Cheers!

I was in the new Outpost American Tavern in Federal with friends recently to sample the cuisine of chef Jesse Sandlin. When our server arrived with my customary Manhattan, I was pleasantly amused with this stylish presentation: a classic coupe glass with a banded gold rim and a playful plastic mermaid perched on the rim. I have recollections of seeing these kinds of characters on my parents’ cocktails when we dined out at my father’s club when I was a child. Fun to see one again after all these years! {The Outpost American Tavern, 1032 Riverside Avenue, Federal Hill}

Last weekend at the Maryland Historical Society’s fashion-themed gala, there were lots of examples of fashion on display, both past and present. This handsome blazer is a custom piece from Christopher Schafer Clothier here in town. It’s a two-button notch lapel model with angled pockets and double vents, done in a Dormeuil wool from England. With its soft pink, black and grey plaid, it’s a distinctive piece, and quite snappy. {Christopher Schafer Clothier, 1400 Aliceanna Street, Fells Point}

I’m a fan of vintage graphics, whatever form they may appear in. This handsome neon sign hangs on the side wall of the Pen & Quill restaurant near the train station. It originally hung over the side-door entrance when the building housed the iconic Chesapeake restaurant for many years. The next time you’re at the Pen & Quill, or a film up the block at The Charles, stroll around the corner and look up—it’s a stunner. {Pen & Quill, 1701 Charles Street, Station North}

The very popular new food hall in Remington, R House, hosts an industry night on Tuesdays at its R Bar. Head bartender and mixologist extraordinaire Aaron Joseph designed this cocktail, the Kings Gold, as part of a Copper & Kings Brandy night. It’s a concoction of Copper & Kings aged brandy, lemon juice, spring honey syrup and root beer bitters. He personally mixed this one for me, and it was delicious.

Consider this one a tease: I was at a dinner a few nights ago just before the new Rec Pier Chophouse in the Sagamore Pendry Hotel opened to the public. Local designer Patrick Sutton did the sumptuous interiors, and it is luxe personified. It’s one of the most stylish, sophisticated spots in the city right now. In an upcoming post, I’ll do a deep-dive into the individual design elements that make this space so special. {Rec Pier Chop, 1715 Thames Street, Fells Point}