always a fun event to see family and friends...

I recommend any of the pit sandwiches or the crabcakes...
They are good of quality and size...

Restaurant Review (Angelo's)

2010-07-29T15:43:00.005-04:00

3600 Keswick Rd
Baltimore, MD 21211
(410) 235-2595

On the corner of 36th Street "The Avenue" and Keswick rd is Angelo's. What I know them for is their 18 inch slice of pizza. Priced right at about 5 dollars, plus topping this massive slice is a nice cheap meal. The quality of the pizza is good and the toppings are fresh. The subs are also very good full of meat in the cheese steaks and italian cold cuts...

Restaurant Review (Wendy's Old Fashioned Hamburgers)

2010-07-29T14:48:00.004-04:00

1949 West St
Annapolis, MD 21401
(410) 841-6788
www.wendys.com

Sitting on West Street in Annapolis, I've been going to this Wendy's for years... Late nights after work in a busy kitchen or concerts down at piezano's. I drove by today, and stopped for a frosty and a large fry. (My Regular Order) This works out very well.
You can always finish the salty and sweet treat before you get home.

Restaurant Review (Paper Moon Diner)

2010-07-27T13:54:00.006-04:00

227 W 29th St
Baltimore, MD 21211
(410) 889-4444
www.papermoondiner24.com

After coming to the Paper Moon Diner for a number of months and tasting a wide variety of the menu. Be prepared to wait 30 minutes or so to wait for a table and the food is either amazing and or not so good. As a typical diner the portions are large and serve everything but the kitchen sink on the menu. This diner also has the craziest decorations, a must see if you have never been.

The sandwiches, and subs can be a little bready. (as in to much bread for the sub). My personal favorite is the southern love burger. A burger with bacon, cheddar cheese, and pulled pork on a bun with sweet potato fries. The burgers are nothing special, the cheese steaks are large but not in proportion to bread and ltm (lettuce, tomato, mayo). The pasta is not a dish to be ordered here, precooked and heated though it can be a little chewy. Salad as complicated as they may be do not hit the mark for taste. The presentation is well done. The macaroni and cheese is amazing, with melted cheese and is gooey all over the place.

Breakfast is a hit or miss also. I've had eggs and pancakes that have been good and bad here. Along with waffles and sometimes the coffee can be a little bitter.

So Paper Moon Diner, take it as it is a diner. Sometimes good sometimes bad... Pricey for a diner and a good place to meet up with friends.

Restaurant Review (Crush)

2010-07-25T17:20:00.014-04:00

Crush
510 E Belvedere Ave
Baltimore, MD 21212
(443) 278-9001
www.crush-restaurant.com

Last night I enjoyed dinner at Crush, a restaurant located in Belvedere Square. This trendy split level restaurant is great for both friends and family. We were seated within moments of walking in at an upper level table. The downstairs dining room includes a glass window for great kitchen views. After sitting down one thing I noticed over the course of dinner was that besides me all of the women were facing towards the center of the dining room and the men facing the walls. Maybe this keeps the men out of trouble, I don't know.

The meal was quite good, however the server did not recommend the hot mushroom soup simply because of summer and the heat. However the mushroom soup was ordered and very good, not a drop was left in the cup. The mozzarella and tomato salad was light and refreshing using heirloom cherry tomatoes. The recommended cold soup was a puree of roasted beets and tomato with small balls of mozzarella and basil, another flavorful treat.

The entrees we had were enjoyable. The chicken penne with fresh vegetables was tasty but the cooks had a heavy hand with their seasonings and it was a little strong on the black pepper. The tenderloin salad cooked to medium well was dresses with a nice demi glaze and a honey mustard vinegarette. The dish also included roasted potatoes that melted in your mouth. Another had a salmon BLT, and the dish was perfectly topped with two large slices of bacon. The salmon was cooked well and the aioli was light and refreshing. The French dip sandwich was served on ciabatta bread and topped with provolone cheese and caramelized onions.

The dessert we ordered was a sponge cake, with a quenelle of vanilla ice cream and a blueberry syrup topping. This dessert was very tasty but lacked in presentation.

