It's been a couple years since my last review and there's a new chef at the helm. I was glad to see he kept the old favorites (the burger, egg rolls, etc.) but the menu is much larger now. We enjoyed the watermelon carpaccio, fried green tomatoes, garden risotto with added shrimp. Everything was very good. The tomato portion was enormous and the beer batter was crispy and light. The risotto? It wasn't really risotto, it was more like a creamy rice but it was delicious. And those shrimp were big, juicy and tasted like they just came out of the sea. The watermelon, though, was a shocker. It was grilled! It had a really great smoky flavor that was totally unexpected and the dressing was light and fresh. We always sit at the bar and the service is always on point. read more

Baxter’s 1892 - Risotto w/shrimp - Music Venues Near Me - New Bern, North Carolina

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I had been so looking forward to dining at Baxter's 1892 with the speak easy feel and the live music. I tried to make reservation but the restaurant would not take a reservation for one so I went early. My options were the bar or in the dark tunnel. I chose the tunnel as I thought I was going to get a table not a high top there. Then where the menu was placed that would have me facing the back wall as the other seat was near the kitchen entrance. So I moved there but I still didn't have a view of the performers. So things didn't start well but I ordered the boba boat mocktail and the mac n cheese with short ribs. My waitress then informed me that they were out of the short rib and would brisket be ok. I hate brisket so I said no and she went and got me the menu to order something else. While I was looking at the menu with my phone flashlight (other tables had actual flashlights, they came prepared) as the tunnel was too dark to see without it, I was given mac n cheese with short rib according to the food runner. I questioned him as I had been told they were out but he went and checked and told me it was the last of the short rib. It was not short rib and someone lied. When the waitress returned, she thought it was burnt ends and checked with the kitchen and they told her brisket. Whatever the mystery meat was, it was not what I ordered. Did they think I wouldn't notice or know the meats are prepared differently. It is dark there so it is hard to know what you are eating. The mystery meat dish was taken back to the kitchen and I asked if they could prepare it with vegetables instead as mac n cheese seemed like the safest option on the menu with the mystery meats. I wish they just had what I originally ordered. The specialty made veggie dish was good but I expected more flavors with the cheese. It was kind of bland. I did try the dessert too. I got the strawberry lemonade cake. The strawberries were the best part as the cake was on the dry side. While eating this, the check was brought to the table. This is my biggest pet peeve to not wait until the guest is finished eating. The most frustrating part was that while they refused to increase the lighting when I arrived and asked as I couldn't read the menu. They immediately turned the lights up when another guest asked as I was finishing my dessert. The chef came to the table from the front dining area. It was my understanding that things were going to be made right. I didn't expect to be charged the full price for the dish without the premium meat. Then there was the service failure of bringing out a dish I hadn't ordered to begin with. The decor here is outstanding, with the copper ceilings and the speakeasy feel. The clock out front caught my attention too. They went all out with the details and elegance. So it is disappointing that the food and service is not up to the same standards. read more

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Five stars for the ambience, four stars for the drinks, three stars for the food. Service was good. We strolled in at about 4:45 hoping to get some apps and drinks. The kitchen only opens at 5 PM so we had to wait a little bit for food which was fine. read more

Baxter’s 1892 - Music Venues Near Me - New Bern, North Carolina

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Enjoy a little Jazz Brunch with my love. The food, service, and atmosphere were lovely. read more

Baxter’s 1892 - Shrimp and grits - Music Venues Near Me - New Bern, North Carolina

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The vibe is perfect and the place is so unique. There is live music but it isn't so loud that you aren't able to carry on a conversation. We sat at the bar and the service was great. The cocktails are superb! If you don't know what you want, ask them; she picked out the perfect one for me. The Tater Crabs were perfect!!! A must have if you like crab. The rest of the meal was okay. Next time, we'll grab a cocktail and eat elsewhere. It's also expensive! read more

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food is excellent very good choice menu appetizers are good as well something you'll always remember read more

Baxter’s 1892 - Music Venues Near Me - New Bern, North Carolina

Go for the drinks and ambiance, skip the food! We got mocktails, which were delicious and special- mine actually had meringue on top and tasted like key lime pie! There was live piano music which was fun to listen to, while also not being too loud because the piano player was kind of isolated on the other side of the room. The food was...not great. Mostly lacking in vegetables, and everything had cheese. We got the ceviche because we were at the coast....but it was mostly pineapple and served with some sad, stale crackers that we didn't even finish. We also got the smokehouse Mac and cheese...should have been labeled "stouffers Mac and cheese." Service was excellent- nice host and nice server who helped us decide which mocktails to get. Also, they clearly hire for the eye candy... read more

