Last winter, residents of Highlandtown got a treat when an old neighborhood corner bar was taken over by Kurt Bragunier (former manager at The Brewer’s Art) and turned into the Annabel Lee Tavern. Named after the last complete poem composed by Edgar Allan Poe, the space is romantic, friendly and cozy. A framed portrait of Poe and lines of his writings etched on the burgundy walls complete the requisite ode to the dead poet. Chef Mark Littleton, formerly of Simon’s and Lulu’s, has created a winning yet unpretentious menu of favorites. Fun, filling items such as duck-fat fries, lamb burger sliders, pulled chicken nachos and a crab dip pretzel are offered as appetizers. More substantial plates include roasted orange roughy tacos and a cayenne-and-Jack Daniels BBQ quarter duckling. And the bar specializes in sophisticated microbrews (including Raven Lager and Resurrection) and imports. Open Monday through Saturday, 4 p.m. to 1 a.m. 601 S. Clinton St., 410-522-2929