Restaurant Review (Cafe Hon)

2010-07-23T18:44:00.008-04:00

Cafe Hon
1002 W 36th St
Baltimore, MD 21211
(410) 243-1230
www.cafehon.com

This restaurant sits at the heart of Hampden on The Avenue. Owned by Denise Whiting the hon herself... I find this restaurant/bar to be rather touristy, with large portions, high prices, mediocre food and service. I've never been impressed from their meatloaf, burgers, and fries with gravy to milky fettuccine alfredo to being out of food on the menu on a regular basis. I have say I've tried to like this icon of a restaurant but I just can't. I would rather spend my money elsewhere in the neighborhood. Save your money for the next Honfest!!!

Urbanspoon (Baltimore Blog Leaderboard)

2010-07-23T10:06:00.004-04:00

One of my readers alerted me to my own statistics on Urbanspoon.

Rank: 22 out of 70 Blogs
Blog Name: Bmore Foody
Page Hits: 1950
Blog Posts: 7

I'm rising up in this blog world...
Only another 13,000 to take first place on urbanspoon...
I'm at Bmore Foody @ Urbanspoon

Restaurant Review (A Common Ground)

2010-07-23T09:35:00.008-04:00

A Common Ground
819 W 36th St
Baltimore, MD 21211
(410) 235-5533

Sitting on The Avenue in Hampden is this little coffee shop, that does it right. This is no Starbucks. Many of the eclectic locals of Hampden are always starting their day off here. The coffee is fresh, brewed, and ready to go. (They use Cafe Pronto Brand Coffee out of Annapolis). They have iced coffee down to a science , flavorful and not bitter. The pastries and scones are always tender and moist. If you come with a real hunger then try one of their breakfast or deli sandwiches the portions are large and I tend to split one with a friend. For these hot days we have been having if you are a coffee drinker but need a cooler option, the blended coffee drinks are always refreshing.

Restaurant Review (Cantina Mamma Lucia)

2010-07-22T20:51:00.009-04:00

Cantina Mamma Lucia
1350 Dorsey Rd
Hanover, MD 21076
(410)-684-2900
http://www.mammalucia.com/

Hidden a few minutes from the busy Arundel Mills Mall is probably one of the best Italian restaurants in the area. The reason I go there is a $7.49 lunch buffet. The all you can eat buffet runs Monday thru Friday, 11am - 2pm and is really one of the best values on the menu. The menu changes daily on the buffet, so check the website for your favorites. I do not know how they make any money if they have customers who can eat as I do.

Their pizza is in a NY style and has a crisp crust with that little bit of chew to it. The toppings are always fresh. My two favorite pasta dishes are the Fresh Battered Eggplant Parmigiana served with spaghetti and tomato sauce and the Linguini Alla Mare Chiara with fresh clams, shrimp, and calamari in a delicious marinara sauce.

The Subs are always well prepared as well. The salads are basic and consistent. The Fritto Misto consists of a plate of fried calamari, mozzarella sticks, breaded mushrooms, and zucchini sticks, and is my favorite appetizer there. Mama always said, "Nothing says loving like fried cheese." However, it does not hurt to have other fried foods around it.

This restaurant does italian food right, they cook for you as though you were family, and just like family when you leave, they hope you come back soon.

300 Hits

2010-07-21T10:24:00.003-04:00

I would just like to thank you, to the 300+ viewers of this blog for reading each and every day. I started this blog on July 3rd. I did not expect to have this many readers or facebook or linkedin friends or this quickly.

Thank you

Bmorefoody.com

Events (Restaurant Weeks)

2010-07-19T12:07:00.003-04:00

A favorite time of year is apon us, Restaurant Weeks.

Please view specific websites for details.

Bethesda Chevy Chase Restaurant Week
July 23 - August 1, 2010

Great Grapes Wine, Art & Food Festival
August 24 - 25
Anne Arundel County Fair Grounds

Howard County Restaurant Week
July 27 - August 8, 2010

Baltimore County Restaurant Week
August 13 - 22, 2010

Baltimore City Restaurant Week
August 16 - 22, 2010

Enjoy Restaurant Weeks Everyone!!!

Restaurant Review (Mama's on the Half Shell)

2010-07-18T22:50:00.008-04:00

Mama's on the Half Shell
2901 Odonnell St
Baltimore, MD 21224
(410) 276-3160

I went out Friday night with a friend to Mama's. We waited about 30 minutes in the bar for our table. Talking to all the interesting characters in the bar, and drinking Orange Crushes (pinnacle vodka, triple sec and fresh squeezed orange juice over crushed ice) Very Tasty. Once seated outside at our table had a very attentive server named Brian, a true local who has worked at Mama's on the Half Shell for 7 years and everyone knows and loves him. His service is the best I've had in years. I would recommend getting seated in his section. The recommendations, stories and attention to details were impeccable.

