"It’s difficult to classify this Old Goucher spot, located in a meticulously renovated 133-year-old historic mansion. Cafe by day and bar by night, visitors are encouraged to enjoy their cocktails while wandering up and down the well-worn stairs into the building’s many art studios and galleries. Often, you will even find Mama Koko herself holding court in her salon. On the cocktail menu, there are twists on old classics like the Golden Ember, an old fashioned that features hibiscus, as well as a wide selection of both cocktails and mocktails on draft. In terms of food, there are lots of West African, Caribbean, and Southern roots—The Liberian meatballs and poisson boule are total standouts, as well as the cassava fries that are likely the best in Baltimore." - michele berry