What’s On Tap?

Max’s Taphouse will be the scene for Union Craft Brewery’s big soiree.

Max’s Taphouse in Fells Point will host Union Craft Brewery’s fifth anniversary party on June 29 at 5 p.m. It’ll be huuge!

Max’s – which is owned by Ron (or “Ronnie” to those of us who’ve known him since his Pikesville High days) and Gail Furman – is the logical choice for this celebration b’cuz it’s one of the top beer bars in the world!

Max’s stocks more than 1,000 bottles, 102 taps and five casks while offering some great menu options. Fried pickles anyone? (maxs.com)

Ron and Gail, along with partner Charley Gordon, also own Max’s Waxhouse, which offers very cool craft wax candles in repurposed beer bottles. The candles come in a number of fragrances, including Imperial Chocolate Stout, and a percentage of the proceeds benefit the Believe In Tomorrow Children’s Foundation that provides hospital and respite housing services to critically ill children and their families.

We’re talking candles with a cause!

Tasty Tidbits

Clarksville’s River Hill Sports Grille is now — drumroll, please! — the River Hill Grill! Primarily known as a sports bar, this neighborhood spot has evolved into a fave restaurant for guests of all ages featuring a casual dining atmosphere with an open, homey feel. They just rolled out a new comfort food menu (think gourmet burgers and homemade desserts) created by award-winning executive chef Fabio Mura.

If you’re looking for a great seafood restaurant, check out By The Docks Restaurant in Middle River. They’re known for their seafood, steak, pasta and specialty sautéed dishes. They’ve recently renovated and are adding a new, upstairs bar, and they have live music on Fridays.

Nickel Taphouse in Mount Washington Village rolled out a new menu with some seriously tasty menu options. Go check out the Duck Fat Fried Chicken Skins, Buffalo Brussel Sprouts and Nashville Fried Chicken and French Toast. And the next time you’re thinking, “Where should we go for a great burger or omelet?” head on over to the village. Kudos to partner/executive chef Robbin Haas, who also takes the helm at Encantada at the American Visionary Art Museum and Birroteca in Hampden. BTW, Birroteca has a new assistant manager, Chris Santiago. Tell him I sent ya!

Looking for something a li’l different and really fun? Look no further. Sotto Sopra Restaurant in Mount Vernon presents “Broadway Night” on Sunday, June 4, at 6 p.m. Featured performers from the Baltimore Men’s Chorus will perform songs from top Broadway musicals. Attendees are encouraged to dress as their favorite show characters! Enjoy this musical evening for a $10 cover charge plus dinner selections from Sotto Sopra’s a la carte Italian menu. Reservations required. (410-625-0534)

Now Open for Biz

The owners of La Cuchara opened a new seafood restaurant in Riverside called Minnow. I haven’t been there yet but a few menu items caught my eye, including cheddar biscuits with black garlic, rice noodles with poached veggies and Maryland lump crab toast!

Hometown boy and Food Network star Duff Goldman opened a new Charm City Cakes on President Street in Harbor East.

Cilantro, the fast casual Mediterranean restaurant in Owings Mills, opened a downtown location at 30 Light St.

Coming Soon

The owners of Liberatore’s restaurant will open their eighth restaurant in the spot previously owned by Maple Lawn Grill in Howard County. The new Lib’s Grill will offer steaks, burgers and seafood.

Randi Rom is the president of RJ Rom & Associates, a marketing, branding, events and public relations firm specializing in the hospitality and entertainment industries. She is a freelance columnist and writer who represents some of the region’s top restaurants and food-related events. Contact her at randirom@comcast.net.