10 Timeless Crab Shacks In Maryland Worth Going Out Of Your Way For
Maryland crab shacks are more than just restaurants… they’re a full sensory experience with the smell of the bay, the sound of cracking shells, and the taste of sweet, tender crab meat.
Some spots have been perfecting their craft for decades, earning loyal fans and a reputation that draws visitors from near and far.
Whether you’re a local or just passing through, these shacks serve up crab that’s worth every bite and every detour.
1. The Crab Claw Restaurant – St. Michaels
Perched right on the harbor since 1965, The Crab Claw serves up views almost as delicious as their seafood. Local watermen deliver crabs directly to their dock daily.
The outdoor deck offers a front-row seat to sailboats drifting by while you hammer away at perfectly seasoned crustaceans.
Family-owned for generations, they’ve perfected their spice blend that somehow makes Maryland crabs taste even more Maryland-y.
2. Schultz’s Crab House – Essex
James Beard Award-winning Schultz’s has been a Baltimore fixture since 1950. Their jumbo crabs come heaped on brown paper, waiting for you to unleash your mallet skills.
Old-school in the best way possible, the wood-paneled walls tell stories of decades past.
Regulars swear by their crab soup that’s thick enough to stand a spoon in. Don’t skip their crab cakes either – barely bound with filler, they’re practically pure crabmeat.
3. L.P. Steamers – Baltimore
Hidden in Locust Point, this rooftop gem offers stunning city views alongside stellar crabs.
The rowhouse-turned-restaurant feels like eating at a local’s home – if that local happened to make the best seafood in Baltimore.
Climb the narrow stairs to the roof deck for the full experience. Their crabs arrive hot, heavy, and perfectly seasoned.
First-timers receive friendly crab-picking lessons from servers who treat you like family, even showing newcomers how to find the coveted “mustard.”
4. Conrad’s Crabs – Perry Hall
Founded by an actual waterman, Conrad’s serves what they catch that morning. Owner Tony Conrad still takes his boat out daily, ensuring the freshest possible crabs reach your table.
The restaurant’s modest exterior hides seafood that rivals any fancy waterfront spot.
Their medium crabs often outsize competitors’ larges. Regulars know to call ahead during peak season as they frequently sell out of their daily catch.
5. The Point Crab House – Arnold
Nestled on Mill Creek, The Point combines waterfront magic with chef-driven seafood that elevates the crab shack concept. Arrive by car or boat – their dock welcomes both.
Sunset views provide the backdrop for their garlic butter-doused crabs. Unlike traditional spots, they offer sophisticated sides beyond the usual corn and potatoes.
Their craft beer selection showcases local breweries, perfect for washing down spicy seafood on their sprawling deck.
6. Cantler’s Riverside Inn – Annapolis
Finding Cantler’s requires navigating winding back roads, but locals have made this pilgrimage since 1974. Tucked on Mill Creek, this dockside institution serves crabs caught in waters visible from your table.
Powerboats dock while their owners feast inside. The no-frills interior focuses on what matters – massive trays of hot crabs dumped directly on your table.
Their seasoning recipe remains a closely guarded secret, though countless customers have tried to recreate it at home.
7. Bay Crawlers Crab Shack – Northeast
Family recipes rule at this North East treasure where three generations work side by side. The nautical-themed interior feels authentic because it is – much of the decor comes from the owner’s crabbing days.
Their signature extra-spicy crabs leave your fingers tingling in the best way possible.
Come hungry for their all-you-can-eat special that has developed a cult following. Save room for Smith Island cake, Maryland’s official dessert that provides sweet relief after all that Old Bay.
8. Faidley’s Seafood – Baltimore
Standing at a high-top in Lexington Market while cracking crabs is a Baltimore rite of passage. Since 1886, Faidley’s has been the downtown spot for seafood, surviving multiple market renovations.
Their award-winning crab cakes deserve their legendary status – baseball-sized with jumbo lumps barely held together.
The market atmosphere adds authenticity you can’t manufacture. Nancy Faidley still oversees operations, ensuring quality hasn’t slipped an inch in over a century.
9. Fisherman’s Crab Deck – Kent Narrows
Watching boats navigate Kent Narrows while cracking crabs makes this spot magical. The massive deck stretches over the water, creating the feeling you’re dining on a dock.
Their all-you-can-eat feast includes the full Maryland experience – crabs, corn, chicken, and hush puppies.
Sunsets here are legendary, turning the water golden as crab mallets create a percussion soundtrack. During peak season, the wait can stretch hours, but regulars know it’s worth every minute.
10. Mike’s Crab House – Annapolis
Nestled along the South River since 1958, Mike’s Crab House combines waterfront magic with Maryland’s finest crustaceans. Boats regularly dock at their pier while hungry patrons crack into heaps of steamed crabs dusted with signature spice.
The sprawling deck offers breathtaking sunset views that pair perfectly with their famous crab dip and ice-cold beers. Locals swear by the jumbo lump crab cakes – minimal filler, maximum flavor.
Family-owned for three generations, Mike’s maintains that rare balance of tourist appeal and hometown authenticity.