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Best Bars With History In Baltimore

Not long after the first Europeans founded a settlement on Kent Island in Maryland in 1631 did enterprising entrepreneurs open the first trading post. By the mid-1600s, the first town to be established at Broad Creek on Kent Island had a ferry, a jail, a church, a courthouse and a tavern. In what was to become the Baltimore area, the County of Baltimore was established in 1659; and in 1729, the city of Baltimore was founded. Bars and taverns have been part of the landscape from before the city officially existed. And today, a number of historic bars continue to operate in the city.
Horse You Came In On Saloon
(Credit: www.thehorsebaltimore.com)

The Horse You Came In On
1626 Thames St.
Baltimore, Md. 21231
(410) 327-8111
www.thehorsebaltimore.com

Established in 1775, The Horse You Came in On, located in Fells Point, has provided a respite to weary travelers, workers and residents for more than 200 years. Edgar Allan Poe's last destination before his death was The Horse. Besides being the oldest bar in Baltimore, The Horse is the only tavern to live through prohibition in Maryland. In addition to history, the saloon is known for its seven-days-a-week live musical entertainment. Famous for its burgers, wings, beers and beverages, other menu items include favorites such as crab cake, crab mac n' cheese and other crab delights.

9.8.11 N&M - Places To Go After Baltimore Symphony - Owl Bar
(Credit: www.theowlbar.com)

The Owl Bar
1 E. Chase St.
Baltimore, Md. 21202
(410) 347-0888
www.theowlbar.com

For more than 100 years, the Belvedere has been a Baltimore landmark. In 1903, the Bar Room, later known as the Falstaff Room, opened for business. It boasted German-style décor and adornments, which include leaded-glass windows, carved wooden benches, chandeliers and brick walls, which still survive today. It was while operating as a speakeasy during Prohibition that The Owl Bar earned its moniker. Drinks remain part of the draw for the bar, but its lunch and dinner menus help complete The Owl Bar experience. From portobello fries with truffle aioli and parmesan appetizers to The Owl Bar crab cake, the food is first class.

Mt. Washington Tavern
(Credit: www.mtwashingtontavern.com)

Mt. Washington Tavern
5700 Newbury St.
Baltimore, Md. 21209
(410) 367-6903
www.mtwashingtontavern.com

Born in 1979, the Mt. Washington Tavern is a casual but upbeat bar and restaurant. In the fall of 2011, the tavern was hit with a damaging fire. The owners promised to rebuild and reopen, and in November 2012, that promise was fulfilled. With three bars – the main bar, a raw bar located in the Chesapeake Room Bar and the Sky Bar – the tavern's warm atmosphere is brightened by natural light. In addition to excellent fare, the tavern offers an extensive selection of beers, wines and cocktails.

the dizz
(Credit: www.thedizzbaltimore.com)

The Dizz
300 W. 30th St.
Baltimore, Md. 21211
(443) 869-5864
www.thedizzbaltimore.com

In 1934, the first liquor license was granted to the owners of Mitchells, now known as The Dizz. In 1972, it became Stu's Lounge; in 1981, Tony's Place; from 1987-1990, it was Igor's; from 1990-1997 it was Buckley's; and finally, it was named Dizzy in 1997, after a friend of the owners. In 2008, following an extensive renovation, the name was changed to The Dizz. Located in a corner, two-story brick building, lined with exterior plant boxes, the restaurant is well known for its seafood and sandwiches.

8/10 Food & Drink - Waterfront Hotel
(credit: Waterfront Hotel Facebook page)

Waterfront Hotel
1710 Thames St.
Baltimore, Md. 21231
(410) 537-5055
www.waterfronthotel.us

Established as a private residence in 1771, the building later became the Waterfront Hotel and Tavern in 1861. Located in Fells Point, where it was used to house Civil War troops, it also hosted sailors for almost the next century. In 1955, after a long history as a hotel, it was converted into a restaurant and tavern. Many people recognize it for its appearance as part of the backdrop for the TV series, "Homicide: Life on the Street." The second-floor dining area has an excellent view of the harbor. The lounge, also located on the second floor, is comfortably appointed with leather chairs and couches. Known for its specialty wraps, the lounge is also known for its shakes and floats made with Captain Morgan, Jameson or Stoli Vanilla.

Jeffrey B. Roth has won numerous state and national news and feature-writing awards during his career. A well-known crime writer, investigative reporter and a feature writer, Roth writes for a number of magazines and newspapers. Listed in the Locus Index of SciFi and Fantasy authors, Roth is the author of a number of published short stories and poetry. His work can be found on Examiner.com.

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