Captain Bender’s Tavern in Sharpsburg, MD is the closest restaurant to The River Bend Retreat, and is our “go to” whenever we need a night off from making dinner. The relaxed, pub-style atmosphere and great food combine to make Captain Bender’s our number one most visited restaurant. Whether you’re a local or just passing through the area, Captain Bender’s exudes that Cheer’s-like “where-everybody-knows-your-name” kind of feeling. Stop in and we think you’ll see why we always recommend Cap’n Bender’s to our guests.
A little history about Captain Bender’s
Named after it’s original proprietor, C&O Canalboat Skipper Raleigh S. Bender, the tavern has been in operation since 1936. Captain Bender was born in Sharpsburg in 1873 and worked on the canal for over 36 years before opening the tavern where he is said to have told many stories of his canal days to his patrons. Ahhh, if only walls could talk . . . I sure wish we could hear some of those stories now!
Our Favorite Menu Items
Not sure what was on the menu back in 1936, but now it boasts numerous mouth-watering items from burgers and sandwiches to prime rib and crab cakes. Some of our favorites are:
- Towpath Nachos with Chili – if you like jalapenos, you’ll like this one
- Old Bay Wings (dry) – seriously good and Wednesdays are AYCE
- Crabcakes – they’re up there with the best! (and we used to live down the street from G&M in Linthicum, MD which is world famous for crab cakes)
- Pickle Fries – The sauce that comes with them is super yum. I actually ask for it when I order another fav . . .
- their humongous Onion Rings – truly knife and fork sized
- Hub City salad – Do not miss the house dressing, Honey Lime Pistachio!
- Pulled Pork Sandwich with Cole Slaw – A personal favorite. I always get some of their homemade hot sauce on the side.
- Chili – especially nice to warm up with on those brisk fall and winter days
- And last, but definitely not least, THE BALTIMORE MARTINI – a pint glass rimmed with Old Bay and filled with Natty Boh! 🙂
The Hub City Salad 
Onion Rings – They’re HUGE
People’s Choice Award-Winning Chili 
The Baltimore Martini
So if you’re in the area and looking for a tasty meal in a friendly atmosphere for a reasonable price, Captain Bender’s Tavern is the place to go. We might see you there! 🙂