Best bars in Baltimore: find options near you
Baltimore is renowned for its lively nightlife scene, offering a wide array of establishments where locals and visitors can unwind and socialize. Among these, the best venues for enjoying a night out stand out for their unique atmospheres, creative cocktails, and friendly service. Each spot reflects the city's rich cultural heritage, making a night on the town an experience filled with personality and character.
From cozy pubs to upscale lounges, the selection of drinking establishments in this charming city is sure to cater to all tastes and preferences. Whether you are looking for a laid-back environment to enjoy a craft beer or a trendy location to sip on innovative mixed drinks, Baltimore's top picks offer something for everyone. Discovering these hotspots not only allows for memorable evenings but also provides a glimpse into the city's social fabric.
1. Pratt Street Ale House
Tuesday: 11:00–22:00
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: 11:00–22:00
Friday: 11:00–22:00
Saturday: 11:00–22:00
Sunday: 11:00–22:00
Pratt Street Ale House offers a delightful dining experience with a menu that caters to various tastes. The staff is always friendly and attentive, ensuring customers feel welcomed and well taken care of. Diners often commend the service quality, which makes every visit enjoyable.
The atmosphere is perfect for a casual night out or even a quick bite before events nearby. With generous portions and a diverse selection of dishes, it’s an ideal spot for those looking to relax after a long day. Overall, it’s a place worth revisiting for its ambiance and quality food.
Affordability: 4
Food quality: 4
Portion sizes: 4
Atmosphere: 4
Military discount: Yes
I decided to stop by the Pratt Street Ale House this evening for dinner, because it was within just two blocks from my hotel. This is a popular sports bar that is close to the Oriole Park at Camden Yards and the Baltimore Convention Center.
I ordered their fish and chips for dinner, and choose to watch the baseball game in the bar area. This sports bar was not busy and I didn’t have any wait. My fish and chips was seasoned very well and it was a large portion. Lastly, I was given a military discount of my meal which was a pleasant surprise.
2. Little Havana
Tuesday: 11:30–00:00
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: 11:30–00:00
Friday: 11:00–02:00
Saturday: 11:00–02:00
Sunday: 11:00–00:00
Little Havana offers a delightful dining experience with an impressive array of authentic dishes. The attentive and friendly staff enhance the atmosphere, making every visit enjoyable. Guests rave about the flavorful sandwiches and unique appetizers, which speak to the restaurant’s vibrant culinary offerings.
The restaurant is well-known for its generous portions, especially with selections like the Seafood Paella and various taco options. While it can be a lively setting, the quality of food and service makes it a must-try for anyone looking to indulge in delicious Latin cuisine.
Was expecting a little spicier Jerk veggie bowl but was on the sweeter coconut side (still beautiful)
Bean soup was classic, authentic Latin black beans that went well with rice.
The vegan flan was not so impressive though.
There was a wait for outdoor seating when we arrived, but not for indoor.
The prices are steep, but not outrageous, especially considering the location.
Service was a bit slow. And one of the servers delivered a plate a little haphazardly, spilled sauce on the table, and didn’t clean it up. I also asked to have my refried black beans swapped for regular, the server indicated that was possible, but then they brought me refried anyway. So I wasn’t impressed with that aspect – even though our server was very friendly.
The food was really good.
3. Max’s Taphouse
Tuesday: 11:30–00:00
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: 11:30–00:00
Friday: 11:30–02:00
Saturday: 11:30–02:00
Sunday: 11:30–00:00
Max’s Taphouse offers a remarkable selection of craft beers, making it a must-visit for enthusiasts. Their extensive menu showcases various options from local and international breweries, ensuring every palate finds something enjoyable. The atmosphere is lively, providing the perfect backdrop for socializing.
The service at Max’s Taphouse is exceptional, with knowledgeable staff ready to guide guests through their extensive offerings. Patrons appreciate the inviting ambiance, paired with delicious pub food, enhancing the overall experience. It’s no wonder this establishment holds a special place in the hearts of its visitors.
