It’s a new year, which means that Towson’s bar and grill scene is upon us. Or as we like to refer to it, “The Places Where They Actually Grill Things And Pour Drinks That Don’t Taste Like Regret.” With dozens of options slinging burgers and beers, we’re here to help you narrow things down. Here are the 13 best that caught our eye.
Hightopps Backstage Grille
$$ | (410) 560-7101 | WEBSITE
Hightopps Backstage Grille’s wood-burning fireplace makes it one of the coziest dining rooms in town. But the bar and grill food is also consistently great. During a typical visit, they’re serving a tasty jalapeño burger, excellent crab Mac & cheese, and a whole bunch of good drinks. The atmosphere is lively and inviting, with plenty of seating both indoors and outdoors, and the service from staff like Allison and Bree is excellent.
With its family-friendly vibe and versatile offerings, it’s a great spot for a night out with friends or a family gathering.
Dellis’ Restaurant Bar & Grill
$$ | (410) 918-1600 | WEBSITE
By now you probably know this as the Towson spot that gets loud on Fridays. For a typical visit, you’re getting hearty American-Greek plates like the Reuben sandwich, crab melt, and shrimp and crab Alfredo. Oh and a mandatory 18% tip, definitely.
The Starting Lineup Bar and Grill
$ | (443) 438-5105 | WEBSITE
Grab a beer and a bite at this friendly neighborhood bar and grill. Alongside classics like elevated bar-fare made fresh with no processed products, you’ll find an incredible craft beer selection featuring various IPAs and well-placed TVs for game days. The cozy and personal environment, paired with a welcoming and knowledgeable owner, creates a hidden gem that makes everyone feel at home. While parking can be tough, the atmosphere and fair prices make it well worth the visit.
The Charles Baltimore
$$ | (410) 727-2333 | WEBSITE
If you’re looking for a buffet-style feast with a side of nostalgia, The Charles Baltimore will be your paradise. You can dive into yummy dishes and then soak up the perfect mix of excitement and great atmosphere—or enjoy drinks and vibes with attentive, friendly service. The experience also includes outstanding service from start to finish. (Most bar and grill spots don’t.)
Jilly’s
$$ | (410) 653-0610 | WEBSITE
When you’re craving perfectly cooked steak tacos, crispy onion rings, and a lively atmosphere, head to Jilly’s. Their well-made drinks and enthusiastic service showcase why people, including us, keep coming back to this popular Towson spot. Plus, there’s a welcoming, Cheers-like environment with owner Scott Reich often behind the bar—like a friendly face in a bustling local grill.
Avenue Kitchen & Bar
$$ | (443) 961-8515 | WEBSITE
If you’re in Towson and still haven’t tried this bar and grill, we get it—the wait times can be a real deterrent. But the Shrimp & Grits, Catfish Sandwich, and Brussel Sprouts appetizer are all worth braving the line for. And they’re all available on the lunch and dinner menus during the weekend rush.
The Owl Bar
$$ | (410) 347-0888 | WEBSITE
The Owl Bar in the Belvedere Hotel is prime historic charm material. You’ll get exceptional wings of your choice (we love the duck fat fries), a hot fresh dish like the crab omelette, a classic American bar option, a vegetarian plate (the feta-stuffed eggplant is a solid choice), and great potatoes.
Clock Restoration Bar & Kitchen
$$ | (443) 203-1888 | WEBSITE
Towson isn’t lacking for solid bar-and-grill spots, but Clock Restoration Bar & Kitchen is one of the best. For a casual meal or drink, they have an impressive spread—think tasty burgers, well-flavored sandwiches, and delicious fries. If you leave any room for a spirited nightcap, they have amazing margaritas and a great double IPA beer.
Tony’s Grill
$ | (410) 234-9930 | WEBSITE
If you want to feel satisfied while becoming best friends with a plate of the popular 4-wing chicken box, head to Tony’s Grill in Towson. The meal includes dishes like the shrimp basket with flaky fried fish, well-seasoned mashed potatoes with gravy, and a surprisingly fantastic mac and cheese for the side. The breakfast sandwiches are another reliable choice, and the generous portions make it some of the best valued food in Baltimore.
Parking is no issue since it’s located in a strip mall, and calling ahead to place your order helps avoid waiting. While the service can be friendly, it may not feel overly welcoming at times, but the delicious food more than makes up for it. Overall, Tony’s Grill is a great spot for a quick meal, especially before a sports game, offering tasty options without the frills.
Todd Conner’s
$ | (410) 537-5005 | WEBSITE
If you’d like burgers and steamed shrimp without spending all of the cash you saved for Steelers playoff tickets, try lunch at this Fells Point gem. Grab a few buddies and prioritize the Maryland Grilled Cheese, Pig Town Dog with Chesapeake sour cream, and the wings.
Snake Hill
$ | (410) 469-9003 | WEBSITE
Snake Hill is a reliable neighborhood bar in Towson that’s offering exotic sausages for those seeking something different. You’re going to see people eating rosemary lamb sausage, ghost pepper alligator, and rabbit rattlesnake sausage. And you should probably try them, too. Especially for $15.
Silks
$ | (443) 708-0317 | WEBSITE
This Towson sports pub serves excellent bar food in a casual, lively space that feels perfect for game day. For a night out, you can enjoy standout dishes like the cheesesteak, wings, and slider burger, all of which have received high praise. The menu also offers generous portions like the Cajun-type pasta with scallops and blackened chicken, which is well-prepared and satisfying.
With fast, friendly service from attentive servers and bartenders, plus a great selection of draft beers, Silks is a great spot to catch a game or enjoy an evening with friends.
Freddie’s Sports Bar and Grill
$$ | (410) 254-8373 | WEBSITE
Freddie’s Sports Bar and Grill is one of our go-to spots for bar food in the area. On game nights, they’ll have all the screens lit up with sports so you can see why. Choose between classics like juicy burgers or crispy wings and then move to heartier plates of lamb chops and cheesesteak. Wash it down with a stiff drink and you’ll have a satisfying evening.