This quaint, but modernly-appointed space in Locust Point has been slammed ever since chef/owner Jason Ambrose opened in mid-December. This is a more casual sister to his perennially lauded upscale restaurant Salt, and the food may seem decidedly low-key — wood-plank delivered sandwiches, small plates, and a couple daily entrees — but the flavors are anything but. Go early, because it fills up quickly (the restaurant is almost all two-tops) and don't miss the crispy "Buffalo" sweetbreads, which will have even the pickiest eater asking for more. [Photo]

Former Top Chef runner-up Bryan Voltaggio has finally opened a place in Baltimore and it's been worth the wait. This sleek new spot in Power Plant Live uses Voltaggio's modern techniques on Italian dishes like a Caesar salad that uses fried oysters in lieu of croutons and a jet-black pasta made using squid ink and topped with lump crab meat and uni. [Photo]

This 28-seat hidden gem off a side street in the hip Hampden neighborhood is the place to go for those looking for innovative food without the tough decisions — because there aren't many, other than which BYOB wines to bring. Chef Steve Monnier will take you through a three ($45) or six ($65) course adventure in French-influenced seasonal plates that, although not meat-free, puts the focus on the vegetables. [Photo]

Dark, well-appointed, and a beacon of light in the sports bar mecca that is Federal Hill, this new space by Ryan Perlberg (Rye, Stuggy's) has become home to some of the most innovative cocktails in the city. Add in City Paper’s Best New Chef of 2014, Sarah Acconcia — who's slinging dishes like shrimp & grits croquettes and confit fried chicken — and you've got the perfect escape from the pandemonium of the nearby harbor and stadiums. [Photo]

If you're checking out the funky shops along Hampden's main drag, this new and equally funky Spanish-inspired spot is a great stop for breakfast or lunch. Filled with locals since its opening, you'll choose from eclectic sandwiches, soups, salads and coffee in this small but brightly lit café that's wonderfully comfortable. If it's the first Friday or Saturday of the month, be sure to check out its four-course BYOB dinner for $35/person. [Photo]

A joint effort from celebrity chefs John Besh and Aarón Sánchez, this modern Mexican taqueria inside the new Horseshoe Casino will have you re-thinking that casinos are all shady buffets and overpriced steak houses. Tacos, empanadas, grilled whole fish, and an extensive tequila list may take center stage, but don't miss the tostadas, whose killer toppings include blue crab, lobster, and roasted pumpkin with pomegranate. [Photo]

If you're looking for a taste of the charm that gives Charm City its name, stop into this comfortable spot on a quiet corner in Fell's Point. An old dive bar revamped into a new-but-unpretentious space, it's filled with warm woods, copper accents, a tiny raw bar, simple-but-satisfying food, and lots of friendly faces. [Photo]

Restaurateur extraordinaire Qayum Karzai has made a local name for himself with the Helmand, B Bistro, and Tapas Teatro. Now he passes the torch with this gem owned by his son Helmand Karzai. Located in artsy Station North, P&Q keeps things edgy but sophisticated. Bright murals from local artists keep you company at the marble bar as you enjoy pork belly purloo, beet poached grouper, and cocktails mixed with mescal and house chili cocoa syrup. [Photo]