Baltimore is renowned for its seafood, particularly its blue crabs. The Chesapeake Bay supplies crabs that are highly valued for their sweet, firm meat. The city has a wide range of crab shacks, markets, and restaurants where visitors can enjoy traditional Maryland-style crab dishes. Steamed crabs, crab cakes, and crab soups are among the most popular offerings. Exploring these locations provides insight into Baltimore’s rich seafood culture and time-honored preparation methods Best crab in baltimore.
Faidley Seafood
Faidley Seafood, located in Lexington Market, has been a staple of Baltimore’s seafood scene for over a century. The restaurant is widely recognized for its Maryland-style crab cakes, which are made with fresh blue crab meat sourced daily from the Chesapeake Bay. Steamed crabs are seasoned with Old Bay, a signature Maryland spice blend. Faidley offers dine-in and takeaway services. Each crab cake contains minimal filler, allowing the sweetness and texture of the crab meat to remain the focus.
Bo Brooks Restaurant
Bo Brooks Restaurant, situated along Baltimore’s waterfront, provides a casual environment for enjoying seafood. The restaurant specializes in steamed crabs, crab cakes, and crab soups. Crabs are sourced daily from local suppliers and steamed for 12 to 15 minutes depending on size. Medium and large crabs are preferred for their higher meat-to-shell ratio. Bo Brooks also serves family-style portions, making it suitable for groups. The waterfront location allows guests to enjoy crabs while taking in scenic views of Baltimore Harbor.
Thames Street Oyster House
Thames Street Oyster House in Harbor East offers a refined dining experience alongside traditional Maryland crab dishes. The restaurant serves steamed crabs, crab cakes, and crab soup. Crabs are harvested daily from Chesapeake Bay waters and cooked to preserve tenderness and flavor. Dishes are often paired with local craft beers and wines to enhance the dining experience. Precision in preparation ensures that each crab dish meets high-quality standards expected in Baltimore’s seafood establishments.
G&M Restaurant
G&M Restaurant, located in Canton, is known for its Maryland-style steamed crabs. Medium to large crabs are boiled with Old Bay and other regional spices. The restaurant also serves crab cakes and crab soups prepared from fresh crab meat. G&M provides a casual environment with communal tables covered in paper for easy cleanup. Consistent sourcing of fresh crabs ensures that dishes maintain quality, texture, and flavor, which are essential to authentic Maryland crab experiences.
The Crab Shack
The Crab Shack, near Fells Point, is recognized for its large steamed crabs and family-style dining atmosphere. Crabs are locally sourced and steamed for 15 to 20 minutes. The menu includes crab cakes, crab dips, and Maryland crab soup. The casual, open-air setting allows visitors to enjoy crabs while maintaining traditional preparation methods. Takeaway options are available for those who prefer to enjoy crabs at home.
Tips for Selecting the Best Crabs
Freshness and size are important when selecting crab dishes in Baltimore. Blue crabs from the Chesapeake Bay are prized for their sweet, firm meat. Medium and large crabs provide a better meat-to-shell ratio. Steaming is the most common preparation method, with cooking times ranging from 12 to 20 minutes depending on size. Checking reviews and sourcing information can help identify restaurants that consistently provide high-quality crabs.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the peak season for crabs in Baltimore?
The peak crab season runs from June to August. During this time, crabs are most abundant and their meat is tender and flavorful.
What types of crab dishes are popular in Baltimore?
Steamed crabs, Maryland crab cakes, crab soup, and crab dips are the most common. Old Bay seasoning is frequently used on steamed crabs.
How much do crabs cost in Baltimore?
A dozen medium-sized crabs typically costs between $35 and $50. Large crabs range from $45 to $65 per dozen.
Can crabs be ordered to-go?
Yes, most restaurants offer takeaway options. Steamed crabs are packed in paper bags or containers to retain heat and flavor.
Do restaurants provide crab cleaning services?
Some establishments assist with cleaning crabs or offer pre-cleaned crab meat for dishes such as crab cakes.
Conclusion
Baltimore offers a variety of crab shacks and seafood spots where visitors can enjoy fresh, authentic crab dishes. Faidley Seafood, Bo Brooks, Thames Street Oyster House, G&M Restaurant, and The Crab Shack are among the most notable destinations. Blue crabs from the Chesapeake Bay provide sweet, firm meat that forms the foundation of Maryland-style dishes. Selecting fresh crabs, visiting during peak season, and choosing reputable establishments ensures an authentic and satisfying dining experience. Baltimore continues to be a leading destination for seafood lovers seeking high-quality crab dishes in diverse dining settings.