The salad was simple and well dressed in a light sweet balsamic and maple dressing. My friend had the fresh catch a pan seared rockfish with a bur blanc sauce and a side of macaroni and cheese. Creamy and crispy on the top of the dish and gooey on the bottom. The fish was buttery and flakey, perfectly cooked.

I had a medium rare NY strip steak with a tomato based steak sauce and French fry cut Peruvian purple potatoes, that looked to be tossed in oil and fresh herbs. My steak was mouth watering, tender and cooked perfectly. The first batch of potatoes was burnt. My server Brian got another batch that was cooked correctly. I still had an issue with these potatoes; it seemed to be a comp out coming from the chef. A French fry cut and deep fried purple potato is a just a bad choice. I will look black. There were so many things the chef could have been done: Roasted, Pureed, Mashed, And Smashed. Anything!!! Purple potatoes are not common place. Show them off!

I spoke to the bartender, server, and manager, over the course of our evening there. Everyone puts customer service and hospitality first, in this busy bar and restaurant. I would highly recommend this location and anything your server recommends.

Restaurant Review (Cold Stone Creamery)

2010-07-18T22:23:00.007-04:00

http://www.coldstonecreamery.com/
Locations Vary Nationwide

For those who have dietary limitations finding indulgent desserts are a rarity. A friend’s recent discovery at Cold Stone Creamery has left me intrigued. My friend cannot have natural sugar or a high fat content in her foods. She recently found a Cold Stone location with multiple flavors of Sinless Sans Fat™ ice cream which is non-fat and no sugar added. Flavors selections vary by location. My friend’s taste buds were in heaven; this has been a dessert she has been missing for years since their dietary limitations began. This product is a needed dessert for people with dietary limitations and should be enjoyed in a like it, love it, or gotta have it, size at your digression.

Rant (Artscape)

2010-07-18T22:07:00.004-04:00

Artscape is an enjoyable outdoor art festival that I have been going to for years. This year I looked at the food selection a little more closely, and saw nothing that appealed to my senses. The highlight of the food selection was a fresh squeezed lemonade. Most of the food was deep-fried or grilled foods from vendors that varied from Thai and Indian to cheese steaks and seafood. Also at the top of my list was funnel cake and turkey drumsticks. The quality and quantity was not up to par for the price of the products. Greasy and poorly presented does not make a good showing for your business at one of the premiere art festivals in the region.

Enjoying a Trend

2010-07-16T13:40:00.006-04:00

I've noticed a trend for about the last year. In the last few weeks, I've come to a happy realization about it. There are many well trained and educated chefs who have done their time in 3,4,5 star kitchens, working under amazing chefs, bakers, managers, and owners... Who have left the high-end kitchen world to create simple beautiful tasty food. Be it comfort food, a re-design of an american classic, or regional speciality. I'm happy with this trend and hope it continues.

Tell me where are your favorite chef's?
who do food right?
What dish or meal do they do right?

News (Brass Elephant)

2010-07-16T13:10:00.005-04:00

PNC Bank plans to Auction the The Brass Elephant
on August 3rd 2010 at 2pm.
924 N. Charles St.
Baltimore, MD

The sale is for only the venue. This does not include the furniture, and equipment that has been sitting in the restaurant since closing in august 2009. Nor does the sale include the liquor license.

Hopefully another restaurant can come to life in this venue soon.

Needed Service (Designated Daves)

2010-07-16T10:10:00.009-04:00

Designated Daves
717-872-2826 (Phone)
Designated Daves Website

We all have been drunk at a bar/restaurant sometime in Baltimore. Sometimes we call a friend to pick us up, walk home, take a taxi, go home with someone from the bar or even sleep it off in your car. Hopefully, never driving home drunk. I've seen too many friends get charged with DUI/DWI and all the other charges, fines, penalities, and fees associated.

Designated Daves is a step above the rest. This is how that call goes...

