New Course

When Carolyn's Cafe (aka Ras Doobie's) closed earlier this year in Ridgely's Delight, you could hear foodies moaning all over town. The tiny and tucked-away Jamaican eatery had been a favorite of many (and a perennial Cheap Eats winner within these pages) for its spicy jerk chicken, generous vegetarian options, and friendly island vibe. But moaners, take heart: The place has re-opened as the Penn Street Tavern (213 Penn Street, 410-752-5858), and the new owner happens to be a longtime friend of Ras Doobie. In fact, the current chef worked by Doobie's side for months and uses many of the same recipes. The space has been given a gentle makeover—new paint and wood floors make the small room brighter than before—but the friendly service remains intact, even if it's now often delivered in a Baltimore accent, rather than a Jamaican one.