Spike Gjerde Launches Cafe Terracotta at Johns Hopkins Hospital

Chef Spike Gjerde, known for his commitment to local and sustainable cuisine, has opened his latest venture, Cafe Terracotta, at The Johns Hopkins Hospital. Located at the recently renovated entrance at 1729 E. Monument St., the cafe offers an all-day menu featuring coffee, pastries, wraps, flatbreads, and customizable rice bowls, with breakfast sandwiches and grab-and-go options expected soon.

Gjerde, the founder of Woodberry Kitchen, emphasized that the cafe aligns with his mission to provide globally inspired food sourced from local, eco-conscious farms. He noted the importance of reaching people where they are, stating that Johns Hopkins is a vital institution in Baltimore and an ideal location for this initiative.

In line with its focus on local partnerships, Johns Hopkins has committed to sourcing 40% of its dining food locally by 2030, with at least 15% from Baltimore businesses. The hospital has been proactive in collaborating with local eateries, as evidenced by the recent openings of Koshary Corner and Kitsch Cafe on campus.

April Taylor, the chief operating officer at The Johns Hopkins Hospital, highlighted that staff feedback indicated a desire for local business partnerships, which influenced the decision to work with Gjerde. The cafe has already seen a strong response from hospital staff and visitors since its opening.

Gjerde's expansion comes after he relinquished control of Hampden’s Artifact Coffee to his ex-wife while taking full ownership of Woodberry Tavern. He has also opened La Jetée and Bar Dalí through his new restaurant group, Ecco Project, and is developing an Italian market in the former Whitehall food hall.

Despite managing multiple new concepts, Gjerde remains committed to supporting local agriculture and regenerative farming. He acknowledged the challenges of sourcing ingredients within the hospital’s security protocols but aims to maintain the same high standards for quality ingredients as his other establishments.

Visitors to Cafe Terracotta can expect dishes crafted from the same small farms that supply Woodberry Kitchen, although logistics differ within the hospital setting. The cafe is open to the public, but patrons must sign in and present identification upon entering.

Reported by HarborBeat based on The Baltimore Banner (source).