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The bar service was great... The staff was fantastic... The to go order left a lot to be desired... read more

Baxter’s 1892 - This was supposed to be the jerk chicken...Don't waste your money... - Music Venues Near Me - New Bern, North Carolina

This place is going for a specific vibe and they are killing it! It feels like a speakeasy in New Orleans. **MAKE RESERVATIONS ON THEIR WEBSITE** or risk it and get lucky like we did. This place is GINORMOUS inside, don't be fooled by the exterior. There's a mezzanine bar top table seating area, with a bar and wait staff, which over looks the main dining down below... but is also a direct line of sight to the live music. Music runs 1900-2200 and reservations for this area are absolutely required and respected--you will be asked to leave if the reservation shows up. Respect the process! Street clothes are fine for this place, business casual I'd say for after dark. Not super dressed up, but definitely not like you came from the beach or a day out walking around. read more

Great place to get a drink and relax in an eclectic atmosphere ...service and food done well! We will return! read more

Baxter’s 1892 - Balcony view - Music Venues Near Me - New Bern, North Carolina

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Beautiful inside this time of the year with all the Holiday decorations, great for drinks and appetizers BUT the menu is limited. They have a stage for music, will have to go back when the band is playing for drinks. read more

Baxter’s 1892 - Music Venues Near Me - New Bern, North Carolina

How we hadn't found this place in my many visits to New Bern I don't know but I'm glad it popped up finally when I was searching for a new place for dinner. Apparently it's been here for over 2 years and it's located in an old jewelry store and yes you can walk by it and not even know it's a restaurant. Great vibe on a Saturday night and I highly recommend reservations. The bar area was full and all seating taken and we had to wait for a few mins and we had a reservation. They have live music some nights and the night we went they were awesome. Mix of old and new songs . Great voice . It is loud so sometimes you can't always hold a conversation at your table. The seating is mixed here and explained on their reservations site. Lower level and upper level with stairs only . The drink menu is one you will need a while to go over in order to find what you're wanting. A great mix of liquor, and wine and beer list too. I loved this unique list of drinks with great names. All served in a nice glass. I finally went with the Done and dusted, tequila based and came out with a bubble on top ! Which pops too quickly. My friends had cocktails too, Grow a pear which was good also and Drama queen , their take on a French 75 and Rubys Revenant . All excellent quality drinks. The food ! A great varied menu, and everyone can find something here. All things you've heard of but always sound better in a nice environment! We tried the truffle fries and the spinach goat cheese dip. The fries were shaped different from usual fries , more flat, but still good . The dip comes with pita chips and was really good too. Not your usually creamy dip this was a little more solid in consistency, they had their different twist on the regular versions. I then ordered the chicken souvlaki skewers and the manchego and prosciutto croquettes. Both again excellent. The skewers came with a house made hummus and pita chips even though on the menu it states French bread. Also stuffed grape leaves. This is a great little sampler full of flavor and textures. Loved it. The chicken was very well marinated. The croquettes were also so good ! Served with vodka sauce and lime crema. Great to share and big croquettes! Loved the cheese and prosciutto combo. My friends ordered the Baja fish tacos, Brazilian steak and the short rib and brisket Reuben. All of these come served with fries and great condiments which a lot are house made. Big thumbs up on all the food by everyone. We were impressed for sure. Definitely should be a place on your New Bern restaurants to visit list. Service was awesome too. They check all the boxes. read more

I think this is supposed to be more of an entertainment venue with drinks but we went for an early dinner. The first thing we were told was that our table was reserved in 1hour and 44 minutes. I understand the balancing act restaurants need to do but this was off putting. Our server had the annoying habit of saying "we" when she meant "you" including "is this our first time?" I so wanted to reply, "yes, how is your first day on the job?" But I refrained for fear of poor service the rest of the night. The menu was small. The food was good, not great. I ordered the Bananas Foster because it was supposed to be flambé-d at the table to learn they don't do that in our level of the restaurant. I think Baxters would be better if they decided what type of venue they are and stick to it. read more

