Daytripping and dining at THB Bagelry and Deli, and Boardwalk Fries

I usually like to visit three restaurants on these trips around the state, but I didn’t want to wait too long into the new year to present something here.

So this time around we’ll have to settle for two and a glimpse of what is known as Main Streets.

I’m saving on gas because these two places are separated by just one business. Both are located in what is known as Mill Station, a shopping area in Owings Mills filled with retail outlets (Costco, Marshalls, 5 Below, etc) and maybe a dozen eating places. It’s about 100 yards from the AMC theatres, where, by the way, I can recommend The Boys in the Boat, directed by George Clooney (my look-alike).

Stop one is THB Bagelry and Deli (Towson Hot Bagels). Open 7 days, locally and family-owned, serving breakfast, lunch, and take-home (closes at 4). It’s operated by folks who are first-generation Italians born in Naples Italy. This spring the company will be celebrating its 25^th anniversary.

There are lots more than just bagels here. Of course, most anything can be served on a bagel. There’s pastrami, cheesesteak, Reubens, Italian cold cuts, chicken salad and egg salad, corned beef, white fish, turkey, and ham. My favorites are the Tom Selleck, oven-roasted turkey, coleslaw, 1,000-island dressing, and the powerhouse (tomato, muenster, sprouts, mayo).

In early 2024 another location in Locust Point will be added that will go along with ones already in Towson, Timonium, Canton, Columbia, and Charles Village.

By the way, January 15 is National Bagel Day. That means a free bagel and cream cheese when you order via the app. 443-291-7060….eatthb.com

Okay out the door I go, turn right, walk 50 feet and here I am at Boardwalk Fries. And just like THB, there’s more on the menu than what appears in their name. Let’s look at a few signature burgers – BBQ bacon cheddar, mushroom Swiss, bacon blue, and Hawaiian. The menu also consists of wraps and salads, chicken tenders, hot dogs, grilled chicken breast, and Polock Johnny.

Of course, there are those signature fries – garlic parmesan, bacon cheddar ranch, chipotle, sriracha, cheese, chili, gravy, and jalapeno. About 10 in all.

Each time you go in try another one. Open 7 days, locally owned since 1981, call in advance to place an order. 410-621-9179…boardwalkfries.com

And one more thing, every Monday in January at this location and the one in Lansdowne, they’re offering half-price burgers with the purchase of fries and a drink.

Perhaps over the years you have visited one of Maryland’s Main Streets (there are 33 of them). You usually hear about them more during the holidays since there is so much choice at any location. Their primary objective is to support the businesses and historical attractions without the area.

Here are a few of them: Berlin, along with Main Street there’s also an arts and entertainment district and only about 20 minutes to Ocean City. You might remember the film Runaway Bride (Gere and Roberts) was filmed here. Frederick, is best known I think for antiques…there’s also a dog park and close by (within walking distance) is a cemetery that holds the remains of Francis Scott Key.

Havre de Grace, along the Susquehanna River with walking paths…from April to December downtown streets are closed to traffic. Cumberland, set amongst the Allegheny Mountains. The Western Maryland railroad offers scenic rides. Crisfield, also an arts and entertainment district…community is filled with visual and performance artists and creative writers…home to the Smith Island Baking Co (you know that 10-layer cake). And there you have it, my first piece in the new year…here’s wishing for good things in 2024.

We can start with the Ravens in the Super Bowl.