1) HEY! I'm too drunk to drive home tonight and I MUST have my car tomorrow Morning!
2) Call us from your current location.
3) A two person team will meet and greet you, one will be your designated driver, the other the chase vehicle.
4) We drive you home safely in the comfort of your own personal vehicle. GREAT!
5) After we arrive, the designated driver leaves in the chase vehicle.

Home safely with your vehicle, NO EXCUSES, NO FAULT, NO DUI!!
THANK YOU DESIGNATED DAVES BALTIMORE!

They are currently servicing these area's:

Inner Harbor and Harbor place
Fells Point
The Brokerage
South Baltimore Cross Street area
Canton
Towson,
Cockysville,
Timonium,
Hunt valley,
Lutherville,
As well as northern Baltimore county

This is not a free service but the rates seem reasonable for the service they provide. If you are a regular at a bar you can even have advance reservations with Designated Daves. And for the long term user of this service you may even want to think about the membership program.

Rant (Customer Service)

2010-07-16T00:29:00.004-04:00

Where has all the customer service gone? The food service industry is a hospitality industry this seems to be forgotten by some employees and establishments. I have been eating out a lot lately (maybe writing a food blog has something to do with it) and some service has been amazing and others downright brutal.

I do have varying levels of expectations when I go out. I am trained as a chef/pastry chef. My eyes catch more than most others, because I have had many years of training in that field (from quality of service, timeliness, to sanitation). My varying levels of expectations do change when I'm at a fast food joint verse a buffet verse a fine dining establishment as they should. But customer service and hospitality are basics and they need to be taught and done well.

Today, I stopped at a mid-priced modern bistro in Baltimore for lunch. I had horrible service and requested from the server that the cook come out from the kitchen. The same cook who had cooked my very delicious and well plated meal. I then proceeded to tip the cook right in front of my server. You know the server won't hear the end that for a while. Maybe his service will improve.

I will go to a place with great food and terrible service a few times but I will not go to a place with terrible food and great service more than once. Just remember everything matters in the food service industry and if something bad happens people will tell ten friends (or write a blog about it) if something good happens they only will tell two or three people about their experience unless it was amazing.

So servers, hosts, managers, and owners be nice to your customers, show some hospitality, and the tips and shifts will probably look a little nicer that way.

Restaurant Review (Blue Hill Tavern)

2010-07-07T14:11:00.005-04:00

938 South Conkling St
Baltimore, MD 21224
(443) 388-9363
www.bluehilltavern.com

After spending an evening at a business networking event at the Blue Hill Tavern, I was able to enjoy the bar that is open to the skyline upstairs as well as the sitting balcony. The next time I came back with friends we were seated down stairs in the dining room. The interior décor is really quite wonderful and a lot of thought and care was put into the overall design of the restaurant. The menu is simple American food done well, with some modern takes of classic dishes. I had the roast chicken that was moist and fell off the bone, mashed potatoes and gravy, and perfectly cooked broccoli. The only complaint I had was the pieces of broccoli were rather large. Our appetizers included feta butter and olive tapenade and were gone a few seconds after hitting the table. Their macaroni and cheese is creamy and gooey, and became a point of struggle as everyone wanted a taste of my friends food. Another ordered the tomato soup with mini grilled cheeses and that did not last long either. As far as pricing goes, I believe they are true to the value and quality of the food you are receiving. I would definitely go back for a special occasion, but it is not a weekly place I would visit.

Restaurant Review (High Topps backstage grille)

2010-07-06T23:50:00.008-04:00

2306 York Rd
Lutherville, MD 21093
(410) 560-7101
www.hightoppsbackstagegrille.com

Tuesday night trivia nights are amazing here at High Topps off of York Road. The 40 or so teams are creatively named with all the innuendo that you need. With plenty of seating indoors and on the patios there is almost always room for your group of friends. The drinks made well, the service when not to busy can be decent. If service gets to busy it appears the bar stop selling draft beers and move to selling bottles. The food quantities are massive. Large salad bowls of french fries to feed the beer and liquor fed masses. The burgers are average, the salads and wraps are tasty. I would recommend the crab dip french fries. This is a good bar for a trivia night/happy hour with friends. I would not sit down for a meal here.

Snowballs

2010-07-06T19:07:00.006-04:00

This beautiful treat of finely shaved ice covered in sugarly flavored syrup and optional marshmellow topping. On days like these, 100+ degrees anything to cool is a well needed treat. I know I will enjoy one today. Probably Egg Custard... Where do you get your snowballs and what flavor do you get?

