Vibe • /vīb/ • noun: the atmosphere of a place as communicated to and felt by others.

In an era where “phones eat first,” and selfies in Instagrammable spaces rule the internet, restaurants are putting increased emphasis on the cultivation of memorable dining experiences that go far beyond the food on our plate. Let’s be honest, chic decor, picturesque surroundings, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere can go a long way in contributing to unforgettable dining experiences that keep us coming back for more. If a restaurant’s vibes are good, it can turn a good meal into a great meal.  That’s why we’ve put together a (subjective) list of some of Baltimore Restaurant Week‘s vibiest establishments. These restaurants are offering dining deals for brunch, lunch, and/or dinner, now through July 31.

1. Cindy Lou’s Fish House

Harbor Point | Seafood | View Menu

The views from Cindy Lou’s Dining Room

With prime views of Domino Sugar on a quiet stretch of waterfront promenade in Harbor Point, Cindy Lou’s Fish House has an ideal atmosphere for a date night meal or an after work cocktail. Enjoy their southern-inspired seafood classics in their quaint dining room, or on their gorgeous outdoor patio.

Smoked Salmon with Deviled Egg, Crispy Capers, Pullman Toast from Cindy Lou’s

2. Liora

Inner Harbor | Vegan | View Menu

The decor at Liora is chic and modern and their bar space is no exception.

The vibrant plant-based dishes and cocktails at Liora are truly a sight to behold. Liora offers a curated menu of creative vegan cuisine inspired by the rich history, charm and artistic spirit of Baltimore. The stylish decor, marble top bar, and living wall backdrop make for elegant touches to the overall experience.

Liora serves upscale takes on plant-based dishes that are as delicious as they are beautiful.

3. The Manor

Mt. Vernon | New American | View Menu

The decor at Liora is chic and modern and their bar space is no exception.

The Manor is no ordinary restaurant, think modern restaurant, meets luxe night club, meets drag hotspot. From the moment you enter the doors at this new Mt. Vernon favorite, you feel luxurious. Uplighting, candles, cloth linens, and fresh cut flowers give an intimate touch to the historic interior. The Manor boasts comfy indoor dining, a dance floor, billiards, plushly decorated mezzanine level, and killer drag brunches.

Hickory Smoked Duck with preserved cherries, parsnip puree, compressed pear, almond crumb, grilled asparagus, duck glace.

4. Petit Louis Bistro

Roland Park | French | View Menu

Dine al fresco on the patio at Petit Louis Bistro.

Can’t afford a Parisian vacation this summer? You’re in luck! Petit Louis has been serving up a taste of authentic French fare to Baltimoreans for over 20 years. Located in a gorgeous 1897-era Tudor-style building with stained glass doors, Petit Louis is Tony Foreman’s and Cindy Wolf’s collective love letter to the Easter European country. With its blue, white, and red awnings, bistro chairs, cheese trolley, plat du jour menu, and carefully curated French wine list, you can’t help but feel transported across the Atlantic ocean.

Enjoy classic French favorites like steak frites and peruse their extensive wine list. 

5. Topside at Hotel Revival

Mt. Vernon | New American | View Menu

Enjoy stellar views of Baltimore as you dine 14 floors above ground at this chic Mt. Vernon establishment.

If you enjoy your meals with a side of killer views, look no further than Hotel Revival’s 14th floor bar and restaurant. Topside overlooks the Mount Vernon neighborhood, offers spectacular 360° views of Downtown Baltimore, a flavor-forward menu, and delicious cocktails. A warm and welcoming environment, Topside offers an elevated yet approachable dining experience so guests can feel free to “come as they are”.

Vegetarian roasted rainbow carrots from Topside.

6. Verde

Canton | Italian | View Menu

Grab a table or sit at the bar. Verde’s pizza is equally delicious regardless of where it is enjoyed.

Combining historic architectural elements with a clean, contemporary look, Verde offers some of the best pizza in Baltimore. This casual yet upscale trattoria specializes in authentic Neapolitan pizza, but offers a variety and other Italian classics. From an expansive list of traditional and creative wood-fired pizzas (including vegan and gluten free options!), pastas, delicious calzones, fresh salads and homemade desserts, the traditional flavors of Italy are offered throughout the menu, for dinner, lunch and brunch.

From vegan pies with cashew cheese, to an extensive lineup of creative classics, to the best gluten free crust we’ve tasted…Verde has a pizza for every preference. 

6. The Wine Collective

Hampden | Craft Winery + Small Bites | View Menu

Sample local craft wines and vermouth in The Wine Collective’s tasting room. 

The Wine Collective prides itself in excellence. This urban winery has cultivated a space where wine and food of the absolute highest quality is made together with others. Wine barrels and metal vats make for a picturesque backdrop to the large, central bar adorned with glistening emerald subway tiles. The Wine Collective may be located in a Hampden warehouse, but on’t let that fool you, The Urban winery feels cozy and intimate, despite its larger footprint.

If you get peckish, they also serve a selection of western European inspired small plates and charcuterie.