FoiGras's Profile
First time staying in Baltimore
gaffk--BINGO!!!I I feel certain that you made all of the right choices. The other Chowhounders will most likely agree since they had their input. WElcome to our fair city. I love Philly but, unfortunately, haven't traveled there in recent times. Used to travel via Amtrak back in the 1980's several times a month for business purposes. I loved walking from the train station down to the corporate offices of the oil company I represented. I enjoyed going into (correct me if I' mwrong) Center City to Wannamaker's for lunch and to hear the grand pipe organ. L'aigle Dor (spelling?) was a big deal restaurant at that time.
I even dined at the Old Bookbinder's. So many years ago, so many memories. I would love to experience Reading Station. One thing that is truly appealing about Philly there is so much foot traffic in the main dowtown area, if I recall. Almost like a mini New York. Just walk about and stop into a restaurant or shop. I hope my memories are serving me without embarrassing me if my recollection is off the mark.
In any event I hope you enjoy your very well thought out selection for dining out in Baltimore. We all hope to hear your comments after your visit. Best Wishes--FoiGras
New thread for discontinued products
This may sound a bit crazy--I, too, love REAL ROQUEFORT dressing. Can't find any commercial ones of late. So, I buy (now don't laugh or at least not try)--a commercial creamy salad dressing, perhpas even creamy Caesar or even Bleu cheesse--then I buy real roquefort cheese crumbles and add a bit of mayo and the cheese crumbles. It is a bit of a stretch, but is actually quite good. It's fun to experiment. But, I will continue to serach out a good commercial roquefort dressing. FoiGras
New thread for discontinued products
jns7--please don't think I'm obsessed, but I found out that Wegman's carries "Denmark's Finest Cheese" (brand name)--a Havarti, caraway cheese in a prepackaged block. FoiGras
New thread for discontinued products
Since you peaked my interest, I looked for carraway cheese on the Net and found Heini's Cheese Chalet--an Amish market in Ohio. They carry wheels of the cheese and will ship. Before I would do that I would check out the local Amish Markets along with the stores I previously recommended. Graul's and Eddie's both have excellent cheese departments. Oh, and how about Harris Teeter. FoiGras
New thread for discontinued products
jns7--Wow! I completely forgot about that carroway seeded cheese. I loved it. Wonder if Wegman's/Whole Foods or any local cheese vendor carries a version--maybe not sliced but in brick form. FoiGras
Food Lovers' Guide - Recs Needed for Restaurants Worth a Drive
In Howard County I would suggest King's Contrivance. Also, The Elkridge Furnace Inn--not sure if it is Baltimore or Howard County. FoiGras
Crab cakes/soft shell crab along I-95?
Okay- I'm certain that I won't have any other Chowhounder agree with me on this one recommendation. At the I-695/I-95 North corridor--take the Washington Boulevard exit and stop in at Gianni's Italian Bistro/angry Mallet. It is less then a mile from the I-95 north entrance. They have outdoor tables (nothing fancy--near a Home Depot and parking lot). BUT--your pooch could sit outdoors with or without you (please don't keep your "Baby" in the car during this time of year. The owners of this restaurant would surely help you with regards to your pooch (Greg is the owner and will accommodate you and the Pooch).
With regards to your initial request. The BEST SOFT SHELL CRABS. Two huge perfectly fried soft shell crabs. OMG they are the best. (I hate to say this, but don't recommend the crabcakes). The restaurant offers very good shrimp salad, Italian oriented cusisine (Veal francaise-great huge subs--size isn't the factor, but the quality shines through and salads--Chicken Arancini is a real winner). Crab Imperial (much better then any crabcake). Good coleslaw, pickled beets, and I love their "creamed cucumbers" (just sliced cucumbers in sourcream sweetened "sauce"). Hope you get the chance and make the decision to stop by there. Sometimes there is even entertainment with singer's, etc. Quite a fun, casual place and I feel certain that your Pet will be accomodated. FoiGras
New thread for discontinued products
nautico--would it be advisable for you to contact the Haagen Dazs company and inquire as to why they have discontinued the availability of your ice cream flavor here in the states? Perhaps you could have a shipment sent to you--I know that seems to be ridiculous as the product could only be shipped in huge quantities.
