A local's guide to what's Black in Charm City!
With travel slowly but surely starting to kick off again, I wanted to take the time to share some of my favorite local spots in one of my favorite cities! Living in between both Baltimore and DC, I'd choose Baltimore every time...every time I visit, I find something new, so it truly never gets old.
Local travel is a great way to introduce yourself to solo travel and the joys of exploring on your own! And if you can do that while traveling sustainably? Double plus! Supporting Black-owned companies is a great way to put your dollars towards something useful and beneficial. So if you're ever in town, here's a quick list of what's Black in Baltimore!
BREAKFAST/BRUNCH: Saturday Morning Cafe
Start off your day at Saturday Morning Cafe. This cute little cafe can be reached by walking down a picturesque, cobble-stoned alleyway just off Water Street. The restaurant serves some of the best fried chicken and waffles I've ever had! The staff is courteous and welcoming - we were cracking jokes my entire time there! The place immediately feels like home. I'd also recommend their shrimp and grits...it's to die for.
FASHION: Doll House Boutique
Now time for some shopping! Head over to Doll House Boutique to live out your makeover dreams! Dress-up isn't just for kind, you know. Even if you're just visiting for fashion inspo like I was, I walked away with so many new ideas after a fun day of trying on clothes and styles I'd never considered before! If you really want to make a fashion statement, you can also book a consultation with the owner and she'll be sure to get you all dolled-up.
BOOKS: Drama MaMa Bookshop
Here's something for my fellow book lovers and writers. Drama MaMa Bookshop has both the fabled classics and the latest releases, and you can even write your own stories in one of their custom-made ! I took one of their binding classes and made my own book! Talk about the perfect gift.
DESSERTS: Berries By Quicha
Sweet tooth kicking in? Head over to Berries By Quicha for her custom, hand-made chocolate covered strawberries! The beautifully designed berries look just as good as they taste, with flavors ranging from dark chocolate, to caramel, to pretzel garnished. There are berries for every occasion, too. I had the birthday platter and got through the whole pack in a day all on my own!
VINTAGE SHOPPING: Keepers Vintage & KSM Candle CO
Maybe just a bit more shopping before dinner? Head to Keepers Vintage for vintage clothing and hand-picked designer items. They also host fun events like Trap Yoga and Galentine's Day Parties! The retail spaced is shared by KSM Candle CO, a Black-owned candle company selling vegan-friendly candles, sprays, and intense. You can even make your own custom scent! Two Black-owned businesses in one? Yes, please!
VEGAN DINING: Land of Kusch
Finally! Dinner time. Stop by Land of Kusch for vegetarian & vegan soul food, including desserts & smoothies. The vibe is laid-back and homey, the delicious smells from the restaurant emanating all the way down the block! I had Kusch BBQ Ribs, Jollof Rice, and live kale, and washed it all down with a build-your-own-smoothie of strawberry, banana, and kiwi.
ACCOMMODATION: The Ivy Hotel
And if you're spending the night in Charm City, look no further than the Ivy Hotel - Baltimore's only Black-owned luxury hotel. In a 19th-century mansion in the historic Mount Vernon area, this luxe boutique hotel has elegant, individually decorated rooms that come with free minibars, gas fireplaces, and bathrooms with heated floors! Enjoy a cooked breakfast and afternoon tea in your room, plus cocktails and midnight snacks. There's also a gourmet bistro with a wine cellar, a bar, a spa and a terrace. Living it up in Black Baltimore!
There are tons of other Black Businesses to support in the Baltimore area, but these were a few of my favorites. I hope this list inspires you to do your own research on what's Black-owned in your city!