4. Pickles Pub
Tuesday: 11:00–22:00
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: 11:00–22:00
Friday: 11:00–23:00
Saturday: 11:00–23:00
Sunday: 11:00–23:00
Pickles Pub offers an exceptional dining experience with its friendly staff and inviting atmosphere. Guests are greeted with a menu that’s easy to navigate through QR codes, allowing for quick ordering and payment. The ambiance is lively, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a meal before attending a game or simply hanging out with friends.
The cuisine is noteworthy, with generous portions and delightful flavors that leave diners satisfied. Signature dishes, along with refreshing drinks, create a memorable visit. Whether enjoying a meal inside or outside, Pickles Pub stands out as a top destination for great food and good company.
I went here just to experience the Crab Pretzel and i will say i wasn’t disappointed. I went on a weekday during the day so it was very empty there was only 3 ppl in there. The servers was very nice and quick. The pretzel was very soft and favorable i could finish the whole think but i definitely took the rest to go it was so soft and fluffy. All i did was pop it in the microwave and it came out just as soft as it was when i first ordered it. I will definitely order again
5. The Horse You Came In On Saloon
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: 19:00–01:30
Thursday: 16:00–01:30
Friday: 12:00–01:30
Saturday: 12:00–01:30
Sunday: 12:00–22:00
The Horse You Came In On Saloon offers a truly inviting ambiance that makes every visit memorable. With a mix of live music and cozy seating, patrons find themselves drawn in to enjoy the delightful atmosphere. The staff is consistently friendly and attentive, ensuring that guests feel welcomed throughout their stay.
The beverage selection is impressive, featuring a variety of craft cocktails that are expertly made. While food portions could be improved, the freshness and flavors stand out. Overall, this saloon has successfully created a charming environment, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a fun night out.
Great tee shirts! Soft & light $$
6. The Owl Bar
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: 16:00–00:00
Friday: 16:00–00:00
Saturday: 11:00–00:00
Sunday: 11:00–14:00
The Owl Bar offers a uniquely enchanting atmosphere, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a memorable experience. The decor combines historic charm with modern touches, creating an inviting space perfect for unwinding with friends or enjoying a romantic evening.
When it comes to the service, patrons have praised the staff for their attentiveness and friendliness, ensuring that every guest feels welcomed. The drink selection is impressive, with expertly crafted cocktails that elevate the overall experience. Overall, The Owl Bar is a delightful spot that promises both great ambiance and excellent service.
Not this bar though…. I hope.
Because while perfectly polite a discerning patron would find the service lacking.
The martini I ordered came quite strong and quite tepid. Not blended nearly enough to keep it crisp. I was drinking room temperature gin after two sips.
Then – well meaning as it was – a bartender started going around the bar spraying cleaner right onto the bar. Not her towel or away from patrons/drinks but right in the bar, getting spray most certainly in, near, and around the drinks. A simple issue that could be fixed.
Lastly – I went on a slow Saturday apparently: last call was 9:45 with an abrupt and resounding/blaring “The Party’s Over” by Willie Nelson. Yes – it was time to go at 9:53p on a Saturday.
I just hope all those celebrities had a different experience or I fear few others will show up in the future.
Our server was great. I didn’t grab the check or I’d mention her by name. But her suggestions were super helpful and she worked hard to make sure we could eat and pay quickly to make our show.
They have a decent happy hour until 7pm with burger specials and a few drink/app specials.
The vegan potstickers were good. The calamari was excellent.
The Maryland crab soup didn’t do anything for us, and it was more chunky like a stew than a soup.
We ordered a side of duck fat fries, which were I thought supposed to come with aoli and rosemary or seasoning of some kind. I couldn’t tell if we got regular fries (it came with ketchup) or duck fat fries. Couldn’t taste or distinguish a difference.
I’ve had their brick oven pizzas and their truffle burger before, and both of those are delicious. I decided to try duck tacos with a peach salsa, and that was a swing and a miss. The duck was not flavorful at all, nor was the salsa honestly. It was just a soft flavorless mess of a meal.