The 4th of July Meal (Recipes)

2010-07-05T21:38:00.008-04:00

I enjoyed my 4th of July, 2010 with friends and after a 2 mile hike up a trail, went tubing down the gunpowder falls river. The group was tired from floating down river. All anyone could think of was food and drinks before the fireworks started at dusk.

We had a simple meal, it is best to keep meals simple around the holidays and enjoy them with friends. If you can split up the cooking, it can make things even easier.

Grilled Burgers (Beef and Turkey)
Pasta Salad
Fresh Watermelon Slices
Brownies
Along few beers and some margaritas on the rocks.

The Burgers:
A hot grill about 400 Degree (Gas or Charcoal is your choice).
Clean your grill before use.
Lightly oil your grill with a towel and some canola oil.
Season your meat with salt and pepper and any other seasons you like.
Place the meat down on to the grill and do not touch it for 3-4 minutes the meat is getting sear marks. (This is called Maillard Browning it is the browning of proteins. This is not caramelization, that is the browning of sugars.)
After the first 3-4 minutes turn the burgers 25 Degrees to create nice sear marks on the burger. Let sit for another 3-4 minutes.
After searing the first side flip your burgers and cook to desired doneness.
Adding cheese and topping in the last minute or two.

Some people are fans of taking a little butter or oil and toasting their buns for their burgers. This adds another layer of texture to buns and prevents the toppings from absorbing into the bun.

Pasta Salad
The night before I had made some pasta salad:
In boiling salted water add tri-colored pasta.
Stir the pasta after pouring into the water.
Cook to the pasta is done but still firm to the touch. (I do this by tasting often) (Run the pasta under water so not to burn yourself)
Chill the pasta by rinsing with cold water and drain.
Pour the pasta into a large bowl and add a little olive oil.
Toss the pasta and olive oil together.
Add halved cherry or grape tomatoes and sliced roasted red pepper along with frozen peas, crumbled feta cheese and small-diced red onion. Mix though.
Then mix some parmesan peppercorn salad dressing though the pasta. Adjust with amount for taste and moistness.
Add Salt and Pepper as needed.
Since I made this the night before I did not add all the dressing. The pasta will absorb some of the liquid and you will need to stir in some more before serving to freshen the salad back up.

This salad is nice and refreshing without any vinegar or mayo. Those are the two biggest complaints I hear about pasta salads. So avoid them use this recipe.

Margaritas on the Rocks

First off Drink Responsibly

To make our margarita use this ratio: 3:2:1 tequila: cointreau: lime juice

Serves 1 drink
Glass of Ice
Pour 3 oz of tequila (use tequila of choice)
Pour 2 oz of cointreau, or triple sec, or grand marnier
Pour 1 oz of lime juice

Stir and serve.

If you use grand marnier you are actually make a drink that is a mix between a sidecar and margarita. A side car is a Cognac, orange liqueur and lime juice)

Serves 6 drinks
Pour 18 oz of tequila (use tequila of choice)
Pour 12 oz of cointreau, or triple sec, or grand marnier
Pour 6 oz of lime juice

Stir and serve

Brownies

Box Brownies work very well, always consistent try adding some chocolate chips or butter scotch chips into the batter.

I hope you enjoyed your 4th of July

Restaurant Review (The Rockfish Raw Bar & Grill)

2010-07-05T19:55:00.004-04:00

The Rockfish Raw Bar & Grill
400 Sixth Street
Annapolis, MD 21403
410-267-1800

Rockfish has gone though some changes since opening. One of the dearly loved owners passed away, chefs and staff have come and gone. This bar and grill puts out some amazing food in a beautiful setting. The oven is a gas fired stone hearth and a charcoal wood fire grill adds nice notes to the food they cook along with all the other kitchen equipment. The menu is seasonal and seafood is always fresh. The pizza has a crispy crust with a little bit a chewy to it and all the toppings are the best of quality. The salads are large and made with great flavor combinations. My mouth is watering and I have not even got to the entrees yet. The seafood, beef, chicken, and pasta dishes are amazing. They take the time to perfect dishes before serving them to their customers. I have never had dessert here because I have always eaten well with the rest of my meal, but they look tasty. Everything from ice creams to cakes to fresh fruit. And let’s not forget they are a bar so a full selection of beer, wine and mixed drinks. The beer and wine selection is large and varies but all well-chosen selections to balance out their menu. You will find a drink that everyone likes in this selection. In the bar there are enough televisions to keep any sports fan entertained and live music a couple nights a week. Rockfish is well worth the drive down to Eastport.

