Bistro Delights in Maryland

A new chapter started when my wife and I moved from Washington State to Maryland a few years ago. After I lost my job at Boeing, we packed up and headed to the other side of the country for a fresh start. Settling in the Northeast Maryland area, specifically Bel Air, meant exploring new neighborhoods, building new routines, and discovering new local spots to eat.

My love for food runs deep, and though I wouldn’t call myself a critic, I enjoy trying new places. My wife Jodie? She’s not quite as adventurous, but since we’ve been together, she’s grown more open to trying new dishes. It’s a bit of a balancing act between us—me always eager to dive into something new and Jodie cautiously expanding her palate. Throw our son into the mix, and let’s say dining out can sometimes become an adventure all on its own.

On one of our long-overdue date nights, after settling into our new home, we stumbled upon a hidden gem: Pairings Bistro. Our son had flown off to Phoenix to visit his grandparents, and after a hectic few months of cross-country moves, unpacking, and settling into a new life, it was time for us to enjoy a night out. But, like many couples, we fell into the familiar back-and-forth of “Where do you want to eat?” followed by the equally frustrating, “I don’t know, where do you want to go?” You know the drill.

After a bit of Google searching, we came across Pairings Bistro. It wasn’t far from our house, had great reviews, and the menu reminded me of our time in France—offering a Prix Fixe experience. For those unfamiliar, this setup allows you to select a multi-course meal at a set price, adding extra excitement to the evening. Reservations were made, and we were ready to indulge.

A Warm Welcome to Pairings Bistro

Pairings Bistro isn’t the kind of place that screams for attention from the outside. Located in a modest building, the charm is more understated—especially if you notice the cozy outdoor seating. But once you step inside, it’s a whole new world. The ambiance is warm and inviting, with walls lined with wine bottles and soft, romantic lighting. It’s the kind of place where you feel instantly at ease like you’ve walked into a friend’s home for a special dinner.

We were led through a series of intimate dining rooms, each with its unique vibe. The atmosphere was relaxed but refined—perfect for a date night.

The Menu: A Journey Through Flavors

Now, Pairings Bistro specializes in something that’s right up my alley: food and wine pairings. The menu offers a four-course Prix Fixe option, and naturally, I went all in—wine pairing and all. My wife opted for the same but skipped the wine. As much as I love a good whiskey sour, starting with one on an empty stomach wasn’t the best decision. When I reached my fourth glass of wine, I was pleasantly buzzed and unable to finish the last pairing—a lesson learned for future visits!

The food, though, was nothing short of fantastic. One of my favorite parts of the meal was the flexibility. Whether you choose a three- or four-course meal, you can mix and match from various starters, entrees, and desserts. My favorite starter is their charcuterie board, which I pair with something a bit lighter, like their crab cocktail—a perfect balance of flavors. They offer a local beef selection for entrees, which, while well-prepared, could use a bit more seasoning for my taste. Still, the quality of the meat speaks for itself.

Dining at Your Own Pace

One of the things that stood out to us was the relaxed pace of the meal. Too often, restaurants rush you through courses, leaving little time to savor the food or enjoy conversation. But at Pairings, the timing was just right. The minimal yet attentive staff allowed us to enjoy each course without feeling hurried, which made for a leisurely, intimate dining experience.

The wine pairings deserve a special mention here. Each course came with its own carefully selected wine, and while I may not be a sommelier, it was clear the choices were thoughtful and complementary to the dishes. The staff’s knowledge and professionalism shone through, making the pairing feel personal, even though it’s a regular part of the experience.

The Sweet Finale: Dessert and More

If you’ve saved room for dessert—and you should—Pairings won’t disappoint. Their dessert menu features around five options, and my wife and I’ve tried nearly all of them. We haven’t gotten to the flourless chocolate cake yet, but the ice cream sundae I had last time was a delightful treat. The staff surprised us with a beautifully presented cheesecake for our anniversary. It was a small but meaningful gesture that added a personal touch to our celebration.

Is Pairings Bistro a Bel Air Classic?

In my opinion, absolutely. Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening, a celebratory meal, or a great relaxing spot, Pairings Bistro hits the mark. The ambiance is charming, the food is consistently delicious, and the staff brings it all together with warmth and professionalism. We’ve been back several times since that first visit, and it’s been a memorable experience each time.

So, if you find yourself in the Bel Air area, do yourself a favor and make a reservation at Pairings Bistro. Whether for a special occasion or a night out, this place is worth it. I’m already thinking about our next visit.