Acclaimed Stillwater Ales gypsy brewer Brian Strumke delivered a winner to Brewer's Hill this year with his first brick-and-mortar establishment which exceeds its high expectations. While it was unfortunate Strumke and Jack's Bistro's chef Ted Stelzenmuller ended their partnership Strumke's esoteric beers remain Of Love and Regret's main draw. Add a smart design -- the bar and tables are both long which promote a communal bar experience -- and it's clear this newcomer should thrive for years to come.
--Wesley Case
See the full list as selected by Baltimore Sun music/nightlife critic Wesley Case.