The debut of the Sagamore Pendry Baltimore Hotel in 2017 brought jubilation among the locals and tourists alike. The once-doomed Rec Pier had undergone a dramatic makeover, transforming into an opulent lodging within the storied Fells Point district. In addition, the Rec Station Bistro began welcoming patrons morning, noon, and twilight, thus enriching Baltimore’s splendid culinary tapestry.
Throughout the years, this author has savored numerous repasts at the Rec Pier Chop House and it has become my preferred choice for hosting guests from afar with an unforgettable dining experience. Of late, the Rec Pier Chop House has elevated their offerings by onboarding chef Madison Williams. The culinary specialist and her team have introduced a crowd-pleasing Gospel Brunch, combining celestial harmonies with a Southern-inspired spread for the Sunday crowd.
The occasion my partner and I partook in the Gospel Brunch, the choir’s sonorous voices resonated from the lounge’s mezzanine, seemingly raising the roof with their vibrant melodies. The dining hall was bustling, and a spirit of joy was omnipresent, compliments of the bountiful feast and soul-stirring tunes. We were escorted to our seating by the expansive windows that provided a view onto the bustling Fells Point dining corridor.
Approaching the buffet, we were greeted with an array of delectable choices. Petite bowls of arugula salad and deviled eggs beckoned as alluring appetizers. Further along, my mouth watered at the sight of fluffy honey butter biscuits and Southern-style cornbread with velvety chipotle butter. For those with a penchant for breakfast, there were scrambled eggs, skillet-fried potatoes, eggs Benedict, and applewood smoked bacon in generous quantities. The carving counter boasted succulent prime rib.
Desiring a noon-oriented repast, I heaped my plate with creamy mac-n-cheese, impeccable fried chicken, roasted Brussels sprouts, simmered collard greens, a biscuit, cornbread, and, as a nod to morning fare, eggs Benedict. The biscuits, cornbread, and fried chicken stood on a par with the best I’ve relished in Charleston, SC where Southern cuisine reaches its pinnacle, in my estimation.
My brunch selection was accompanied by a Sicilian white wine from the notable by-the-glass selection while my partner opted for a mimosa. The dessert assortment boasted an array of confections and succulent fruit. I managed to polish off my dish replete with fresh fruit, a petite muffin, lemon meringue tartlet, raspberry pastry, and apple confection, then settled back to relish the music. On occasion, diners rose to sway to the gospel rhythms that filled the space.
David Lindberg, the saxophonist, meandered through the crowd as a female singer unleashed an emotional number in homage to Covid survivors. Although lingering for more melodies would have been enjoyable, we relinquished our spot to those awaiting. Closing out an idyllic brunch, we strolled out onto Thames Street to browse the boutiques lining this historic cobblestoned thoroughfare.
Following the conclusion of Gospel Brunch on Mother’s Day, the summer Pool Bar & Grill commenced operations on Memorial Day and is set to continue until Labor Day. This grill serves up an assortment of tacos, light fare, salads, and a selection of summer beverages including options without alcohol. The poolside and grill amenities are exclusive for hotel guests.
A few individuals who indulged in the brunch were staying at the hotel, and I couldn’t help but feel a twinge of envy at their convenience of not having to drive post-feast. With 128 elegantly appointed rooms and suites, the Sagamore Pendry Baltimore Hotel stands tall among the city’s premier luxury stays. Many guest quarters offer waterscapes and the grand suite boasts an unobstructed view of the Inner Harbor, with the quintessential Domino’s Sugar refinery looming large.
Image Source: Tripadvisor
