Martick's Restaurant Francais

Martick's Restaurant Francais, 214 West Mulberry Street, Baltimore, Independent City, MD HABS MD,4-BALT,221-1

Martick's Restaurant Francais, 214 West Mulberry Street, Baltimore, Independent City, MD HABS MD,4-BALT,221-2

Martick's Restaurant Francais, 214 W. Mulberry Street, Baltimore, MD 21201 (28177046778)

Martick's Restaurant Francais was a renowned dining establishment located in Baltimore, Maryland. Originally opened as a grocery store in the early 20th century by the Martick family, it was transformed into a restaurant in 1970 by Morris Martick, the son of the original owners. Martick's Restaurant Francais quickly became famous for its authentic French cuisine, cozy atmosphere, and the unique character of its owner. The restaurant was a beloved institution in Baltimore until its closure in 2008.

History

The building that housed Martick's Restaurant Francais originally served as a grocery store, established by the Martick family, who were immigrants from Poland. In 1970, Morris Martick, seeking to change the business's direction, converted the space into a restaurant. Despite having no formal culinary training, Morris taught himself French cooking and managed to turn Martick's into a destination for food lovers. The restaurant was known for its unassuming entrance, which led to a charming and intimate dining space inside.

Cuisine

Martick's Restaurant Francais specialized in French cuisine, offering a menu that included classic dishes such as Bouillabaisse, Coq au Vin, and Escargot. The food was praised for its authenticity, quality, and the personal touch Morris Martick brought to each dish. The restaurant's commitment to serving genuine French food played a significant role in its popularity and critical acclaim.

Legacy

The closure of Martick's Restaurant Francais in 2008 marked the end of an era for Baltimore's culinary scene. The restaurant was celebrated for its contribution to the city's dining culture and its role in introducing and popularizing French cuisine among local patrons. Morris Martick, who passed away in 2011, is remembered as a pioneering figure in Baltimore's restaurant industry, admired for his passion, creativity, and dedication to his craft.

Martick's Restaurant Francais left a lasting impact on those who dined there, remembered fondly for its unique ambiance, exceptional food, and the distinctive personality of its owner. The story of Martick's continues to inspire new generations of chefs and restaurateurs in Baltimore and beyond.