We really enjoyed this restaurant and I admired what looked like a very smart business plan that should keep them around! The money is in the booze and they get that! The drink menu was far more extensive than the dinner menu and featured very unique cocktails. They were fun,but be prepared to pay $15 and up for the experience. Your entree will be close to that same price. Their menu stuck to the foods that everyone wants when out for a good time Foods like burgers,fish and chips,tacos,steak. As my husband remarked," There is nothing on this menu I wouldn't want to eat!" Tried and true favorites that don't require a huge inventory for the business plan. Far less entrees than drinks from which to choose. Small plates allowed their James Beard credentials to shine. Very creative choices that were delicious! We got a great dessert to go, because we were too full! Simply,this will be my go to place in New Bern. Food was delicious and it was fun! They had great live music on the weekend,too. Check them out, but be sure to leave me a table! read more

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Delicious food and our server was Cody and he was fantastic. The live music was a great touch to make the atmosphere feel like a special occasion. read more

Loved this place! It's a very classy joint. Dark, jazzy feel, the performer tonight was spectacular! The drinks were great! Very different, but the bartenders were amazing, VERY attentive and nice. I asked for something out of the blue and the bartender made it happen and even better! Maybe it was just what I had, but I didn't care for Veggie Stuffed Mushrooms or the Truffle Fries. I will say, if you get the fries, ask for the garlic aioli to dip, it tastes so much better than the matchup. I didn't try anything else, because I wasn't that hungry, but I'm sure it's all delicious. read more

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We arrived before the kitchen was open so I did not try the food but the drinks were fantastic. The decor has a very moody art deco vibe. Super cool. And the staff were very knowledgable and polite. Great place to have a drink read more

Baxter’s 1892 - All thai'd up, bircher old fashioned. - Music Venues Near Me - New Bern, North Carolina

I had an amazing time at this bar where folks could have their drinks curated to perfection. The services provided were exceptional and the bar is designed where the pianist is playing right above the doorway so that when you walk into the establishment you can immediately hear the music playing. The ambiance is very inviting and alive, and I only wished this place stayed open later. read more

Baxter’s 1892 - Interior photo - Music Venues Near Me - New Bern, North Carolina

Kacey C Wow....what turned out to be a wonderful evening with great friends in a birthday celebration...turned out to be horrible. After an hour, (noticed our waitress was nowhere to be found) and after we had been delivered our "appetizers"/dinners via the kitchen staff and had paid for our meals...we were approached by four staff members to include the owner, Tyler Griffin. We were dumbfounded by this infusion of staff and accusations of "touching" a staff member. We were told that a member of our group "touched her"......(in an innocent way to say "thanks for your patience and service to our crew") We were then ESCORTED (after paying our $800+ tab) out of this establishment. UNBELIEVABLE experience!!!! My advice to you....DONT ever place a finger in the waitstaff ...YOU will be escorted out by force. The worst experience EVER!!!!! Btw, the food was not great and over priced. The place was filthy and uncomfortable Unfortunately, this historic landmark has left an incredible chink in the cornerstone of which it was built Please use at your discretion read more

Ambition meets dysfunction at Baxters. Ambiance is perfect. Laid back cool jazz vibes. However the blue room is a broken idea from the vip room at a strip club. It doesn't work for dinner. Service...got orders wrong. Drinks were mostly great but the ice was...old. the food arrived from the delivery team either burnt from the fryer or cold, or not at all. The delivery team had no ability to fix things that were wrong and our waiter larping as Dracula seemed to be avoiding us. A potential $1500 night turned into a $300 disaster. read more

Really fun spot in the heart of downtown New Bern. The food menu is diverse and fun -- our four top all had different meals, even though there are lots of shareables. The cocktail menu is even better, consisting of different drinks for different stages of the night. There are a lot of levels and areas of dining, so returning will always be a unique experience. This really felt like a "big city" bar, complete with live music. read more

Baxter’s 1892 - Jameson and peach cocktail - Music Venues Near Me - New Bern, North Carolina

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Loved this place. The food needs to be reevaluated. Drinks are killer and awesome bar staff and great music.

