One of the best parts of city life is the abundance of bars and watering holes, and Baltimore doesn't disappoint on that front. When you're ready to head out for a drink, check out these 16 best bars in Baltimore that are sure to please.
There's a unique appeal about Fells Point bars and V-NO Wine Bar is a prime example. Its attractive waterfront location and abundant outdoor seating are a perfect accompaniment to V-NO's carefully selected wines by the glass and small plates menu. The herb-roasted almonds and cashews, kissed with real Vermont maple syrup, are addictive.
905 S. Ann Street
(410) 342-8466
Yelp: 4 stars, 84 reviews
Another Fells Point gem, Max's Taphouse is a beer-lover's paradise: Its selection of over 1,000 bottled varieties, 100 beers on tap, and five different casks is one of the best in the world. Enjoy an eclectic mix of classic bar food with a modern twist (think Greek nachos or bison sliders) and mouthwatering steamed seafood.
735 S. Broadway
(410) 675-6297
Yelp: 4 stars, 411 reviews
Located across the street from Camden Yards, Pickles has been a Baltimore institution for over 25 years. It's a favorite game-day destination for both Orioles and Ravens fans; the game day menu is packed with budget-friendly specials you can enjoy indoors or out.
520 Washington Blvd
(410) 752-1784
Yelp: 3.8 stars, 198 reviews
This unpretentious bar was named one of the best three whiskey bars in the south by Southern Living magazine because it does one thing exceptionally well: Serves an exceptional menu of single malt scotch for serious scotch aficionados. Enjoy light happy hour fare with your whiskey and relax by the fire.
Birds of a Feather
1712 Aliceanna St.
(410) 675-8466
Yelp: 4.5 stars, 51 reviews
This low-key bar is the perfect place to unwind with a custom cocktail from "the Book," a handwritten menu of Bad Decisions faves—or choose from one of their 900 spirits. Pair it with a basket of bacon and watch the day's cares melt away.
(410) 979-5161
Yelp: 4.2 stars, 154 reviews
1928 Fleet St.
Your plastic is no good at this old-school dive bar and there's no nearby ATM, so come flush with cash if you want to down generous drinks at reasonable prices and gaze at the Sistine Chapel reproduction on the ceiling.
Mount Royal Tavern
1204 W. Mount Royal Ave.
(410) 669-6686
Yelp: 4 stars, 34 reviews
This quiet speakeasy serves a different cocktail du jour every day (that's hundreds since it opened). Choose from a classic menu or ask the bartender to mix you a custom drink.
400 W. 23rd St.
(410) 925-7900
Yelp: 4.5 stars, 80 reviews
For over 40 years, Cat's Eye Pub has been offering live music 365 days a year in its waterfront Fells Point venue. They don't scrimp on libations, either, with over 30 draft beers and custom cocktails.
1730 Thames St.
(410) 276-9866
Yelp: 4 stars, 71 reviews
Enjoy an orange crush on Baltimore's one-of-a-kind Tiki Barge, an island destination tied to a pier in the Inner Harbor. Sure, it's kitchy, and yes, it's seasonal, but you can't beat the view and the "wow" factor.
500 Harborview Dr.
(800) 867-5309
Yelp: 4.3 stars, 42 reviews
This popular new lounge in chic Federal Hill boasts an extensive cocktail menu spirits list including trendy absinthe, chartreuse, and amaro, as well as an outstanding assortment of bourbon and rye.
31 E. Cross St.
(443) 438-4039
Yelp: 4.2 stars, 76 reviews
This friendly blue-collar bar is known for its amazing crab cakes, cold Natty Boh, generous drinks, and speedy bartenders. It's also cash-only, so come prepared, and don't forget coins for the jukebox.
623 S. Luzerne Ave
(410) 327-0505
Yelp: 4.5 stars, 14 reviews
If your idea of a perfect afternoon involves bottomless mimosas and bloody Marys, spicy Cuban food, and gorgeous harbor views from a spacious outdoor patio, head to Sunday brunch at Little Havana.
1325 Key Highway
(410) 837-9903
Yelp: 3.8 stars, 223 reviews
OLaR has everything you want for a first date: Warm ambiance, soft music, an excellent happy hour, and enough beer, wine, and cocktail choices to please even the pickiest of palates.
1028 S. Conkling St.
(410) 327-0760
Yelp: 4 stars, 204 reviews
This newcomer to Balto's juice scene is getting rave reviews for its fresh-pressed blends, Acai bowls, flavorful smoothies, and knowledgeable staff. Come early—there are no late-night hours at this bar.
1401 Riverside Ave.
Yelp: 4.5 stars, 50 reviews
The Drinkery is an LGBT institution in Baltimore, famous for its low-key vibe, strong drinks, friendly bartenders, and happy hour that goes until 9 pm. Come for the karaoke.
205 W. Read St.
(410) 225-3100
Yelp: 4.5 stars, 10 reviews
This intimate Little Italy bar opened last year and is building a reputation for authentic Italian cocktails and excellent bartenders. With seating for just 20 or so, it's a romantic option for pre-dinner drinks.
408 S. High St.
(410) 685-3300
Yelp: 4.5 stars, 6 reviews
