Savor the Best Crab in Baltimore
Baltimore is widely recognized for its seafood, especially its blue crabs. The Chesapeake Bay supplies crabs that are prized for their sweet, firm meat. The city has a variety of restaurants, markets, and crab shacks where visitors can enjoy fresh crab dishes prepared in traditional Maryland style. Steamed crabs, crab cakes, and crab soups are among the most popular offerings. Exploring these spots allows both locals and tourists to experience Baltimore’s authentic seafood culture Best crab in baltimore.
Faidley Seafood
Faidley Seafood, located in Lexington Market, has been serving seafood for over 100 years. It is famous for its Maryland-style crab cakes made with fresh blue crab meat sourced daily from the Chesapeake Bay. Steamed crabs are seasoned with Old Bay, a regional spice mix that enhances the natural flavor. Faidley offers both dine-in and takeaway options. Each crab cake contains minimal filler, highlighting the meat’s natural sweetness and texture.
Bo Brooks Restaurant
Bo Brooks Restaurant, situated along the waterfront, provides a casual setting for enjoying seafood. The restaurant specializes in steamed crabs, crab cakes, and crab soups. Crabs are delivered 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 ideal for group dining. The waterfront view allows guests to enjoy crabs with scenic views of Baltimore Harbor.
Thames Street Oyster House
Thames Street Oyster House, located in Harbor East, combines traditional Maryland crab dishes with a refined dining experience. The restaurant offers steamed crabs, crab cakes, and crab soup. Crabs are harvested from the Chesapeake Bay and cooked to preserve tenderness and flavor. Dishes are often paired with local craft beers and wines to enhance the dining experience. Careful preparation ensures that each crab dish meets high-quality standards.
G&M Restaurant
G&M Restaurant, in Canton, specializes in 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 made from fresh crab meat. G&M provides a casual environment with communal tables covered in paper for easy cleanup. Regular sourcing of fresh crabs ensures consistency in flavor and texture, essential for authentic Maryland-style crab dishes.
The Crab Shack
The Crab Shack, located near Fells Point, is known for large steamed crabs and a 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 key factors when selecting crab dishes. Blue crabs from the Chesapeake Bay are highly valued 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 restaurant reviews and supplier sources can help identify establishments that consistently provide high-quality crabs.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best season for crabs in Baltimore?
Crab season peaks from June to August. During this period, crabs are 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 widely used on steamed crabs.
How much do crabs cost in Baltimore?
A dozen medium-sized crabs typically costs between $35 and $50. Large crabs can range from $45 to $65 per dozen.
Can crabs be ordered to-go?
Yes, most restaurants offer takeaway services. Steamed crabs are packed in containers or paper bags to retain heat and flavor.
Do restaurants assist with cleaning crabs?
Some restaurants provide cleaning services or offer pre-cleaned crab meat for dishes like crab cakes.
Conclusion
Baltimore provides a variety of restaurants and crab shacks for savoring 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, forming the foundation of Maryland-style dishes. Selecting fresh crabs, visiting during peak season, and choosing trusted establishments ensures an authentic and satisfying dining experience. Baltimore continues to be a top destination for seafood enthusiasts seeking high-quality crab dishes in diverse dining settings.