Water for Chocolate- Sexy Comfort Food

TLDR

This small neighborhood restaurant hidden in Upper Fells Point has been important to me and my family. You should come and enjoy some of the best food you will ever have. BBQ Shrimp and Grits, Jalapeno Cornbread, and Duck Confit oh my. 

My Story

House hunting is hard work. I decided it would be better to eat first. I was still trying to get my bearings in the area. I was looking to live in the Patterson Park neighborhood, but there were many distinct neighborhoods that surround the park. One of the neighborhoods in Butchers Hill to the west of the park. Many Baltimore restaurants are converted rowhomes, so they can be very small and sometimes you don’t even know it is a restaurant. I found a small one on the corner of Wolfe and Lombard called Water for Chocolate. I ordered shrimp salad and a brownie for carryout and headed to the park. 

I didn’t take any pictures because I didn’t know how good the food would be and it was 2008 and I didn’t let the camera eat first like I do now. At first I thought the shrimp salad was going to be too creamy but the seasoning and the soft croissant balanced it all out. Now the brownie is still to this day one of my favorite brownies. It is thick, chocolaty and has a hint of cinnamon. 

Water for Chocolate has become an important neighborhood spot. One of the things that I love about Baltimore is the concept of Smaltimore. If there are six degrees of separation in the world, there are at most three in Baltimore. Everyone is very interconnected. I have gotten to know the owner of Water for Chocolate, Chef Sean Guy. I have watched his children, who often work with him in the restaurant or festivals, grow up. In 2015 there was a fire that closed the restaurant. The neighborhood rallied around Water for Chocolate with fundraisers and it eventually reopened and expanded to the building next door. 

Me and Chef Sean Guy in the new bathroom. If you ever went to the old one you understand why this is picture worthy. IYKYK

Water for Chocolate also got a beer and wine license and created a sangria he calls Dope Juice. I also make sangria and I gave a great hint early on that makes Dope Juice a winner in my opinion. It is one of the few places I will order sangria. What is this hint? Don't leave your citrus rinds in the sangria because it will become bitter.

Dope Juice. The rosemary wasn't my idea, but like I said, this drink is a winner.

In addition to seeing Water for Chocolate grow, it has been a spot of milestones for my family. We would often go there for birthdays because my parents love to support a black owned business and the food is so good. I was having lunch with my family when I found out I got my job at Live Baltimore. My brother went on a first date and later proposed to his now wife at Water for Chocolate. Places like this is one of the reasons I love Baltimore.

The happy couple and it all started at Water for Chocolate

Now let me talk about the food. Sean Guy calls it sexy comfort food and when you see it and taste it, you know what he means. One of his signature dishes is BBQ Shrimp and Grits. I didn’t think it would be my jam because it is not what I’m used to with shrimp and grits, but I was wrong. The sauce is not Memphis, KC or Carolina, it is Chef Guy’s own creation and just the right amount. Alongside a big piece of jalapeno cornbread, you will have to go back to sleep after this brunch.

BBQ Shrimp and Grits

One of my go to brunch items is the Hangover Special. I’m just going to say there is goat cheese mac under that bacon!!!

Hangover Special

Some other brunch items are jerk duck confit over a cornbread waffle and don’t worry about all the meat. The Sweet Potato Polenta has all the veggies.

Jerk Duck Confit over a Cornbread Waffle

Sweet Potato Polenta

Brunch is my favorite meal, but I don’t want to leave out the dinner at Water for Chocolate. You can sign up for the Chef’s Table for an exclusive multi-course meal. Last time I stopped by for dinner, I enjoyed the night's Blue Plate Special-Lobster, shrimp, scallops, and salmon belly in lemongrass coconut curry. It was even better than it sounds if that is possible. The Blue Plate Special changes so I'm sorry if this one is not available, but whatever it is, it will be good.

Blue Plate Special

What are you going to get when you go? Please let me know in the comments.

Amicci's Pane Rotundo is Little Italy’s best appetizer

 TLDR

This restaurant has a special place in my heart and belly with a creamy shrimp appetizer. It is located in a historically ethnic neighborhood that still has plenty of good food and fun events for me to blog about in the future.

My Story

I have since explored many of the restaurants in Little Italy, but Amicci’s was the first one I visited while I was searching for a home in Baltimore. I had a day of house hunting. I was looking for a rowhome with a parking pad and an open floor plan. That didn’t sound like a lot. But listings that said “parking pad” was really concrete in the back of a home that had no turn radius to actually accommodate a car. I would have to drop my car from the sky to get onto the parking pad. 

