There are bars upon bars in the historical Baltimore neighborhood called Fells Point. And then, there is RYE. Tucked away in a slim piece of Fells Point real estate, next to his successful Hot Dog stand, STUGGY's owner Ryan Perlberg gave me a personal tour of his  newest addition to the downtown scene. RYE  raises the bar on a bar. The best drinks must accompany a nibble and RYE follows form. And, there is great food, tapas-style, served also.

Not wanting to scream posh, trendy or sophisticated, an experience at RYE is all of this and more.  Everything on the menu from the cured meats and sausages, aka, charcuterie, flat breads and drinks are locally sourced. Drinks extras like various syrups and dashs of 'this and that' are created by hand, in house. The list of drinks, aka 'libations', is creative, thought-provoking and all hand crafted in the building by head mixologist, Doug Atwell. The main point is quality and taste, flavors abound in all they produce.

RYE twists more than just limes in house. Take the menu categories where Shots are called "Abbreviations" and are a mini, tasty creations ($6). I sampled Toro Blanco, a velvety mix  of horchata, rum and pumpkin spice syrup. This is an absolutely must try! I can only imagine it with their breakfast items like pancakes or french toast, truly a spectacular, rich, sweet, beautiful aroma cocktail.

Specialty cocktails are named Knock Knock $11), Bee's Knees, Edgar Allan Punch ($7)  and Pony Express ($7). I tried and loved the Bee's Knees ($10) which is an infusion of saffron scented gin, honey liqueur, squeeze of lemon and local honey, a new popular growing trend. It's a refreshing cocktail!

There is late night breakfast always available until 1:30 AM. This feast of choices includes french toast with berry chutney and Marscapone cheese ($11), pumpkin pancakes ($10) (probably seasonal, because, it's that kind of cool place) and a full breakfast platter of eggs, meats ad hash browns ($12). Oh, did I mention Smores of gingerbread cakes with Nutella spread and homemade bourbon marshmallows ($10)?

RYE  has already, in its short month lifespan, attracted the areas leading mixologists to come by on their spare free time from establishments like B&O Restaurant, Woodberry Kitchen and new Wit & Wisdom at the Four Seasons. The decor is upscale, shabby chic. The scene is cool, the tastebuds delight. I will be back again soon! Congratulations!