Taste, Shop, and Explore West Baltimore: Featuring Local Businesses Along The Equitable Network
With the holiday season quickly approaching, consider supporting the following well-loved establishments along and around The Equitable Network – a proposed network of thoughtfully designed, multi-use nodes that seek to connect West Baltimore neighborhoods to Druid Hill Park and Carroll Park.
A map of the proposed Equitable Network
Looking Forward: A day on the Equitable Network
To start, invigorate your morning with a freshly brewed cup of coffee and bagel at On the Hill Cafe, then wander into Everyone's Place African Cultural Center for a leisurely browse – the perfect location to pick up a new read, artisan hair and beauty products, well-made jewelry, or relaxing incense as a Christmas gift, while simultaneously learning about Black literature in a warm and welcoming environment.
When you’re feeling ready for a bite, the options are plentiful, ranging from a delicious Halal wrap at Shareef's House of Wraps or a slice of authentic Italian pizza at Zella's Pizzeria, to roasted chicken at Rooted Rotisserie (recently well-reviewed by TikTok influencer Keith Lee) or a hearty breakfast sandwich from Culinary Architecture Market & Kitchen. Or, if you’re wanting to browse a variety of options, Lexington Market features a broad selection of both good eats and small pop-ups selling handcrafted goods.
For an afternoon activity, learn more about the historic Baltimore and Ohio (B&O) transport system, which was used by Freedom Seekers as part of the Underground Railroad, at the B&O Railroad Museum. Famously, B&O started America’s first railroad in 1827, and the museum is located at this historic origin site.
See below for a full list, and comment below to let us know your favorites!
Must-Visit Spots in West Baltimore
Restaurants
Shareef's House of Wraps: a community-based carryout started in 2012, known for its delicious Halal food
Address: 1340, 1340, 1214 W Franklin St, Baltimore, MD 21223
Zella's Pizzeria: a lively gourmet pizzeria, bar, and art gallery serving the West Baltimore neighborhood since 2007
Address: 1145 Hollins St, Baltimore, MD 21223
Rooted Rotisserie: a soulful neighborhood restaurant most well-known for its French-inspired rotisserie, serving the Hollins Market neighborhood
Address: 1116 Hollins St, Baltimore, MD 21223
Swill by Blacksmiths: a cozy restaurant offering comforting and familiar brunch food, like Brown Sugar French Toast or Shrimp and Grits, in the Pigtown neighborhood
Address: 906 Washington Blvd, Baltimore, MD 21230
Cafes and Drinks
On the Hill Cafe: a Druid Hill cafe featuring coffee, breakfast and lunch using local produce
Address: 1431 John St, Baltimore, MD 21217
Mystique Barrel Brewing and Lager House: a recently opened brewpub serving a diverse selection of beers (18 taps!) and gluten-free offerings
Address: 912 Washington Blvd, Baltimore MD, 21230
Food Markets
Lexington Market: a large indoor market featuring a wide range of cuisines (Korean, Nepalese, Mexican, and more) first established in 1782
Address: 112 N Eutaw St, Baltimore, MD 21201
Culinary Architecture: a gourmet grocery market (“Baltimore’s Biggest Little Grocery Store”) known for breakfast sandwiches and baked goods
Address: 767 Washington Blvd, Baltimore, MD 21230
Hollins Market: a historic, yet newly renovated space hosting a new grocery stall, pop-up stall for up-and-coming food entrepreneurs, and a cafe
Address: 26 S Arlington Ave, Baltimore, MD 21223
Boutiques and Shops
Everyone’s Place African Cultural Center: an independent bookstore specializing in Black literature and cultural center celebrating African culture
Address: 1356 W North Ave, Baltimore, MD 21217
City of Gods: a clothing boutique also known for its community events and investment in the art scene
Address: 118 Hollins St, Baltimore, MD 21223
Fleurs d’Ave: a local floral boutique based in Druid Hill offering beautiful arrangements for everyday and special events
Address: 1200 W North Ave, Baltimore, MD 21217
Activities
B&O Railroad Museum: a National Historic Landmark featuring the origin of America’s railroad system and located in an old railway station
Address: 901 W Pratt St, Baltimore, MD 21223
The Equitable Network – a proposed network of thoughtfully designed, multi-use nodes that seek to connect West Baltimore neighborhoods to Druid Hill Park and Carroll Park. The network will connect many well-loved establishments with accessible green space. Where are you excited to visit on the Equitable Network?