Tropical Vibes in Charm City: Pink Flamingo Bar to Revamp Iconic Dizz Space

A new bar named Pink Flamingo is set to open in the former Dizz space in Baltimore, celebrating the city's culture and history with a tropical twist.
Tropical Vibes in Charm City: Pink Flamingo Bar to Revamp Iconic Dizz Space
Photo by Rikonavt on Unsplash

Pink Flamingo Bar to Set Up Shop in Former Dizz Space

The iconic name of Baltimore’s social scene is about to change as the legendary Dizz space at 300 W. 30th Street transforms into an exciting new venture: the Pink Flamingo bar. While many Baltimoreans have fond memories of the Dizz, which previously offered a unique local flair, co-owners Brendan Dorr and Eric Fooy are diving headfirst into the city’s vibrant culture with their new tropical-themed establishment.

Pink Flamingo Bar
A glimpse of what’s to come at the Pink Flamingo.

A Nod to Baltimore’s Iconic Culture

Dorr, who also co-owns the popular gin bar Dutch Courage, wanted to ensure that the Pink Flamingo embodies the essence of Baltimore’s artistic and cultural heritage. Choosing flamingos as a theme honors not just the city’s love for quirky design but also references the 1972 film Pink Flamingos by Baltimore’s own John Waters. Dorr explained, “Our thought process was that he’s such an iconic person in the city for the city, the movie automatically draws on that and brings that into people’s minds. It’s a Baltimore thing.” This colorful bird, often seen adorning lawns across neighborhoods, perfectly symbolizes the spirit of a business once described as “Baltimore in a bar.”

The Menu and Ambiance

Although specific opening dates are still under wraps while renovations are underway, preliminary details suggest a menu that celebrates tropical flavors with a twist. Expect a selection of rum-based cocktails to complement an intriguing food lineup that includes dishes like Spam fried rice and tantalizing jerk chicken wings. Dorr’s vision for Pink Flamingo is to create a lively atmosphere reminiscent of the city’s history, with colorful designs that pay homage to its charm.

Cocktails at Pink Flamingo
Creative cocktails are in the works at the Pink Flamingo.

Mutual Respect with Waters

Interestingly, John Waters himself remains unaware of the bar’s inception until recently, noted Dorr. After a brief conversation with the filmmaker, both parties found common ground in celebrating Baltimore’s cultural impacts without misappropriating its imagery. Dorr stated, “We tried to make him feel comfortable. He wishes us luck.” This respectful approach towards Waters suggests the Pink Flamingo will capture the essence of his legacy without directly quoting or misusing his artistic vision.

A Playful Addition to the Neighborhood

Amidst the backdrop of ongoing gentrification and evolving neighborhoods throughout Baltimore, Pink Flamingo aspires to be more than just another bar. Dorr is optimistic that his venture can provide a welcoming atmosphere where locals gather and bond over shared experiences.

Dorr expressed his surprise that no other bar in the area had adopted the Pink Flamingo name, feeling it was a natural fit given the cultural significance. The decision to embrace such an iconic motif undoubtedly ties into the broader narrative of Baltimore’s evolving cultural identity. While Waters may have made his mark with a film that pushed boundaries, this new establishment hopes to find its own footing within the community.

Dizz Bar
The iconic Dizz bar has left a legacy that will continue with Pink Flamingo.

Conclusion

In a city teeming with creative flair and unique culinary experiences, Pink Flamingo is poised to become a quintessential part of Baltimore’s dining and nightlife landscape. As they work to breathe new life into the beloved Dizz space, Dorr and Fooy are dedicated to crafting an environment that resonates with both nostalgia and forward-thinking. Baltimoreans can keep an eye out for this exciting new hotspot that combines the city’s rich history with a playful twist, encapsulating what it truly means to be part of Charm City.

For more on local food and drink culture, visit Lawnaments News.