Just got back from lunch at the Butchertown Grocery and I'm pretty impressed overall.
The place presents incredibly well. Very detail oriented and everything just-so. If you want to take someone to a place that makes a good visual impression, BG will do nicely.
Service was friendly and warm, if a bit slow at times (just some distance between server visits for my taste, particularly toward the end). They were moderately busy and our server was great, so I don't want to paint an overly negatively picture.
Food was top notch. My companions ordered the grilled cheese with tomato soup ($16) and both raved out it. The tomato soup was of particular note. I had the Seasonal Burger ($18) (no indication what particular animal was "in season," but no worries) with guacamole, sprouts and fresh cut fries. The burger was very good, but relied a little too much on the guac to season it. Luckily, the guac was on point and complimented the meat. The sprouts were a nice garnish. The fresh cut fries arrived looking a bit limp and soggy, but surprised me by being perfectly fried and crisp. We split a shaved brussels sprout salad that was just wonderful. Light and flavorful with cranberries, nuts and a zesty citrus dressing. Just wonderful. We also split the gnocchi side item, which honestly wants to be an entree (at least I want it to be). The gnocchi is made in-house and perfectly so. Served with a light cream sauce and mushroom blend, it was delicious.
The menu was priced a little on the high side for lunch (I don't see getting the $60 steak), but we were told that a proper lunch menu was forthcoming next week, so that is to be looked forward to.
Overall, though, the Butchertown Grocery makes big promises and delivers. If you want a high profile lunch spot in a very blue collar area, you've got it.