Baltimore, Maryland’s Best Seafood Restaurants Everyone Is Talking About
Baltimore’s seafood scene is nothing short of legendary, thanks to the bounty of the Chesapeake Bay and the city’s deep maritime roots. Here, seafood isn’t just a meal, it’s a way of life, woven into neighborhood traditions and waterfront gatherings.
Over the years, I’ve had the joy of discovering some of the city’s best spots, savoring everything from iconic jumbo lump crab cakes to oysters so fresh they taste like the Bay itself.
Whether you’re a lifelong local or a first-time visitor, these ten standout restaurants capture the heart, flavor, and soul of Charm City’s seafood tradition.
1. Thames Street Oyster House
The first time I visited Thames Street Oyster House in Fells Point, I was blown away by their raw bar selection. The restaurant’s nautical charm immediately transports you to a New England fishing village despite being in the heart of Baltimore.
Their oyster offerings vary depending on the season and availability, often including East Coast varieties and sometimes selections from other regions. My personal favorite is pairing their briny Chesapeake oysters with a glass of crisp white wine while watching boats drift by on the harbor.
Beyond oysters, their lobster roll rivals anything you’d find in Maine – packed with sweet meat and minimal filler. The intimate brick-walled dining space fills up fast, so reservations are absolutely essential!
2. Faidley’s Seafood
Standing in line at Faidley’s inside the historic Lexington Market feels like a Baltimore rite of passage. This no-frills seafood market has been serving what many consider the city’s best crab cake since 1886, and I’m inclined to agree.
Their lump crab cakes are baseball-sized monuments to simplicity – minimal filler, barely held together, and absolutely packed with sweet Chesapeake Bay blue crab. Most people eat standing at counters inside the market, which adds to the no-frills charm. Trust me, it’s worth sacrificing comfort for these legendary creations.
Last summer, I brought my out-of-town friends here, and they still talk about these crab cakes months later. The family-run business maintains the same recipe that’s kept locals coming back for generations.
3. Nick’s Fish House
Perched right on the Patapsco River, Nick’s Fish House offers what I consider the perfect summer seafood experience. The sprawling deck becomes Baltimore’s ultimate crab feast destination when temperatures rise.
Last August, my family demolished several dozen steamed crabs here, covered in that signature Old Bay seasoning that makes Baltimore seafood so distinctive. The hammers cracking, the beer flowing, and live music playing created the quintessential Maryland memory.
While steamed crabs are the star attraction, don’t overlook their crispy fish tacos or creamy crab dip. The casual, party-like atmosphere makes this place feel more like a seafood celebration than just a restaurant – exactly what waterfront dining should be!
4. Rusty Scupper
For my parents’ anniversary last year, I chose Rusty Scupper – and the three-story harbor views alone were worth it! This Inner Harbor institution offers a more upscale seafood experience without feeling stuffy.
Floor-to-ceiling windows showcase Baltimore’s skyline while you savor their signature crab soup, which perfectly balances cream and spice. The broiled seafood platter became our table’s favorite, featuring tender scallops, shrimp, and fresh fish.
Sunday brunch here is famous for its live jazz and seafood-focused dishes, and their Bloody Marys topped with shrimp are a crowd favorite. While prices run higher than casual crab shacks, the combination of professional service, harbor views, and consistently excellent seafood justifies the splurge.
5. L.P. Steamers
Housed in an unassuming rowhouse in Locust Point, L.P. Steamers delivers the most authentic Baltimore crab experience I’ve found. The rooftop deck offers views of the Domino Sugar sign – a true Baltimore landmark!
Their steamed crabs arrive piping hot, heavily seasoned, and ready for you to get messy. The staff doesn’t mind teaching first-timers the proper crab-picking technique, which saved my California friends from embarrassment during their first visit.
They don’t take reservations, so be prepared to wait during peak hours. Beyond crabs, their crab imperial is a decadent treat, essentially a deconstructed crab cake baked with cream and spices.
The neighborhood vibe makes this place feel like you’re eating at a local’s house rather than a restaurant, which is exactly why I keep returning.
6. Phillips Seafood
Phillips might be the most recognizable name in Baltimore seafood, having grown from a small Chesapeake crab shack to a national brand. Their flagship Inner Harbor location remains a powerhouse for traditional Maryland seafood.
My grandmother swears their crab cakes haven’t changed since she first tried them in the 1980s – still plenty of jumbo lump meat with minimal binder. The crab-stuffed flounder and cream of crab soup are reliable favorites on their menu.
While some locals consider Phillips too touristy, I appreciate their consistency and harbor-front location. Their outdoor seating area provides prime people-watching opportunities, and specialties like their crab mac and cheese are worth every calorie-laden bite when available.
7. Angie’s Seafood
I stumbled upon Angie’s during a wrong turn in East Baltimore, and it’s become my favorite seafood secret to share with visitors. This family-owned spot serves massive portions with zero pretension and lots of heart.
Their seafood platters could feed a small army – fried shrimp, scallops, fish, and oysters all perfectly crisp outside while remaining tender inside. Some of their menu also reflects Mediterranean influence, with whole fish preparations among the highlights.
What truly sets Angie’s apart is their creative appetizers, including crab cake egg rolls that have become a local favorite. The casual atmosphere and friendly service make this place feel like dining at a friend’s house.
8. Jimmy’s Famous Seafood
When local sports stars and celebrities want seafood in Baltimore, they head to Jimmy’s. I’ve been coming here since childhood, and their massive dining room still buzzes with energy decades later.
Their colossal crab cakes have achieved legendary status, nearly 8 ounces of jumbo lump meat with barely enough binder to hold them together. Their menu is packed with inventive seafood dishes, though items like seafood lasagna may appear as seasonal or special offerings rather than daily staples.
The family ownership makes this place special, you’ll often find members of the Minadakis family checking on tables and sharing stories. In warmer months, their outdoor seating adds to the atmosphere, making it a great spot for authentic Maryland crab feasts.