Julekha Dash

We won’t bury the lede; eating steamed crabs encrusted with Old Bay is an absolute must in Baltimore. You could go so far as to call it a rite of passage. When discussing food in Charm City, it doesn’t get more Baltimore than that.The dining scene here is about so much more than that classic experience. The best restaurants in Baltimore showcase a city that has embraced its culinary renaissance, and the menus of Charm City are as diverse as its people. Classic American? Venezuelan arepas? Basque pintxos? Asian fusion? All that and more, buddy. Eating is one of the best things to do in Baltimore, whether smashing crabs or getting dolled up in your Sunday best. RECOMMENDED: The best Irish bars in Baltimore 

There is more to Baltimore than The Wire, otherwise known as the greatest television show in the history of television shows (opinions may vary). What is the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Charm City? That nickname, for one, although maybe thoughts immediately turn to the picturesque Inner Harbor or delicious steamed crabs dusted with Old Bay spice. Everyone has their own picture of Baltimore. The best things to do in Baltimore bridge the divide between fascinating American history and modern boutique shopping, with a fantastic restaurant scene nestled next to brilliant bars, street markets, quirky festivals, and more. It can take years to truly know Baltimore, but these magnificent experiences should be your starting point. 

When Guinness debuted its Baltimore brewery in 2018, it was the iconic brand’s first American outpost in over 60 years. Bringing Irish beer to Maryland has proven to be a winning recipe as just last month Guinness Open Gate Brewery welcomed its one millionth customer. The signature harp symbol greets guests as they enter the three-story beerhouse, which offers tours, sells Guinness swag, and serves food and a variety of brews to suit every kind of beer lover. If you haven’t already been among the million customers so far, here are five reasons to get your butt down to Guinness Open Gate.

Irish immigrants arrived in Baltimore in the 1800s and their presence can still be felt today with social clubs and museums honoring their heritage. The city is also home to many Gaelic bars overflowing with Guinness, corned beef sandwiches and shepherd’s pie. While the city recently lost several prominent watering holes hailing from the Emerald Isle during the pandemic, there are plenty of spots to wet your whistle and fill your belly. And there’s nothing like a festive Irish bar to lift the spirits, be it a celebration for St Patrick’s Day or any old random weekday. A tour and tasting at the Guinness Open Gate Brewery would make for a tempting chaser too, but to get you started, check out our six favorite Irish bars in Baltimore.