an example of why I make this suggestion--there is a vitamin supplement that I purchase at the local Rite Aid--green tea, guarana, gingko, etc. Suddenly the product was unavailable, so I made contact with the manufacturer/supplier and was able to order the product over the phone (could have also do it on-line)--I ordered about half a dozen packages--free shipping and the product was about $1.50 less per package. And....got the order within two days!!! I don't have to be concerned with running out of the supplement based on the local stores not always stocking the product. Just a thought that may or may not be helpful. good luck.. FoiGras
First time staying in Baltimore
dlite--totally agree that Baltimore is more then the Inner Harbor, Harbor East and Fells Point. I tend to like the Canton area more so then those previously mentioned. I would venture off to Federal Hill but can't deal with the lack of parking and that area does tend to have some issues regarding safety. A close acquaintance of mine's liquor store in that area has been robbed several times--the owner was nearly shot to death by the assailant. I guess there are no really "safe" areas. I hate to think that I am going to be deprived of experiencing wonderful restaurants/shopping, etc. due to fear of being a victim of crime. But this is not the forum for my soapbox regarding issues concerning the areas of Baltimore that are safe enough to venture into for dining out. I love my fair city of Baltimore and will continue to dine out in all areas. So many great restaurants are beckoning for my dining out dollar. FoiGras
First time staying in Baltimore
Thanks for "respectfully disagreeing." I really want to believe that the Lex is safe enough and really want to revisit since it's been way too many years since I last ventured into the venue. I guess I got "spooked" when a recent poster made an "issue" about the safety factor in the area. this goes back to about last November or so when my Hubby was at University Hospital for major heart surgery. I posted something about fried chicken livers and whatever else, but never got to the Market. The responding Poster was quite adament about the area and its safety factor.
Lawhound, I know you are aware of such issues and are always quite on spot with your recommendations. Thanks for your response. FoiGras
First time staying in Baltimore
If you decide to go to the Lexington Market-please hire an armored guard Many Chow Hounder's make light of how this Balitmore insitution is a "safe haven." NOT. The Faidley's crabcakes are renowned, but so many Baltimore restaurants
can produce fabulous crabcakes--it's very subjective. The Market is perhaps worthwhile, but not if you are risking your safety.
Woodberry Kitchen is a good recommendation, but I would suggest Charleston for a fine dining evening out (very expensive). I still recommend Sotto Sopra and Tio Pepe's. Am not aware of any comparable restaurants in the Philly area to these two.
Mezze in Fells Poknt is a fun, share many tapas-type dishes. Then meander through the area to shop, pub crawl, etc. The Black Olive has a roof top restaurant where the menu appears to be very inviting in a beautiful environment. I haven't dined there as yet, but hope to in the very near future.
Baltimore's newest upscale addition is Wit and Wisdom in the Four Seasons Hotel. There have been a few favorable mentions. FoiGras
a nice brunch restaurant near Columbia, MD for a Baby Shower
Still-not elegant atmosphere. Maybe good enough on the food side, but....?
I actually really like the Pub, but really feel that the OP is looking for a more sophisticated atmosphere--hence- King's Contrivance//
Elkridge Furnace Inn (but it isn't Columbia in it's area)--What about Cafe de Paris? I can't recommend it as I haven't dined there in a very long time. Am not awhere if they even serve brunch. If memory serves me, it was an elegant dining venue. FoiGras
First time staying in Baltimore
I still stand behind Tabrizi's. You could call ahead and have a special dinner prepared. Yes, I correct myself, it is more Middle Eastern then Mediterrean. I've dined on the grilled sardine's that were so very fresh. Oh, and never had any negative issue with the serving staff. The lamb dishes are excellent. The other poster must have had a bad experience or attitude.
Wit and Wisdom is too new for me to make an observation--especially sine I haven't had the opportunity to dine there. I feel that it is probably one of Baltimore's newest gems--but once the hype dies down we will see. It is very expenseive and has to live up to the price point with food, service and atmosphere.
Black Olive is so -so. No impressive atmosphere and the tables are so close you may as well dine with the other patrons.