I was starving and really needed some comfort food and Italian food fit the bill. My brother, who had lived in the city for a few years, suggested Amicci’s. He was born when I was six and it seemed very unnecessary to me, but he has shown his value now that we are adults.

The Wiggins kids. I'm glad we kept him.

Amicci’s looked simple from the outside so I had no idea what awaited me on the inside. I sat at the bar so I could get some advice from the bartender on what I should try. The bartender said I had to have the Pane Rotundo, their signature appetizer. She had me at shrimp and cream sauce. The fact that it is served in a toasted sourdough bread bowl was an added bonus. The combination of the crusty sourdough and the succulent shrimp, bathed in a creamy sauce, made me forget about nonexistent parking pads. It was so good, I don’t remember what else I got that day. 

Pane Rotundo at Amicci's

I have gone back to Amicci’s several times since that first day. I have never had a bad meal. I love the tortellini peas and ham, but I’m a fool for stuffed pasta. There is an awesome daily carryout special. I find Amicci’s to be one of the more affordable places in Little Italy. Don’t let the price fool you. The food is quality. Amicci’s is a cozy spot perfect for a family meal or a romantic date. Now they even have a smaller version of the Pane Rotundo called the Panino in case you feel some kind of way about eating a whole sourdough bowl. I’m fine with it.

History

Amicci’s is a family owned restaurant established in 1991 in Baltimore’s Little Italy neighborhood. In the mid to late 1800’s, Italians migrated to Baltimore. A main entry point was President Street Station on the Baltimore waterfront. Immigrants from many different European countries settled in the area. By the early 1900’s, most of the residents were Italian and many family owned businesses were established in the neighborhood. Today the population is different, but there are still many places to eat (they will be in future posts). There are several regular events in Little Italy like the Italian Heritage Day and the Madonnari Arts Festival (more future posts)

Tastiest Week of the Year

TLDR

Winter Baltimore Restaurant Week is from January 26-February 4. It is one of the best opportunities to try a variety of Baltimore restaurants. I couldn't talk about all the restaurants I love that are on the list, because there are so many. You just have to get out there. Try some new food or go back to a spot that you haven't been to in a while. Feel free to invite me to join.

My Story

Winter is a slow time for restaurants. Now sponsored by Visit Baltimore and Downtown Baltimore Partnership, Restaurant Week was first offered in 2006 and gives diners 10 days (I know that isn't a “week”) of dining deals. Participation restaurants offer specially curated prix-fixe lunch, brunch and dinner menus, allowing patrons to savor multi-course meals at affordable prices. There is usually a Summer Restaurant Week that happens in July.

In the past, I have taken off the whole week from work. I like to call it a staycation. One time I was able to fit in 13 different restaurants. It is the perfect foodie vacation to really checkout Baltimore's truly exceptional dining scene. And I don't have to pay for lodging. I have a newish job and I haven't accumulated enough time off yet. Hopefully next year I can resume my staycation.

One of the standout features of Baltimore Restaurant Week is the diverse range of dining options. From upscale fine dining establishments to cozy neighborhood eateries, the participating restaurants span the culinary spectrum. This inclusivity ensures that there's something for every taste and preference. It really is the perfect opportunity for both seasoned foodies and casual diners to explore new culinary experiences.

Baltimore Restaurant Week is also a chance for diners to enjoy popular restaurants at a fraction of the regular cost. The prix-fixe menus offer a fantastic value, allowing diners to relish high-quality dishes without breaking the bank. It's an opportunity to treat oneself to a culinary adventure without the guilt of overspending.

Porchetta at Cosima

Discovering Hidden Gems

For those who are eager to explore Baltimore's culinary scene, Restaurant Week serves as a treasure trove of hidden gems. With many establishments participating for the first time or featuring exclusive dishes, diners can unearth new favorites and support local businesses in the process. It's a chance to step outside one's culinary comfort zone and embrace the unexpected.

Bolognese at new comer, Zander's

Tips for Maximizing the Experience

Plan Ahead: With a multitude of participating restaurants, it's wise to plan your dining itinerary in advance. Check out the official Baltimore Restaurant Week website for the list of participating establishments and their menus. Some of the menus aren't up yet, but that shouldn't stop you from deciding to go. Some menus may be on the restaurant's website, so be sure to check that out too.

Take advantage of lunch and brunch options. Some of them really have great value. I'm going to have to have a lunch meeting at Zander's. Not only is the location in the old Alexander Brown building stunning, $25 for a meal there is unbelievable. The Empanada Lady looks like a good value for brunch. It is definitely on my list.

