Baltimore is widely recognized for its seafood, with crabs forming the centerpiece of the city’s culinary tradition. The Chesapeake Bay provides high-quality blue crabs, which are used in a variety of Maryland-style dishes. Baltimore offers a range of restaurants, markets, and crab shacks where visitors can enjoy fresh crabs prepared in traditional ways. Steamed crabs, crab cakes, and crab soups are among the most popular dishes. Exploring these offerings provides insight into Baltimore’s rich seafood culture Best crab in baltimore.
Faidley Seafood
Faidley Seafood, located in Lexington Market, has a history spanning more than a century. The restaurant is famous for its Maryland-style crab cakes made from blue crab meat sourced daily from the Chesapeake Bay. Steamed crabs are seasoned with Old Bay, a regional spice blend that enhances the natural flavor. Faidley offers dine-in and takeaway options. Each crab cake contains minimal filler, ensuring that the sweetness and texture of the crab meat stand out.
Bo Brooks Restaurant
Bo Brooks Restaurant, situated on Baltimore’s waterfront, provides a casual environment for enjoying seafood. The restaurant specializes in steamed crabs, crab cakes, and crab soups. Crabs are sourced from local suppliers and steamed for 12 to 15 minutes depending on their 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 view adds to the dining experience, offering a scenic setting while enjoying fresh crab dishes.
Thames Street Oyster House
Thames Street Oyster House in Harbor East offers a combination of refined dining and traditional Maryland crab dishes. The restaurant serves steamed crabs, Maryland crab cakes, and crab soup. Crabs are harvested daily from Chesapeake Bay waters and cooked to maintain tenderness. The menu is often paired with regional craft beers and wines to complement the flavors of the crab. Precise cooking methods and consistent sourcing ensure that every dish meets high-quality standards.
G&M Restaurant
G&M Restaurant, located in Canton, specializes in Maryland-style steamed crabs. Medium to large crabs are boiled with Old Bay seasoning and other local spices. G&M also serves crab cakes and crab soups prepared from fresh crab meat. The restaurant provides a casual environment with communal tables covered in paper for easy cleanup. Regular sourcing of fresh crabs ensures that dishes maintain a consistent texture and flavor, which is essential for authentic Maryland crab experiences.
The Crab Shack
The Crab Shack, near Fells Point, is known for large steamed crabs and a family-style dining experience. 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 setup allows visitors to enjoy crabs in a relaxed atmosphere while following 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 crucial when selecting crabs in Baltimore. Blue crabs from the Chesapeake Bay are highly prized for their sweet meat and firm texture. Medium and large crabs provide a better meat-to-shell ratio. Steaming crabs is the most common method, and cooking time typically ranges from 12 to 20 minutes depending on size. Checking local seafood suppliers or restaurant reviews can help identify establishments that consistently offer high-quality crabs.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to eat crabs in Baltimore?
Crab season peaks from June to August. During this time, crabs are abundant and their meat is tender and flavorful.
What are the most popular crab dishes in Baltimore?
Steamed crabs, Maryland crab cakes, crab soup, and crab dips are widely enjoyed. Old Bay seasoning is often used on steamed crabs.
How much do crabs cost in Baltimore?
A dozen medium crabs usually 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 containers or paper bags to retain heat and flavor.
Do restaurants assist with cleaning crabs?
Some locations provide crab cleaning services or offer pre-cleaned crab meat for crab cakes and other dishes.
Conclusion
Baltimore offers a wide variety of locations to enjoy fresh and authentic crab dishes. Faidley Seafood, Bo Brooks, Thames Street Oyster House, G&M Restaurant, and The Crab Shack are among the most prominent destinations. Blue crabs from the Chesapeake Bay provide sweet, firm meat that forms the foundation of Maryland-style dishes. Selecting fresh crabs, knowing peak seasons, and choosing reputable establishments ensures an authentic and satisfying dining experience. Baltimore remains a leading destination for seafood lovers seeking quality crab dishes in diverse settings.