8 Must-Try Seafood Restaurants in Baltimore

For the Classic Baltimore Experience

These establishments are beloved institutions, offering a traditional and authentic taste of Maryland's seafood culture.

1. Nick's Fish House

• The Vibe: A massive, lively, and quintessentially casual waterfront spot, Nick's Fish House feels like a beach town escape right in the city. With its sprawling outdoor deck and docks overlooking the Patapsco River, it's a go-to for a fun and relaxed seafood feast.
• The Seafood: Famous for its steamed crabs, Nick's offers a wide array of fresh, classic seafood dishes, from crab cakes and fried oysters to fresh fish entrees.
• Location: 2600 Insulator Dr, Baltimore, MD 21230

2. L.P. Steamers

• The Vibe: Tucked away in the historic Locust Point neighborhood, L.P. Steamers is a beloved, family-owned crab shack. The main attraction is the third-story rooftop deck, which offers fantastic views of the harbor and the iconic Domino Sugar sign.
• The Seafood: This is a top-tier destination for an authentic steamed crab experience. Expect hot, perfectly seasoned blue crabs dumped directly onto your paper-covered table, ready for you to crack and enjoy.
• Location: 1100 E Fort Ave, Baltimore, MD 21230

3. Faidley's Seafood

• The Vibe: A world-famous institution located inside Baltimore's historic Lexington Market, Faidley's is a no-frills, standing-room-only seafood counter that has been serving customers since 1886. It's an authentic taste of Baltimore history.
• The Seafood: Faidley's is legendary for its award-winning jumbo lump crab cakes, which many consider to be the best on the planet. They also have a fantastic raw bar with fresh-shucked oysters and other classic seafood fare.
• Location: 203 N Paca St, Baltimore, MD 21201

4. Mama's On the Half Shell

• The Vibe: A beloved neighborhood seafood house and tavern in the heart of Canton Square, Mama's On the Half Shell is a lively and welcoming spot with a classic Baltimore feel.
• The Seafood: As the name suggests, they have a fantastic raw bar with a great selection of oysters. Their menu is packed with Maryland classics, including excellent crab cakes, steamed shrimp, and a must-try cream of crab soup.
• Location: 2901 O'Donnell St, Baltimore, MD 21224

5. Schultz's Crab House

• The Vibe: An old-school Baltimore County landmark in Essex, Schultz's Crab House has been a community staple for decades. It's an unpretentious, classic crab house where the focus is entirely on the quality of the crabs.
• The Seafood: This is a go-to for a traditional, satisfying steamed crab feast, known for its consistency and authentic flavor.
• Location: 1732 Old Eastern Ave, Essex, MD 21221

For a Modern or Unique Setting

These restaurants offer a more contemporary or stylish take on the classic seafood experience.

6. The Choptank

• The Vibe: Housed in the beautifully restored historic south shed of the Broadway Market in Fells Point, The Choptank is a modern and stylish seafood restaurant with a massive, vibrant courtyard.
• The Seafood: The menu features a modern take on classic Maryland seafood, from steamed blue crabs and crab cakes to a fantastic raw bar and creative entrees. It's a trendy spot perfect for a fun night out.
• Location: 1641 Aliceanna St, Baltimore, MD 21231

7. Thames Street Oyster House

• The Vibe: Consistently ranked as one of the best restaurants in Baltimore, Thames Street Oyster House offers a sophisticated yet comfortable New England-style oyster house experience in a historic Fells Point rowhome with beautiful harbor views.
• The Seafood: The raw bar is exceptional, and they are famous for serving one of the best lobster rolls (hot or cold) you'll find anywhere. The entire menu showcases impeccably prepared, high-quality seafood.
• Location: 1728 Thames St, Baltimore, MD 21231

8. Loch Bar

• The Vibe: An upscale and energetic seafood tavern located in the Four Seasons Hotel in Harbor East, Loch Bar boasts one of the largest raw bars in the city and an extensive whiskey collection. The atmosphere is sophisticated with live music seven days a week.
• The Seafood: Known for its vast selection of East and West Coast oysters, seafood towers, and classic dishes prepared with a touch of elegance.
• Location: 240 International Drive, Baltimore, MD 21202