Once again, for Italian--Sotto Sopra. Woodberyy Kitchen is a favorite. I wouldn't recommend Cinghiale for Italian. Too disappointing for mediocre food and small portions and large tabs.. Service and atmosphere are excellent. Hope you select some of the best of Baltimore. FoiGras
New thread for discontinued products
Guess I'll have to make a trip to TJ's.
Your Mom had the right idea regarding lemon. I use it instead of salt on various vegetables. If you are ever at a Graul's Market--they carry a delicious lemon infused olive oil. (There is an olive oil called "Agrumato"--not sure of the spelling--which is lemon infused but more then two times the price of the version carried at Graul's).
I use the lemon infused olive oil with a bit of butter and grated cheese on pasta--adding capers and/or marinated artichoke hearts makes for a fantastic side dish--it can even be eaten chilled which is great on these hot days. FoiGras
New thread for discontinued products
littleflower--perhaps your love for TJ's lemon/ginger cookie ice cream stems from your childhood memories of High's lemon custard ice cream that you favored. A lot of foods that we enjoy as adults stem from our childhood food preferences. To this day I love tuna fish salad with hardboiled egg and mayo. My best friend's Mom made it that way. My Mom made the salad with chopped celery and sweet onion. My husband loves tuna salad with pickle relish and mayo--his childhood favorite. FoiGras
New thread for discontinued products
Once again--I forgot this "major" discontinued local product--SILBER'S COOKIES. Can anyone of you Chowhounds remember those luscious cookies? I absolutely thought they were great--BUT--I was very young at the time. Still, at this stage of my life I sometimes recall those cookies and would love to taste them again. Just to see if they were truly as yummy as I recall on my trip down "Memory Lane." There doesn't seem to be any current cookie bakers. Nothing compared to the Silber's or even the Muhler's (correct my spelling if necessary). Baltimore's local second to Silber's cookie supplier. (And don't remind me of Berger's--I miss their other iced cookies other then the traditional chocolate topped--strawberry//butter-rum and lemon--once again-correct me if I am wrong--memories fade and I need help now in my "old age."). FoiGras
New thread for discontinued products
Oh Wow--I absolutely forgot this one!!! Back about 1971/72--the High's ice cream/"convenience" stores had hand scooped PEANUT BUTTER AND JELLY (I think the jelly was grape) ICE CREAM. OMG. It was divine. I was a teen and my boyfriend and I would get a pint or so on a Saturday night--go to my parents' home and eat that great ice cream while watching "All in the Family" on tv. One of my favorite icecreams ever--guess the memories of a very special time also enhance the enthusiasm of the ice cream treat. FoiGras
New thread for discontinued products
Is this a discontinued product? In any event, it doesn't matter as the product sounds so yummy that I am anxious to go to Trader Joe's (not one of my favorite stores as compared to Graul's, Wegman's, Eddie's or Harris Teeter--even my good old ordinary shopping at Giant) and try this "delicacy." Please inform and clarify--this sounds like something worth "investigating" as it is apparently not a discontinued item. thanks--FoiGras
First time staying in Baltimore
Sotto Sopra on North Charles Street--upscale Italian in a lovely atmosphere. Order the veal chop if available.
Mezze in Fells Point offers tapas-style cuisine. Fun, laid back atmosphere. The dishes are conducive for sharing.
Tabrizi's on the Key Highway side. Beautiful restaurant with water/harbor view. Mediterranean inspired cuisine.
B&O Brasserie. I've only dined there once about 1-1/2 years ago, so I feel certain that the menu has changed. Great bar and interesting food selection.
Tio Pepe's for old school Spanish cuisine. The roast suckling pig is a favorite as is the sole with bananas. Good Sangria and be certain to request the "puffed potatoes."
Charleston--if you want very high-end dining and break the bank to do so.
Prime Rib for huge portions of excellent meat and the best Imperial Crab. Formal atmosphere and there is piano entertainment.
