Melanie’s at Griffith's Tavern

The 14 Best Bars In Baltimore - Baltimore - The Infatuation

"It isn’t often that a newcomer can take over a century-old operation, whip up some new cocktails and fresh neon, and firmly re-establish themselves as one of the best dives in the city. But that’s exactly what happened at Melanie’s. The worn-in bar and wood paneling remain, as well as the original moniker of Griffith’s Tavern, whose location dates back to Prohibition (the new addition to the name is a nod to actress Melanie Griffith). The exterior still recalls the decades when Hampden was primarily made up of working class mill workers, but inside, the drinks, space, and crowd reflect a new era of Hampden where old-timers rub elbows with the neighborhood’s newer mix of young families, college students, and queer community. You’ll find a wide range of drinks and price points, including $4 jello shots, $3-5 drafts, and a well-curated menu of mocktails. It’s also a great spot to try an Orange Crush (the official state cocktail), a way-too-easy-drinking mix of vodka, triple sec, orange juice, and lemon-lime soda." - michele berry