By Josie Kalbfleisch
Baltimore is filled with many charms and attractions that are often overlooked by those who call the city home. During COVID, I took the time to explore the area and came upon Hampden, a neighborhood located south of Roland Park, that is brought to life by its array of stores and restaurants on 36th street. I believe that everyone should check out what it has to offer, so here is a list of 6 of my favorite places to go on the block!
The Avenue Kitchen
The Avenue Kitchen is the definition of comfort food and homey ambiance. A long hallway transports visitors to a bar and restaurant illuminated by ceiling lamps and golden candlelight. Though the restaurant does not focus on a particular cuisine, the meals are far from basic. Take your pick of Grilled Octopus, Shrimp fra Diavolo, Apple and Whipcream French Toast, Buffalo Cauliflower, Chicken Tinga Tacos, and much more. It’s fantastic and filling- guaranteed to leave anyone satisfied.
Brightside Boutique
Brightside is a perfect place to shop for clothes of every season- or just stroll around looking longingly at clothing you may never buy! The sections are color and pattern coordinated, making life so much easier and pleasing to the eye. See a shirt? Look no farther for the perfect complimentary skirt or jeans. You can find party dresses, casual skirts, winter sweaters, boots, numerous accessories, and special items like candles and graphic mugs.
Baltimore Art Gallery
Looking for a way to support local Baltimoreans when it comes to the arts? Check out the Baltimore Art Gallery! This little shop displays paintings made from many different mediums such as acrylic, oil, and screenprint ink. The art ranges from abstract still life to portraits and beautiful Baltimore landscapes. Local Baltimore artists are featured, such as Gary Mullen, Vivian Tanga, and Nick Aumiller. Visiting would be a great way to support your community.
Keepers Vintage
This adorable shop on the corner of 36th street and Chestnut Avenue offers a wide variety of clothing, accessories, room decor, and self-care. You can find everything from colored cardigans to frilled dresses and graphic tees. Scan the shelves for bright, multicolored bureaus, books about mood and personality, bedazzled gloves, and rows of perfumes and sports team caps. Sitting in the front of the shop is a quaint selection of scented candles and zodiac jewelry. Even if you do not make a purchase, it’s a perfect place to spend a chilly afternoon.
Strawberry Fields Antiques Jewelry
This antique shop is an odd yet magical place. Visitors are greeted outside by boxes of rings and glass shoes before entering into sage-scented, organized chaos. The record player is spinning on a shelf lined with vintage tablecloths, playing a song you probably won’t recognize. Be prepared to find anything here, even items you may not have known you wanted. Underneath shelves of vinyls and old film cameras, you may catch sight of a life-size wood carving of a tiger or comics from 40 years prior.
In Watermelon Sugar
Best known for its stack of self-care products, In Watermelon Sugar has many more special items to offer. Purchase in-depth cookbooks and unique baking recipes, along with endless candle scents, patterned quilts, and moon journals. Perfumes and lotions are globally sourced, coming from lesser-known companies, and are well priced. The shop is set up to mirror a glamorized seasonal aesthetic, which creates a serene atmosphere that feels like the smells it sells.
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