Hope this helps a bit. FoiGras
a nice brunch restaurant near Columbia, MD for a Baby Shower
King's Contrivance Restaurant doesn't specifically serve brunch, but they handle private events from wedding receptions, showers, various private events. They could probably provide a menu that would suit your needs. The mansion is beautifully appointed and the grounds are lovely. Your event could be held under an outdoor tent (weather permitting) or in one of their many private rooms. You may want to peruse their website. It is definitely more elegant then Victoria Gastro Pub. But, the Pub is quite nice. FoiGras
Baltimore's Newest Restaurants
Haven't heard any "reviews" regarding the opening of several more recent restaurants--i.e., Wit and Wisdom--Waterfront Kitchen, etc. Any updates on the newer arrivals? To be honest, don't want to waste dining out dollars without knowing whether or not the venue is worthwhile. I'd rather spend my dining dollars on the well known/given places that are consistent. But, as an aside, Hubby and I do love to try new places, but are more cautious in these dining-out dollar conscious times. FoiGras
New thread for discontinued products
I don't know if sour beef and dumplings is truly regional. Since my grandparents were of German background, the sour beef was an "americanized" verision of saurbraten which my paternal grandmother made each Fall and the family gathered for the feast.
A few local restaurants serve sour beef and dumplings--Patrick's in Cockeysville, Kibby's in Baltimore (near Arbutus). The Sunset Restaurant in Glen Burnie. Blob's Park in the Jessup area serves "sauerbraten." FoiGras
Perfect Meal?
kitmoomau--wow, you responded very quickly. I am duly impressed.. I guess that I should have posted my "perfect meal" initially. This is actually more difficult then I thought.
Well, this is just preliminary--Charleston's fried green tomatoes (which I would request that foie gras be added to the mix).---Chiapperelli's house salad and Fleming's house salad. Fleming's onion rings. Linwood's French onion soup. Oysters in champagne at Tio Pepe's along with their Sangria. Crab imperial from the Prime Rib. Fried green beans from Loafer's on Caton Avenue--and the fried pickles. The green beans from Olive Garden. Some good wine--don't know what to select and from where.
Well, this is just a beginning. I know that I could never eat all of this in one meal. I still need to add the potatoes and pastas that I love and can't forget the desserts. I usually don't order dessert from restaurants, so I will disqualify myself from that category. but, I wouldn't discount the cheesecakes from the Cheesecake Factory. FoiGras
costco stores sell liquor in maryland?
From what I've heard, the newest Harris Teeter in downtown Baltimore sells wine and beer, even on sunday's. Since I haven't been there as yet, I can't confirm whether this is true. FoiGras
costco stores sell liquor in maryland?
Aren't the liquor stores in PA government controlled? Also, aren't there drive-through liquor stores in that state? FoiGras
costco stores sell liquor in maryland?
The liquor laws in Maryland are so outdated and restrictive IMHO. FoiGras
Cheese Afficionado--not just a chip lover
alkapal--wow--I am impressed with your knowledge and recommendations. I am definitely on a Cheese Mission." Guess I exhausted the potato chips tastings and have diverted my attention to cheeses for a change of pace. Maybe next will be desserts. FoiGras
Cheese Afficionado--not just a chip lover
Vespa1--wish you would open a cheese shop in the Baltimore area. Your knowledge is amazing.
I love blue cheeses and parmigiano reggiano is one of my favorites. And, yes, good/great cheeses are pricey, but isn't eveything that is truly worthwhile and special expensive? FoiGras
Perfect Meal?
Definitely a cocktail pick. Will have to get back to you regarding my selection(s). FoiGras
Cheese Afficionado--not just a chip lover
I haven't shopped at Wegman's for quite some time as it is about a 50 minute drive from my home--I can't wait until the Columbia store opens next month. (Well, maybe not--it may break my budget and raise my cholesterol and weight.).
Your Cabot Cheddar sounds scrumptious and rich. I never thought to add honey to cheese--definitely a plus.
Have you ever found "somked swiss" cheese at Wegman's? Maybe not on your cheese radar. Many years ago I purchased smoked swiss at Sutton Place Gourmet in the White Flint are store and have never seen it at amy store since. Yes, there is smoked cheddar and gouda, etc.
I would love to think that Wegman's would carry a version of the smoked swiss cheese and will wait until their opening in Columbia and visit and inquire as to the availabilty of said product. Just thought that you may have some idea. FoiGras
