If you want a really good drink and cool vibes then WC Harlan has it down lock. Although it's too dark to see anything but the mate you brought and the drink menu, I find the atmosphere to be a conduit for great conversation. No food or even bar nuts are served, so plan to eat before or after you leave. There is a great restaurant a few hundred feet away. I felt safe in the dark bar in a residential and business neighborhood. A police car and security car sat nearby with their lights on to make their presence known. Stop through for a dignified drink with your chill crew for a pleasant evening. read more

WC Harlan - Bar - Speakeasies Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

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Came to this bar since I was in the area. So dark inside that I could barely read the menu without using my phone's light. It was busy on a weekend night. Music was decent, older songs playing. Had the orange wine & a mixed drink. Drinks were ok, did not like flavor of the mixed drink much. Unique drink concoctions. Decent experience but I'm unlikely to return read more

WC Harlan - Speakeasies Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

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One of my favorite date night spots in Baltimore- the vibe is unmatched and exciting, servers are inviting and timely, and the drinks are unique and tasty. I have been here on dates, with friends, and with family and everyone has been blown away by the atmosphere ("enter") and left with a notable experience. In my experience there have been varying levels of crowd/noise/lighting, ranging from dark-dark and crowded to dim and spacious. I recommend regardless if you're hoping to be impressed. read more

WC Harlan - Bar area - Speakeasies Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

The ambience makes this place unforgettable but the drinks were a bit uninspired. The cocktails we ordered sounded cool but were a bit too sweet or tasted like synthetic drink mixes from a supermarket. My brother had been once before and told me that the drinks were better the last time he went so I am giving them the benefit of the doubt that i just went when they were having a bad drinks day. I did really enjoy the setting, the music, and the overall vibe. They provide the speakeasy vibe without any gimmicky hoops to jump to get inside and find a spot. We were able to walk ourselves in and find a seat at the bar. It was crowded but not too bad for a Saturday night. May check it out again if I'm in Baltimore. read more

I don't make it up to Bmore often but when I do I'm always looking for cool spots. This super seXy speakeasy has made it to the top of my list. You feel like you are entering someone's home once you figure out correct door to enter. The vibe of the antique bar is super chill. It's perfect for a date and the drinks are amazing. Based on reviews my date and I started with the old fashion and it did nooo disappoint. The staff was friendly and helpful. Remember to place your order at the bar as they do not have table service. Not a place if you are starving as they only have light snacks I will totally be coming back here soon! read more

WC Harlan - Speakeasies Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

Closed the night in this hidden, hard to find gem in a residential area in Baltimore. The staff was ready for anyone who entered. Honestly the ENTER sign helped a lot. HA! The old fasioned was perfection. I had my first egg nog of the holiday season and it was also perfect. It reminded me of being in a very old home. With a piano on the side, rustic hardware and lighting, individual flower settings on each table, original chandeliers, interesting wallpaper. Very cozy and sexy. Warm as well. Good for groups, date night, or chatting it up at the bar. I loved the drink selection. Worth the trek and exploration to find this spot. Very nice addition and competition for a late night after party set.....quiet....or maybe get a little loud. Thank God for Yelp. I would have never found this spot! read more

WC Harlan - Egg nog - Speakeasies Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

That last time I visited WC Harlan was almost 5 years ago. I decided to visit recently (post 2020) and was quickly reminded how special this place is. The beautiful candles, dim lighting, fresh flowers, unique music, interesting people, and (drum roll pleaseeee....) the most kind and attentive bartenders I've ever experienced! Like I'm talking, as soon as you walk through the door, you will be greeted with a hello and a menu. If you are new to cocktails, try the Cocktail du jour. And if you are living life on the edge and have a palate for smokiness, do the Negroni . WC Harlan offers an intimate setting for connecting with close friends and new people, date night, or solo hangs. Truly a hidden gem of Baltimore! Skooooo!!! read more

WC Harlan - Ambience - Speakeasies Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

