5 Best Places in Baltimore for Gourmet Pizza and a Drink
Gourmet pizzerias seem to be on every corner in Baltimore, upping the ante on the traditional pie. Every cheese, meat, and vegetable has a place on these menus, from the obscure to the familiar. Here are our favorite places that are doing pizza right and have a drink menu worth exploring — two basic ingredients for a great night out.
Bagby Pizza Company: Pizzaiolos here pride themselves on using Italian flour and tomatoes to produce simply mouth-watering pizzas. However, don’t overlook the notable wine selection displayed behind the counter. Tuesday nights at this Harbor East hang hold one of our favorite specials: 50% off bottles of wine and 25% off of the large pizza menu, ensuring you have the budget for both (1006 Fleet St.; 410-605-0444).
Joe Squared: Served as squares (of course), these pizzas are tasty, and piled high with toppings. Whether you visit the North Ave or Power Plant Live location, you won’t be let down with the food or drink options here. On Sundays, when you order a large pizza, you receive a free pint of beer, not a bad deal at all (133 W. North Ave.; 410-545-0444).
Johnny Rad’s: These thin-crust 11- or 15-inch pies should be filed permanently under crave-worthy. Our highest marks go to the Hosoi (red sauce, mozzarella, sliced jalapeno, pancetta bacon, pineapple) which amps up the traditional beer bar pizza menu. Johnny Rad’s regularly stocks over 40 bottles and more than 25 cans on their impressive beer list, so you will not have any trouble finding a beverage to match your selection (2108 Eastern Ave.; 443-759-6464).
Pub Dog: With Dog Brewing beers running bountifully from all taps, you have plenty of options for your drink of choice to go with one of the amazing pizzas. The names the pies are creative and keep you second guessing your choice, but whether you order the Mr. Green Jeans or the Smash Dog, you’re sure to enjoy. If that wasn’t enough to entice you, beers are always served in pairs, so bring a friend or a date to share in the fun (20 E. Cross St.; 410-727-6077).
Verde: A relatively new addition to the scene, this Italian has a beautiful bar area separate from the dining room, which sports an excellent selection of drinks including some of our favorite draft beers. All pizza options are available white or red sauce, and you’ll be impressed with the quality of the choices (641 S. Montford Ave.; 410-522-1000).
Tags: Food