Cafe Calypso Purchases New Liquor License, Looks Towards The Future
After losing a liquor license due to issues related to their building, Pigtown’s Cafe Calypso has recently purchased a new liquor license that they are hoping to transfer to their restaurant this summer. Owner and chef Amy Johnson was able to purchase a second liquor license owned by Bobby’s Jazz Club and has an upcoming liquor board hearing for approval of the transfer. Bobby’s will remain open using the liquor license already assigned to their property at 1140 South Paca St. which is also in Pigtown.
After working as a chef in New York City where she appeared on an episode of Chopped on the Food Network, Johnson moved to Baltimore and opened Cafe Calypso eleven months ago. Though born in the United States, Johnson’s parents are from Trinidad and their influence can be seen in the Caribbean-American fare at Cafe Calypso. The menu includes appetizers, sandwiches, salads and entrees featuring many curry and jerk seasoned dishes. Johnson has added many different smoothies to the menu hoping to fill the current void left without a liquor license.
“We use very fresh ingredients coming from local merchants and farmers markets, and we are always trying to help people eat healthier,” Johnson told SouthBMore.com. Cafe Calypso also features crabs everyday for just $1 each.
Located at 771 Washington Blvd. in the heart of Pigtown Main Street, Cafe Calypso and the other local businesses are hoping to hold on so they can see the fruits of an emerging business district. “We are all fighting to stay in business, but we know it will pay off down the road, ” said Johnson. Adjacent to Cafe Calypso sits five rowhomes, each undergoing a renovation including a first floor retail space. The area is highlighted by several new businesses as well as several facade improvements aided by Baltimore Main Street stimulus funds.
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About the Author: Kevin Lynch
Founder and Publisher of SouthBmore.com, longtime resident of South Baltimore, and a graduate of Towson University. Diehard Ravens and O's fan, father of three, amateur pizza chef, skateboarder, and "bar food" foodie. Email me at Kevin@InceptMM.com and follow me on Twitter at @SoBoKevin.
