Pros
- Inventive menu. Ever-changing specials keep it fresh
- Tasty, Poe-themed cocktail menu, and a solid selection of beers and wine.
- Full-sized entrees and small plates on the menu, along with sandwiches and appetizers
- Reasonable prices
Cons
- Smallish space and popularity means you'll likely have to wait for a table
- Can be loud
- Street parking only
Description
- Address: 601 S. Clinton St.
- Phone: 410-522-2929
- Hours: Mon-Sat 4 p.m.-1 a.m. Closed Sundays
- Prices: Appetizers: $5.25-$12.95; Sandwiches: $9-$12.95; Entrees: $9-$14.95
- Parking: Street
Guide Review - Annabel Lee Tavern
Proprietor Kurt Bragunier opened Annabel Lee Tavern in December 2007. Almost instantly, it gained a dedicated following among those in its Canton neighborhood and beyond. A small space with a smattering of tables that coexist nicely with the bar, the restaurant's interior is painted dark burgundy and decorated with Edgar Allan Poe-inspired art. Annabel Lee was the last poem the famous writer ever penned.
Just like the french fries at Brewer's Art, where Bragunier previously worked, the fries at Annabel Lee can't be missed. Cut from sweet potatoes and doused with seasonings including brown sugar, they make a great appetizer or accompaniment. Mac and cheese fortified with Raven Lager and spring onions also is a good bet among the appetizers.
Among the interesting sandwiches is the Rosemary-Beef Tenderloin Gyro, which comes on perfectly tender pita bread and is accompanied by a Greek salad. The "Annapolis," a grilled chicken sandwich topped with crab dip, also is a treat.
Small plates include a spinach and portabella burrito, roasted orange roughy tacos, and Shepherds Pie, but be sure to check out the chalk board behind the bar that displays the day's specials. On a recent visit, grilled crawfish tails over angel-hair pasta and shrimp etouffee were both delicious.
There's only one TV in the place, and it's usually turned off. Jazz and big band tunes from the '40s generally play at a comfortable volume on the stereo, and Bragunier is a constant presence, always taking the time to make sure his guests are happy. We are.
