I read and fantasize often about the cafes of Paris. I can picture myself sitting at an outdoor table sipping a cafe au lait and reading a book. Though that sounds exciting – and maybe one of my future goals – I can’t imagine any cafe as welcoming or relaxing as Red Canoe. 
Red Canoe was originally a children’s bookstore and coffee house. I’ve been coming here since the first day they opened when my children were not much older than toddlers. It was here my children attended the homework club, learned chess moves and spent their Saturdays with friends playing Dungeons and Dragons.
Now the coffee shop mainly focuses on their expanded cafe which serves breakfast, lunch and – on First Fridays of the month – dinner.They still have a small selection of children’s books for sale which is curated by Josie Rhodes, who along with Tina Perry, owns this delightful shop. 
I come often for lunch – the Bovie Wrap is my favorite – and to get some quiet time to read and write. One of their most popular items are the muffins. They are truly spectacular. The muffins come in a wide assortment and the offering changes seasonally. There are both sweet and savory choices and some of them are gluten free or vegan. The Black Bottom muffin is sinfully delicious and the Spinach muffin is an entire meal. Everything is prepared and served by Matt and Christie who are always friendly and helpful. I see them so often, they are like family to me.
I may never get to Paris, but there’s no reason to miss out on Red Canoe.
Scenes From A Baltimore Kitchen 