Please save your money-Absolutely would not recommend. What started as a fun night out turned into one of the most uncomfortable dining experiences we've ever had. There was a ridiculous situation with our server and instead of handling the situation professionally or even asking questions, management immediately escalated it and asked our entire party to leave. To make it worse, a group of staff members came over to remove us, which felt completely unnecessary and over the top. It was handled with zero class. I know the owner is from NY but this in NC and we treat others with respect. The food was just okay, but very overpriced for what it was. The atmosphere is neat, but not nearly worth the drama or the way customers are treated. We won't be spending another dollar here. I'd encourage others to think twice before choosing this place for a night out. There are so many nicer places with better food and drinks in New Bern for sure.... read more

Looking for a high caliber entertainment night out in historic New Bern, then look no further than Baxter's downtown on Polluck St. Their staff is extremely attentive to ensure you have an unrivaled experience. Baxter's ambiance and interior is unique. It lends itself to an intimate speakeasy vibe where you can choose from sitting at the bar or comfy upholstered chairs & sofas or elevated mezzanine seating or a laidback private room. The private rooms are wired for sound, so you have the ability to listen to a performance from the comfort of your "own living room ". And can we talk about the talented performers they're able to book! From their own in-house talent such as Von Lewis & Abbey Clark, Tyler Griffin plus national artists such as Bernard Purdie & Elliot Lurie...all have provided us with memorable entertainment! Baxter's team of mixologists knows how to craft potent potables that add to your experience. My husband was impressed by their extensive bourbon selection including their option to smoke it. Plus their culinary team's tapas provide the perfect nosh to pair with your libation! The shrimp cocktail was a hit with our crowd! Not up for a night out on the town, then Baxter's brunch is sure to hit the spot. Bottom line...you owe it to yourself to experience Baxter's perfectly paired good libations and good vibrations! read more

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Baxter's is amazing! Such a fun, cool, relaxing atmosphere with wonderful food, music and staff. The carefully crafted cocktails from Christian and team are always new, unique and refreshing. read more

I loved the look of this restaurant. The chef was outside making small desserts. The hostess recommended the short rib and brisket rueben as the most popular dish and so did the bartender, I ordered that with the thousand island on the side. For that quality of meat it just didn't sound very good. I also ordered a unique drink with St. Germaines and lavendar bitters. The bartender made a great recommendation. I loved the ambiance the music and I was excited for the food. It arrived with alot of thousand island dressing on it. The bartender offered to remake it, this was my first meal of the day, so I said thats okay, I'm hungry. The fries looked great so o dipped them in the spicy ketchup, which is Curry based. The flavor combination of Curry and Thousand Island dressing was unique. My sandwich was soggy with thousand island , had very little meat and what it did have was chewy. Everything also tasted like Curry. I asked for regular ketchup and they do not keep any. I was brought pepper in a packet, so maybe ketchup. I'm sure not all children like Curry. I have been to 3 great restaurants downtown, in comparison I have to say the food I ate was not very good. I expected more from a $16.00 sandwich. I might stop in for music or a drink, I would probably not eat here again.. On a positive note, the bartender was super friendly. read more

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Reservations for a Thursday dinner at 6:30 for 3. Arrived early, seated behind the hostess station immediately. IMO seating for dining is less than comfy, chairs too low, awkward eating from the table. Dining tables were not full, Bar was full, SRO and loud. Speakers for Izzy McCarthy's lovely voice is MORE than adequate. We had to shout at each other to be heard. Wait staff was disappointing for few diners. We had to ask the bartender for more napkins after a request had been made. No refill of water glasses. Would've liked to try their Creme Brulee, but I was done. Checks were handled well when asked to split. Bathroom was clean. In no hurry to return. OH! And my blue dinner plate was chipped. I would not serve a guest at my home with chipped dinnerware. read more

This place is top notch. Best old fashioned in New Bern, with great service and a really cool bar with classic vibe. Had the short rib brisket reuben, and it was very tasty. read more

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Reserved an upstairs room for some friends and my wife and I. From the time we walked in hostess was incredibly nice and walked us to our room. Shortly thereafter waitress,(Michelle) came and took care of our drink order. Appetizers an food were incredible. The assisting staff were very attentive and kept us entertained. By the time we were ready to order dessert, the Chef came by and gave a couple of great recommendations. Beautiful piano music whole experience would definitely recommend. read more

We went on a Sunday evening, last minute. We did not expect much due to how late it was. There was a great singing. We got seated in a private room. Super cool vibe. The wait staff was excellent. The food was top notch. I will definitely make a return next time I'm in New Bern. read more

Wonderful meal in a great redeveloped building. Service was excellent and my wife's gluten sensitivity and her needs were met

What a beautiful venue. Historical and beautiful place with many rooms for mixing with friends. Live music with an amazing singer. Empanadas were wonderful. Service was very attentive. Seems to be known for their speciality drinks. When music is on there is a $5 pp cover charge but it was wonderful. read more

