Baltimore, Maryland, is often called the “Crab Capital of the United States” because of its strong connection to the Chesapeake Bay and its abundance of blue crabs. The city’s restaurants are known for serving freshly caught Maryland blue crabs in a variety of styles, from traditional steamed crabs to crab cakes and soups. Each establishment offers a unique take on the city’s seafood heritage, combining local ingredients with long-standing culinary traditions. This guide highlights ten of the best crab restaurants in Baltimore where freshness and quality define the dining experience.
1. Jimmy’s Famous Seafood
Jimmy’s Famous Seafood, located on Holabird Avenue, is one of Baltimore’s most recognized seafood establishments. Founded in 1974, it has built a national reputation for its crab cakes, crab soup, and steamed crabs. The restaurant sources crabs from the Chesapeake Bay and uses jumbo lump crab meat for its signature dishes. Jimmy’s also offers shipping across the United States, allowing customers nationwide to enjoy authentic Maryland crab in Baltimore.
2. Phillips Seafood
Phillips Seafood, situated in the Inner Harbor, has been a part of Baltimore’s dining scene since 1956. The restaurant is known for its steamed blue crabs, crab cakes, and seafood platters. It operates with a focus on freshness and quality, using Maryland crab whenever available. The waterfront location and spacious dining area make it a central stop for visitors exploring Baltimore’s harbor district.
3. LP Steamers
LP Steamers in Locust Point offers a traditional Baltimore crab house experience. The restaurant serves freshly steamed crabs seasoned with Old Bay, along with crab cakes and crab dip. Crabs are steamed to order, ensuring freshness in every meal. LP Steamers also features a rooftop deck with harbor views, providing an authentic Maryland dining atmosphere.
4. Costas Inn
Costas Inn, located in Dundalk, has been serving Maryland blue crabs since 1971. The restaurant receives daily deliveries from local fishermen and is recognized for its consistent quality. In addition to steamed crabs, Costas offers crab soup and crab cakes made from pure lump crab meat. It has received national recognition, including awards from USA Today and Travel Channel for its seafood excellence.
5. Bo Brooks Restaurant
Bo Brooks Restaurant, established in 1964, sits at the Anchorage Marina and provides diners with scenic waterfront views. Known for its crab feasts, it serves steamed crabs, crab dip, and crab soups. The restaurant’s cooking process emphasizes freshness, steaming live crabs on-site for maximum flavor. Its location makes it a popular choice for both locals and tourists.
6. Faidley’s Seafood
Faidley’s Seafood, located inside Lexington Market, has operated since 1886. It is best known for its award-winning crab cakes made from fresh lump crab meat. The market’s proximity to Baltimore’s seafood suppliers ensures daily deliveries of fresh crabs. Faidley’s traditional approach to crab preparation and its long history make it one of the most respected seafood establishments in the city.
7. Thames Street Oyster House
Located in Fells Point, Thames Street Oyster House specializes in Mid-Atlantic seafood, including crab dishes made from Maryland blue crab. The restaurant’s menu features crab cakes, crab-topped oysters, and crab soups. Its focus on high-quality local ingredients has earned it strong recognition in Baltimore’s dining community.
8. Nick’s Fish House
Nick’s Fish House, positioned along the Middle Branch of the Patapsco River, serves steamed crabs sourced directly from Chesapeake Bay waters. The restaurant offers outdoor seating with harbor views and a relaxed setting. It is known for its crab feasts and crab dip served with Old Bay pretzels. Seasonal availability ensures that only the freshest crabs are served.
9. Mama’s on the Half Shell
Mama’s on the Half Shell, located in Canton, offers traditional Maryland-style seafood dishes. The restaurant serves crab cakes, steamed crabs, and crab soup. It emphasizes local sourcing and consistent freshness. With its coastal-inspired menu and classic Baltimore atmosphere, Mama’s has become a favorite spot for authentic crab dining.
10. Rusty Scupper Restaurant and Bar
Rusty Scupper, located at Baltimore’s Inner Harbor Marina, combines fine dining with fresh Maryland seafood. The restaurant has operated for more than 30 years and is known for serving jumbo lump crab cakes and steamed crabs. It offers panoramic views of the harbor, enhancing the dining experience. Rusty Scupper’s menu reflects Baltimore’s maritime culture, with crabs being the central focus.
What Makes These Crab Restaurants Stand Out
Each of these restaurants shares a commitment to freshness, authenticity, and regional flavor. The Chesapeake Bay provides a reliable source of blue crabs that are harvested daily and prepared using traditional steaming techniques. Old Bay seasoning, a Maryland staple since 1939, remains the primary spice blend used in most crab dishes.
The majority of Baltimore’s crab houses serve crabs during the official Maryland crab season, which runs from April through November. Peak availability occurs between June and October, when crabs reach their largest size and richest flavor.
FAQ
When is the best time to eat fresh crabs in Baltimore?
The best time is between June and October, during the height of the Maryland blue crab season.
Do all crab restaurants in Baltimore serve local crabs?
Most restaurants source from Chesapeake Bay, but during winter some may use frozen or pasteurized crab meat due to seasonal limits.
What is the most popular crab dish in Baltimore?
The Maryland crab cake made from jumbo lump crab meat is the city’s most popular crab dish.
Are reservations recommended for crab restaurants?
Yes. During weekends and summer months, most restaurants experience high demand and require reservations.
What seasoning is used for steamed crabs in Baltimore?
Old Bay seasoning is the traditional choice, made from a mix of celery salt, paprika, and black pepper.
Conclusion
Baltimore’s crab restaurants represent a vital part of the city’s food culture and its connection to the Chesapeake Bay. Establishments such as Jimmy’s Famous Seafood, LP Steamers, and Phillips Seafood continue to preserve Maryland’s seafood traditions through their dedication to fresh ingredients and authentic preparation. Each restaurant offers a different experience, but all share a focus on serving high-quality blue crabs that define Baltimore’s reputation as a leading seafood destination in the United States.
