7 Spots In Maryland Serving Crab Bisque Like Nowhere Else
North Carolina’s culinary scene shines in its mastery of barbecue, especially the slow-smoked pork that’s a source of state pride.
This tender, flavorful classic varies from the tangy vinegar-based style of the east to the rich, tomato-kissed version of the west.
From roadside smokehouses to bustling city eateries, North Carolina pitmasters have perfected their craft, serving plates that keep both locals and visitors coming back for more.
1. The Narrows – Grasonville
Overlooking Kent Narrows, The Narrows serves a cream of crab soup that locals drive miles to taste. Their secret recipe balances rich cream with generous lumps of fresh Chesapeake crab meat.
The restaurant’s waterfront setting adds to the experience, with stunning sunset views complementing your meal.
I’ve been visiting since childhood, when my grandfather would treat us after successful fishing trips.
2. Fisherman’s Inn – Grasonville
Family-owned since 1930, Fisherman’s Inn creates a cream of crab soup that perfectly captures Maryland’s seafood heritage. Their recipe features hand-picked blue crab in a rich, creamy base that enhances the natural sweetness of the meat.
The rustic maritime decor creates a cozy atmosphere where you can savor every spoonful. Their portion sizes won’t leave you hungry, making this spot worth the trip.
3. Jimmy’s Famous Seafood – Baltimore
Baltimore’s legendary Jimmy’s Famous Seafood turns cream of crab soup into an art form. Their version boasts a silky texture with a perfect balance of spices that complement rather than overwhelm the sweet crab flavor.
The generous portion comes loaded with jumbo lump crab meat. Back in 2018, I brought my out-of-town relatives here, and they still talk about this soup as the highlight of their Maryland visit.
4. Phillips Seafood – Baltimore Inner Harbor
A Maryland institution since 1956, Phillips Seafood at the Inner Harbor serves a cream of crab soup that honors their Eastern Shore roots. Their recipe achieves the perfect consistency – not too thick, not too thin – allowing the sweet crab flavor to shine through.
The tourist-friendly location offers beautiful harbor views. Despite its popularity, they never compromise on quality, using the same family recipe that made them famous decades ago.
5. Costas Inn – Dundalk
This unassuming Dundalk treasure serves a cream of crab soup that rivals any upscale restaurant. Costas Inn’s version features a subtle blend of spices that enhances the natural sweetness of Maryland blue crab.
The warm, friendly atmosphere makes you feel like family the moment you walk in. My first visit was during a snowstorm in 2016, and the steaming bowl of their cream of crab soup instantly made me forget about the freezing temperatures outside.
6. Mama’s on the Half Shell – Baltimore Canton
Canton’s beloved seafood spot creates a cream of crab soup that locals consider the neighborhood’s best-kept secret. Mama’s recipe includes a splash of cognac that adds complexity without masking the delicate crab flavor.
The brick-walled, nautical-themed space offers a casual yet intimate setting. Their soup arrives piping hot with a sprinkle of fresh herbs that adds both color and aroma to this already perfect dish.
7. Cantler’s Riverside Inn – Annapolis
Tucked away on Mill Creek, Cantler’s Riverside Inn serves a cream of crab soup that captures the essence of Chesapeake Bay cuisine. Their recipe uses hand-picked crab meat, creating a rich, flavorful soup that tastes like Maryland on a spoon.
The dockside setting allows you to watch boats come and go while enjoying your meal. For over 45 years, watermen have delivered their daily catch directly to Cantler’s dock, ensuring the freshest ingredients possible.