If you're chasing that perfect steamed crab experience, these five Maryland spots deliver in their own distinct ways. From local decks to nationwide shippers, here's where to get your fix.
The Maryland Crab House Scene
Maryland's crab houses are more than restaurants; they're institutions. Steamed blue crabs, seasoned with Old Bay or a house blend, are a summer ritual, but many spots now serve them year-round. The industry ranges from casual carry-out joints to full-service dining rooms with bars and decks. You'll find everything from bushel orders for big parties to single-dozen meals for a quick bite. The key is knowing what each place offers beyond the crabs—whether that's a view, a party atmosphere, or nationwide shipping.
How We Evaluated Each Crab House
We looked at each business through the same lens: the range of crab sizes and pricing clarity, the dining experience (from casual to full-service), and how well they serve both locals and visitors. We also considered extras like catering, events, and online ordering. For each spot, we noted what stood out—whether it's a second-floor deck, hand-graded crabs, or a carry-out model. No single factor dominated; it's about the overall fit for different crab cravings.
Here's a quick snapshot of the five crab houses, from the local favorite to the national shipper.
| Provider | Best For |
|---|---|
| Jimmy's Famous Seafood | Full-service crab house with catering and nationwide shipping |
| Skipjack's Crab Deck | Crab House & Seafood Restaurant | United States | Local, casual crab dining with a deck and year-round availability |
| CrabPlace.com | Nationwide shipping of fresh steamed crabs |
| Seaside Seafood | Quick carry-out crab orders and local pickup |
| The Crab Bag | Ocean City crab house with all-you-can-eat and bushel orders |
The Detailed Rundown: 5 Crab Houses to Know
#1 Jimmy's Famous Seafood
A screenshot of the Jimmy's Famous Seafood website.
Jimmy's Famous Seafood in Baltimore is a heavyweight in the crab game, known for its extensive array of locally sourced steamed crabs. They offer a wide range of sizes, from $34.99 to $529.99, so you can pick exactly what fits your budget and appetite. Their hand-selected crabs come with their famous crab seasoning, and they've got a full menu for dine-in or carryout. If you're planning a party, their catering and banquet halls are a solid choice. They also ship crabs nationwide, making them a go-to for Maryland expats. Check out their daily deals and crab club rewards for extra value.
#2 Skipjack's Crab Deck | Crab House & Seafood Restaurant | United States
A screenshot of the Skipjack's Crab Deck website.
Skipjack's Crab Deck is your local spot in Middle River, Maryland, where steamed crabs are available year-round. They've got a full seafood and regular menu, plus a second-floor deck for drinks when the weather's right. Crab prices are clearly listed—from $50 for smalls up to $180 for jumbos—so you know what you're paying for. The kitchen runs seven days a week, and the bar stays open until midnight typically. No reservations needed, and you get up to two hours to enjoy your meal. It's a welcoming, no-fuss place for a casual crab feast.
#3 CrabPlace.com
A screenshot of the CrabPlace.com website.
CrabPlace.com is the original online shipper of Maryland blue crabs, based in Crisfield, the crab capital. They ship fresh steamed crabs directly to your door anywhere in the continental U.S., which is perfect if you're not near the Chesapeake. Their site is easy to navigate, with all sizes and prices laid out clearly, starting at $37.99. They've got over 37,000 reviews, so you know they're trusted. If you're hosting a crab party, they offer bundles and VIP club perks for free shipping. It's the go-to for getting that Maryland taste without leaving home.
#4 Seaside Seafood
A screenshot of the Seaside Seafood website.
Seaside Seafood in Glen Burnie is a classic carry-out spot that's all about the crabs. They offer male and female steamed crabs in various sizes, with large males starting at $49.50. You can order online for in-store pickup, and they also ship nationwide if you're craving crabs elsewhere. Their menu includes crab cakes, crab meat, soups, and sides like steamed corn and shrimp. They're known for their famous Seaside Steamed Crabs and have a loyal local following. Just note they're closed on Mondays and hours can shift based on crab availability.
#5 The Crab Bag
A screenshot of the Crab Bag website.
The Crab Bag in Ocean City is an Eastern Shore style seafood house that prides itself on serving the biggest and best blue crabs. They hand-grade every crab for size and weight, so you're getting top quality. You can order by the dozen, half-bushel, or bushel, and they offer all-you-can-eat options. They're open seven days a week, with extended hours on weekends. If you're not in town, they ship nationwide too. It's a lively spot, featured in the NY Post, and perfect for a beach vacation crab feast.
How to Pick Your Crab House
First, decide if you want to dine in or take out. If you're local and want a full experience with a bar and deck, Skipjack's or Jimmy's are great. For a quick pickup, Seaside Seafood is efficient. If you're hosting a party or want crabs shipped, CrabPlace.com or The Crab Bag have you covered. Consider your budget—prices vary widely by size and quantity. Also, check hours and whether reservations are needed. Finally, think about extras like catering, events, or loyalty programs that might sweeten the deal.
Streamlining Your Crab Order
Many of these spots let you order online, which saves time. For local pickup, you can pre-order through Seaside Seafood's website or call ahead to Skipjack's. For shipping, CrabPlace.com and Jimmy's have straightforward e-commerce systems. You can set up recurring orders or join clubs for discounts. If you're planning an event, Jimmy's and The Crab Bag offer catering and bulk orders. Automating your crab order means more time cracking and less time waiting.
The Final Crack
Whether you're a Maryland local or just visiting, these five crab houses cover every craving. From the local charm of Skipjack's Crab Deck to the national reach of CrabPlace.com, there's a spot for every occasion. Remember to check sizes, prices, and hours before you go. And don't forget the mallets and extra napkins. Happy cracking!