Baltimore, Maryland, is famous for its delicious seafood, especially the blue crab. Known as the “Crab Capital of the United States,” the city offers a wide range of restaurants serving steamed crabs, crab cakes, and other regional favorites. This guide explains where to find the best places to eat crab in Baltimore and what makes each location stand out for both locals and visitors.
The Tradition of Crabs in Baltimore
Crab dining is a long-standing tradition in Baltimore’s food culture. The Maryland blue crab, scientifically known as Callinectes sapidus, is a native species found in the Chesapeake Bay. Every year, millions of pounds of blue crabs are caught and prepared in local restaurants. Steamed crabs seasoned with Old Bay spice are the most popular style of preparation.
Crabs are usually served whole, with wooden mallets and paper-covered tables. This hands-on experience is part of what makes eating crab in Baltimore unique. The city’s waterfront setting and historic seafood markets add to the authentic Maryland experience.
Best Places to Eat Crab in Baltimore
1. Phillips Seafood
Located in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, Phillips Seafood is one of the most famous crab restaurants in the city. Established in 1956, it is known for its jumbo lump crab cakes, crab soup, and steamed Maryland blue crabs. The restaurant’s large waterfront space makes it ideal for both casual meals and special occasions.
2. Thames Street Oyster House
This restaurant in Fells Point serves some of the finest seafood in Baltimore. The menu includes Maryland crab cakes, crab-topped oysters, and regional seafood platters. With its focus on fresh ingredients and authentic Chesapeake Bay flavors, Thames Street Oyster House attracts both locals and tourists.
3. LP Steamers
LP Steamers, located in Locust Point, offers a classic Baltimore crab house experience. The restaurant is well-known for its steamed crabs served with Old Bay seasoning. It has a rooftop deck with harbor views, making it a great spot to enjoy crabs during the summer season.
4. Bo Brooks Restaurant
Bo Brooks has been serving crabs in Baltimore since 1964. It is located at the Anchorage Marina and offers outdoor seating with waterfront views. The restaurant is popular for its crab feasts, where diners can enjoy steamed crabs, corn on the cob, and cold drinks in a relaxed setting.
5. Jimmy’s Famous Seafood
Located on Holabird Avenue, Jimmy’s Famous Seafood is a Baltimore landmark. It is known for award-winning crab cakes, crab dip, and seafood platters. The restaurant also offers nationwide shipping of its crab products, allowing people across the country to enjoy authentic Baltimore flavors.
6. Costas Inn
Costas Inn in Dundalk has been serving fresh seafood since 1971. It is a family-owned restaurant famous for its steamed crabs, crab soup, and crab cakes. Costas Inn has received multiple awards, including recognition from USA Today as one of the best crab restaurants in America.
What Makes Baltimore Crabs Special
Baltimore’s blue crabs are known for their sweet, tender meat. The Chesapeake Bay provides the perfect environment for crab harvesting, with a mix of fresh and salt water that supports a rich marine ecosystem. Maryland blue crabs are typically available from April through November, with peak season between June and October.
Restaurants in Baltimore often steam crabs to order, ensuring freshness and rich flavor. The seasoning blend, especially Old Bay, plays an essential role in Baltimore’s crab cuisine. Many local restaurants also serve crab cakes made from 100% jumbo lump crab meat, which contain minimal filler and highlight the crab’s natural taste.
Tips for Eating Crabs in Baltimore
Eating steamed crabs can be a messy but enjoyable process. Diners usually use a wooden mallet and knife to crack open the shells and remove the meat. Most crab houses provide paper-covered tables and buckets for shells. It is recommended to wear casual clothing, as crab feasts often involve hands-on eating.
Crab houses often serve sides such as corn on the cob, fries, or coleslaw. Pairing crabs with a cold beer or lemonade is common among locals.
FAQ
When is the best time to eat crabs in Baltimore?
The best time to enjoy fresh Maryland blue crabs is from June to October, during peak harvesting season.
Are Maryland blue crabs available year-round?
While some restaurants offer frozen crabs in winter, fresh blue crabs are most commonly available from April through November.
What is the most famous crab dish in Baltimore?
The Maryland crab cake is the most famous dish. It is made with jumbo lump crab meat, mayonnaise, breadcrumbs, and Old Bay seasoning.
Do I need a reservation at Baltimore crab restaurants?
Reservations are recommended, especially during weekends and the summer season, when crab houses are busiest.
Conclusion
Baltimore remains one of the best destinations in the United States for seafood lovers, especially those who enjoy crab. With its long-standing crab culture, local seasoning traditions, and wide selection of restaurants, the city offers an authentic Chesapeake Bay dining experience. Whether you choose a waterfront location like Phillips Seafood or a traditional spot like LP Steamers, you can expect fresh Maryland blue crabs prepared with care and flavor.
