Welcome to Fells Point, Baltimore’s first neighborhood. Founded in 1763 by William Fell, the neighborhood is an eclectic mix of historic homes, funky shops, and lively pubs frequented by local musicians, artists and performers. Perhaps Fells Point’s finest point is its collection of restaurants, from the fancy to the casual, that serve up delicious meals around the clock. Baltimore may me known for it’s crabcakes, but read on for a tour of some of the city’s lesser-known culinary delights, all in Fells Point.
Breakfast
No trip to Baltimore is complete without a stop at Blue Moon (1621 Aliceanna St), a Fells Point favorite. Get there early (before 9 am) or be prepared to wait a while. Even if you have to wait, it is well worth it for the fluffiest pancakes, freshest biscuits, and crispiest hashbrowns on the east coast – and it’s all made fresh to order. I recommend the crab benedict for those visiting from out of town. Average cost for 2 is only about $15.
Blue Moon will fill you up for quite some time, so use the morning to explore the antique shops on Fleet Street or the art galleries on Thames Street. Take a stroll to the corner of Wolfe and Thames to enjoy a picturesque park with a gazebo and a playground for children. Walk back down Lancaster and admire the historic homes – some of the oldest in Baltimore – as you make your way back towards Broadway.
Lunch
Another Baltimore classic is Bertha’s (734 S Broadway). Bertha’s is famous for its mussles, so make sure you try them. I recommend getting one large bowl to share, with two or three different dipping butters. When you pay the bill, don’t forget to take your “Eat Bertha’s Mussels” bumper sticker. The ubiquitous green and white stickers can be seen on cars all over Baltimore – put it on yours before you drive home if you want to look like a real local. A bowl of mussels and two pints of beer will set you back about $20.
After lunch, enjoy the shopping on Thames Street. For one of the best independent music stores, try Soundgarden (1616 Thames St). Their helpful staff will locate your old favorites or turn you on to new artists. For some truly unique homewares, visit Su Casa (901 S Bond St). Wander around and walk into a variety of jewelers, art galleries, and clothing stores.
Dinner
For dinner, there are many upscale options such as Pazo (Aliceanna St), Louisiana (Aliceanna St), True (S Broadway), or Kalle’s Court (Thames Street). However, Fell’s Point is known for it’s local pub scene, so I suggest dropping by Koopers (1702 Thames St) for a classic pub burger, fries, and a pint of beer. Koopers has a great selection on tap, and their friendly environment will ensure that you stick around well past the first pint. A dinner for two with two pints, tax, and tip will cost about $30.
After dinner, you may want to experience the nightlife that Fells Point is famous for. Max’s on Broadway (735 S Broadway) has the largest selection of beer, while Slainte’s second floor (1700 Thames St) has the feel of an authentic Irish pub. Other favorites include The Horse You Rode in On (Thames Street) and the Greene Turtle (S Broadway). For a late-night snack, stop at the Fells Point institution BOP (800 S Broadway) for some brick oven pizza.
Your visit to Fells Point will probably leave you with the feeling that there’s more to see and do – and eat! While this guide provides a good starting point, here are many more restaurants and shops in the neighborhood to see on subsequent visits to Baltimore’s oldest community.
