Exploring Baltimore, The Oprah Way
“Exploration is really the essence of the human spirit.” – Frank Borman
An expanded territory
Recently, I acquired a larger territory at work. This means I travel to new places and meet new clients. With increased responsibilities comes the opportunity to grow personally and professionally.
From a personal standpoint, I have the option of exploring these spots. I can take the easy route and choose the most convenient, healthy restaurant close to my hotel. Or, I can do some research and see if there is anything interesting nearby.
When I first started my position, I had more time and energy. I made a point to explore my surroundings and visit friends, when possible. As time went on, my natural instinct to explore took a back seat. My expanded territory reignited the flame buried deep within.
Following Oprah’s advice
Prior to my trip to Baltimore, an article popped up in my Facebook feed, 16 Reasons to Visit Baltimore, Including Oprah’s Favorite Crab Cakes, published by O The Oprah Magazine. Since I would be heading that way, I clicked the link.
My hotel was pretty close to many of the spots on Oprah’s list, so I decided to have a little fun. After all, I have to hit a lot of places before I make my way back to the Baltimore area.
Crab cakes at Pappas
Since Maryland is known for crab cakes, I started by having dinner at Pappas, which serves Oprah’s favorite crab cakes. Although I have a gluten sensitivity, I made an exception. After all, I was in Maryland, and I wanted to eat what Maryland is known for, crab cakes.
Pappas is a casual, bar restaurant. Had I not read O’s article, I would never have chosen this place. I was pleasantly surprised to see I was entering a reasonably-priced, hole-in-the-wall spot instead of an upscale restaurant. Eating well, within my corporate budget, was easy as pie.
I started with their cream of crab soup, which had fresh chunks of crab floating at the top of the cup. It was creamy, delicious, and very filling. This was definitely worth ordering.
Next up was Oprah’s favorite crab cake. I normally do not like crab cakes. That’s because many of the ones I have eaten have had way too many bread crumbs and not enough lump crab meat. I was delightfully surprised by the minimal additives and the huge chunks of crab meat in the crab cake. Oh Oprah, I understand why you named this crab cake as your favorite. I would venture back in a heartbeat.
Dinner with a friend at Costas Inn
Ironically, a former co-worker and friend, Rox, was in town training for her new job. We decided to meet for a quick dinner the second night of my trip. I wanted to try Oprah’s other crab recommendation, Costas Inn.
I saw amazing crabs floating by, but I was a little too tired to work for my meal. Thus, I opted for the crab soup and crab cake. My meal at Pappas was better, but these items were still really good. Ironically, the Oprah article highlighted the crabs, not the crab cakes. Whoops!
I will have to go back and try the crabs. Again, the restaurant was affordable and low-key, not a place I would expect to find one of the most famous women in world dining at. This made me smile.
Fells Point
Since I was loving all of Oprah’s suggestions, I decided to check out Fells Point the following evening. The article described the area as an “idyllic neighborhood” on the water “with cobblestone streets and charming brick storefronts that have a variety of bars with live music, seafood, restaurants, and boutiques.”
The Black Olive
I looked online and stumbled upon The Black Olive, an upscale Greek restaurant. Being Greek, I have to be careful when choosing a Greek restaurant. My taste buds have been spoiled by the amazing cooks in my family. I am quite picky with my Greek cuisine.
The Black Olive appeared to have great reviews, and the food pictures were authentic and appetizing. I decided to follow the bloggers and give the place a shot.
The Black Olive offered a special menu that evening, which included an appetizer, main course, and dessert. I ordered the oysters, sea bass, and baklava ice cream. I passed on the bread, but I enjoyed the olives they served me, beforehand. The oysters were fresh and filled my mouth with a burst of flavor.
My meal was delicious, and I was happy with my choice. They brought out my sea bass, and gave me the option of eating the fish whole or removing the bones for me. I opted for them to clean my fish, and I had fun watching them extract the head, skin, and bones. It was an interesting experience.
I make baklava on special occasions, so I was quite curious about the baklava ice cream. I was pleasantly surprised at how yummy this dessert was. But then again, how can you not love ice cream? I left with a satisfied tummy, and a smile played upon my lips.
Quaint, cobblestone streets
The night was still young, and the area was beautiful. I decided to take a quick stroll before heading back to my hotel and hitting the computer.
I was greeted by cute, cobblestone streets with quaint shops. In the distance I saw the gorgeous moon shining its light against the ocean waves. As I love water and the ocean, I gravitated toward that direction. There was also a gathering of people and Dave Matthews playing on loud speakers. I wanted to stay all night, but alas, I was tired and still had work to do. I made a loop, grabbed my car, then headed to my home for the week.
Lexington Market
The following day I finished up my client meetings. I had a little bit of time to spare before flying out. I decided to head to another Oprah recommendation, the Lexington Market. The area was cute, but I sort of felt like a sit-down meal before flying out. I am glad I stopped by though and saw the market, which dates back to 1782.
Time for some nature
I was in need of fresh air, so I decided to make a quick stop at another Oprah recommendation, Druid Hill Park. As I love flowers, I decided to check out the botanical gardens, Howard Peters Rawlings Conservatory & Botanic Gardens. The flowers and being outdoors were just what I needed to rejuvenate my spirit.
I walked the grounds, and then entered the conservatory. I paid the suggested donation, then wandered through the rooms. The orchids were beautiful, and the goldfish were playful. I purchased some fish food to feed them.
Exploring the gardens and immersing my soul in nature is just what my soul yearned for.
More crab cakes at G&M
My last stop before heading to the airport would be lunch. My partner that I was traveling with, Felicia, suggested a few places for crab cakes, G&M Restaurant & Lounge and Timbuktu Restaurant & Lounge. I decided to check out G&M. Off I went.
G&M was also a tasty treat and a great ending to my adventures in Baltimore. I love getting recommendations from folks I know, especially when they live locally. I will have to try Timbuktu the next time I am in Baltimore. Thank you, Felicia!
After lunch, I headed to the airport, booted up my lap top, and waited for my flight to take off. I had a great time meeting new clients, traveling with Felicia, and eating my way around the city.
