OPEN:
Bella Vista: The Shops at Quarry Lake welcomed this new Italian spot last month, adding to the lengthy list of dining options for locals strolling around the scenic retail district. In addition to Old World favorites like Caprese salad, baked manicotti, and chicken piccata, Bella Vista puts a local spin on its menu with seafood specialties like Maryland crab soup and risotto frutti di mare with shrimp, scallops, mussels, and clams. In keeping with its relaxed vibe, the restaurant also offers daily happy hour deals from 4-7 p.m. including $5 appetizers and $1-off all beer, wine, and cocktails. 2620 Quarry Lake Drive, Pikesville, 410-486-2058
Firkin & Flyer: Travelers can now get a little taste of Europe in between flights at this new British-inspired pub that recently joined the BWI restaurant scene. The chain features international classics like fish and chips and bangers and mash, along with plenty of American fare such as burgers and wraps. The beer lineup is equally expansive, highlighting everything from Flying Dog and Heavy Seas to traditional British ales.
Hotspot: If you’re still mourning the loss of the signature crab mac-and-cheese hot dogs from Stuggy’s in Federal Hill, you’ll be happy to hear that this new dog den has taken up residence in its former home. Reports from SouthBMore.com recently confirmed that Hotspot is officially open for business, and its menu includes hot dogs, hand-cut French fries, and rice pudding. 17 E. Cross St., 443-453-9910
Starbucks: The Harbor East location of the Seattle-based coffee chain has recently relocated to an expanded space, previously inhabited by Talara, one block up. At 1,300-square feet, the coffee corner features rare reserved roasts, seats 95 guests at a time and is now the largest of all of the Starbucks in the city. 615 S. President St., 410-528-9883
COMING SOON:
Bagby Pizza Company: On the heels of unveiling its new shop in Pikesville, Bagby Pizza Company has announced its plans to open yet another quick-service eatery at the buzzed-about Foundry Row in Owings Mills. Expected to debut in the fall of 2016, the customizable concept will allow diners to create their own pizzas and salads, or choose from the chef’s suggestions. In addition to the pizzeria, the Bagby Restaurant Group will also own a liquor store in the 50-acre development, which will house other destinations like Wegmans, Panera Bread, Nalley Fresh, and Smashburger. 10100 Reisterstown Road, Owings Mills
Dinosaur Bar-B-Que: Locals have been awaiting the arrival of this Syracuse-based barbecue joint since plans were announced last summer, and an opening date has finally been set. Dinosaur-Bar-B-Que will officially make its Fells Point debut on Tuesday, September 22. The 7,750-square foot space seats 250, and will serve up fingerlickin’ fare like pork ribs, chicken wings, and smoked brisket. 1401 Fleet St.
Falafelicious: Local restaurant veteran Bill Irvin, whose resume includes stints at Kooper’s and The Manor Tavern, is premiering his new brainchild in the former Farmstead Shack space at Canton Crossing. Later this month, the freestanding kiosk will debut as Falafelicious, a carry-out concept that highlights falafel salads, wraps, and pitas with DIY fillings. The stand will also offer a variety of beer, wine, and hard cider. 3721 Boston St.
Louie Bar: Ware House 518 in Mt. Vernon is throwing a new craft cocktail concept into the mix this season. Come October, Louie Bar will debut inside the restaurant, delivering a separate set of sophisticated libations and small bites on Friday and Saturday nights. The menu, consulted by local cocktail connoisseur Perez Klebahn of Mr. Rain’s Fun House, will highlight progressive renditions of classic recipes, providing diners with more next-level drink options. 518 N. Charles St., 443-869-3382
Menchie’s: This new frozen yogurt bar is launching in Arundel Mills Mall over Labor Day weekend, featuring a ton of crank-it-yourself flavors (think key lime pie, toasty marshmallow, and raspberry tart) and sweet toppings. To celebrate the grand opening on September 5, Menchie’s will be offering daily deals throughout its first week. Take advantage of a kids eat free special from 2-4 p.m. on September 8, $1 froyo from 5-6 p.m. on September 7, and a buy-one get-one promotion on September 11. Another Menchie’s storefront will debut in Towson Square this fall. 7000 Arundel Mills Circle, Hanover, 410-266-5749
World of Beer: Although Towson’s bar scene surely isn’t lacking, this new spot making its way into area will soon offer more options for craft beer buffs. World of Beer’s second Baltimore location is slated to join neighboring eateries like BJ’s Brewhouse and Bobby’s Burger Palace in Towson Square later this month. The bar is known for pairing its rotating selection of international brews on tap with upscale pub grub like German pretzels and beer-battered onion rings. 125 E. Joppa Road
PROGRESS REPORT:
The Idle Hour: Slowly but surely, this beloved Riverside bar is getting back up on its feet after it closed in January due to structural damage. Permit issues recently caused a lull in construction, but with the help of an Indiegogo campaign that raised $48,000, improvements are underway and owners hope to re-open in the next few months. Stay tuned. 201 E. Fort Ave.
SHUT:
Midtown BBQ: Soon after a post to Midtown BBQ’s Facebook page announced that it had shut its doors for good in late August, new owners Julia and Vanna Belton revealed their plans to buy the Mt. Vernon space and transform it into a locally sourced restaurant called Flavor. Diners can expect a quick turnaround, as the 185-seat space is expected to launch in late September. 15 E. Centre St., 443-835-2472