Baltimore’s culinary landscape is consistently proving itself to be one of America’s most overlooked gems, and it has now added another celebrated establishment to its growing roster. Nestled within the historic Fells Point, a picturesque harborfront neighborhood, The Wren has been generating significant buzz since its grand opening in February 2025. Its acclaim has reached national levels, with Bon Appétit recognizing it as one of the 20 best new restaurants of the year. Contributing editor Amiel Stanek lauded its “rustic, transportive food that makes you grateful to be exactly where you are, with a friend in your ear and a fresh pint on its way.” This sentiment of a truly unique dining experience is echoed by the New York Times’ 2025 Restaurant List, which also featured The Wren. Notably, The Wren was the sole Maryland restaurant to earn a coveted spot on this prestigious list of 50 standout eateries across the nation. The compilation, curated by 14 writers and editors who sampled over 200 meals nationwide, focused on restaurants that not only deliver exceptionally crafted dishes but also possess a “singular point of view.”
The Wren: A Taste of Irish Hospitality in Baltimore
The Wren embodies this philosophy of a singular vision. Under the guidance of operators Will Mester, Rosemary Liss, and Millie Powell, who also helm the acclaimed Baltimore wine bar and bottle shop, Le Comptoir du Vin, The Wren draws deep inspiration from Irish pub culture. Stepping inside, guests are welcomed by an inviting 18-seat bar and a lounge area designed to comfortably seat 18 to 20 patrons. A crackling fireplace adds to the ambiance, creating a casual, homey environment that prioritizes community connection, reminiscent of the welcoming spirit found in Dublin pubs.
A Gastronomic Journey: Dining and Drinking at The Wren
At The Wren, the dining experience eschews the formality of upscale establishments, opting instead for a relaxed pub atmosphere that serves exceptionally high-quality fare. The menu is intentionally concise, featuring a curated selection of dishes that changes regularly. However, diners can consistently expect comforting, country-style cuisine inspired by the culinary traditions of Ireland, the United Kingdom, and continental Europe. New York Times wine critic Eric Asimov, in his review for the publication’s restaurant list, described a memorable meal on a cool April evening: “rich, tender duck rillettes served with a pile of gherkins and thick-cut bread, smoky grilled leeks blanketed in tangy anchovy butter, a soft spring onion omelet oozing with Lancashire cheese, and a full-throttle beef-and-ale pie with a rich lard crust and buttery mashed potatoes.”
The beverage program at The Wren is equally thoughtful, featuring an extensive selection of Scotch, a dedicated array of Irish whiskeys (available for tasting flights), a well-chosen beer list, and a curated wine selection. A handful of expertly crafted house cocktails round out the offerings.
The Wren is open for service from 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays. For those eager to delve deeper into Baltimore’s vibrant food scene, exploring the city’s charming neighborhoods offers an authentic taste of Italy and other global cuisines.
Baltimore’s culinary prowess continues to shine, with The Wren standing as a testament to its growing reputation as a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts.