Martinique Lewis’s Guide to Baltimore

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Some of my favorite favorite places

The Ivy Hotel: One of the only Black-owned hotels in America is right here in Baltimore. Owned by Slyvia and Eddie Brown this hotel takes opulence and excellence to the next level. Enjoy your stay and prepare to feel like royalty.  

Teavolve Cafe: When I tell you these were the best Red Velvet pancakes I have ever had – I mean that! Teavolve Cafe is a place that feels like home. It pairs a hip vibe with sweet and savory dishes you will love. 

Serenity Wine Bar & Cafe: Pour your own wine and wind down with pizza.  

Land of Kush: You’ll be asking yourself, “HOW IS THIS VEGAN?” I know because that’s what I did! Locals love the vegan crab cakes – I’m a fan of the mac & cheese.

BLK Swan: Newly opened and ready for its closeup – come correct as this “new American” eatery has an upscale dress code.  

The opulence of the Ivy Hotel will have you coming back again and again.

Still HUNGRY?  

Breakfast, brunch, dinner or lunch – Baltimore’s food scene is like no other!  

Breakfast: For a quick bite, stop into Marty’s Deli. While there’s no relation, I always feel like family when I dine at this mom-and-pop shop.  

Brunch: Baltimore knows how to brunch. My favorite not-quite-breakfast, but not yet lunch joints are Mama’s on a Half Shell in Canton and Miss Shirley’s in the Inner Harbor. If you head to Miss Shirley’s, get the shrimp & grits!  

Lunch: My go-to Baltimore lunch spot is Kooper’s Tavern in Fell’s Point. I love their burgers. The best part? They offer specials every day of the week!  

Dinner: For when you’re HUNGRY – meat buffet. Need I say more? Fogo de Chao is a Brazilian Steakhouse just across the street from the National Aquarium. Eat until you get your fill. Pro tip: As tempting as it is, don’t fill up on the pão de queijo cheese bread.  

Feeling BAD & BOUJEE? Get over to Brewers Hill for a meal (and fabulous cocktail pairings) at Gunther & Co. Be sure to save room for dessert!  

Check out the lush living wall at Gunther & Co.

Get MOVING!

From the Baltimore Orioles and Ravens to the Under Armour headquarters – Charm City is a sports town! Looking for a place to burn some calories while you’re in Baltimore? Try these places and activities.  

Walk, run or jog around the waterfront promenade. Get those endorphins up while taking in the famous waterfront view along the seven mile path that passes through several neighborhoods.

Join an outdoor workout class, hit the trail or join a pickup game at Druid Hill Park. Yes, THAT Druid Hill Park that inspired the name of Dru Hill. While you’re there, shoot hoops at Cloverdale Court where Carmelo Anthony got his start.  

And take a spin around Lake Montebello, located near HBCU Morgan State.  

Go for a jog around the reservoir in Druid Hill Park.

No trip would be complete without SHOPPING!

Hit up these Black-owned shops, like The Dollhouse Boutique where fits with sequins, tulle, denim and pearls will have you feeling like a star.  

I hope you are feeling inspired by my picks and have a wonderful time at the CIAA Basketball Tournament! Connect with me on Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn and let me know which spots you checked out.