8 of The Best Crab Shacks in Maryland

What Makes a Great Maryland Crab Shack?

• Fresh, Local Crabs: The best spots source their blue crabs locally from the Chesapeake Bay when in season.

• The Seasoning: A generous coating of a classic Maryland seafood seasoning, like J.O. Spice or Old Bay, is essential.

  
  
  

• The Atmosphere: A true crab shack is casual and laid-back. Expect paper-covered tables, wooden mallets, and rolls of paper towels.

• The View: Many of the best crab houses are located right on the water, offering beautiful views of the bay or its tributaries.

  
  
  

Top-Rated Crab Shacks in Maryland:

1. Cantler's Riverside Inn (Annapolis, MD):

   • Why It's a Top Spot: A legendary waterfront crab house on Mill Creek, Cantler's is an Annapolis institution. It's known for serving fresh crabs, often caught by local watermen, in a classic, no-frills setting.

     
     
     

   • The Vibe: Arrive by boat or by car to this bustling, multi-level restaurant. Enjoy your feast on the outdoor deck while watching the boats go by. Expect a wait, as it's incredibly popular with locals, tourists, and midshipmen from the Naval Academy.

2. Mike's Crab House North (Pasadena, MD):

   • Why It's a Top Spot: Not to be confused with its former southern location, Mike's Crab House North is a massive and hugely popular destination on the Patapsco River. They are experts at serving large crowds with impressive efficiency.

   • The Vibe: A large, lively, and family-friendly crab house with extensive indoor and outdoor seating, including a sandy beach area. It's a perfect spot for big groups looking for a classic crab feast.

3. The Point Crab House & Grill (Arnold, MD):

   • Why It's a Top Spot: Overlooking Mill Creek, The Point offers a slightly more upscale yet still relaxed take on the traditional crab house. They are known for their high-quality seafood and creative dishes alongside perfectly steamed crabs.

   • The Vibe: A beautiful waterfront setting with great views, making it a popular spot for both casual lunches and more celebratory dinners.

4. Schultz's Crab House (Essex, MD):

   • Why It's a Top Spot: An old-school Baltimore County landmark, Schultz's Crab House has been serving steamed crabs for decades. It's a classic neighborhood spot beloved for its consistency and traditional approach.

   • The Vibe: A no-frills, authentic crab house experience where the focus is entirely on the quality of the crabs.

5. Waterman's Crab House (Rock Hall, MD):

   • Why It's a Top Spot: Located in the charming Eastern Shore town of Rock Hall, Waterman's offers a quintessential Chesapeake Bay experience. They serve fresh crabs right on the water, with beautiful harbor views.

   • The Vibe: A relaxed, family-owned restaurant and dock bar that captures the spirit of the Eastern Shore.

6. Old Salty's Restaurant (Fishing Creek, MD):

   • Why It's a Top Spot: For a truly off-the-beaten-path adventure, head to Old Salty's on Hoopers Island in Dorchester County. This restaurant is surrounded by water and serves seafood straight from the boats of local watermen.

   • The Vibe: An authentic taste of the Chesapeake watermen's culture. The journey there is part of the experience, and the crabs are as fresh as they come.

Tips for Your Crab Feast:

• Call Ahead: Always call to check for crab availability and pricing, as it can change daily based on the catch.

• Embrace the Mess: Cracking crabs is a fun, hands-on, and messy experience. Don't be afraid to get your hands dirty!

• Learn to Pick: If you're new to it, don't hesitate to ask your server for a quick tutorial on the best way to pick a crab.

A visit to a classic Maryland crab shack is an essential experience for any seafood lover. From the bustling waterfront decks of Cantler's and Mike's to the historic neighborhood feel of Schultz's and the remote charm of Old Salty's, these establishments offer an authentic and delicious taste of the Old Line State's most cherished culinary tradition.