OPEN
The Elephant: After an 18-month renovation, this storied special occasion spot re-opened its doors in Mt. Vernon last week. Though infrastructure and design changes were necessary, new owners Steve and Linda Rivelis made it a priority to preserve the historic charm of the famed 19th century mansion, maintaining its dangling crystal, stained glass, and intricate teak woodwork. Executive chef Andy Thomas, who previously worked for Spike Gjerde, presents a menu listing globally inspired plates such as zucchini fritters, seared scallops with corn polenta, and Singapore rice noodles. 924 N. Charles, 443-447-7878
COMING SOON
Ceremony Coffee Roasters: Come winter, this Mt. Vernon coffeehouse will expand its Charm City footprint with a second shop in Beatty Development Group’s Harbor Point project. The new 75-seat shop will debut inside the yet-to-open Exelon Building, showcasing its signature brews alongside grab-and-go food options. Other retail tenants that have signed on to lease space in the building include West Elm, CorePower Yoga, and DIY stir fry and salad spot Honeygrow. 1310 Point St.
The Point in Towson: In yet another city-to-county expansion, The Point in Fells recently announced its plans to open a second location in Towson this fall. Taking over the former home of The Crease on York Road, The Point in Towson will feature live music and a menu of pub grub with vegetarian and vegan options. The news comes at a time where many city bars, including Nacho Mama’s and Mother’s Grille, have orchestrated spinoffs in the suburbs. 523 York Road.
THB Bagels & Deli: With established shops in Towson, Timonium, and Canton, this homegrown chain has become a go-to neighborhood spot for breakfast and lunch. Earlier this month, owner Tony Scotto announced plans for the business to launch a fourth location in Charles Village. Slated to open by the end of 2016, the new cafe will occupy the bottom level of a student housing building at the intersection of St. Paul and 33rd streets, serving its classic assortment of bagels, wraps, sandwiches, and salads. 9 E. 33rd St.
CH-CH CHANGES
Sauté: In a message posted to Facebook earlier this week, the owners of this Canton fixture announced that a major rebranding is in the works. The restaurant will be closed for renovations for the next six weeks, and is expected to re-open with a new concept and design, as well as a new menu with raw bar options and reimagined cocktails. Stay tuned for updates.2844 Hudson St., 410-327-2883
Parts & Labor: After spending nearly one year trying to acquire the proper permits, Spike Gjerde’s beloved Remington hotspot finally premiered its patio last week. The outdoor space, surrounded by the restaurant’s lively flower and vegetable garden, is now open daily for lunch and dinner service. 2600 N. Howard St., 443-873-8887
Greg’s Bagels: Owner Greg Novik closed his beloved Belvedere Square bagel shop earlier this week for health reasons. After recovering from abdominal surgery, he hopes to re-open in September.519 E. Belvedere Road, 410-323-9463
POP-UPS
Ejji Ramen: Speaking of Belvedere Square, the market’s go-to ramen purveyor is making its mark on a different communal food hub next week. Ejji will set up shop in Lexington Market’s rotating pop-up space from August 11-13, serving a special menu of Asian comfort food. Highlights will include a mac and cheese ramen dog and customizable noodle bowls that can be topped with fried pork belly, shrimp tempura, pulled pork, or grilled chicken. 400 W. Lexington St.
Hersh’s and The Corner Pantry Swap Kitchens: In a special two-part dinner series kicking off this month, chef Neil Howell of The Corner Pantry and chef Josh Hershkovitz of Hersh’s Pizza & Drinks are swapping kitchens. Hershkovitz will host an Italian invasion at The Corner Pantry on August 4 featuring squid ink tagliolini with Maryland crab and fresh corn pancakes with smoked mackerel. Then, on September 11, Howell will take over the kitchen at Hersh’s, whipping up classic cuisine (think Yorkshire puddings and Scotch eggs) inspired by his upbringing in England. 1843 Light St. and 6080 Falls Rd.
R. House: Seawall Development, the property management group behind this highly-anticipated Remington food incubator, recently announced that the space will feature a designated stall for rotating pop-ups when it debuts this fall. In addition to 10 resident micro-restaurants serving everything from fried chicken to bibimbap, R. House will boast a fully-equipped kitchen specifically for visiting chefs who want to test their concepts. 301 W. 29th St., 443-347-3570
SHUT
Patrick’s of Pratt Street: After deciding to retire, husband and wife owners Patrick and Anne Rowley will be putting their beloved Hollins Market pub up for auction later this summer. Dubbed the oldest Irish pub in the country, Patrick’s has long been a favorite for locals looking to chow down on shepherd’s pie and jam to live Celtic music. “We’ve been around for so long that celebrations just happen,” Patrick told us last St. Patrick’s Day. Though an official auction date has not been set, here’s hoping the new owners preserve the spirit of the historic neighborhood haunt. 934 W. Pratt St., 443-438-3749