Baltimore’s dining scene never ceases to amaze, and 2024 was packed with unforgettable flavors and creative dishes. From playful spins on classics to indulgent seafood creations and cocktails that feel like dessert, Charm City’s chefs and bartenders overdelivered. This list is my love letter to the dishes and drinks that defined my year — the ones I couldn’t stop raving about and will definitely be craving well into 2025. So, grab a napkin (you’ll need it) and let’s dive in.

Duck confit gumbo from Rooted Rotisserie

• 1116 Hollins St.

The cozy, intimate vibes of Rooted Rotisserie are only outmatched by its duck confit gumbo. A succulent confit duck leg sits atop a bed of confit potatoes, gumbo and fried okra, creating a dish that’s rich in flavor and texture. What started as a pop-up is now a must-visit spot in the Hollins Market neighborhood. Every dish here is crafted with care, but the gumbo is a standout that keeps me (and many others) coming back.

Champion chips from The Food Market

• 1017 W. 36th St.

Move over, basic chips — the champion chips are here to steal the show. Imagine biting into a perfectly crispy Utz chip loaded with wagyu tartare, diced lobster, crème fraîche, caviar and a sprinkle of chives. Served straight out of an iconic Utz potato chip bag, this dish is the pinnacle of “snack meets sophistication.” Part of the exclusive “Slay The Menu” private dinner experience, this dish pairs bold flavors with the signature charm that has made The Food Market a Hampden staple since 2012. Trust me, you’ll be reaching back into the (chip) bag for seconds.

Chicken-fried Maine lobster tails from The Ruxton

• 720 Aliceanna St.

The Ruxton may be a steakhouse, but their chicken-fried Maine lobster tails are the real star of the menu. Crispy and golden with a drizzle of Nashville honey butter, these lobster tails strike the ideal balance between sweet, spicy and indulgent. Set in upscale Harbor East, The Ruxton’s chic vibe and stellar dishes make it a must for special occasions or casual dining at the bar. Pro tip: Sip on something fabulous from Order of the Ace, their adjoining cocktail bar featuring live music.

Swordfish meatballs from Costiera

• 415 S. Central Ave., Suite A

This year welcomed Costiera to Baltimore’s dining scene, and the restaurant’s swordfish meatballs have quickly become a crowd favorite. Served with house-milled polenta, savory puttanesca sauce and a dusting of pistachios, this dish is a delightful nod to the growing trend of creative and savory fish preparations. Located near Little Italy, Costiera has cemented itself as a gem among the city’s restaurant newcomers.

Orange Creamsicle from Crushed Velvet shaved ice

• 1302 Key Highway

I know it’s winter, but let’s dream of warmer days with the Orange Creamsicle from Crushed Velvet shaved ice. This whimsical treat layers vanilla ice cream, shortbread crumbles, orange shaved ice and a swirl of condensed milk into a nostalgic masterpiece. Located in Federal Hill, Crushed Velvet reopens in April 2025, so mark your calendars — this creamy, citrusy delight is worth the wait.

That Ice Cream Truck from CookHouse

• 1501 Bolton St.

Who says cocktails can’t double as desserts? At Bolton Hill’s CookHouse, the That Ice Cream Truck cocktail is a boozy, strawberry shortcake-inspired dream. Crafted with in-house sous vide strawberry vodka, it’s topped with a cloud of strawberry foam and crunchy strawberry crumble. Don’t drink? No worries. They can whip up a nonalcoholic version that’s just as luscious. The menus change weekly, so check before you go.

Crab dip French toast from Blue Moon Too

• 1024 Light St.

Brace yourself for the ultimate breakfast mashup: crab dip French toast. At Blue Moon Too, thick slices of custard-dipped bread are coated in Utz crab chips, stuffed with creamy crab dip and finished with Old Bay, tomatoes and more chips. It’s rich, savory and great for sharing (or not). With its funky décor and rock ‘n’ roll vibe, Blue Moon Too is a Federal Hill favorite where you really can’t go wrong with anything on the menu.

Crab rangoon dip from Ellie’s Tavern

• 901 S. Clinton St.

Crab rangoon lovers, rejoice. Ellie’s Tavern in Canton puts their own spin on this classic with their crab rangoon dip. Topped with sweet chile sauce and served alongside crispy fried wontons, it’s so addictive you’ll want to order two for the table. The cozy, neighborhood vibe pairs well with this elevated pub fare. Bonus: The tavern has transformed into a holiday wonderland during Christmastime — twinkling lights and all.