Photo by Jamie Onderdonk

Andy Rubin opened Baltimore Chop on baseball’s opening day last year with the intention of supplying the demand for an independent sports bookstore and music venue. That intention has come to fruition and morphed into Baltimore’s hippest place to enjoy fine organic coffee, books of all sorts,  as well as entertainment. As Mr. Rubin explains, “Live events in a bookstore are critical to keeping in touch with the community.” Rubin’s aspiration of helping create a vibrant scene in Baltimore is shared by many. Having a place to manifest those dreams and having an owner not tied down by the restraints of corporate America is why Baltimore Chop is a unique and refreshing experience. The daytime and night events include poetry readings, book signings, and of course, live music, which often include regional and even nationally touring acts.

Having contacts in Nashville and New York makes the booking of touring acts a savored equity, but Rubin also emphasizes the need for more venues to promote great local musicians in order to make the Baltimore music scene more viable. It would also make Baltimore an attractive destination for bands traveling through. Bringing an assortment of music styles, from Americana to melodic acoustic acts, to this intimate setting is unlike any other live music venue in the city. You are literally right in front of the bands in such close proximity, it is difficult not to feel a connection with them. And you’ll feel like you’re in a living room party. That intimacy is what sets Baltimore Chop apart from all other venues, as well as the fact that ALL shows are FREE. Yes, FREE. As in, no cover charge. And in case you miss a show, there is a rack of CDs from the acts that have performed at Baltimore Chop for sale that also serves as a diary backdrop for the stage/floor. (wink-wink)

And if live music isn’t enough for you, there is “the best coffee in Baltimore.” A worthy mention is Rubin’s insistence on promoting as many local products as possible. “Buy local,” is his motto, “instead of sending your money to Seattle.” The coffee is made right here in the great state of Maryland. And unlike chain coffee shops, the wallet doesn’t take a major hit here, which means you’ll actually get change back when you buy a cup. In fact, all of the edible items at Baltimore Chop are rich, flavor intensive, and not over-priced. There are the 15 flavors of Italian sodas, the irresistible pastries, the most amazing chocolate truffles in town, locally made quiches, and 17 kinds of bagels from a wholesaler in Pikesville. Rubin, a native of New York, knows a thing or two about bagels, and fancies himself a bagel snob and is quite proud it.

Baltimore Chop is truly a special place. It stocks items that can only be found there, or in very few other places. There is the assortment of books, sports items, snack foods, great music, and of course the best coffee around. If you haven’t done so, you must visit Andy and his crew. Have a bagel, pull up a chair, read a book, support all that is great in Charm City.

Tags: Baltimore, Books, Coffee, Music