In Baltimore, we've witnessed transformations in both our dining culture and drinking scene in recent years. For decades, we remained loyal to our traditional destinations, Marconi's, Martick's, Haussner's, Caesar's Den, and the Brass Elephant, among others. A blue-collar town, our watering holes were often just that. Today, however, our tastes are more cosmopolitan, reflected by our newer restaurants and popular taverns, often serving locally brewed craft beer.
Haussner's Restaurant
For much of its 70 years, diners lined up outside Highlandtown's Haussner's—later depicted in a Mad Men episode—for its German food, seafood, desserts, and famous artwork.
Pimlico Hotel
Under founder Leon Shavitz, the Pimlico Hotel and its fine dining reigned supreme for 40 years as a
gathering spot for politicians, sports figures, and celebrities like Frank Sinatra and Liza Minnelli.
Sphinx Club
Established in 1946, the Art Deco-fronted club became a top hotspot on renowned Pennsylvania Avenue.
Marconi's
Opened in 1920, at continental Marconi's you dressed for dinner—even the servers wore tuxedos.
Martick's
Diners rang a doorbell to enter the dining room, but you couldn't beat the pâté, roasted duck,
and bouillabaisse.