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This isn't for the broke college student. Had two mixed drinks (Penicillin), cost about $22 ...so if you want to Binge drink, this isn't the place .. However, the bartenders are great at what they do. Practically chemist. Not a lot of seating, and unless you know where you're going... you can drive right past it. You'd think you wandered into a bad neighborhood. (It's not a bad neighborhood). Ambiance is dark, and candle lit. Feels like you're in the backdrop of Interview With a Vampire. Not eerily charming. read more

I went for a friends birthday, drinks before dinner at clavel. The atmosphere was crafted well. Candle light only. Makes you not want to use your cellphone. Delicious cocktails. Efficient bartenders. Good drink menu. I am excited to go back!! read more

Ive been trying to get to this place for drinks for awhile so when a friend suggested it I jumped right on it. From the outside its very unassuming you almost dont know its there until you notice the "enter" on the random door. We went on a pretty popular night because the place was packed, not a free seat in the house. We were lucky enough that some people at the bar left and we were able to snag some seats, its bar only service so if your not sitting at the bar your pretty much walking back and forth in the tight space with drinks. The bar is pretty dark so its not a great place for a first date but maybe once you already know what the person looks like and is comfortable with it haha. On to the drinks.. i tried a couple of drinks and everything was great, i normally hate Gin but the gin and tonic was delicious and the daiquiri was fragrant in a good way that I didnt expect. The bartender was also pretty great, she was able to describe the drinks in great detail and point us in the right direction when unsure. Yes the drinks are a little pricey but its worth it for a cocktail or two, just dont stay here too long. Your wallet will thank me later. read more

WC Harlan - Gin and tonic - Speakeasies Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

WC Harlan isn't the NYC speakeasy that you can't get into or get waited on at a private table. It needs the speakeasy feel with what it really is - a Baltimore dive bar. And it's a really solid one that databases itself quickly in a sparse area. I've been dropping in here and there for years. The obvious place to go when Clavel has a hella long wait, or afterward (if mezcal isn't your thing). The cocktail du jour is always solid. I'm actually confused as to whether this is a cocktail of the day that changes or an actual, same cocktail that they always have...that should be something I can figure out lol. I'm gonna say it's the same one but my visits are usually spread out every so many months that I can't actually recall. Whatever. A great place to converse and hang whether it's quiet or busy. If the latter, you'll struggle to find a seat but there's enough movement in and out that something should open up soon enough. Not a place to bring a large, rowdy group to get drunk but a solid drink or two to get your night going. Keep it classy Bmore. read more

Thoughtfully crafted cocktails, although the flavor profile overall does not mesh with my preferences. I visited WC Harlan a couple years ago on a date and since then have been back two more times. The first couple times, I opted for the WC Pisco Sour, which was flavorful and complex, but not as refreshing and clean-tasting as I wanted (almost too complex). The last time I visited, I tried the Waxing Crescent, which was very interesting but was not a fan. The flavors were strongly herbal and the drink had a top foamy layer that left an odd residue in my mouth. The space is small and dimly lit (almost bordering creepy with the candles and dripping wax), making it an interesting/cozy gathering place for friends or a date. Prices are reasonable and bartenders are efficient. Overall, as said before, the cocktails are thoughtfully crafted and complex in flavors - just not my cup of tea. I do recommend a visit, though! read more

This is such a hip speak-easy. Their drinks are very unique and always a delight. Nice dark environment with candles and larger tables in the back. Bar area with parallel small tables for two with sewing machines on them. Bar tenders are always consistent and pleasant. This place gets packed! Also advise you to check out bar clavel, the sister business to the Harlen. Authentic tacos and similar cocktails, all very unique and delicious! Love to support these businesses. read more

There is a reason the Harlan is rated as highly as it is, the place just exudes a unique feel and relaxed atmosphere. I still remember the first time I entered the speakeasy-themed location years ago and was blown away that I had not been here sooner. After trying nearly all the cocktails on the menu and much of the smaller plates and snacks I finally feel comfortable enough to leave a review. Cocktails like the Cocktail Du Jour and the Pisco Sour are my favorites and keep me coming back time and time again. The lighting in the bar is all natural from the windows with a combination of candles and some subtle lighting behind the bar. The vibe when you enter is very intimate and relaxed, even when the place is packed (which is will be anytime during the weekend for sure). Even when crazy busy you still won't have issues getting a bartender to notice you or take your order. That's because staff is very attentive and other customers usually will move aside or help you get their attention. There aren't many places like this in the city and I see myself continuing to find any excuse to get back over there, whether it's waiting for a table at Clavel or having a group of friends from out of town check it out. DO check this place out! read more

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Great atmosphere, delicious drinks and wonderful service! A great place for a date! Dark and sexy, as a goth I feel right at home.

