Russett/Maryland City

Local news covering the Russett and Maryland City areas

Donovan Vassell, owner of Catherine’s, in front of a mural honoring his mother. (Photo: Brenda Zeigler-Riley)

Catherine’s Brings Taste of Jamaica to Corridor Marketplace

Donovan Vassell, a Russett resident born in Jamaica, says he saw a need for fine dining in Laurel. This sparked his vision of Catherine’s, a restaurant named after his mother, which opened to great acclaim in early September in Corridor Marketplace. Donovan wanted the restaurant to embody island warmth and hospitality. Upon entering, I felt as if I had been transported to an upscale Caribbean Island restaurant. The soothing, rippling water feature and blue lighting, flanked by large, showy palm trees, created the perfect oasis for a true culinary adventure.

Catherine’s restaurant pays homage to its namesake’s love of cooking and strong family ties. Donovan describes the cuisine as a fusion of the “bold, tropical flavors of the Caribbean and the rich, comforting transitions of Italian cuisine.” He noted that the two cuisines share similarities in the ingredients used, as well as similar values around food, family, and community. Every recipe is a celebration of cultural diversity and culinary artistry, from appetizers like the Yerk Bruschetta to the delicious-sounding Salmon Mediterraneo entree.

I met with Yolande, a family member who, while working on the beautiful table settings, provided a tour. Yolande moved back to Laurel to “pitch in to the support system needed to assure that the restaurant is successful.” She spoke about the live Caribbean music offered Thursday through Sunday, which enhances the restaurant’s ambiance and vibe, and added that a happy hour menu is available from 4-6 pm Tuesday through Friday.

Catherine’s is receiving rave reviews for its delicious food, good vibes, and live music. I look forward to making reservations in the very near future.

Blue Sunday Opens in Maryland City Plaza

In early September, I joined a group of enthusiastic diners for the soft opening of the long-awaited Blue Sunday Bar and Grill. The Asian American restaurant boasts an exceptionally diverse menu as well as an extensive selection of world-class wines and a special Blue Sunday cocktail menu. A 3–7 pm happy hour menu has several food specials, and alcohol specials will be added; the restaurant was awaiting its liquor license when I visited but expected to obtain it soon.

Although new to Laurel, Blue Sunday is no stranger to the area. Its restaurant in Bowie opened in early 2016 and has gained a loyal following. Laurel diners will benefit from experiences gained in Bowie, according to the restaurant’s website: “Throughout the years, Blue Sunday has evolved tremendously, both in food and experience. We have earned our reputation by providing an excellent dining experience with vibrant customer service.”

The dinner menu is quite impressive; it ranges from Asian American dishes to salads, soup, rice and noodles, and entrees. My happy hour appetizers, shrimp tempura and tacos, did not disappoint. I will return to savor a few more of their offerings.

The modern, fresh, upscale ambience is a welcome change to the Maryland City area. The hostess and servers were friendly and knowledgeable. The bar and lounge are expansive, with comfortable seating and plush booths to accommodate smaller groups. The manager, Hun Phung, shared that the restaurant seats 350, with a private room that accommodates 50. He said live music will be provided for special occasions.

Maryland City at Russett Library Offers Fun Fall Activities

The library will spotlight two Fall traditions—Halloween and Native American Month—with fun and educational events for all ages.

Halloween Family Storytime: Thursday, October 30, 6–7 pm

Preschool (Ages 0–5)

Wear your Halloween costume and join in on some Halloween-themed story time and a costume parade through the library! Enjoy some not-so-spooky stories, songs, and treats.

Marble Energy: Saturday, November 8, 10:30–11:30 am

Ages 6–10

How do you make a marble go faster through a maze? Explore the laws of energy using marble activities and games. Explore a different science topic on the second Saturday of each month.

Teen Art Club: Tuesday, November 11, 5–6:30 pm

Ages 11+

Hang out, have a snack, and make some art!

Powwow Dance with Miss Chief Rocka: Wednesday, November 19, 6:30–7:30 pm

All Ages

Step into the world of Native American Dance with Miss Chief Rocka as she performs traditional and storytelling dances steeped in cultural richness and rhythmic exploration. A member of Frog Lake First Nation, Miss Chief Rocka brings a unique blend of tradition and contemporary flair to her shows. Join her for an empowering journey into the heart of powwow culture.

Native American Family Storytime: Tuesday, November 25, 6–7 pm

Preschool (Ages 0 – 5)

Celebrate Native American culture with stories and a craft!

Visit the library’s online newsletter to stay informed about current and future library programs and holdings: aacpl.net/events/happenings-newsletter

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Brenda Zeigler-Riley is a retired educator and entrepreneur with a marketing, public relations, and fundraising background. Please send information on Russett/Maryland City (historical pieces, stories from first responders, hometown memories, resident profiles, etc.) to russett.mdcinfo@gmail.com.