Best Places to Eat In Hampden

Baltimore is known as a city of neighborhoods – more than 200 of them, all with a unique history and feel. Hampden has maintained its title as one of the 12 Coolest Neighborhoods in America, according to Thrillist, and it’s because of Hampden that Baltimore was named one of Travel and Leisure’s Quirkiest Cities in America. Once you’re there, it’s easy to see why: from a giant flamingo on the front of a building to the annual Honfest, there is no shortage of unique sights. With so much to explore in Hampden, it will be easy to work up an appetite. Indulge in some of these Hampden restaurants that will have you saying “hon” in no time.

Birroteca is a contemporary Italian restaurant featuring handcrafted pizzas and more than 24 craft beers on tap. The restaurant offers communal dining service in a refined casual setting with craft cocktails and a focused Italian wine list.

Right around the corner, literally, is the Corner Charcuterie Bar. Formerly known as “The Corner BYOB,” the bar specializes in craft cocktails and charcuterie while offering a full dinner menu in an intimate dining area.

The Food Market features “approachable, serious comfort food” by award-winning chef Chad Gauss and was voted one of the Top 100 Hot Spots in the nation by OpenTable.com. Gauss was named Baltimore magazine’s Best New Chef in 2010 and he continues to delight locals and visitors alike with his fresh menu.

If you can’t decide whether to eat or shop, do both at Ma Petite Shoe. The boutique sells shoes and chocolate, and it's right on 36th Street, or "The Avenue" as locals call it, where you can find other unique stores in brightly colored houses. Right next door CHOUX café creates world-class bakery goods and fresh salads with a modern aesthetic.

After perusing the shops on The Avenue all day, you will be in need of an afternoon pick-me-up. Spro Coffee offers specialty coffee from around the globe with each cup brewed to order.

Looking for a place to unwind with friends or grab pre-dinner drinks? Check out the happy hour at Union Craft Brewing’sTap Room. On Thursdays and Fridays from 5 to 8 p.m., grab a snack at the bar or a pint or two of local favorites like the Duckpin Pale Ale or the Anthem Golden Ale.

Off the beaten path in the valley of Woodberry is Woodberry Kitchen, the first restaurant concept by 2015 James Beard award-winning chef Spike Gjerde. This farm-to-table restaurant features the best seasonal ingredients from local growers and was recently included in Eater’s list of Where to Eat in 2015.