We went here while waiting for our table at Clavel. Maybe Clavel purposely tells patrons the wait will be 1hr+ so they walk down the street to WC Harlan...in any case, I was excited to try this speakeasy. It's not the fanciest speakeasy I've visited, to say the least. Seemed more like a dive bar vibe to me rather than a speakeasy. The bartenders were very friendly, though. Drinks were OK, maybe I didn't order the best item. I'd go back while waiting for my table again but I wouldn't make the trip up to this place just to have a drink. read more

This place is cool although cozy, but that's how speakeasies are. $10-14ish for cocktails which seems about right. I forgot what I had (whoops!) but it was good anyway :) As a visitor to Baltimore this place was definitely not in a busy area, so my advice is to visit here and eat at Clavel a block down all in one night! read more

Love the manager, so talented, drinks are fabulous, atmosphere is perfect. Everything at W.C.. Harlans' was thought out perfectly. Cheers for a long and successful journey!! read more

This is one of the coolest little spots to grab some drinks and just vibe out. It can also get really dark in the space, so be prepared! I came over to pass time during my wait for Clavel, and I'm glad I did. The bar area was super crowded, but my GF and I managed to find 2 seats in the back corner with a small table near by. It was a lucky find! We haven't really been drinking, so to end up here with drinks, we wanted to take it easy. I had two glasses of Rosé, and she had a beer concoction of dark and light (that was NOT a snakebite or dark & tan because they didn't have the cider for it). She actually enjoyed this made up version a lot, so that was good. We stayed for close to an hour, playing uno (our game!) and it was perfect. A plus for the evening--I was super drunk off of 2 glasses of wine , which made Clavel that much better when we got there. This is surely a new tag team venture for me. read more

The WC Harlan is underrated on the national scene. This place deserves to be mentioned with some of the great NYC, NOLA, etc. bars. I went with a few friends and every drink was delicious but at the same time not boring. They had fun twists to their drinks making them more than what you can find at the hundreds of cocktail bars you see all over the place now a days. What really makes this place stand out is the bartenders. Our bartender was really knowledgeable and great at describing each drink in a specific but relatable way. I tried a amaro flight and she did a great job of walking me through each one and what made each awesome. A great place for cocktails! read more

WC Harlan - Delicious drinks! - Speakeasies Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

Laid back , secluded location, interesting interior design , freindly service and AMAZING cocktails (great recipes)

Such a cool spot -- we go every time we're in Baltimore. Great cocktails in a great setting.

How I discovered this place was through word of mouth from my neighbor who always frequent this place when there is a show at the Ottobar, housed in the Remington section of the city between 23rd and Hampden Ave, WC Harlan is a really foxy bar. The reason why I said this because you will not see your typical bar crowd here, no hipsters, no gutter punks or other obnoxious bar patrons. But instead you will see a mixologist crafting the cocktail du joir or all around people just out having a few cocktails, Another reason why I fell in love with this bar, was the music playing over the loud speakers, it was that 1930's era music, I felt like I was out of an episode of Boardwalk Empire. Now if you are looking for a bar with bright lights, alot of television screens with sports on every channel, well this is not the place for you. Instead you will find a chalkboard with all the drink specials written out including the cocktail du joir which changes every single day, oh and there is never a beer shortage here like you would find at a typical sports bar . You will also find the decor rather different, there is no sports memorabilia on the walls, instead you will find collectibles like an old fashioned sewing machine and cash registers. WC Harlan is what I call a real adult bar, where you can appreciate a good drink from a classic manhattan to a good ol side car. WC Harlan has found a fan in me :)!!!!! read more

