Back in the day, the center of downtown was a hub of grand old hotels— think The Southern and The Emerson. These days, the area is again vibrant with new hotels like the Marriott Residence Inn. 17 Light is located just off the street inside the hotel and offers a colorful atmosphere and solid fare to appeal to both guests and downtown office workers. Aside from burgers and sandwiches, the menu has more ambitious items such as jumbo lump crab cakes, New York strip steak and baked rockfish. The bar is quite lively as well, and offers a happy hour from 3 to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. 17 Light St., 410-962-1220
They have an adorable, light-filled private event space above the shop, that would be perfect for a baby shower or bridal shower and that was where the event was held.