Maria's Packaged Goods and Community Bar

"A favorite in Bridgeport, Maria’s is a packaged goods store and tavern that draws an electric cast of characters. The craft beer selection is deep and there’s also Korean-Polish food from Kimski’s that attached restaurant from chef Won Kim." - Ashok Selvam

"If there was ever a place that could passably do it all, Maria’s would be it. The Bridgeport establishment has a serious beer list, but it’s also a cocktail bar and liquor store — plus, sister restaurant Kimski is next door with Korean food. Maria’s was started by the people behind Marz Community Brewing, but since it’s so much more than a brewery taproom (and just an iconic spot in its own right), it’s a certified beer-drinking destination." - Adam Rothbarth

"Maria’s has served Bridgeport well in various capacities. It’s a small liquor store with a mighty beer selection. Walk by the cashier and pass through two bars with old-school charm. Find a deep beer selection, classic cocktails, and even beer from the owners’ brewery, Marz. Food comes from Kimski, chef Won Kim’s neighborhood staple that launched an ambitious new menu in spring 2023." - Ashok Selvam, Naomi Waxman

"Maria’s may not have always been formally called Maria’s, but everyone who frequents the Bridgeport bar knows that Maria Marszewski has long been the driving force behind this slashie (liquor store and bar combo). When her kids took over in 2010, they gave the place a facelift and made “Maria’s” the official name. But it’s still the same friendly neighborhood place to post up for a quality selection of beers. You can even get food now from the attached Kimski, which means there’s really no reason to ever leave." - josh barnett, sam faye, john ringor

"In keeping with state law, any restaurant with “fried chicken” in the name must have a fried chicken sandwich on its menu. Pizza Fried Chicken Ice Cream in Bridgeport is no exception, and their version is delicious. It’s made with a gochujang-battered fried breast and is joined by mayo, lettuce, and pickled onions. Plus, the sandwich comes on one of the fantastic buns from Butter Dough in McKinley Park. The buttery softness of the bread combined with the crunchy chicken is a pretty outstanding combination. Also, this is an absurdly large sandwich." - adrian kane