Best Bars For Billiards In Baltimore

It can be just another Monday or a celebration over the weekend, but no matter the reason, the solution proves to be the same – drinking and playing pool equates to a good time. Billiards is an excellent bar game in that it's easy to learn (the basics being to get the balls in the holes) and there's always the chance that even the worst of players can succeed in making a shot. Add in laughter and the opportunity for quality social interaction and it's no surprise that many bars are adding pool tables to keep customers happy. Whether you're seeking some serious competition or just looking to have a fun time playing billiards, this list has Baltimore's best bars with a pool table.

Dougherty's Pub
223 W. Chase St.
Baltimore, Md. 21201
(410) 752-4059
www.doughertyspub.com

There's no experience quite like playing pool in an Irish pub. After just a few drinks at Dougherty's Pub, many visitors will find themselves in the pool table room and chalking up a cue stick without protest. The casual, comfortable ambiance of this bar easily leads to a fun game of billiards complete with your typical pub munchies on the side like extra crispy French fries, mozzarella sticks and nachos. This neighborhood pub also offers 15 beers on draft, as well as seasonal brews and happy hour specials, making it a great spot to chill with friends any night of the week.

The Laughing Pint
3531 Gough St.
Baltimore, Md. 21224
(410) 342-6544
www.laughingpint.com

Open Monday through Saturday until 1 a.m., The Laughing Pint has 50-cent pool games and $1 off all draft beers during happy hour (3 p.m. to 6 p.m.) to start out the night. Then be sure to work up an appetite and place an order to the kitchen as this bar prepares all dishes in house and even offers tasty vegetarian options. Once your change is all gone for the pool table, you can enjoy free shuffleboard, ping pong or even WiFi until closing time. This "Nicest Little Bar in Baltimore" also boasts an outdoor, heated smoking area – an accommodation that is not found at many bars anymore.

Max's Taphouse
737 S. Broadway
Baltimore, Md. 21231
(410) 675-6297
www.maxs.com

Max's Taphouse in historic Fells Point has everything you need for a fun game night out. Envision 1,200 bottled beers, 140 rotating drafts and five hand-pumped cask ales with 18 TVs playing sports as you hunker down for a game of pool – one might argue it doesn't get better than this for entertainment. Certainly the legendary beer selection of local and imported brews initially attracts you to Max's, but it is the cozy, friendly atmosphere and pool table that keeps you there. Additionally, every weekday has drink specials like "Monday Sucks Happy Hour" or "Tuesday Beer Social," which have the ability to draw out unsuspecting pool players as the night goes on.

Related: Best Bars With Local Brews In Baltimore

Mother's Federal Hill Grille
1113 S. Charles St.
Baltimore, Md. 21230
(410) 244-8686
www.mothersgrille.com

Conveniently located near Camden Yards and Ravens Stadium, most Baltimore sports lovers have stopped in at Mother's Grille at one time or another. Whether it's for a quick bite to eat or the desire to mingle and enjoy some cold brews, this restaurant accommodates everyone including the billiards fan. Two pool tables, ample nearby seating with tables and easy viewing of flat-screen TVs have proven to be a winning combination for all guests, no matter your sports preference or affiliation. Since Mother's is a popular spot before, after and during games, be sure to arrive early or prepare to wait for the tables to open when the Orioles or Ravens are playing.

Ottobar
2549 N. Howard St.
Baltimore, Md. 21218
(410) 662-0069
www.theottobar.com

The Ottobar is best known in Baltimore for attracting both local and national musical talent, but the venue is also not without a rocking pool table located downstairs. The almost "hideaway" pool room can be a pleasant spot to sneak off to when you're not head banging away or just need a break from the crowd. However, guests can still listen to the live music while enjoying a game and light conversation. Plus, with the notable artists that occasionally frequent here, you never know who you might end up playing a game of pool with.

Keri Ann Beazell is a Baltimore writer following the latest developments in arts and culture, natural wonders, lifestyle and pets. She enjoys promoting thought-provoking discussions, education, new ideas and smiles among readers. Follow her online at Examiner.com