As retailers head into Baltimore for eTail East, we at Groove Commerce would like to extend our warmest welcome to the those that will be in attendance. Baltimore is the city that fostered our growth as a company, is home to many of our employees, and is a hotbed for many of the country’s forward thinking web companies. Yes, “The Wire” was filmed here, our Orioles are an annual disappointment, and the construction in downtown will drive you crazy, but Baltimore didn’t earn the nickname Charm City for nothing! Read on for some of the can’t miss spots in the city, and look for us in the “Got Groove?” shirts at the conference.

Warning: Strong Author Bias Ahead

In my humble opinion, if you visit Baltimore for eTail and never get out of the Inner Harbor, you’re doing yourself a great injustice. As with many cities, Baltimore is broken into neighborhoods, each of them with their own distinct flavor. In order to make a useful set of recommendations, I’m forcing myself to limit each neighborhood to ONE establishment. This will not be easy…

For some recommendations we’ll start in the neighborhood where the Groove HQ is located, and where many a Free Lunch Friday was enjoyed:

Federal Hill
Spoons Coffee Cafe – Probably the local establishment that Groove employees have “supported” the most with our coffee addiction.

Fells Point and Butcher’s Hill
Salt Tavern – Duck fat french fries, truffle oil, and GREAT drinks.

Canton
Jack’s Bistro – 3 words: Mac + Cheese + Chocolate

Mt. Vernon
Brewer’s Art – My favorite bar in Baltimore, and according to Esquire.com the highest rated bar in America!

Little Italy
Vaccaro’s – The only dessert place that matters in Baltimore City.

Charles Village
Tamber’s Restaurant – A nifty 50’s diner with a twist: Excellent Indian food.

There are definitely some more neighborhoods, and a TON more options. Have fun in the city, and don’t forget to speak with one of the Groove folks in the “Got Groove?” shirts!