Cocktails were great. We had the spicy Paloma, which had a bit too much ice but it was well crafted and nicely balanced. My friend had the sangria HH special, and she said it was tasty. The peach margarita HH special was very good as well.
All in all, a positive experience and a great location with cool architecture and ambiance. Avoid the duck tacos and you’ll have a great night.
Waitress didn’t write anything down for a table of 6 and subsequently messed up some orders.
Belvedere hotel is really historical and the atmosphere of the bar is cool.
I recommend going for a cocktail sitting directly at the bar if possible.
My friend ordered the crab and artichoke dip, and there was maybe two little lumps of crab.
Do NOT come here for food. There was a reason we were the only seated table at dinnertime. Everyone just goes to the bar for drinks. Food is waste of money, time, and calories. Had to go grab actual food right after eating here -_-
7. Mick O’Shea’s Irish Pub
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: 12:00–01:30
Friday: 12:00–01:30
Saturday: 12:00–01:30
Sunday: 11:00–00:00
Mick O’Shea’s Irish Pub is a splendid choice for those seeking a cozy atmosphere for gatherings. With its inviting layout and large screens for sports, it creates a fantastic environment for friends to unwind over drinks and good company.
The menu features a variety of hearty dishes, with standout options that are sure to please. The staff are friendly and efficient, providing attentive service that enhances the overall experience. A visit here is sure to leave you satisfied and planning your next outing!
8. The Bluebird Cocktail Room
Tuesday: 17:00–23:00
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: 17:00–01:00
Friday: 17:00–01:00
Saturday: 17:00–01:00
Sunday: 17:00–01:00
The Bluebird Cocktail Room is truly a hidden gem that combines a charming atmosphere with expertly crafted cocktails. The ambiance is both cozy and sophisticated, making it an ideal setting for a romantic evening or a fun gathering with friends. The selection is diverse and inventive, showcasing the bartenders’ creativity and expertise in mixology.
Exceptional service enhances the experience, with attentive staff who are eager to assist in choosing the perfect drink. The attention to detail in the decor adds to the overall charm, making each visit feel special. Whether you’re a cocktail aficionado or just looking for a delightful night out, The Bluebird Cocktail Room promises an unforgettable experience!
The bar is located on the second floor. They have 3 swings outside to sit on and enjoy.
The bar is so pretty and cozy. It gives vintage vibe. It had a bar section and table sections. They also have a fireplace with big seats around it.
The bar menu is inspired by classic literature. I really like reading through the menu. I ordered pulp and bone which was whiskey with applce cider, cinnamon and maple. It was strong but very good. I also tasted some other menu that has chai. It was good too.
We ordered carrot cake and it was good too. It had some fruit chunk inside which was good.
It was not cheap, but I really like the vibe and drinks. I highly recommend this place.
9. Peter’s Pour House
Tuesday: 11:00–02:00
Wednesday: 11:00–02:00
Thursday: 09:00–02:00
Friday: 09:00–02:00
Saturday: 09:00–02:00
Sunday: 09:00–02:00
Peter’s Pour House offers a delightful blend of casual dining and a welcoming atmosphere. The staff works tirelessly to ensure that customers are satisfied, creating an enjoyable experience for all who visit. From the moment you walk in, it’s clear that the focus is on providing excellent service and mouthwatering food.
The menu features classic bar fare that is prepared with care, making it a great spot to unwind after a long day. Patrons rave about the quality dishes and the friendly vibe, perfect for enjoying a meal or grabbing drinks. Overall, it’s a must-visit location for anyone looking to enjoy a local gem with fantastic customer service.
10. Frazier’s On the Avenue
Tuesday: 11:00–02:00
Wednesday: 11:00–02:00
Thursday: 11:00–02:00
Friday: 11:00–02:00
Saturday: 09:00–02:00
Sunday: 09:00–02:00
Frazier’s On the Avenue offers a delightful dining experience with exceptional food and a comfortable ambiance. Known for their aptly named half-price burger specials, guests can indulge in delicious bites while enjoying great company. The ability to choose between indoor and outdoor seating adds to the charm.
