XS holds true to its name. It is certainly not your average restaurant. In fact, XS doesn't lend itself to a standard dining label. The exterior is unimpressive and typical, but once inside, the eclectic character of XS is evident.
The exposed brick entrance with cathedral ceilings creates the feel of a modern lounge, but the dessert case filled with oversized profiteroles, croissants and strawberry cheesecake evoke a casual caf8e ambiance.
The diverse character of XS is clearly revealed by the sleek cherry wood sushi bar adjacent to the baked goods display -- and this was only the first floor of four levels. As the host promptly led our party up several steel staircases to our top-story table, the cafe-lounge setting quickly transformed into a stylish restaurant and club atmosphere. Halfway between the third and fourth levels was a floating platform with a DJ playing live mixes for diners below.
The d8ecor was not the only eclectic component of XS; the menu also offered a diverse assortment of appetizing choices. The menu is divided into five distinct categories: the sushi bar, the sweet stuff, the coffee bar, breakfast and the other stuff." The sushi bar held the most extensive array of appetizer and entree options, but if Japanese noodles and rolls are not your idea of a great dinner out, there are more than enough choices for every type of customer.
The "other stuff" portion includes paninis, Southwestern-style wraps, fresh salads and tempura, in addition to the all day breakfast options of quiche, Belgian waffles, griddle cakes, French toast and a variety of egg dishes. Being slightly obsessed with sushi, I could not resist the special maki rolls from the sushi bar. The unique combinations of flavorful ingredients, in addition to an imaginative presentation, deservingly earn XS the status of one of the best sushi selections in Baltimore.
Unfortunately, not all was perfect at this Mt. Vernon hot spot. The service was sporadic, slow and inattentive. In fairness to the staff, the lack of attention paid to our table was understandable to a certain degree. A four floor establishment must be a challenge to a server who must constantly travel and transport food between the bottom and top levels, but taking over 20 minutes to retrieve enough forks for the entire table borders on carelessness.
Despite the below average service, I would highly recommend XS for any meal, whether it's a relaxing breakfast, late night bite or a romantic date. In short, it's an always dependable destination for all types of meals.
A meal at XS promises to be satisfying to sushi-lovers, carrot cake addicts and quiche enthusiasts alike, which explains the popularity of this Baltimore original.
Restaurant Info
Mt. Vernon
1307 N. Charles Street
410-468-0002
Recommended dishes: Dragon roll, carrot cake, banana French toast.
Open: Mon.-Wed. 7:00 a.m. - 12 a.m., Thu.-Sat. 7:00 a.m. - 2 a.m., Sun. 9 a.m. - 12 a.m.
Prices: $7 - 25 entrees.
Parking: garage on Cathedral street ($7 from Hopkins).
