Captain Benders Tavern

Wanted to find a casual spot to get some noms during our camping trip in Sharpsburg and came across Captain Benders Tavern.  Super dive-y inside and you can tell that locals make this their go-to spot.  Followed another person's advice and ordered a cup of their crab soup - it did not disappoint!  Creamy with a great depth of flavor that warmed my soul.  I had a hankerin' for a burger that night and got French Onion Burger (bacon, horseradish cream sauce, caramelized onions and Swiss).  It totally hit the spot and the horseradish cream sauce was genius; beef and horseradish go great together so how did I not think of adding it to a burger?!  My guy ordered the Cajun Chicken Sandwich (a whole, grilled chicken breast with Cajun seasonings and bleu cheese) that was very satisfying and hit the spot.

We were sitting at one of the bar stools and oh my goodness, were those wobbly!!  The relaxed (but efficient) bartender assured us we'd be fine (we were) but they might want to invest in some new ones.  There was a "gaming area" in the back with a dartboard and maybe some other games; you can tell this place is a good spot to watch football since there's tons of Ravens signage and the football schedule is posted.  I'd definitely check out this local, casual spot if you're strolling through Sharpsburg!

Fantastic stop-off before Antietam.  Burger and fires were both simple, but out of this world.  Only real problem was me disrespectfully daydreaming about the meal while touring the battlefield.

Food was great.  Waiter was a bit of a dick, but whatever.