The friendly service enhances the visit, making it a welcoming spot for both casual meet-ups and special occasions. With a menu filled with enticing options, Frazier’s is a place definitely worth revisiting for satisfying meals and a relaxed atmosphere.
There’s plenty of space, which is nice if one needs to entertain a large group, but that’s the only positive thing I have to say. Long-neglected interior with a persistent odor of mildew, B. O., and stale beer. It appears they have added air filters in the big room to deal with this issue, but they don’t do much. Nothing worth eating on the menu unless extremely hungry or drunk. Oh- and I don’t trust the staff to be cleaning the taps on a regular basis – in my experience the draft beer is typically skunky.
I’ve never eaten at Frazier’s before. There’s indoor and outdoor seating, and the decor is interesting. I’ve included pictures. The pictures show a nearly empty establishment, but we showed up at around 2:30 in the afternoon, between the lunch and dinner hours.
Our server was pleasant, informative, and efficient. The menu had lots of enticing items. Frazier’s says their shrimp salad sandwich is famous so we split one of them. It was very good. We also split a Greek burger. That’s a burger with feta cheese, spinach, tomato and tatziki sauce. I asked for medium rare, but I received a medium. Still, it was pretty good.
I recommend this Frazier’s.
- 1. Pratt Street Ale House
- 2. Little Havana
- 3. Max's Taphouse
- 4. Pickles Pub
- 5. The Horse You Came In On Saloon
- 6. The Owl Bar
- 7. Mick O'Shea's Irish Pub
- 8. The Bluebird Cocktail Room
- 9. Peter's Pour House
- 10. Frazier's On the Avenue
- What types of bars can I find in Baltimore?
- Are there any bars in Baltimore that serve food?
- What neighborhoods are popular for bar hopping?
- What should I know about bar hours in Baltimore?
- Are there any bars that offer live music in Baltimore?
- What is the dress code like at bars in Baltimore?
- Do bars in Baltimore offer outdoor seating?
- What are some signature drinks to try at bars in Baltimore?
- Are bars in Baltimore family-friendly?
- How do I find bar events or specials in Baltimore?
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Catalog of services offered by bars in Baltimore
Craft Beer Selection
Baltimore's bars are renowned for their extensive craft beer selection. Many establishments partner with local breweries to provide a rotating tap list that highlights unique and seasonal brews. This allows patrons to explore a wide variety of flavors and styles, ensuring a memorable experience for both craft beer enthusiasts and casual drinkers.
Signature Cocktails
Bars in Baltimore often feature signature cocktails made by skilled mixologists. These drinks are crafted using premium spirits, fresh ingredients, and creative techniques to offer a distinctive taste. Whether it's a classic cocktail with a twist or an innovative new drink, the focus is on providing a one-of-a-kind sipping experience.
Live Music and Entertainment
Many bars in Baltimore provide live music and entertainment to create vibrant atmospheres. From local bands to DJ sets, these venues cater to a range of musical tastes, allowing patrons to enjoy their favorite genres while mingling with friends. Special events such as open mic nights or karaoke add to the lively ambiance.
Happy Hour Specials
Happy hour is a popular feature at bars in Baltimore, offering discounted drinks and appetizers during specific times. These specials provide an excellent opportunity for friends and coworkers to unwind after a long day, enjoy great deals, and socialize in a fun and relaxed setting.
Many bars expand beyond just drinks by offering a diverse food menu that pairs well with their beverage selections. From gourmet appetizers to full meals, the culinary offerings often complement the drink options, enhancing the overall dining experience for patrons.
Themed Nights and Events
Bars in Baltimore frequently host themed nights and events to attract different crowds. Theme nights, such as trivia, salsa dancing, or costume parties, encourage participation and foster a sense of community, making these bars popular destinations for entertainment and socializing.
