Cozying Up to Comfort in Maryland’s Winter Wonderland
As the chill of winter settles over the Mid-Atlantic, I find myself drawn to the warm embrace of local pubs and restaurants – places that offer a respite from the biting winds and gloomy skies. And when it comes to cozy comfort, one establishment stands out to me like a beacon in the darkness: The Up and Under Pub.
Tucked away in the historic Fells Point neighborhood of Baltimore, The Up and Under Pub is a true gem – a place where the stresses of the day seem to melt away with each sip of a robust craft beer or hearty winter dish. It’s the kind of establishment that makes you want to sink into a plush armchair, order another round, and get lost in conversation with friends old and new.
Stepping Into a World of Warmth and Whimsy
As I push open the heavy wooden door and step inside The Up and Under Pub, I’m immediately enveloped in a sense of warmth and comfort. The space is cozy and inviting, with exposed brick walls, dark wood paneling, and a flickering fireplace that casts a soft glow over the entire room.
The decor is a delightful mix of old-world charm and modern flair, with vintage chandeliers hanging overhead and eclectic artwork adorning the walls. It’s the kind of place that feels like it’s been around for ages, yet still manages to keep up with the ever-evolving tastes of its patrons.
“The Up and Under Pub is a true gem – a place where the stresses of the day seem to melt away with each sip of a robust craft beer or hearty winter dish.”
As I make my way to the bar, I can’t help but notice the impressive selection of local and regional craft beers on tap. From bold, hoppy IPAs to rich, malty stouts, the choices seem endless. I decide to start with a pumpkin ale, a perfect companion for the chilly evening.
Savoring the Flavors of the Season
With my beer in hand, I turn my attention to the menu, which is a veritable cornucopia of comfort food delights. As I scan the options, my eyes are drawn to the Maryland crab soup – a thick, hearty stew fortified with lump crab meat, beef short rib, and a medley of fresh vegetables.
Intrigued, I order a bowl and settle into a cozy corner table, eager to savor the flavors of the season. The first spoonful is an explosion of richness and warmth, the creamy broth enveloping the tender chunks of crab and beef. It’s a dish that seems to hug me from the inside out, and I can’t help but let out a contented sigh as I take another bite.
“The first spoonful is an explosion of richness and warmth, the creamy broth enveloping the tender chunks of crab and beef. It’s a dish that seems to hug me from the inside out.”
As I continue to indulge in the comforting soup, I can’t help but notice the bustling energy of the pub. The room is filled with a diverse crowd, from young professionals unwinding after a long workday to groups of friends catching up over pints and plates of hearty fare.
Uncovering Bavarian Delights
Inspired by the lively atmosphere, I decide to venture beyond the crab soup and explore some of the other winter offerings on the menu. My eyes land on the wurst sampler from the Schmankerl Stube Bavarian Restaurant in nearby Hagerstown.
Intrigued by the promise of “some of the tastiest sausages you’ll find this side of the Rhineland,” I order the platter and wait with bated breath. When the dish arrives, I’m greeted by a veritable feast of Bavarian delicacies – a selection of perfectly grilled bratwurst, weisswurst, and knackwurst, served with traditional German mustard and a less conventional but equally delectable curry sauce.
“Intrigued by the promise of ‘some of the tastiest sausages you’ll find this side of the Rhineland,’ I order the platter and wait with bated breath.”
As I dig in, the flavors of the sausages transport me to a cozy Bavarian beer hall, with the familiar spices and seasonings mingling with the rich, savory notes of the meat. The curry sauce, in particular, adds a surprising and delightful twist, elevating the dish to new heights of culinary bliss.
A Taste of the Old Country
To complement the Bavarian delights, I decide to explore the pub’s impressive selection of German beers and wines. My gaze is immediately drawn to the Eiswein, a sweet and intensely flavored wine made from frozen grapes.
As I take my first sip, the crisp, honeyed notes of the Eiswein dance across my palate, perfectly balancing the richness of the sausages. It’s a pairing that seems to transport me to a cozy Bavarian inn, with the flickering firelight and the sound of laughter and conversation creating a truly immersive experience.
“As I take my first sip, the crisp, honeyed notes of the Eiswein dance across my palate, perfectly balancing the richness of the sausages. It’s a pairing that seems to transport me to a cozy Bavarian inn.”
With each bite and sip, I find myself sinking deeper into the warm embrace of The Up and Under Pub, my worries and stresses fading into the background as I fully immerse myself in the comfort and camaraderie of this inviting establishment.
A Pub for All Seasons
As the evening winds down and I reluctantly prepare to depart, I can’t help but reflect on the magic of The Up and Under Pub. It’s a place that seems to embody the very essence of comfort and community, a sanctuary where one can escape the chill of winter and bask in the warmth of good food, good company, and good cheer.
“The Up and Under Pub is a place that seems to embody the very essence of comfort and community, a sanctuary where one can escape the chill of winter and bask in the warmth of good food, good company, and good cheer.”
Whether you’re craving a cozy night of Bavarian indulgence or seeking a hearty, soul-warming soup to thaw your bones, The Up and Under Pub is a Maryland institution that delivers on all fronts. And as the seasons change and the calendar turns, I have no doubt that this beloved establishment will continue to be a beacon of comfort and community for all who step through its doors.