NYC-level craft cocktails at non-NYC level prices served with non-NYC attitude. Cute, chill bar to have quality mixed drinks in Baltimore. This one's a keeper. read more

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We were fortunate enough to find this place thanks to Yelpers... thank you, thank you! The establishment features pricey but solid and unique cocktails. It is not what you would expect (at least not what i would) from the appearance of the exterior but it has a very rustic bar feel almost circa prohibition. Cheese plates are the only food offering but these are also unique featuring pickled items and spreads. I have to go back to try their other offerings that i understand change seasonally. read more

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Utterly unique and quality cocktails. I went while waiting for my order from Clavel. In doing so I learned from the bartender this is a sister store to the famed Mexican restaurant. I had heard about Clavel but rarely do people mention about WC Harlan. There is a door that says something like "this is the entrance" so you're not completely blindsided since it is a speakeasy. I had only been to one other speakeasy which didn't have the feel that I was doing something sinful but I really give props to this place. They took care to make sure the whole place is dark as possible with candles being the only source of light. I ordered the special of the day (some gin and rosemary concoction called "Cocktail du Jour"). I would love to take friends here if they're into this type of place but I don't think it would be for everyone. The menu is limited to alcohol (no snacks, just a bread platter). I hoped there would have been something like pretzels or chips but alas had drink my share of calories. Service was excellent and the drink they made was out of this world. I loved how all the flavors melded together in perfect harmony. Despite it being a delightful dark lit place i think it took me about 30 minutes to adjust to the darkness ...I couldn't even see the menu (ha). Also very bad place for IG photos btw. But great place for gossiping. read more

WC Harlan - Speakeasies Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

Dingy little spot that you can easily walk right pass. Well we really did walk pass until we seen others coming out and they directed us in. This spot ONLY serves drinks, no food nothing else. The drinks are very interesting and expertly crafted. I had a painkiller and my husband had some smoky bourbon drink can't remember the name. The only downside is that they are so expensive and you don't even get a buzz. The experience was nice but I prefer my drinks to pack a punch. read more

WC Harlan - Painkiller - Speakeasies Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

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Not easy to find (for me at least) but worth it. Part speakeasy, part hipster craft cocktails. One of the better old fashioned and manhattans I've had. Don't be deterred that there is no signage, just a humble "enter" on a side door Very chill place read more

WC Harlan - Speakeasies Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

This place is really special. Hard to find without GPS...it's a speak easy with no sign in Remington. The door on the side of the building just says "enter". The interior is gorgeous artistic use of decay. Old walls ...exposed...feels like what 1890s-1920s NY, Paris etc might have been like. like a place Baudelaire or Poe would have frequented. In two visits, I found it hipster, friendly, and more of a mix of people in the early evening. The drinks are a mastery of concoctions and elixirs. Unreal. The Breathturn, unusual old fashioneds, the gin drinks, and the pisco sour...topped with chamomile blossoms.... You get what you pay for and it's often snuggle packed. Warm. Great great music. read more

W.C. Harlan is located on the northwest corner of 23rd St and Hamdpen Ave, with the main entrance on Hampden indicated by a black door sketched with "Enter" in a fine chalk line. The entrance opens up to a long bar area which flows into a rustic living room space where there's enough room for groups to congregate around tables. The evening I went a live band was playing, just a trio sitting on chairs and plucking away at their guitars, which added to the welcoming, low key ambiance of the bar. You can order from the beers they have offered or just tell the bartender what liquor and taste you like and he or she can mix you something special. They do offer a "cocktail of the day" so ordering a unique drink is always simple. (Just make sure you order from the bartender and not the barback.) W.C. Harlan is a cozy spot that's tucked away from other businesses so stay awhile with a couple of friends, have a few good drinks, and let the conversation unfurl. read more

WC Harlan - The narrow path of the perfectly crowded bar. - Speakeasies Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

One of my favorite speakeasies ever. Fantastic drink options with flexibility for whatever you might be craving. Atmosphere is dark, cozy, and feels very apothecary-like. Great if you want to go solo, with a friend or a small group. Wouldn't recommend for a group of more than 4 though as space is limited. Door is clearly labeled "Enter" in white script. read more

