Our Story

Chef Linwood and journalist Ellen fell in love 36 years ago in a restaurant, planting the seed for what would become a culinary institution. In 1988, they transformed their dining room typewriter-written business plan into reality when Linwoods opened in Baltimore County, offering innovative New American cuisine that blended fine dining with neighborhood accessibility. For three decades, Founders Linwood and Ellen Dame built their reputation on fresh ingredients, creative preparation, and attentive service that made guests feel like family.

After 35 successful years, longtime team members Tom Devine, Executive Chef, and Erena Vedensky, Chief Financial Officer, took ownership in 2023, continuing the restaurant's legacy while honoring its foundations. Tom, who has worked alongside Linwood for four decades, now oversees kitchen operations and guest experience, while Erena manages the financial aspects and thriving catering division. While the restaurant has undergone subtle evolutions over the years, its core values remain unchanged—creating exceptional dining experiences where both regular weeknight dinners and special celebrations feel equally at home. As Chef Devine often tells curious patrons, "This restaurant will always be called Linwoods; Linwood and Ellen are the foundation, and we have the privilege to carry their vision forward."