Last evening I was delighted to find, well, re-find, one of my new favorite Federal Hill restaurants. It is one that has been through a decade of success, a few chefs, a renovation and always, a smiling welcome owner. The spot is Jerry Pellegrino, wine expert and Executive Chef/ owner's--CORK's. Jerry is known by the locals and food loving crowd as pairing unexpected ingredients together to work with Corks' extensive wine offerings, mostly American.

My friend and I headed to the back room bar area after being greeted by the open kitchen staff where Chef Levi Briggs was at the helm. Then I was surprised to meet the newest addition to the staff, Victor Ganderson. Victor is no stranger to Federal Hill. In the early 90's he opened a gourmet coffee shop, you know, ONE WORLD CAFE. "I was definitely ahead of my time. " Victor opened a few other locations and ultimately sold his baby, the Canton KISS Cafe, the site of the current Langermann's.
Cork's menu announces a special --"LET THEM EAT STEAK". We've decided to make steaks half price Sunday through Thursday. So come in and check out the new menu."

I was pleasantly pleased with splitting a spinach salad with a creamy, horseradish vinaigrette. Wow, it was just perfect bouncing with flavor! And, paired with the flank steak sandwich on a brioche, smothered with Maytag blue cheese and grilled onions. Oh my, I truly cannot wait to get this selection again. We chose a Dutton Estate 2009 Pinot Noir ($69). What a combination. We both we thrilled to re-find CORK's.

Three cheers to the Chefs and thank you for the welcome menu additions

I recently tried Corks because they were on Groupon. Its on the main strip in Federal Hill which is swarming with restaurants & bars, so its easy to blend right in. Upon entering, my first impression was it was small, somewhat unimpressive, but w/a really cool orange wall that was glowing. Upon going in further, there is a small dining room area, and a 2nd dining area beyond that with a bar and hopping with people. Apparently Tues-Thurs are the nights to go because they have 1/2 price steaks and 1/2 priced wines. My steak (cooked mid-rare) was delicious although slightly charred on the skin which brought too much of a smokey flavor. The 1/2 wine options were still pricey even with the discount so I ordered off their normal wine menu for a better deal. The mussels appetizer was full of good flavor! The staff was also friendly and attentive, they even brought me a small heater to put near my table when they noticed I was chilly!