Home > Baltimore Bars & Clubs > Bar Review > Inside: Max's on Broadway

Vibe: Max's on Broadway is a little bit of everything. With a true pub feel and a beer list that reads like a trip around the world, Max's isn't your typical Baltimore bar. Then again, their "Natty Boh" pride and seasonal Ravens madness most certainly scream Charm City. This is the place for those just looking for a place to kick back with beer, friends, cheese fries (a Max's specialty) and a game of pool.

Crowd: There's a nice combination of bar-hopping 20-somethings and friendly regulars. The cozy feel allows for mixing, so if you're up for making new friends (or "special" friends, if you will) Max's is for you. Hell, the square footage alone (there's an upstairs, as well) pretty much guarantees you'll run into tons of new people.

Libations: Max's beer list simply can't be beat. Why travel, when you can sit on your butt and drink your way around the world? This watering hole boasts beers from Scotland to Australia, but includes good, old-fashioned American brews and microbrews. Prefer a cocktail? There's no shortage of liquor here, so go ahead and order that White Russian. How 'bout a cigar with that stout? They've got those, too. Cigars range in price from $1 to $25, and Max's features popular brands such as Padron, Fuente and Ashton. Cigar fan or not, rest assured you won't go home smelling like an ashtray: Max's recently installed a new ventilation system designed to keep smoke to a minimum.

Sounds: The staff members here knows their tunes. So whether it's U2's "City of Blinding Lights," or Hasidic rapper Matisyahu, chances are you'll be bopping -- or singing, depending on your level of drunkenness -- along. It's not so loud you can't hear friends, but it is loud enough so that if you get your lyrics wrong, not a soul will know.

Service: The bartenders here are famously friendly, and knowledgeable to boot. If you're feeling adventurous and want to try that English ale, they'll be able to give you an idea about whether you'll like it or not. Food service is reliable and quick, though it slows down a little on game day.

Bottom Line: Fun place, great atmosphere. Whether you're new to Fells Point or a seasoned Baltimorean, it's hard not to like Max's. If you're an international beer fan, you'll think you've died and gone to beer heaven.

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