On game days in Baltimore, whether you’re heading to see the Orioles or the Ravens, Pratt Street Alehouse is undeniably a hotspot. The buzz around this place is palpable; it’s always packed, inside and out. Hearing the constant chatter and seeing the crowds, one naturally assumes the food must be something special to warrant such popularity, especially considering its sister restaurant, The Ale House Columbia, is a reliably great spot. Driven by this curiosity and the need for a pre-game bite before an O’s game, we decided to give Pratt Street Alehouse a try, making sure to arrive early to avoid the game day rush and allow ample time for stadium drinks later. Unfortunately, our experience didn’t live up to the hype, leaving us puzzled about the perpetual crowds.
Pratt Street Ale House Exterior on a Busy Day
Arriving at Pratt Street Alehouse around 2 PM on a Saturday, we found it busy but were seated without a wait. Scanning the menu, our group opted to share a few appetizers, eager to sample what Pratt Street Alehouse had to offer.
Disappointing Buffalo Bites
Our first order was the Buffalo Bites, a seemingly safe bet as standard bar fare. However, these fell flat. The chicken was noticeably dry, and the buffalo sauce was surprisingly bland. They tasted less like flavorful buffalo bites and more like plain chicken nuggets that had been sitting under a heat lamp for too long. It wasn’t the fresh, zesty start we were hoping for at Pratt Street Alehouse.
Unappetizing Buffalo Bites with Bland Sauce
Crab Dip That Missed the Mark
Next up was the Crab Dip, another popular bar appetizer in Baltimore. Served with unsalted pretzels, the dip itself was just passable. While not a huge seafood enthusiast myself, even my companions who enjoy crab dishes were unimpressed. The Crab Dip at Pratt Street Alehouse lacked the rich, savory flavor we expected and was, frankly, almost inedible.
Mediocre Crab Dip with Unsalty Pretzels
Loaded Fries: The Barely Acceptable Highlight
Finally, we shared the Loaded Fries. These were, comparatively, the best dish of the meal, but that’s not saying much. The fries were standard frozen fare, topped with bacon and cheese. While the bacon and cheese were decent, our appreciation for this dish stemmed more from the low bar set by the previous appetizers. The Loaded Fries at Pratt Street Alehouse were simply okay, nothing to rave about.
Standard Loaded Fries with Cheese and Bacon Topping
Final Verdict: Disappointment at Pratt Street Alehouse
In conclusion, our visit to Pratt Street Alehouse was a considerable letdown. For bar food, our expectations were far from met, and given the numerous dining options in downtown Baltimore, particularly near Pratt Street, there are undoubtedly better choices available. While Pratt Street Alehouse at 206 W Pratt St., Baltimore, MD 21201, may be a lively spot for game day drinks, based on our food experience, it’s hard to recommend it for a satisfying meal.