Outdoor Seating and Patios
Many establishments take advantage of Baltimore's scenic views by offering outdoor seating and patios. This allows patrons to enjoy their drinks and meals outside, soaking up the atmosphere while mingling with friends or enjoying live events in a fresh, open-air environment.
Private Events and Rentals
Several bars provide options for private events and rentals, accommodating birthday parties, corporate gatherings, or other special occasions. These venues often offer customizable packages that can include food, drinks, and entertainment, ensuring a tailored experience for all guests.
Unique Ambiance and Décor
Baltimore's bars often feature a unique ambiance and décor, with many establishments showcasing local art, historical elements, or themed designs that reflect the city's culture. This attention to detail enhances the overall experience, making each visit memorable and visually stimulating.
Frequently asked questions about bars in Baltimore
What types of bars can I find in Baltimore?
Baltimore offers a diverse selection of bars, catering to various tastes and preferences. You can find craft beer bars, trendy cocktail lounges, sports bars, dive bars, and even rooftop establishments with stunning views of the city. Each type provides a unique atmosphere and experience, making it easy to find a spot that suits your mood.
Are there any bars in Baltimore that serve food?
Many bars in Baltimore also function as restaurants and serve a variety of food options. From classic pub fare like burgers and wings to more upscale dining choices, these establishments provide a well-rounded experience. Some bars even feature food trucks or partner with local kitchens to offer a rotating menu.
What neighborhoods are popular for bar hopping?
Baltimore features several neighborhoods that are particularly popular for bar hopping. Areas like Fells Point, Federal Hill, and Hampden are known for their concentration of bars and vibrant nightlife. Each neighborhood has its own distinct character and atmosphere, offering various options for those looking to explore the local scene.
What should I know about bar hours in Baltimore?
Bar hours in Baltimore can vary significantly based on local ordinances and individual establishment policies. Typically, most bars operate until 1:00 AM or 2:00 AM on weekdays, with some staying open later on weekends. It’s always a good idea to check the bar's specific hours on their website or social media before heading out.
Are there any bars that offer live music in Baltimore?
Yes, Baltimore is home to a number of bars that feature live music. Many venues host local bands, open mic nights, and even larger touring acts. Places like The 8x10 and Ottobar are well-known for their music scene. Enjoying a drink while listening to live music can enhance the overall experience.
What is the dress code like at bars in Baltimore?
The dress code varies widely among bars in Baltimore, ranging from casual to more upscale settings. Many bars, especially those in Fells Point or Harbor East, may have a smart casual dress code, while dive bars are often more relaxed. It’s advisable to check ahead if you're planning to visit a specific venue for a special event.
Do bars in Baltimore offer outdoor seating?
Many bars in Baltimore take advantage of the city's atmosphere by offering outdoor seating. This is particularly popular during the warmer months, with many establishments featuring patios or rooftop bars that allow patrons to enjoy their drinks and meals outside while taking in the sights of the city.
What are some signature drinks to try at bars in Baltimore?
Baltimore is known for its unique drink offerings, including the famous Orange Crush, a refreshing cocktail made with vodka, orange juice, and a splash of lemon-lime soda. Other popular choices include craft beers from local breweries and various unique cocktails that showcase seasonal ingredients. Asking the bartender for their signature drink can lead to an excellent experience.
Are bars in Baltimore family-friendly?
While most bars cater to an adult audience, there are some locations in Baltimore that are family-friendly during certain hours. Establishments, especially those offering food and games, may welcome families earlier in the evening before transitioning to an adult atmosphere later at night. It’s essential to check the bar’s policy before planning a visit with children.
How do I find bar events or specials in Baltimore?
To find bar events or specials in Baltimore, many locals turn to social media platforms, local event websites, and bar-specific apps that provide information on happy hours, trivia nights, and special promotions. Additionally, checking the bars’ websites or subscribing to their newsletters can help keep you informed about upcoming events and unique offerings.