Baltimore Life in the Spring

Spring is officially here, which means that warm, sunny days will soon follow. Dining outdoors is one of my favorite things to do when warmer weather strikes, even if that's just grabbing a quick beer and an appetizer with friends. And I love that I can bring along my dog, Gracie, if I feel up to the challenge. Not only does Baltimore have a great selection of restaurants with al fresco seating, but it also has several with a view. The only challenge that you might face is finding a place to park, which I overcome by traveling on my bike or on-foot.
My feet usually take me right into Fell's Point, although several others seem to end up there, too. I usually stroll around the neighborhood to check out which places have available seating. I've wandered into a few with surprisingly exquisite patios, hidden in the back. If you follow Broadway up to Arcos, you'll be serenaded by a Mariachi band in their outdoor courtyard and will wonder whether you're in Baltimore or Mexico. Head down to John Stevens on Thames Street for a cozy meal on their outdoor patio, beside a pot belly stove.

There are several other joints on Thames, between Ann Street and Broadway that offer a street-side view of the harbor while you eat: Vino, The Point and The Waterfront Hotel, to name some of my favorites. For unique, Caribbean food and an incredible city view, grab a bite on Woody's 3rd-floor deck. For a knock-your-socks-off crab cake, be sure not to overlook Duda's, on the corner of Thames and South Bond. The outdoor tables in the front of the pub sit along the cobblestone, tree-lined street of beautiful, historic homes.

I hope we don't have too much longer to wait for warmer weather. It's hard to think of anything better than dinner with friends, outdoors, on a beautiful spring night in Fells Point.

Written by Charm City Company