The Bicycle

4.5 stars.
As always, the Baltimore restaurant scene delivers. Though I’m still more of a fan of B Bistro — The Bicyle comes in a close second.
Between five people’s appetizer, entrée, and dessert orders — Every single thing tasted great and had surpringly large portions for the gourmet style and flair.
Most importantly, my friend who has pretty discerning taste when it comes to food (and whose birthday we were celebrating) absolutely loved it. He loved it more than I loved that Bananas Foster Bread Pudding — and I loved that a lot.

Last night was my first time at The Bicycle. I had passed it numerous times, making a mental note to try it. Finally, I did. From past reviews, I figured it would be a bit pricier; however, according to their website, they are making an effort to cater to tough economic times. They are now closed on Sunday and Monday except for large parties. Tuesday — Saturday, they open at 5:30 for dinner. Additionally, they now offer entrees and bottles of wine for under $ 20 each.
I called at 5:30 to make reservations at 7:00. No sweat. Met my friend at the restaurant and we were seated immediately. First impressions. Very intimate. It is perfect for a romantic date or for a small dinner party. We sat in the front dining room and, for such a small space, I did not feel cramped at all. The tables were appropriately spaced so as not to be all up in the grills’ of fellow patrons. Seating was also available in front of the open galley kitchen. I would even go alone just to sit there, chat with the chef and watch the food preparation. We were seated at a table for two in the front corner of the room, next to the windows overlooking the entrance and street. Very cool table and almost like a private room. Bread sticks and seeded crackers were already placed on the table. The menus were distributed and explained.
Our server, Laura (very attentive and kind), brought water and explained the specials — a seafood trio appetizer and a lamb entrée. We were given time to decide, though we took forever, as we kept chatting. I ordered the Bicycle Meat Trio ($ 22), a sampling of the Braised Briskett, Mongolian BBQ Beef Short Ribs, and Pulled Pork. I couldn’t pass it up as it was a combo of three entrees. My friend chose the Braised Briskett ($ 18) with a side of the vegetables du jour. We also ordered a bottle of wine from the under $ 20 list — Talus Lodi Zinfandel ($ 18).
Both the wine and the entrees were excellent. I liked the wine very much. It was quite smooth and and was easy on the tannins. My favorite of the trio was the Mongolian BBQ short ribs. So amazing. I would definitely order it again, though all three samplings were excellent.
On to dessert. I had read that The Bicycle received a Best Bread Pudding from Baltimore Magazine. Sold! Had to try it. I was not led astray! It was simply phenomenal. Bananas Foster Bread Pudding ($ 7). It was very dense and perfectly sweet. Not dry and not too moist. It was perfection. The best bread pudding I’ve had in a very long time.
Overall, with tax and tip, I spent $ 48. Not bad at all for a shared bottle of wine, an entrée and a dessert. I debated between 4 and 5 stars and decided that 5 was more appropriate due to the quality of service and food for the inexpensive price. Without the wine, you could easily spend under $ 30 for an excellent meal that is presented well and is served with style. I highly recommend it!

I enjoy my times at the Bicycle (once for a bday dinner and once for restaurant week). It’s a little pricey for my budget, but the food is just imaginative and delicious. I had the pan fried oyster salad once, and it was amazing!
For restaurant week, the selection of food they had was very good. I had salmon that was cooked very nicely, and I definitely remember the lemongrass crème brûlée. It’s different, but it works! The service wasn’t so good though as the waitress didn’t pay attention to us during the whole meal.
The Bicycle is definitely a place that I would go if I am coming back to Baltimore to visit or so.