BALTIMORE — In just a few months, Rash Field at Baltimore’s Inner Harbor will look completely different. As part of the redevelopment, city agencies are searching for someone to operate the new waterfront café.
“This is a really exciting time as we take the next step in the development of Rash Field Park,” said Laurie Schwartz, president of Waterfront Partnership. “We’re seeking those with experience in restaurant operations, preferably in the greater Baltimore area, and an interest in being part of the re-imagination of Rash Field into a world-class urban waterfront park for people of all ages, but especially families."
Since 2015, the Waterfront Partnership and Baltimore City Recreation and Parks have been working to redevelop Rash Field, on the south side of the Inner Harbor.
The first phase is set to be completed this October and includes a nature park, adventure park, skate park and a pavilion with an outdoor café.
Today, they issued a request for qualifications, or RFQ, from restaurateurs and food purveyors to operate the new café.
Schwartz said it’s a great opportunity for a local small business to get foot traffic from the more than 14 million people who visit the Inner Harbor a year.
"There are lots of people coming down for events. There are people coming into the marinas bringing their boats and they are all looking for activity and things to do and so we see a huge market for this café," said Schwartz.
Schwartz said ideally, they are looking for a local, small, minority restaurant or catering company owner to run the place.
"Our goal for this is to have an operator than can offer modest food operations and offerings. It’s not a sit down restaurant. It’s not built for a sit down restaurant. It’s more casual use for people who are using the park," said Schwartz.
The café operator would be responsible for all improvements required to accommodate their proposed use.
The selected applicant can apply for a liquor license with Waterfront Partnership. If approved, beer, wine and liquor can be served Monday through Sunday until 11pm.
Those interested should respond back no later than noon on June 18.
Select applicants will be asked to submit a specific proposal through a subsequent request for proposals (RFP).
They plan to choose a single café operator to enter into a lease with the city as soon as possible with an opening date in early 2022.
Click here to apply.
