One night in Baltimore - big dreams, small budget.

[mjn]

Hi everyone,

My boyfriend and I are heading into Baltimore from DC for a poor-man's Valentine's Day trip. We'll be spending the night on Friday in the inner harbour and are looking for a place to dine. We're both foodies, and acknowledge how annoying that word has become, he has a thing for small craft breweries, I love wine, we both enjoy restaurants that emphasize local food and organic ingredients. No steak houses, sports bars, or chains. Woodberry Kitchen looks lovely but they don't have any reservations for that night (and it might be too much of a hike). We don't have much cash to drop but are willing to dig into our very-teeny-grad-student pockets for a wonderful meal. Mood is important too - nothing stuffy or in-your-face trendy.

Is that too much to ask? Thank you all in advance for your expert advice...

[fedhillfc]

Gertrude's is pretty "local". I don't about organic, but the food is good and the ambiance is very nice. It is located inside the Baltimore Museum of Art - you'll feel that you're going to a special place.

[lawhound]

It doesn't necessarily fit your local food orientation, but Peters Inn on Ann Street in Fells Point is great food, perfectly prepared, terrific wine selection, very inexpensive for the quality. The decor is nothing special (it's a bar) but it sounds like that's OK with you.

[brewsky55]

If you don't mind spending the money, based on what you've described, I think you'd really like the Brewer's Art. Entrees run $20-$30. It's in the Mt. Vernon area. They have a great seasonal menu, their produce is locally grown. Not to mention an amazing beer selection. I've never had a bad meal there. Eclectic environment and you won't run into anything stuffy or trendy there.

Another spot that is much smaller, but big on the eclectic feel is Annabel Lee Tavern in Canton. This is a corner bar that is Edgar Allen Poe themed. They have amazing food and daily specials. Their prices range from $10-$25. I think they have the best crabcake in the city.

Hope that helps!

[orangecrush]

Brewer's Art