Baltimore Bars Winning With Technology
This March in Austin, TX, thousands will gather to celebrate an amazing mix of original music, independent films, and emerging technologies at the annual South by Southwest Festival (SxSW). In honor of the annual innovation-driven celebration we would like to recognize a few Baltimore bars and restaurants that have integrated technology into their atmosphere in new or unique ways.
Canton Beer Exchange: We are eagerly awaiting the official opening of Jason Zink (of No Idea Tavern)’s Canton Beer Exchange, which we hear has been delayed until April or May. When it does, this bar will truly celebrate some of the best that technology has to offer in the field. The concept is simple supply and demand economics; draft beer prices change according to consumption. Expect anywhere from 24–40 draft lines that focus on Mid-Atlantic beers, according to the Baltimore Sun (2522 Fait Ave.).
BeerGivr: There are over 20 bars in Baltimore that have adopted the BeerGivr technology, which allows individuals to send paid bar tabs to friends so they can finally be true to their word when they say “Hey, I owe you a beer! Download the app on your smartphone and head to any on the list, which includes Mother’s, The Americana and Waterfront Kitchen.
Fleet Street Kitchen: Long wine lists can be daunting, but with Fleet Street Kitchen’s iPad wine list, chosing your sip has never been easier. You can search by the glass, varietal, country, bottle size or sommelier Philip Lucas’ suggestions and then sit back and enjoy your selection (1012 Fleet St.; 410-244-5830).
Gordon Biersch: Around the bar in this Harbor East restaurant and brewery are televisions with house brew information to help you make your selection. Each available beer in the Gordon Biersch collection — including seasonal offerings — is listed, along with its characteristics and the brew date of the keg being served (1000 Lancaster St., Suite B; 410-230-9501).
University Club Lounge: Tucked away in the Marriott Hotel by Towson University, these high top tap tables have rotating beers available for some pour-your-own fun. Ask the server to activate one or both of the taps at your table and fill up as you go so you never have a dreaded, overly warm beer. At the end of the night, your tab is calculated by ounces instead of glasses (10 W Burke Ave.; 410-324-8100).
Townhouse Kitchen + Bar: In this Harbor East hotspot you can be your own bartender at the tap tables. The computer keeps track of your usage as you pour any combination of the three beers and one vodka option at your table. Once you reach your allotment, your server can grant you additional pours (1350 Lancaster St; 443-268-0323).
