Baltimore is a city known for its vibrant food scene. Its unique dishes turn everyday ingredients into local delights. Here’s a look at some standout bites that have caught the city’s attention and sparked social media buzz.
Crab Cake Egg Rolls at Papi Cuisine
The crab cake egg roll started as a sensation at AJ’s on Hanover. People loved it so much that the restaurant struggled to keep up and eventually took it off the menu. Enter Papi Cuisine, an Afro-Latin fusion spot. Their hand-rolled version is stuffed with creamy crab cake filling and paired with a delicious house-made aioli and a tangy “warhead” sauce. It’s no surprise that this dish inspired many copycats.
Crab Dip Bagel at Café Dear Leon
Café Dear Leon is more than just a bakery; it’s a local treasure. When they introduced the crab dip bagel, it became an instant hit. This bagel features a rich cheddar crab dip, corn, Cajun butter, and a sprinkle of Old Bay. It prompted other restaurants to create their own crab dip dishes, like croissants and crab rangoons. If you’re interested, pay attention to their baking schedule because these bagels tend to sell out fast.
Chopped Subs at Chopped Broadway Bodega
Chopped Broadway Bodega offers a fresh take on the classic sub. Their Frank Lucas features hot pastrami and melted cheese on a garlic-toasted roll. The Capone is a flavorful BLT with your choice of bacon, all pressed into a toasted sub. These hearty sandwiches have become favorites around town.
Crab Mac n Cheese Hot Dog at Stuggy’s
Stuggy’s, known for gourmet hot dogs, serves a crab mac n cheese dog that’s a must-try, especially in the summer. It starts with a juicy hot dog topped with creamy mac and cheese and jumbo lump crab. Whether you grab one at the shop or during a game at Camden Yards, it’s a treat you won’t forget.
Frank’s Pizza & Pasta
Frank’s is a staple in Northeast Baltimore and gained extra attention after a surprisingly positive review from barstool critic Dave Portnoy. With an 8.3 rating for their cheese pizza and a 9 for the cheesesteak, it’s clear they know pizza. The pizza is crisp and cheesy, while the cheesesteak is flavorful from the first bite.
Funky Fish Sandwich at Oh Honey, on the Bay
This small pop-up next to Hollins Market serves the funky fish sandwich made with a freshly fried swai filet. Topped with hot honey, it’s paired with crinkle-cut fries that soak in all the flavors. Influencers have praised this dish, helping to keep the line long.
In sum, Baltimore’s food scene is alive with creativity and flavor. These dishes not only capture the essence of local cuisine but also reflect the city’s dynamic culinary culture. Whether you are a local or just visiting, these bites are worth a try for an authentic taste of Charm City.
For more on Baltimore’s culinary trends, you can check out The Baltimore Banner.