We wanted to wait a few months before we tried this place out and we weren't disappointed. The decor is fantastic as you can tell they took their time putting it together. We ordered the egg roll and chicken skewers for starters and I got an old fashioned. The egg rolls were amazing. The only negative is that you only get one (cut in half). The skewers were great and the bread was prepared well. For dinner I ordered the Ruben and my wife got the Mac and cheese with brisket. The Ruben was well prepared and tasted amazing. The Mac and cheese was scrumptious as well. We will certainly be returning. My only pointers are that it was rather warm upstairs compared to the rest of the building. There were flies which were super annoying, and the portions could be a bit larger. The wait staff seemed to crowd around the bar when there wasn't anything to do and seemed like they could be out of sight or doing something else than looking at their phones. read more

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Baxter's is a great spot for well made drinks and a selection of small plates. Always more fun to sample different tastes than get full on a single large plate. read more

We at Baxter's 1892 Want you to have a great time at our unique establishment like no other. We are not a square room with square tables. Expect an Experience! New Bern, NC · American · $$ Step through time at Baxter's 1892, a classic restaurant and cocktail bar in Downtown New Bern, NC. Originally a jewelry store for over 100 years, we now offer artisanal cuisine, handcrafted cocktails, and live music for an unforgettable experience. ~Reservations: -TURN TIMES: -1 Hour & 45 MINUTES for 2ppl -2 HOURS for parties of 3-4ppl -Additional time for each additional person included in original reservation up to 3 hrs unless otherwise permitted. -Stay longer if no immediate reservation follows -We'll accommodate extensions if possible -Reservations may be canceled if 15 minutes late *Other policies here: https://www.baxters1892.com/policies ~ Music @ Baxter's: We feature a diverse lineup of live music, with some acts requiring a door charge or ticket. Visit www.Baxters1892.com/calendar , follow us on social media or check with our host to see the latest schedule and any cover charge details. When applicable, door charges will be conveniently added to your final bill. Special Weekly & Monthly Events: ~Wine & Whiskey Wednesdays | Every Wednesday from 5 PM to close. Enjoy $5 wine specials and $2 off whiskey drinks. ~Diamonds Are a Girl's Best Friend | On the 3rd Wednesday each month, order an entrée and enter for a chance to win a real diamond from a bowl of faux stones! Events and Music Calendar here: https://www.baxters1892.com/calendar Thank you for choosing Baxter's 1892! We're dedicated to creating a memorable and enjoyable experience every time you visit. See other policies here: https://www.baxters1892.com/policies - Keep in mind the info in this post could get outdated and is subject to change. read more

I had the crab cakes Benedict and rated it a ten, with ten being BAD. The crab cakes were full of filler, dipped in batter and deep fried. The English muffin was as hard as a rock like it had sat on a shelf for 2 or 3 weeks before they toasted it. Otherwise, the waiter was outstanding. read more

The cocktails were very unique! The ambiance was excellent for date night. We didn't have a reservation but the hostess was able to find us a quaint table for 2 tucked away in the back which was a nice surprise. We had cocktails and small plates and decided that we didn't need to order dinner. Lovely night out! read more

Baxter’s 1892 - Smoked Old Fashioned - Music Venues Near Me - New Bern, North Carolina

Best place to go for food libations and entertainment! We met Mike, the GM and Chris the chef! Both were so friendly and made us feel special. Drinks and food were awesome But the highlight was Alisa Mike-a fantastic singer! read more

Baxter’s 1892 - Alisa Mike performance - Music Venues Near Me - New Bern, North Carolina

This place was gorgeous from the outside decorative clocks display in the windows to the meticulously, chosen decorations and furniture. We asked to be seated in a place a little bit further away from the music so that we could talk and they offered up one of their three private rooms. The hostess walked us up the steps and down the hallway, then pushed open a bookcase that lead into our hidden VIP room. This place blew our minds. It's absolutely gorgeous. There's a large bar downstairs and a smaller one on the second floor. There was a $15 cover charge per person at the door, and that money goes to directly to the performers for the evening. The food was absolutely delicious and doesn't matter of fact we ordered a second plate of the chicken and waffles. We loved everything about this place and we will be back. read more

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Sat at the bar for brunch. The better dining tables were reserved and the auxiliary area was dark and not comfortable. The service at the bar was friendly and fun. Loved the piano playing! Food was very good. read more