By Jeanne Lasala, InStyle
If you're not completely wanderlust-ing over Baltimore just
yet, what are you waiting for? This under-the-radar East Coast city is
on the up-and-up thanks to a bustling art scene, must-try local eats
(hello, blue crabs!), and insta-worthy waterfront views along the
Chesapeake Bay. We asked local interior designer Patrick Sutton
(a trained architect who has designed some of the city's coolest
restaurants, distilleries, hotels, and luxury residences) for a few of
his favorite hidden gems in Charm City. And as someone who has lived
there for over 3 decades, he's watched the city go through quite the
transformation. “When I first moved here, Baltimore had a bit of
self-esteem problem. No one really invested in design, especially in the
downtown restaurant and nightlife scene. Now it's thriving with one new
hotspot opening after the next including a Four Seasons Hotel and our
new Sagamore Pendry. It is truly in the midst of an exciting
renaissance.”
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Here are some of Sutton’s picks for the best boutiques and restaurants to stumble upon—you'll want to visit ASAP.
Where To Shop
SoBotanical
“SoBotanical is an apothecary and aromatherapy shop in Historic
Federal Hill. I use their soaps which, along with everything else they
sell, are homemade.”
48 E. Cross St.; 410-234-0333; sobotanical.com
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In Watermelon Sugar
“In Watermelon Sugar is a cute little furnishings and accessory shop in Hampden: the hipster haven of Baltimore.”
3555 Chestnut Ave.; 410-662-9090; inwatermelonsugarshop.com
Treason Toting Company
“Treason Toting Company is a local, bespoke bag company located
directly across the street from the Sagamore Pendry Hotel, and is owned
by two guys from Baltimore.”
1714 Thames St.; Treasontoting.com
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Where To Eat
Loch Bar
“Loch Bar is a classic oyster bar overlooking the water at the base
of the Four Seasons hotel in Harbor East. My wife Tracy and I love
sitting outside with a lobster roll and a glass of rosé in the summer,
or exploring their massive whiskey list during the winter.”
240 International Dr.; 443-961-8949; lochbarbaltimore.com
The Prime Rib
“The Prime Rib is our place for steaks. It’s a classic throwback to a
bygone era where men wear jackets and ladies wear dresses. This
windowless jewel in an offbeat location has consistently delivered
quality food for decades. Their head bartender, John, is so good—by the
time I walk from the front door to the bar, he already has my drink
waiting for me.”
1101 N Calvert St.; 410-539-1804; theprimerib.com
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The Canon Room at the Pendry
“The Canon Room at the Pendry is the sexiest cocktail bar in the
city. I may have designed it—but I do love sipping drinks in the warm
glow of amber light.”
1715 Thames St.; 443-552-1300; pendryhotels.com
Tagliata
“Tagliata, opening very soon, is a restaurant we designed that is
sure to be one of our favorites. This Italian restaurant has a star chef
in Julian Marucci and an ambience of chic, rustic elegance. Think
Tuscan farmhouse, reinvented in soft oatmeal and blush hues, with gauzy
drapes and soft seating in the piano lounge. You will think you are on
vacation.”
1012 Fleet St.; 410-244-5830; tagliatarestaurant.com