What’s the Buzz?
Dining Scene Updates & News
The best way to kick off March is with Restaurant Week, 3/9-14, during which select restaurants throughout Annapolis and Anne Arundel County will offer 3-course meals (lunch or dinner) at one super-low price.
Last month we promised visits to Carpaccio Tuscan Grill at Park Place in Annapolis, Noodles & Company at the Westfield Annapolis Mall, and Griffin's Grill in Arnold. After the city permitting processes finally complete, Carpaccio is expected to be open at the beginning of this month-expect an Italian menu, in which the regional flavors of Tuscany shine (more on them next month). Noodles & Co. is excellent for a meal that's a little off the beaten path. With various ethnic noodle dishes and create-your-own meals, it's a fun way to enjoy lunch or dinner. And Griffin's Grill, formerly Texas Steaks, features an updated décor, outside renovations, and a menu of Chesapeake seafood faves and American classics, such as burgers, steaks, and a bevy of salads.
By the way, we recently enjoyed what is possibly the only fresh Maine lobster roll in town at Caroline's Cakes/Gourmet Take it Away in Annapolis, offered Thursday-Sunday for market price (currently $10.95). Meanwhile, the Severn Inn, located at the foot of the Naval Academy Bridge in Annapolis, is hosting monthly "wine dinners" that feature select wines paired with authentic, multi-course meals (examples: Italian wines and dishes).
In case you haven't heard, Annapolis's trendy restaurant/rooftop bar, Metropolitan, was recently sold by its owners to Jerry's Seafood, an upscale seafood joint. Not to worry, the atmosphere still resembles that of its predecessor and the menu features a fab mix of inspiring seafood dishes. The ownership group of Metropolitan has also expanded its Lemongrass and Tsunami restaurants to include locations in Crofton (Lemongrass only) and Baltimore (both). We hear that all are starting to gain a popular foothold. Also in Baltimore, Rams Head Live!'s adjoining tavern/restaurant is temporarily closed, but the show goes on-all concerts are still a go.
And speaking of openings and closings, we were saddened to learn that Sputnik Café, popular among diners for their creative fusion dishes, excellent wine list, and local artwork, recently closed its doors. Word on the street is that Lures Bar & Grill will open at that location late this month. Unfortunately, The Pampered Palate in Pasadena also joins Sputnik in closing, as well as local legend Blob's Park in Jessup.
What's on the horizon? Bruster's Real Ice Cream has announced that it will open a franchise in Annapolis, as will the first Maryland franchise of Salad Creations at the Westfield Annapolis Mall, which will offer a fresh alternative to fast food. We are also keeping our eye on the Annapolis Towne Center development in Parole-there are several restaurants slated to open later this year.