Ponca Bird Pub

By Juliet O’Brien

Have you ever noticed that some of the best hangouts are just off the beaten path? Take the Ponca Bird Pub for instance. Just a half-mile from Boston Street in the Canton area of Baltimore, MD on Ponca Street, the Ponca Bird Pub is tucked away in an industrial area and boasts awesome ambiance at a fraction of the cost of a night out in Canton Square. Parking is well-lit and available in the lots surrounding the building and the street behind it.

From lunch to late-night, this unassuming pub serves some of the best burgers and steamed shrimp in the area with a friendly staff and daily specials. The beautiful deck is open year round for smokers and those who want a breath of fresh air, although the deck bar is only open seasonally. But just a few steps inside the front door is the bar, centered in a large room with plenty of tables, a gift shop, and a small stage in the corner.

Tuesday nights, the Ponca Bird Pub hosts the World Poker Tournament. On alternating Friday nights, you’ll find the fabulous Danny Jachelski of Makin Fun Entertainment hosting karaoke with some of the best singers- and the most fun- in town. Saturday nights are for live music, with a parade of Baltimore’s hottest local bands. And owner Rich promises that there’s never a cover charge.

Beyond the beautiful bar, the wonderful deck and the fantastic entertainment are the burgers. Grilled right there in the middle of the island-style bar; the burgers are a full 1/3 lb of freshly ground beef with your choice of toppings including deli quality cheeses, crisp bacon, fresh lettuce and tomato, onion and all the “fixings.” Served on a large Kaiser roll with chips and a pickle spear, the Ponca Bird Pub’s burgers are a tribute to back-yard grilling with a smoky, char-grilled flavor that can’t be matched in the city. The only drawback- you might need someone to eat the other half.

Equally delicious and prepared right there in that center bar are the steamed shrimp; perfectly seasoned and delivered to your table with the spice-scented steam still rising. Wednesday nights are shrimp night with special pricing that you just can’t beat. For unparalleled ambiance, food and entertainment at a great price, take a few steps off the beaten path and try the Ponca Bird Pub.

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