Tiber River Tavern
Larger than it looks from the outside, the Tiber River Tavern covers all the bases. It has an upscale pub dining and bar atmosphere and a sports bar with a pool table and video games.
Where -- 3733 Old Columbia Pike, Ellicott CityCall -- 410-750-2002
Web site -- tiberriver tavern.com
Notable -- The tavern's bartenders are friendly and quick. Unless you grab one of the handful of spaces on Columbia Pike, you have to park in a nearby lot and walk to the tavern.
Vibe -- The tavern fits right into Ellicott City's time-worn, comfortable landscape.
Crowd -- Older folks during the day, which fades into a younger crowd at night.
What to wear -- If you're going in jeans, you probably should wear a spiffy shirt -- especially if you're having dinner and staying for drinks.