There is no shortage of quaint corner bars in Baltimore. Every bar has a certain aesthetic or theme that makes it different from the next.  The name Bar Liquorice (801 Fort Ave.) first caught my attention when a friend mentioned she was in the Riverside neighborhood and suggested we meet there for drinks. With an obvious play on the words Liquor and Licorice, I was curious to see what the “licorice” element was.

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Bar Liquorice is situated on a corner block in walking distance of the Southside Marketplace Center. Walking into the bar my first impression was the space is  very intimate.  It’s not large and probably not the best place to bring a party of more than eight, but it’s perfect for a date night or drinks with a few friends.  I actually met a couple there who were on their first date.  There is seating for about 11 or 12 at the bar and there is a sectioned room toward the back with more seating for about eight people. The walls and ceilings are painted a beautiful graige (gray and beige) color to accent the silver, white and powder blue furnishings.  There is a large TV behind the bar and a fireplace in the rear lounge area.

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Main Bar Area
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Rear Lounge Area
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Rear Lounge Area

Speaking of added touch, the bar is stocked with clear jars filled with red and black licorice.  They also soak red licorice wheels in liquor and use them as cocktail garnishes. The bar offers a variety of cocktails specials every day of the week.  Their motto is “every hour is happy hour” and drink specials all night from open to close.  They also have a cute popcorn machine that pops a fresh batch to order for every customer, at no charge.  It’s so good that every time I go there I eat at least three small bowls of popcorn.  They pop it in their own special blend of olive oil, sea salt, rosemary and garlic.

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White Cranberry Martini

The menu includes cheese plates, a salad option and artisan pressed panini sandwiches. All sandwiches are served with Cool Ranch Doritos and a pickle.  The Nutella Bread Pudding is to die for!  It’s very sweet and satisfying.

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The “El Jefe” – Cherry Bourbon and Espresso Infused BBQ Pulled Pork, Tavern Ham, Pickles, Swiss Cheese, Dijon Mustard, Red Chili Aioli
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Nutella Bread Pudding

Voted “Best New Bar in 2014” by Baltimore City Paper, Bar Liquorice should definitely be on your radar of places to visit. Be sure to like them on Facebook and visit their page for daily food and drink specials.