23 Best Dive Bars in Baltimore

“The is a true local gem. The bar is decorated in a 1970’s theme. They offer old timey beers like Stroh’s and Schaefer as well as inventive cocktails. The menu consists of unique pizzas, sandwiches and salads. Their wings are tender, tasty and delicious. The bar has a pub like quality and the clientele is friendly and welcoming. The Dive is a wonderful new addition to the neighborhood“

“We were just walking around trying to find somewhere to eat and almost walked right past Duda’s. Honestly, it’s a little hard to tell it’s even a restaurant from the outside, but something caught my eye and I’m really glad it did. We went in and I ended up having one of the best burgers I’ve ever had. I can’t even fully explain it — it was just a burger, but somehow it wasn’t just a burger, you know? Everything about it was perfect. My friend ordered the crab cake, and I could tell just by looking at him that he was in heaven. He said it was the best crab he’s ever had. Cool little spot, great food, and one of those places you’re really glad you didn’t walk past. I’ll definitely be back next time I’m in town.“

“Great neighborhood hang out. Patrons are totally chill and everyone is there for a good time. Bar tenders are awesome. Reasonably priced with lots of events. 10/10“

“Joe made our visit to The Horse You Came In On Saloon unforgettable. From the moment we walked in, he treated us like regulars instead of first-time visitors. His genuine hospitality, friendly personality, and incredible attention to detail created an experience that went far beyond great service.

Joe has a rare ability to make every guest feel welcome while effortlessly managing everything around him. He was knowledgeable about the bar’s rich history, made excellent recommendations, and always checked in to make sure we had everything we needed without ever being intrusive. His positive attitude and enthusiasm were contagious and truly elevated our entire experience.

In an industry where exceptional customer service can be hard to find, Joe sets the standard. He is a tremendous asset to The Horse You Came In On Saloon and a big reason we’ll be coming back anytime we’re in Baltimore. If you’re lucky enough to have Joe taking care of you, you’re in for an outstanding experience.

Thank you, Joe, for your professionalism, kindness, and world-class hospitality. You turned a stop at a historic bar into one of the highlights of our trip. Five stars isn’t enough!“

“Best bar in bmore.....Hey Tim...Jerome“

“No food, it's a bar. A good neighborhood dive. A place where everyone is welcomed and I've seen it all. Stop in for one of the best drinks in town. Don't get me started about cost. You'll never drink anywhere else. They have an private outdoor space as big as the indoor area with seating and tables. I love this place..“

“OK this is the bar and only a bar no food is served. It is completely retro from the gold tinsel hanging on the walls to the hanging red light strands, the disco balls, a front door covered in stickers, the vintage widows and bar and even vinyl night. The hanging speakers provide amazing music acoustics and the tasty cocktails and miller highlife 😆and bar seating add to the amazing vibe. Absolutely A MUST!“

“One of my favorite spots in Canton. Great local bar with amazing food !“

“Convenient neighborhood liquor store, the only one in the area open on Sundays! Friendly staff are always helpful. Good selection with reasonable prices.

Parking: Parking available on both sides of the street directly outside the store and lounge. Also, a couple of spots on the side of the building.“

“Spirits Tavern has exactly the kind of dive bar vibe that feels real, welcoming, and unpretentious. It’s the kind of place where everyone can feel at home, and the atmosphere reflects that in the best way.
A huge shoutout to Meredith—she’s the most solid bartender around. She pours a strong shot, knows the neighborhood, and always seems to know exactly what regulars and newcomers want without missing a beat.

Also, since John got involved over the past few years, everything has noticeably run smoother. He makes a point to check in with customers, making sure everyone is having a good time, and it really shows in how well the place is managed.

What stands out most is how the bar truly reflects what a dive bar should be—welcoming to everyone, no matter background, race, or social class. They don’t tolerate any nonsense, and that balance of inclusivity and respect is what makes it work so well.
Overall, the whole team is great, the energy is always right, and it’s one of those rare spots that consistently gets it exactly right.“

“Venice Tavern is absolutely the best dive bar in Baltimore ��“

“I just talked to a young lady who said she worked at the haven place part-time and have not been to a place like the haven and because of this young lady and her total politeness and of course beauty i will definitely come and check this place out sometime“

“I have known the owner my entire life! Margaret is an upstanding woman dedicated to the diverse clientele of Baltimore City by various music genres, great service and a warm and inviting atmosphere! Her business has stood the test of time nearing almost 30 years in business!“

“One of the friendliest dive/neighbor hood bars on Federal Hill! We were just visiting and they treated us like family. Stop in if you're in Baltimore.“

“A Knockout Blonde Bombshell Bartender who is also an aspiring actress and looks like a young Greta Garbo, sultry decor that looks straight out of the Roadhouse from David Lynch's Twin Peaks, the knowledge that filmmaker John Waters could pop in at any moment and saddle up to the bar and order a glass of white wine as he is known to do on occasion, plenty of Cheap Stiff Drinks...What more could you ask for in a Dive Bar? This place is enough to make you think you've died and gone to Dive Bar Heaven!“

“haven't been there for quite a while but when I used to go which was not that long ago I enjoyed it a lot it's a small quaint bar with you can have machines you can have darts you can and it's fun fun nice people they only have a small menu but the hot dogs are good homemade soups which are delicious“

“I never been but I heard it's very nice there the food is awesome I will be ther“

“They're open on Sundays. I've never encountered a liquor store where the expect a tip...especially just for turning around and getting a bottle off of the shelf, but here we are.

At least they're open on Sundays.“

“Did not have the food here, but Jimmy is great! We came late on a Sunday and he showed us a great time. Drinks are priced well. We've been here before, but Jimmy created a welcoming atmosphere and offered great conversation. They're making a real effort to appeal to a higher end customer; the bathrooms are newly renovated. Looking forward to seeing upgrades. Will be returning!“

“They open at 6 a.m. and they close at 2 a.m., but be there before 1:40 am. They tend to close early due to regulations and fines. Don't show up at 1:50 am. Trust me, you won't get served!!! Also the store tends to be busy early mornings and Sundays.“

“Best Kenyan Nyama Choma (Grilled Meat) on the east coast hands down. So we all love a good hole in the wall eatery and thats definitely the vibe here. Covid killed the traffic into this place but that's fine cuz there's less of a wait. THE FOOD IS AMAZING!!! Simple menu but sooo good. The ambiance is lacking but my eyes were closed as I capture the flavour of the food in every bite so it didn't matter. I meet the owner and he was so nice, inviting and extremely accommodating. Take away is also always an option. If your contemplating getting food from here just stop reading reviews and place your order now, then thank me later. This man knows his craft. Things to remember: at the moment its cash only and since your getting real authentic african style grilled meat there will be a wait but it will be worth every second. Your Welcome.“

“It's not much of a bar anymore. It's focused on package sales but you can still sit and have a drink if you want. The new owner is very kind and the prices for packaged alcohol are very competitive. Open on Sundays! I'll be a regular here, for sure.“

“Thank you Yolanda for all of your help today. You ladies made a very disappointing day into a good one. Thank you for the exceptional customer service. Most of all thank you restaurant for being a place I can come to and get my fix for curry goat and ox tails“