Restaurant Review: MaGerk's
Yeah, so it's an Eagles bar -- so what? OK, maybe that's a knock against this Federal Hill joint, but as long as Ravens fans stay away on Sundays and ignore the green helmets, it's not so bad.
In fact, it's kind of awesome and definitely one of the best places to watch a game in south Baltimore. There are multiple big-screen TVs tuned into every sports station from NFL Network to ESPN 8 The Ocho, but it's not overbearing or superficial a la Buffalo Wild Wings. MaGerk's balances the sports-viewing experience with a down-home feel.
Yes, the Philly folks who've owned the place since 2000 know their clientele well. No shiny bar tops or bright white walls here -- it's exposed brick, dark wooden floors and a narrow hallway connecting the two bars. And on game day, they need both bars.
During Game 5 of the American League Division Series between the Orioles and Yankees, the place was standing room only (and no one seemed to mind). It can get a little loud, especially on weekend nights, but that's part of the appeal.
It helps that the bartenders are accommodating, and the drinks are reasonably priced for the area ($5 drafts). MaGerk's has about 10 beers on tap, and while they're not going to throw out any craft selections or IPAs, they've got a wide enough selection to appease most (Buds, Millers, Flying Dog, Sam Adams, Blue Moon, Stellar Artois).
The food is fairly standard pub grub … until you flip the menu over. Yes, that is sushi you see. Sushi. In a bar. Believe it. I've tried it, and you know what, it's ain't half bad. Kind of like the bar itself.
| The Box Score |
| Beer and Burgers or Cocktails and Cuisine? |
Beer and Burgers |
* * |
| Rowdy or Relaxed? |
Rowdy |
* * * |
| Conversational or Quiet? |
Conversational |
* * * |
| Pregame, Postgame or In-game? |
In-game |
|