The Alexander Brown building

Try Something New: Use this opportunity to try cuisines and dishes you might not have considered before. Baltimore's food scene is diverse, and Restaurant Week is the perfect time to expand your culinary horizons. Try some Mediterranean food at Ammoora a new restaurant at the Ritz-Carlton Residences. Also Nepenthe Brewing Co. has the best kitchen of all the breweries in the city. They also have cocktails if you are not a beer drinker. Dang, now I need to add them to my list.

Ashta Bil Asal at Ammoora

Reservations Recommended: Some places are popular like Petit Louis Bistro and Tio Pepe, Baltimore institutions. Some are small like Sobo Cafe and Forged (2023 James Beard Semi-Finalist) and can fill up quickly during this event, so making reservations is highly recommended. Ensure you secure your spot at your chosen dining destination.

Tio Pepe is famous for their sangria.

Share the Experience: Dining is often a social affair, so why not make it a group outing? Gather friends or family and share the joy of discovering new flavors together. Who is going out with me? Remember, the camera gets to eat first.

Al fresco in and alley at Sobo Market. So Baltimore.

I know I said each thing would have its own post when I started the blog. But I feel like Restaurant Week is like Baltimore is the restaurant. It's also my blog so I can change the rules. I'm also going to calm down soon and not post every other day. But thank you for joining me so far. Please continue to share.

Patterson Park-Baltimore's Best Backyard

TLDR

Patterson Park is the most intensively used large park in Baltimore. Patterson Park Community Development Corporation, built up the surrounding rowhome community.  The Friends of Patterson Park developed robust programming in the park creating a thriving area that serves the neighborhood and the city. The close knit community and close proximity to the park sold me on the Patterson Park Neighborhood. I had no idea about all the programming. Near the end I got crazy into history, I think my dad's spirit jumped in me. Future blogs will feature food now that my Baltimore background is complete.

My Story

I moved to the neighborhood of Patterson Park in November 2008. I’m not a huge cold weather fan so I didn’t go out a lot, but I quickly made friends and hung out with neighbors, unlike in the county. But once it got warm I started to explore the park. The park has lots of amenities and events. I will get to some of those soon, but my most vivid first memory of an event in the park was witnessing the Visionary Art Museum's Kinetic Sculpture Race. There will be a separate post sometime about the Visionary Art Museum and the race, including how I was in it one year. But let me share my first experience. The Kinetic Sculpture Race consists of all-terrain sculptures that travel through the city while encountering a water obstacle at the Canton Waterfront, a sand pit and mud pit in Patterson Park. Oh and these sculptures are powered by people. Picture a 15 foot, pink poodle sculpture, being peddled by people. Like I said, future blog post.

FiFi, the iconic kinetic sculpture at The Visionary Art Museum

Now what I first encountered was the mud pit. These crazy sculptures are riding around the park. Then they gear up and try to get through a man-made mud pit. People are standing around, cheering the sculptures on and a teenage girl on a dirt bike that had floaties on it (there are rules that I still don’t understand) and struggled in this pit. She was competing for some category in this crazy race and had to get through this pit unassisted and she also couldn’t fall. It felt like all of Baltimore was behind her as she used every muscle in her body to stay up and move forward. After what seemed like hours, but it was probably only 30 seconds because there was a time limit, she made it through and the crowd went wild. This continued with all kinds of sculptures - fish, dog, a platypus, it was the craziest thing I had ever seen. I later discovered there were water and sand pit obstacles before the mud pit. I couldn't believe I walked to this from my house. I really picked the right neighborhood for me. 

I want to sign up to be on the mud pit crew.

You won’t even believe me as I list all the events hosted in my park. OK it’s a public park but still. In addition to the Kinetic Race, here is a small list of the many scheduled offerings:

• The Kite Festival

• Wine at Sunset

• Zumba

• Youth Tennis

• Youth Soccer

• Summer Concert Series

• Dia del Nino

• Haitian Caribbean Festival

• Brewfest

• Great Lantern Parade

• Winter Lights

• Mindfulness Nature Walk

The Friends of Patterson Park organizes many of the events in the park. They partner with other organizations like The Creative Alliance, Komite Ayiti and many others to create inclusive programming. 

