CARRYOUT
drous example of that. Among the highlights: A smoky and well-seasoned biagan bhartha ($11.99), or eggplant mash, that was the hit of the newsroom (back when we were still in the office). Steamed vegetable momo dumplings ($7.99) made me say “Oh, I’ll just have one more,” one too many times. Mulligatawny soup ($3.99) proved a filling and comforting starter, if just a touch too salty.
1522 E Fort Ave., Locust Point. 410-5281271. thehimalayanhouse.com. The Avenue Kitchen & Bar
Carryout often translates into heavy and fried, but a recent meal from the Avenue Kitchen and bar tasted light and healthy enough for a somewhat guilt-free weeknight meal. To start, try the grilled octopus ($15) with red quinoa salad and grapefruit segments, a zesty and refreshing combination. Like a few other places such as Wicked Sisters on Falls Road and Noona’s in Bolton Hill, the Hampden restaurant is also offering family-sized meals. Offerings include steak, chicken or veggie fajitas (2 for $30 or 4 for $50).
911 W 36th St., Hampden. 443-961-8515. avenuekitchenbar.com. Byblos Lebanese Cuisine
The teensy cafe in Federal Hill is a regular haunt of mine during non-pandemic times, and a carryout order from here provided a taste of normalcy — if only for a moment. Dishes like fresh made tabbouleh, hummus and foul, a fava bean stew served cold, make great snacks to keep in your fridge during the week. Best of all is a cup of cardamominfused Lebanese coffee, paired with a slice of nutty baklava for a sweet (but not too sweet) afternoon pick me up.
1033 Light St., Federal Hill. 410-2092495. bybloslebanesecuisine.com. Well Crafted Kitchen
This Medfield eatery specializes in pizza — they even sell make-your-own kits, which at $19 for two, sounds like a great way to stave off the stir crazy. During a recent visit I opted to try their locally sourced spud skillet ($8.50), which sees seasoned sweet potatoes topped with cheddar and chorizo. Guess what? Local, sort of healthy food can also be incredibly delicious. Tack on to your order a 6-pack of beer from Union Craft Brewing, a pint of ice cream from neighboring Charmery or even a dozen fresh eggs from Kitchen Girl Farm near Cockeysville.
1700 W. 41st St., Medfield. 410-929-4547. wellcraftedkitchen.com.