Restaurant Review (Romilo’s)

2010-07-05T19:49:00.003-04:00

478 Ritchie Hwy
Severna Park, MD 21146
(410) 544-6188

This restaurant is always busy and I don’t understand why. The servers are slow, the cooks, cook food that is marginal at best and the greek owners are always yelling at someone. The pizza we had seemed like it had been on pre-cooked dough and all the tomato sauces were brown and had heavy amounts of what seemed to be nutmeg and cinnamon. I assume from the greek influences. I’m not one who likes to write a bad review but I felt as a foody I had to warn others about this place. Stay Away.

Restaurant Review (Grano's)

2010-07-05T19:32:00.005-04:00

Little Grano
1031 W. 36th St.
Baltimore, MD 21211
443.869.3429

Grano Pasta at Chestnut
3547 Chestnut Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21211
443.438.7521

These two quant locations of pasta bars are serving food that makes you fall in love with these restaurants. From the homemade sauces to the locally sourced meat for the meatballs at Grano’s the place has more of a rustic tuscan feel to the establishment. Almost as if, you have left the middle of Baltimore City for your meal. I eat here regularly, the service is wonderful, prompt, and you can even phone in your order to Little Grano for carryout. It gets better the pricing is very reasonable and is a byob establish.

Restaurant Review (Jeno's Steaks)

2010-07-03T16:25:00.005-04:00

Jeno’s Steaks
522 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd.
Severna Park, MD 21146
410.544.1416
http://www.jenossteaks.com/

This standing room only, 550 sq. ft restaurant in Severna Park, MD is the best cheese steak I have ever eaten in my life. The owners Mark & Rudy Adriano and their employees love what they do. No trip to Philly is needed here; fresh rolls and sliced rib eye steaks cut daily for the cheese steaks, and ocean city style French fries fried in peanut oil, and a cold drink make the perfect meal. I am a traditionalist, in the way I want my cheese steak, a fresh roll, meat, onions and provolone cheese. Jeno’s can meet everyone needs from a chicken or vegetarian cheese steak to “The Adriano” which is a rib eye steak, with deep fried mozzarella stick, grilled onion, mushrooms, green peppers, topped with pizza sauce and provolone cheese. Any way you like your cheese steak, Jeno’s is worth the short drive.

Rant (Eating like such Americans)

2010-07-03T16:23:00.007-04:00

A lot of people eat like such Americans; I was out with friends at a traditional thai restaurant. The table next to us had ordered a grilled ny strip steak, pad thai, a house salad with low fat blue cheese on the side and a bottle of Italian wine pinot grigio. This is not the first time I have seen this happen. I understand we are a melting pot nation, and love the variety of choice of food we have and the combinations that chefs give us. If I am going to a thai restaurant I want thai food. If I want steak I go to a steakhouse or grill. I don’t know why those people chose to go to this thai restaurant, it could have been for the décor or the ambiance, and the quality of their thai food is really that amazing. If the restaurant serves amazing food, and the owners, chefs, cooks, servers and staff really love what they do and the food taste amazing. Why would you not order the special or some item on the menu that fits the cuisine of the restaurant where you are eating?

First Blog Post Ever

2010-07-03T16:23:00.006-04:00

Welcome to Bmore Foody, where we will be talking about all things food. This is my blog. I am a Culinary/Pastry School Graduate and I lived, breathed, slept food for a number of years and have many opinions about the way I think things should be done.

I’ll be writing about:
Food,
Talking about all things food from the culinary/pastry point of view,
Restaurant & Recipe reviews,
Giving recipes that work,
Must try restaurants and where to avoid,
Looking at the Simple Joys in life… Such as bacon, roasted garlic, aged balsamic vinegar and fresh bread,
Flavor Profiles (what works and how to make an amazing meal),
What tools, products, services and techniques work,
Providing links to websites and databases related to all things food,
Rants about whatever.

I look forward to hearing all your comments, questions and suggestions.