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Welcome to Gene's Bar & Restaurant

Nestled in the heart of Forest Hill, Gene's Bar & Restaurant has been a beloved local institution since the late 1960s. Known for its extensive menu, it offers everything from delectable burgers and pit beef to homemade shrimp salad. The warm, welcoming atmosphere encourages camaraderie among patrons, making it a great spot for groups. With options for takeout and a full bar, Gene’s combines convenience with quality. Diners rave about the outstanding food and attentive service, while the lively ambience—complete with pool tables and outdoor seating—ensures every visit is memorable. Gene's truly captures the spirit of community dining.

Gene's Bar & Restaurant: Reviews & Ratings

Bjorn F.
Bjorn F.

Outstanding food 95% of the time.was let down with some shrimp and roasted red pepper soup. Service always excellent even when busy. Always have a good time

Valarie L.
Valarie L.

Great food friendly server. Warm, homey atmosphere. Will definitely go back again. Glad to have found this place.

Robert G.
Robert G.

The bar tender Lisa is on point Drinks were made available in a timely manner and correctly made and she was pleasant to look at We did come for dinner, but ended up getting a burger and some wings . Everything was good, prices were fair staff was friendly and helpful Hope to come back soon

RunAway B.
RunAway B.

Forest Hill, Maryland --- "Gene's" is an interesting accidental bar find ... customers were not the "hi, how ya' doin' kinda customers & bartender Julie, although not overly "welcoming", she did smile & interact with the local regulars ... the bar is basic with "some" bar flair, plus an attached dinning area & take-out liquor store ... the highlight was the enormous menu selections, including pit beef, ham & turkey; pizza; burgers; gravy covered turkey, beef or meat loaf; plus salads of tuna, shrimp, & chicken; crab cakes; plus ... breakfast menu included in morning untill 11am ... Day 058 "666 Bars of 2017" bar 096 / bartender Julie Day 005 "DUSA 2017" (Discover USA) "Run-A-Way Bill" was here! #RunAwayBill #DUSA2017 #666BarsUSA 02.27.17 ---- 10.14.19 Forest Hill, Maryland - "Run-A-Way Bill" FAVORITE bartender "Julie" (aka "Jules") of "Gene's" (aka "Gene Poe's") keeps serving up customer smiles ... "Gene's" is the newest "Coon Trap" bar of "Run-A-Way Bill" (a bar that has me trapped & I can't escape) ... in addition to interactive customers & super bartender "Julie", menu items like pit beef/turkey/ham on weekends & home-made shrimp salad anytime will keep me coming back ... since the late 60's "Gene's" is a local favorite "Run-A-Way Bill" was here! (AGAIN!) 10.14.19

Just J.
Just J.

Well haven't been here since 78. I actually missed this place in my worldly travels. Here tonight 41 years later and the cocktails are still awesome and the food is way better than Joe's Stone Crabs in Miami Beach. Dive Bar Forever with a warm welcome anytime. If your on a bike ride cant beat a stop here. Just on a afternoon cruise cant beat it. If you dont have a enjoyable time dont come back.

Alissa C.
Alissa C.

Great dive bar/family restaurant. Package goods and bread too. The bar has a few pool tables and fast and friendly bartenders. It's not where you go to get craft beer, but if you'd like Natty Boh on draft and Miller Lite draft, canned, or bottled, this is the place. Plenty of macro domestic options, a few popular local bottles, and a few taps, all at good prices. The food at the restaurant is usually very good - but stick to the less ambitious dishes and avoid the pizza. Homemade desserts daily. Burgers are great, pit beef/ham/turkey on Saturday is always good and a good value, and shrimp night is fantastic- a pound of nice-sized shrimp and four bottled beers for 18.99. The bar gets busy with contractors after their shifts and the restaurant is hopping every night for a few hours around dinner. They serve breakfast daily.

Nick D.
Nick D.

Been coming here for years. Bar can get a little crowded but it's mostly with people you know. The restaurant is very good. Sunday's there are like family breakfast just with all the neighbors and friends. I enjoy eating here and highly suggest the family feeling environment.

Evan_kuz_ M.
Evan_kuz_ M.

This place has great food and snacks. It's also close by so I can ride my bike up there to get some food or snacks for my brother but my mom wouldn't let me

Randy J.
Randy J.

This is that secret dive where steaks hang off the plate and cost 14 bucks. The locals keep this as their little hidden gem.

Location

Welcome to **Gene's Bar & Restaurant**, a hidden gem located at 1368 W Jarrettsville Rd, Forest Hill, MD. This classic American spot has been capturing the hearts of locals since the late 1960s. Whether you're looking for a vibrant atmosphere to catch up with friends or a casual dining experience, Gene's has it all.

As you step inside, you’ll feel the *warm, homey ambiance* that keeps patrons returning. With options for both indoor dining and outdoor seating, Gene’s is ideal for any occasion. The restaurant proudly features a **full bar**, ensuring that your favorite drinks are always available, along with a menu bursting with options that cater to all tastes—meat lovers and veggie enthusiasts alike.

  • **Atmosphere:** The vibe is lively, making it perfect for groups. Expect a bustling environment that may get a bit loud, but contributes to the overall excitement of dining here.
  • **Menu Highlights:** From *pit beef* and burgers to homemade shrimp salad and crab cakes, the extensive menu guarantees something for everyone. Be sure to check out their breakfast offerings available until 11 AM for a fulfilling morning start.
  • **Customer Service:** Consistent praise for attentive staff, like *bartender Julie*, ensure that you’ll have an excellent experience throughout your visit. Even during busy hours, the service remains efficient and friendly, with a focus on making your dining experience enjoyable.

One patron, Valarie L., highlighted the *friendly service* and deliciousness of the food, while Robert G. praised the delightful drinks and fair prices. The combination of great food and warm service fosters a sense of community here.

For those on the go, **Gene's** also offers *takeout* and *delivery options*, making it a convenient choice for anyone wanting to enjoy excellent American fare from the comfort of their own home. Plus, with *private lot parking*, accessibility is never an issue.

So, if you find yourself in Forest Hill, make it a point to stop by **Gene's Bar & Restaurant**. Whether you're catching up over a meal, enjoying a drink at the bar, or indulging in their renowned burgers and wings, you're sure to leave with a content smile and plans to return. As one delighted customer put it, "If you don’t have an enjoyable time, don’t come back." Gene's is a destination that truly delivers on fun, flavor, and friendship.