WC Harlan - Drinks, menu - Speakeasies Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

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Would have never found this place if I didn't come here for drinks with my friend(now BF had to let YELP know because it's important) who had heard good things about the cocktails. Very dimly lit to set the mood, with antiques all over the place, definitely a change of place from your regular bar. It was far from crowded because the Ravens were playing and there are no TVs because it is more of a speakeasy type establishment. I ordered the cider, which is served hot. Liquor wasn't too overpowering but still strong. Perfect winter drink to warm you up in more ways than one. If you need a change of pace from the regular, give WC Harlan a try. read more

This place is true hipster, and I love it. I eagerly entered through the inconspicuous doorway and found myself surrounded by an antique candyland. Since it was just the start of the evening and everyone else was at the bar, I joined them, although there are several tables and seats throughout the place. I tried two drinks, both of which were unique, delicious, and reasonably priced = my trifecta of drink perfection. The vibe throughout the time I was here was very laid back and open; the other customers are really nice and so are the bartenders. They could be a bit more attentive, but other than that I think this place is such a gem and definitely worth checking out (don't judge this book by its cover - go walk inside! Go!). read more

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So this place literally looks like you're entering somebodies side door. We went after leaving Clavel one evening. The inside is super cool and a bit dark but that's the theme they're going for. The drinks were very unique and tasty I just wish the bartenders would have explained the unique cocktail choices to us because we had no clue what to order -definitely not your average drinks here. But I would definitely return! read more

LOVE THIS PLACE! If I were able to get out more, I would come here all the time. I just rented the space on a Sunday evening for my 50th birthday and it was amazing. Everyone loved it--the drinks were great, the space is beautiful--it feels like Paris! Pam, who worked with me, was so patient and helpful. She took care of everything, ordered meat and cheese platters for me, and all I had to do was show up! I highly, highly recommend it as a fun, cozy place to grab a drink but I also highly recommend it for any kind of private event. read more

This little hole in the wall is quite easily one of the most romantic hideaways of Baltimore. It has an old timey elegance with uncluttered decor. You can cozy up with your loved one in a dimly lit back corner or get rowdy at the bar front. This place will promise you the experience you make of it but one thing is indisputable - they craft and serve incredible cocktails. read more

Very authentic place :) drinks are to die for )) rosemary blanket is the best must try drink read more

WC Harlan - Speakeasies Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

This was very fun. My memory is a little hazy, kind of a swirl of an old-era vibe with glowy chandelier lights, a polished wooden bar, a chalkboard menu, a beautifully crafted and delicious drink, and a high stool that I may or may not have fallen off of - the jury's still out on that one. But, to my recollection, this is a quaint, hidden, adorably romantic bar with delicious (and apparently strong) drinks, that just has the feeling of walking into a dream. I would definitely go again. My only gripe is that there arent a ton of places to hop around to after, but with a place this cozy and warm and.... sensuous(?), I'm not quite sure I'd want to anyways. read more

WC Harlan - Two of the daily cocktails - Speakeasies Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

This is one of the best cocktail places in Baltimore. Unassuming and in a home only marked by chalk on a side door that says entrance. Upon entering it is dark, cozy, and intimate. A perfect date spot and also a fun place to gather with friends and have great conversation. The drinks are out of this world. There's always a cocktail du jour that's cheaper than the rest of the menu, and I've never had a bad one. Sometimes there's a punch bowl special or recently I had a homemade milk distilled punch. Every drink is well thought out, strong, but smooth. The flavors always are so well balanced. And for the non cocktail drinkers, there is an ample wine and beer availability too. WC Harlan is chill and one of my favorite bars with a stellar ambience. You have to check it out for yourself. read more

After hearing about WC Harlan from multiple people, I was excited to finally check it out! I certainly left a big fan, and am looking forward to visiting again. The interior is unique, living up to its speak easy character, and is wonderfully inviting and cozy. The bartenders are incredibly knowledgable and noticeably passionate about working here. They do a terrific job of accommodating any sort of drink preferences. Have them create something special for you or choose from a selection of creative, tasty cocktail specials. This is a place where you can go for a classic drink or take a risk and try something new! read more