Cocktail

It seems as though every bar program in Baltimore touts a classic cocktail menu these days. The trend isn't surprising if you note the revival of early 20th century across popular culture (read: "Downton Abbey," "Boardwalk Empire," the upcoming "Gatsby" remake - even "Mad Men"). But what every menu does not offer is the mysterious, yet often forgotten classic: the Pegu Club. This cocktail is the stuff of legend - spanning more than 100 hundred years, several continents and even questionable behavior.

What's new at Antrim 1844? Not much, really. If it wasn't your thing then, it still won't be now. But If you enjoyed coming up to Taneytown for your 30th anniversary dinner at the Smokehouse Restaurant, you won't regret the drive up to northwest Carroll County for your 40th. For one thing, the fixed price for six-course meal is $68.50, which is only $8 more than it was in 2002. The dining rooms, set on a lower level of the 1844 mansion, are as you remember them, formally set with pretty china and glassware, but cool and comfortable.

Thank you, Al Capone. Fortunately for me, one of your worst decisions has resulted in one of the best ones I've made in recent months: ordering the Weeping Cherry from -- wait for it, wait for it … -- Bad Decisions in Fells Point. Turns out good ol' Scarface came to Baltimore in 1939 with a nasty case of syphilis. Treated at Union Memorial, the infamous gangster was so thankful that he donated two Japanese Weeping Cherry trees to the hospital. But this isn't just a cocktail about chasing tail.

You don't just order a drink at B&O American Brasserie - you explore it. Sure the bartenders at the chic downtown restaurant can make you whatever you desire. But do yourself a favor: In the spirit of good spirits, accept the challenge presented by the new seasonal menu of cocktails, Flips, Cups, and Fixes. It's well worth the adventure. As head bartender Brendan Dorr explains, the menu is a nod to the richness and bounty of fall, playing upon the eggnogs, fruitful garnishes and lush classic cocktails that traditionally mark the season.

The folks at Gordon Biersch Brewery have a passion. Surprisingly, despite the name, it's not just for beer (though their German lagers will keep aficionados busy). Instead, their brand is defined by craft: From brew to food to cocktail and anywhere in between, the newly opened Harbor East restaurant believes in made-from-scratch, small-batch meals and beverages that customers can get excited about. Though handcrafted beer is their first love, Gordon Biersch brewery aims to "up the ante" with their drink program as well, elevating it to craft-level by infusing quality brands, fresh flavors, and sustainable products into their cocktails.

Apples are fall's fruit to most. But there's another forgotten fruit that's in season -- one that is, in my opinion, a better flavor to infuse into cocktails: the pomegranate. This seedy little wonder is tangier than an apple, sweeter than a cranberry - basically, the perfect taste for richer, darker autumnal drinks. Pomegranates are also associated with ancient Middle Eastern cultures, which use the harvest in a variety of salads, sauces, oils, and drinks. Lebanese Taverna in Harbor East pays homage to the fruit and their own heritage with the Beirut, a potent cocktail of traditional arak.

Once in a while, a new bar comes up with a gimmick intriguing enough to merit a trip. Townhouse Kitchen and Bar, which opened next to Ra in Harbor East in late May, is one of those places, thanks to its touch-screen "table tap technology," which dispenses beer and vodka at four of its dining tables. Given Townhouse's prime corner location, huge size and sleek presentation, this ultra-modern amenity just adds to its allure. While it's not the only bar to offer such an experience (Leinenkugel's Beer Garden at Power Plant Live has patrons playing bartender at a couple of its tables, too)

I'm not ashamed to admit it: I love a good Cosmopolitan. I like to order the sweeter, flirtier cousin to the Martini for when, you know, I don't want to end the night on the floor. Sure, it still conjures images of Carrie Bradshaw traipsing around Manhattan - or the immature sorority girl trying way too hard to emulate her at a bar. But a Cosmo, the right Cosmo, can be playful and fun. So imagine my intrigue when I spotted a gin-based Cosmo at the newly opened Adam's Eve Gastropub in Canton: the Bluecoat Continental Cosmo.

City police and fire investigators say Molotov cocktails started two fires in Northeast Baltimore early Wednesday, one of which injured seven people at an apartment complex and displaced many more. Police are still seeking a motive, but said they do not believe the victims were targeted or the incidents were hate crimes. But because of the deadly potential of such attacks, patrols in the neighborhoods have been increased, police said, and the investigation has been made a priority.

The beauty of a good neighborhood bar usually lies in its simplicity. Serve some interesting drinks in a low-key, approachable atmosphere, and patrons will have a hard time finding reasons to complain. Frederick's on Fleet — which opened in late August on the corner of South Duncan and, appropriately, Fleet streets in Canton — followed this formula on a recent Friday night. It's a solid addition to an area that cherishes comfort — Kisling's and Johnny Rad's are within walking distance — over stuffiness.