Fletcher's   

At first blush, Fletcher's looks like any other corner bar in Charm City, but the confluence of Bond and Aliceanna streets holds more than shot glasses, draft beer and lively recaps of the latest exploits of the Ravens or Orioles. While Fletcher's in some ways personifies the neighborhood tavern -- a jumping juke box, happy hour specials, pool tables and a thriving billiards league, plasma screen TVs -- appearances can be deceiving. Some of the hottest, hippest bands make their way onto Fletcher's stage, turning this Fells Point gathering place into a popular off-Broadway destination. After all, Fletcher's is owned by the same folks who run DC's famed 9:30 Club. Many acts, like the White Stripes, Good Charlotte and Crystal Method, stop here before or after their gigs in DC. Follow the music that spills out onto the street and you'll also discover cheap, tasty pub grub house specialties include Diablo chili, French fries laced with Old Bay and a colossal chicken sandwich. -- Pete Kerzel