Baltimore is famous for its blue crabs, which are considered a regional delicacy. The Chesapeake Bay, located just outside the city, provides a steady supply of fresh crabs each year. These crabs are known for their sweet, tender meat and are often prepared using traditional Maryland methods. Baltimore’s top crab spots offer an authentic seafood experience, attracting both locals and tourists crab shop in baltimore.
Best Places to Enjoy Fresh Blue Crabs in Baltimore
Several establishments in Baltimore are renowned for their blue crabs. These crab spots combine freshness, quality, and traditional preparation techniques.
Faidley Seafood at Lexington Market has been a staple for over a century. The shop is known for its jumbo lump crab cakes, which use fresh, hand-picked crab meat. Faidley Seafood also offers steamed crabs, shrimp, and crab soup. The preparation emphasizes minimal filler in crab cakes, allowing the natural flavor of the crab to stand out.
LP Steamers in Locust Point is famous for its casual atmosphere and fresh steamed crabs. The shop uses a mix of Old Bay seasoning, enhancing the natural taste of the crabs. LP Steamers also serves crab soup and crab pretzels. Its outdoor seating allows customers to enjoy waterfront views while dining.
Thames Street Oyster House, located near Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, provides a mix of traditional and modern crab dishes. The restaurant offers steamed crabs during the season and crab cakes throughout the year. Thames Street Oyster House prioritizes sustainability, sourcing crabs from local fisheries to ensure high-quality seafood.
Captain James Seafood Palace is known for its relaxed environment and large crab portions. The shop serves steamed crabs, soft-shell crabs, and crab cakes. Its location near the waterfront adds to the authentic Baltimore dining experience. Customers often return for consistent quality and fresh flavors.
What Makes Baltimore Blue Crabs Special
Baltimore blue crabs are unique due to their local origin in the Chesapeake Bay. The crabs have sweet, tender meat, making them ideal for steaming or making crab cakes. Most crab spots in Baltimore use Old Bay seasoning, a mix of 18 spices and herbs, to enhance flavor.
Freshness is key in Baltimore crab spots. Crabs are usually cooked live, which preserves their texture and taste. Steaming is the preferred method as it locks in natural juices. Crab cakes are made from jumbo lump or lump crab meat with minimal filler. Many establishments allow customers to hand-crack crabs at the table, offering an interactive dining experience.
The social aspect of eating crabs is another feature. Crab feasts are often shared among friends and family. Tables are commonly covered with newspaper to make cleaning easier. This communal style of dining is a longstanding tradition in Baltimore, reflecting the city’s cultural connection to seafood.
Tips for Visiting Crab Spots in Baltimore
The best time to enjoy fresh blue crabs is from May to October, when crabs are abundant in the Chesapeake Bay. Prices are usually displayed per dozen and vary based on availability. Customers can choose to eat steamed crabs directly from the shell or enjoy crab cakes for a cleaner option.
Many crab spots provide mallets, picks, and gloves to assist in cracking crabs. Eating crabs can be messy, but this is part of the experience. Reservations are recommended for popular locations, especially during weekends. Checking the shop’s website or recent reviews can provide updated information on prices, availability, and operating hours.
FAQ
What is the best season to eat blue crabs in Baltimore?
The peak season is from May to October. During these months, crabs are abundant and at their freshest.
Are crab cakes made with real crab meat?
Yes, authentic Baltimore crab cakes use fresh, local blue crab meat with minimal filler for maximum flavor.
Can I find steamed crabs year-round?
Steamed crabs are mostly available during the peak season. Crab cakes and other crab dishes are typically offered year-round.
Do I need experience to eat crabs?
No experience is needed. Most crab spots provide tools and instructions for cracking and enjoying crabs.
Are these crab spots family-friendly?
Yes, many offer casual environments suitable for families, including outdoor seating and communal dining areas.
Conclusion
Baltimore’s top spots for fresh blue crabs offer a combination of quality, freshness, and tradition. Faidley Seafood, LP Steamers, Thames Street Oyster House, and Captain James Seafood Palace are known for their steamed crabs, crab cakes, and authentic Maryland seafood experience. The Chesapeake Bay’s blue crabs, prepared with Old Bay seasoning and minimal filler, provide a sweet and tender flavor that attracts seafood lovers from all over. Visiting these crab spots is not only a culinary experience but also a way to connect with Baltimore’s rich seafood culture.