Randy L.
Yelp
I was in Hampden today taking a walk in this nice weather. For the first time ever, Harmony Bakery was actually open when I was down there. Our hours and schedules never seemed to match up.
Truth be told, while I'm not gluten free, vegan, or vegetarian myself, I love trying all different kinds of food. I first walked up to the window to get some information for a friend who has lots of allergies and IS gluten free.
One of the employees was so nice, answering all of my questions and even invited me inside (since no other customers were there) to take a look at the prepared foods case. They have a limit of one customer OR group in the bakery at a time due to both being a smaller space and COVID-19.
While this was serving as more so an informational visit, I couldn't help but want to try their Mock Crab Cake (pictured) which was available for $5.95. This "crab cake" is made using hearts of palm (no actual crabmeat OR dairy) and seasoning while served with an aioli using a vegan Mayo, which comes on the side. Like all else at Harmony, this is gluten free as well as dairy free and vegan.
The look resembles what a MD crab cake should be; and turned out to taste really good. Due to the nature of the hearts of palm, the inside texture was a bit different (not in a bad way) but the way it was seasoned gave it that old bay-esque flavor. There were small pieces of the palm inside to give it a similar feel to actual crab.
The aioli was light but did have a small kick to it--however not overly spicy. It was a good choice to pair with the "crab cake".
You do also have the option of having the cake served either over a kale salad OR in a roll (gluten free and baked in house) for a small additional charge.
All in all, I was pleasantly surprised and loved the flavor profile. That just goes to show even in Maryland where crab reigns supreme, you can get quality in creativity as well. People who are vegan, vegetarian, and gluten free will not be disappointed.
I will be back again soon to try some of the house made rolls and bagels, not to mention their rotating muffins each day!
Well done Harmony, you've got a fan in me. Hidden gem in Hampden.