When it comes to exploring the culinary landscape of Baltimore, Ekiben is a name that immediately comes to mind. This restaurant has become a sensation among foodies and casual diners alike, thanks to its unique blend of Asian and American flavors that are both delicious and comforting. In this article, we will take a closer look at Ekiben and its offerings, exploring what makes it so special and why you should consider giving it a try.
What is Ekiben?
Ekiben is a casual restaurant located at 1622 Eastern Ave in Baltimore, MD 21231. It was founded by two childhood friends, Steve Chu and Ephrem Abebe, who shared a passion for food and a desire to bring something new to the culinary scene of Baltimore. The name “Ekiben” comes from the Japanese word for “train station bento,” a reference to the boxed lunches that are sold at train stations throughout Japan.
The Menu
The menu at Ekiben is a reflection of the owners’ diverse culinary backgrounds and their desire to experiment with new flavors and techniques. The restaurant’s signature dish is the “Original” bowl, which features sticky rice, chicken, and the restaurant’s famous “sweet chili” sauce. Other popular items include the “Char Siu” bowl, which features pork belly, and the “Tempura Broccoli” bowl, which is a vegetarian option.
In addition to its bowls, Ekiben also offers a variety of small plates, such as “Steamed Buns,” “Shrimp Chips,” and “Korean Fried Chicken Wings.” These dishes are perfect for sharing with friends or as a light snack before diving into one of the restaurant’s hearty bowls.
The Experience
One of the things that sets Ekiben apart from other restaurants in Baltimore is its casual and welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant is small and cozy, with a few tables and a bar seating area. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and they are always happy to recommend dishes and answer any questions you may have.
The food is prepared fresh to order, and the aroma of the spices and sauces wafts through the air as you wait for your meal. Once it arrives, you will be struck by the colorful and vibrant presentation, with each ingredient carefully arranged to create a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
Ekiben's Impact
Since opening its doors in 2014, Ekiben has become a staple of Baltimore’s culinary scene, earning rave reviews from locals and visitors alike. The restaurant has been featured in numerous publications, including Bon Appétit, Eater, and The Baltimore Sun, and it has won several awards for its delicious food and innovative approach to dining.
But perhaps even more impressive than its critical acclaim is the impact that Ekiben has had on the community. The owners have been vocal about their commitment to using locally sourced ingredients and supporting other small businesses in the area. They have also been active in charitable endeavors, such as donating meals to frontline workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Location and Opening Hours
Location:
1622 Eastern Ave, Baltimore, MD 21231, United States
Website:
http://ekibenbaltimore.com/
Opening Hours:
Mon-Sat 11 AM–3:30 PM, 4:30–11 PMSun Closed
Conclusion
If you are looking for a unique and delicious dining experience in Baltimore, look no further than Ekiben. This small but mighty restaurant offers a menu that is both comforting and exciting, with dishes that will leave you feeling satisfied and inspired. And with its commitment to community and sustainability, you can feel good about supporting a business that truly cares about its customers and its impact.
FAQs
The name “Ekiben” comes from the Japanese word for “train station bento,” a reference to the boxed lunches that are sold at train stations throughout Japan.
Some of Ekiben’s most popular dishes include the “Original” bowl, which features sticky rice, chicken, and the restaurant’s famous “sweet chili” sauce, as well as the “Char Siu” bowl, which features pork belly, and the “Tempura Broccoli” bowl, which is a vegetarian option. The restaurant also offers a variety of small plates, such as “Steamed Buns,” “Shrimp Chips,” and “Korean Fried Chicken Wings.”
No, Ekiben is open for both lunch and dinner, with different hours of operation for each. It is open from 11:00am-3:00pm for lunch and from 5:00pm-9:00pm for dinner, Tuesday through Sunday. The restaurant is closed on Mondays.
Yes, Ekiben offers both takeout and delivery options. You can place an order online through the restaurant’s website or through popular delivery apps such as Grubhub and Uber Eats.
- Yes, Ekiben occasionally hosts special events and promotions, such as pop-up dinners and collaborations with other local businesses. You can stay up-to-date on these events by following the restaurant on social media or signing up for their email newsletter.
