Recently I've come across a neighborhood in Baltimore that is less traveled than Fell's Point or Federal hill but yet indisputably on the rise. With a widely successful theater, tapas restaurant, and creperie, the Station North area has recently become a hotspot for the sophisticated, the artsy, and people like me. To me there aren't many things that are better than dinner and a movie, and in this area, you can get the most exceptional cuisine followed up with great art and entertainment choices. The historic Charles Theater in North Baltimore plays current movies, classics, and foreign films. It is down to earth, and on the counters inside numerous magazines and advertisements stack up, advertising local events, diverse causes, and one-of-a-kind opportunities. The Charles itself hosts cool events, like the upcoming Back to the Future celebration and a final Presidential debate watch, which was great fun. Two movies I want to check out: Slumdog Millionaire and The Boy in the Striped Pajamas. The first is about an orphan growing up on the mean streets of Mumbai, who is arrested when his success on "Who Wants to be a Millionaire," can be explained only by cheating. He is so close to realizing an unlikely success, yet suspicions and the Indian culture may take away the only opportunity he ever gets. This storyline sounds compelling, and the subject is especially relevant following last week's terrorist attacks in Mumbai (I plan to note these events in a future post.) I think young people and young actors have a unique potential to convey truths and essential elements of life, and I think the story of this boy's perseverance and desire will be compelling to say the least. 
The second film is about two boys, one a Jew and the other a German Commandant's son. The two boys grow up on opposite sides of the concentration camp fence, as World War II rages. Their curiosity blossoms into friendship, and their ignorance of their respective situations allows them to confide in each other, and develop a bond free of prejudice and hatred. Their obstacles and the context of the lives they lead provides great insight as to the horrific and unimaginable reality of the War, and the Germans' oppression of Jews. Once again, a young cast is sure to provide a meaningful aspect to a beautiful yet terrifying storyline. I can't wait to check out these movies, and luckily I know exactly where to dine before catching the matinee. 
Tapas Teatro is not only on the same block as the theater, it is connected to it. A wide, arching doorway stands open, beckoning customers of either establishment to check out the other side while they are there. And trust me, you definitely want to check out Tapas. It has been voted Best of Baltimore so many times that I can't count, however, I recently discovered this heavenly enterprise. There are quaint tables and a hip yet peaceful environment inside, and in the summer months, you can enjoy your meal at a cute outside table and imagine you're somewhere nice in Europe (or at least a celebrity at lunch with her friend at a trendy, high-end LA cafe, which is what I do.) From the name, I am sure you can gauge that this restaurant specializes in Tapas, or small plates. But at a very reasonable price, these dishes are worth every penny, and you won't even need that many pennies.
Tapas constantly updates its menu with dishes from all over the world, surpassing the typical Spanish-American tapas fare. Recently, my family and I enjoyed delicious Thai Fried Calamari, a warm and comforting eggplant dish, and delicious Molasses-smoked salmon. This was the best salmon I have ever had, and I order salmon at practically every restaurant we go to. All of the fish, vegetable, and meat dishes were flavorful, cooked to perfection, and beautifully plated (like Bobby Flay did it or something). We ordered Paella (my first time), and countless to say it is one of the top five meals I have ever had. The rice was good quality and had the perfect texture. Its saffron flavor was delectable and it was the perfect shade of yellow. And I wasn't expecting a farm and ocean to be served on top (which is what I found.) The shrimp were actually jumbo (I'm aware that jumbo shrimp is an oxymoron,) and they were not store-bought, let me tell you that. I normally am not a shrimp fanatic, but for these guys, I made an exception. In fact, I completely reversed my position on prawns (at least temporarily). The chorizo sausage was so flavorful and authentic that I don't even think my discerning Spanish teacher would know the difference between Tapas's rendition and one in a Madrid bar. Mussels were so plentiful that they were practically toppling off of the serving dish (by the way, this portion could probably feed two entrees on its own, and cost just $17).
To be concise, I was hooked on Tapas from then on. Their desserts are also divine, to coin a Food Network phrase. And flourless chocolate cakes, gourmet ice cream, fresh berries and cream. Ina's right; how bad could that be? (I hope I'm not going overboard on the Food TV references, I just can't help it!) Not bad at all. By the time you're finished reading this and looking at the photos, I bet you'll already have your jacket on and your keys in your hand.
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