And Now For Something Completely Different…

…A restaurant review. As my clients know, I firmly believe that  if you are eating healthfully and exercising as a general rule then you can indulge in your favorites occasionally. And as any busy parent knows, having a go to place for a casual meal or take-out is a necessity. Besides, I like to give shout-outs to local businesses that everyone should know about.

On that note, let me share with you a pleasantly unexpected find. If you are not in the Baltimore area, I apologize for getting all local, but if you are ever in North Baltimore and looking for a quick yet upscale meal then you should definitely consider Banksy’s Cafe. It is located in the Lake Falls Village (also home to The Ivy bookstore, Sushi Hana, etc.). My husband and I happened upon it when we were on our way to the train station this past weekend and were looking for something to bring for dinner on the train on the way to New York City. The owner, Robb Banks, patiently and enthusiastically gave us the rundown of the menu while we indecisively hemmed and hawed (you order at the counter and they make your food to order). He made particular mention that the chicken was oven-fried and that the macaroni salad was light on the mayo. He is purposely offering healthier options which I, of course, just love.  And no, I had not mentioned that I am a nutritionist!

My husband was torn between the “fried” chicken and a sandwich. Robb offered to debone one the pieces of chicken and make a Chik-fil-A type sandwich for him, which my husband could not resist. Upon eating this improvised creation, my husband said it was the best sandwich he had ever had and is going to suggest that it become a regular feature on the menu. My turkey, chutney and Muenster cheese grilled sandwich was also quite delicious and I particularly loved the pickled-ish cabbage slaw on the side. In addition to sandwiches, Banksy’s has a full case of Naron chocolates, locally made caramels, scrumptious-looking baked goods, etc.

The best part? When we mentioned that we were getting food for the train ride to NYC, Robb not only suggested a restaurant there that has great strawberry cheese pie, but he ran and got the restaurant’s cookbook from the kitchen to show us where it is. I get the feeling that the food at Banksy’s is made much the same way I do at home: recipes taken from favorite cookbooks, experimenting with things that look good and giving them a try on the menu.

Between the warmth of the owner, the quality of the food, the stylishly decorated and immaculate space, not to mention that it is a locally owned restaurant and not part of a huge chain (always a plus in my book!) I certainly plan to return with my family. Now if only they would open a location within walking distance of my house…

Where: Banksy’s Cafe, Lake Falls Village Shopping Center, 60800 Falls Rd, Baltimore, MD 21209. 410-377-4444.