Urban Discoveries Baltimore

St. Patrick’s Day is upon us, and there are lessons to be learned. First, in an economy like this one, we’re all Irish. Poverty, big families, stiff drinks, and the occasional brawl–not to mention a deep respect for the tuberous roots. Who can say no? Second, more than anything, this is a holiday about acceptance. Sure, St. Patrick specifically got the Irish to accept Christianity, but you don’t have to be a believer to get in on the festivities today in the Greatest City in America. Because the holiday also became a celebration of America’s acceptance of the Irish, just as, toward the end of the twentieth century (!), America got Ireland to accept our big, gaudy, overblown interpretation of their patron saint’s death-day. So take a deep breath and accept that things are not so great right now, but that even in bad spells, there’s a time for guzzling green booze and pinching strangers. That time has come. Here are some places to go bragh on the cheap:

Mick O’Shea’s in the Inner Harbor (328 N. Charles Street) is the requisite unapologetically Irish pub, and they’re not skimping on the promotional offers. The list is too long to include in its entirety here, but show up there confident in the availability of food and drink at reasonable rates. Highlights: 1/2 price wings, $4 twenty-ounce Guinness, $3 house wine.

Donna’s in Mt. Vernon (800 N. Charles Street)–I know, a classy choice for a working class holiday. But seriously, they’re offering a $35 three-course dinner for two, and don’t roll your eyes yet because that includes tax and tip. Add it up: that’s murder you’re getting away with.

The Windup Space in Station North (10 W. North Avenue) is just hip enough to make you feel a little old, but not quite too hip to have a restroom. The combined bar/gallery/venue is offering $2 rail drinks, $2 Yuenglings, and $2 Miller Lites, with top-shelf people watching at no additional charge.

So enjoy a sort-of thrifty St. Patrick’s Day and remember to drive safe, which is to say not at all. But before you head out into the green-tinted oblivion, what are your big plans for the night?

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