Catrina and Catrin at the Lantern Parade

Kite Festival

But the great thing is, you don’t have to go to the park for a special event. When the weather is warm, my morning walk is a circuit around my park. I leave my house and walk two blocks to the park. I walk by the Virginia Baker Recreation Center. I pass softball fields, tennis courts, a playgrounds, the Patterson Park Dog Park, Utz Field, basketball courts, pavilions, Mimi DiPietro Family Skating Center, Patterson Park Pool, the Pulaski Monument,  The Boat Lake, bird watching areas created by Patterson Park Audubon Center, the bull circle, community gardens, the Observatory, a historic marble fountain, and the White House (home of The Friends of Patterson Park, not POTUS). 

A fun game would be to try to find the Bull Circle in the park. I also may have made up this name.

Marble Fountain from 1865

That is a long list of attractions, but I want to tell you about my two favorites.

The Boat Lake

During my walk around the park, I take an interior detour that takes me to the wetlands. When I post pictures from this area, people can’t understand how I’m still in the city, or how I walked here. There are ducks, herons, at times an egret and a great blue heron that I call the dinosaur bird. I encountered it standing on the dock and it was definitely my height (I know I’m a short human, but that is a big bird). I also didn’t know you could walk around the lake for years. The dock is hidden by an island in the middle of the lake. In the Boat Lake, there are turtles and frogs. The Baltimore City Recreation and Parks department also stocks the Boat Lake with fish. Many city dwellers can say they caught their first fish at the Boat Lake. 

The lake was created after the civil war and expanded in 1875 to accommodate skating and boats. The lake was deepened in 1985. In 2003 the lake was dredged and wetlands were created. It is more of a duck pond than a boat lake. 

The Boat Lake-I often post a picture from here with #stillinthecity

Observatory

My favorite spot in the park is the Observatory on top of Hampstead Hill. It is the most iconic landmark in Patterson Park. It sits atop Hampstead Hill (check out the history below) and on a clear day you can see the Key Bridge.

In the spring, the most magnificent pink magnolias bloom around the Observatory.

The Observatory and pink magnolia

During the summer we gather and listen to concerts on the hill.

Summer concert series at the Observatory

And in the winter, we light it up for the season.

Winter Lights

There are also opportunities to go inside the Observatory and see a 360 view of the city. It is a sight that you shouldn’t miss. I love meeting friends or meditating on the steps looking over the city. 

Looking down at the staircase in the Observatory

I spiraled deep into the history of my 137 acre park. I was really feeling like my dad, who loved history and sharing it with a captive crowd. You can read it below and there is even a book. But I did want to share this one fun nugget.

The city erected cannons in the park on Hampstead Hill for the hundred year anniversary of the Battle of Baltimore in 1914. When the Friends of Patterson Park looked to celebrate the Bicentennial of the Battle of Baltimore, they discovered the cannons weren’t replicas as everyone assumed. They were actual cannons from the period. For some more information about that discovery including an interesting use for one of the cannons, check out this video.  

Real Cannons at the park

Now for the extra history lesson, thank you for making it this far...

Harris Creek Rogers Estate dates from the late 1600’s. You could paddle a small boat from the Patapsco River into the Harris Creek that ran through the park. There is a fascinating history of waterways under Baltimore (the Jones Falls, Sumwalt Run) that will be a real nerdy blog post at some future time.  William Patterson, the founder of the B&O Railroad, purchased 200 acres in 1792 for $8,500 at auction. In 1827, he gifted 6 acres to the city in an effort to recreate public walks he saw in Europe. This gift makes Patterson Park the oldest park in Baltimore and the first gift of land to a city for public recreation.  The park became a public space in 1853. 

During the War of 1812 (which lasted from 1812-1815, not just 1812. The 100 years war was really 116. I had to know.), the British attacked by water at  Ft. McHenry, cue The Star-Spangled Banner.  On land, the British marched on Baltimore to Hampstead Hill (the top of Patterson Park) and saw 100 cannons and 20,000 troops, mainly civilians. They were like, Nah and returned to their ships and left the Port of Baltimore. 

The Park became another military base during The Civil War, where Hampstead Hill was a hospital, Camp Patterson Park from 1861-1864. After the war, the park had several expansions. George A. Frederick gave the park a Victorian vibe. The Observatory was designed by Charles Latrobe (you will see this name all over the city) in 1890, and the famous Olmsted brothers designed portions of the park in 1905. The Friends of Patterson Park was formed in 1998 to partner with the Baltimore City Recreation and Parks for maintenance of the park. A small staff and dedicated group of volunteers has turned Patterson Park into a city attraction with amazing programming. 

You can by this book here

Well my Baltimore origin story is complete. Future blog posts will feature food!!! Feel free to suggest places you would like to read about.