Maryland, the Old Line State, is a culinary gem where Southern hospitality meets diverse flavors, from iconic Chesapeake Bay seafood to innovative farm-to-table delights. With its rich maritime heritage and vibrant food scene, Maryland boasts some of the East Coast’s most celebrated eateries. Whether you’re searching for the best restaurants in Maryland, exploring Maryland restaurants near me, or seeking the top restaurants in Maryland for seafood and crab cakes, this guide to the 6 best restaurants in Maryland will inspire your next dining adventure. From Baltimore’s historic crab houses to Annapolis’s waterfront gems and Ocean City’s boardwalk favorites, discover famous restaurants in Maryland, best Maryland restaurants, Maryland famous restaurants, top Maryland restaurants, best restaurants in Baltimore, best restaurants in Annapolis, best restaurants in Ocean City, best crab cakes in Maryland, and Maryland seafood restaurants. Use our Maryland restaurant guide to navigate Maryland dining experiences, best places to eat in Maryland, top places to eat in Maryland, famous places to eat in Maryland, and Maryland food guide for an unforgettable culinary tour.

This guide highlights Maryland restaurant recommendations, best food in Maryland, and Maryland culinary experiences, ensuring your visit is filled with flavor. Let’s explore the top 6 restaurants in Maryland!

Why Maryland’s Dining Scene is a Must-Experience This Year

Maryland’s culinary landscape is defined by its Chesapeake Bay bounty, where fresh crabs, oysters, and rockfish take center stage. Maryland, the Old Line State, is a culinary gem where Southern hospitality meets diverse flavors, blending traditional crab feasts with modern twists like fusion cuisine and farm-to-table innovations. The state’s restaurants continue to shine, with Baltimore’s vibrant scene earning national acclaim from The New York Times and OpenTable. Summer brings seafood festivals, while fall offers harvest-inspired menus.

Whether you’re a local seeking Maryland restaurants near me or a visitor planning a Maryland food tour, Maryland’s eateries cater to all from casual crab shacks to upscale bistros. No trip is complete without trying the best crab cakes in Maryland, a staple that draws foodies nationwide. This guide features the 6 best restaurants in Maryland, curated from sources like Baltimore Magazine’s 2025 Best Restaurants and OpenTable’s Diners’ Choice . Use a Maryland restaurant map to plan your itinerary and pair meals with Maryland attractions near restaurants.

Faidley’s Seafood (Baltimore): The Iconic Crab Cake Legend

Faidley’s Seafood, nestled in Baltimore’s historic Lexington Market since 1886, is one of the famous restaurants in Maryland and a must-visit for best crab cakes in Maryland. This family-owned staple, now run by descendants of founder John W. Faidley, is renowned for its award-winning jumbo lump crab cakes, shipped nationwide via Faidley’s Crab Cakes website.

Why Dine at Faidley’s Seafood?

• Signature Dishes: The Jumbo Lump Crab Cake ($25–$30), made with hand-picked Chesapeake Bay crab meat, minimal filler, and a subtle Old Bay seasoning—crispy outside, tender inside.
• Ambiance: Bustling market counter with communal seating, evoking Baltimore’s working-class roots.
• Culinary Connection: Maryland is a culinary gem, and Faidley’s embodies it with fresh oysters, shrimp salads, and cream of crab soup.
• Price Range: $15–$35 per person; cash-only for counter service.

Faidley’s remains a top pick in Baltimore Magazine’s 2025 Best Restaurants . Book a market tour or order ahead for peak summer weekends crab season peaks in July.

Charleston Restaurant (Baltimore): Fine Dining Excellence

Charleston Restaurant in Baltimore’s Harbor East is a top restaurant in Maryland for upscale Southern cuisine, led by Chef Cindy Wolf. This James Beard Award-winning spot, praised by The New York Times 2025 Best Restaurants , offers a tasting menu that celebrates Lowcountry flavors with Maryland twists.

Why Dine at Charleston Restaurant?

• Signature Dishes: The crab cake with remoulade ($45 appetizer) or the full tasting menu ($150+), featuring rockfish, foie gras, and seasonal produce.
• Ambiance: Elegant dining room with white tablecloths and attentive service, perfect for special occasions.
• Culinary Connection: Blending Southern hospitality with refined techniques, Charleston’s menu highlights Maryland’s seafood heritage.
• Price Range: $80–$150 per person; reservations essential via OpenTable.

Named one of America’s best by The New York Times , Charleston’s 2025 menu emphasizes sustainable seafood. Book 30 days ahead for weekends; valet parking available.

Jimmy’s Famous Seafood (Baltimore): Crab Feast Extravaganza

Jimmy’s Famous Seafood in the Canton neighborhood is a famous restaurant in Maryland for its massive crab cakes and lively atmosphere, often ranked #1 for best crab cakes in Maryland by Tasting Table . This sprawling spot ships nationwide via Jimmy’s Famous Seafood website.

Why Dine at Jimmy’s Famous Seafood?

• Signature Dishes: The 8oz Jumbo Lump Crab Cake ($34), broiled to perfection with minimal filler—sweet, flaky crab shines.
• Ambiance: Vibrant dining room with a bar and patio, buzzing with locals and tourists.
• Culinary Connection: A celebration of Maryland’s crab culture, with Old Bay-seasoned everything.
• Price Range: $20–$50 per person; family-style platters available.

Featured in Reddit discussions on best crab cakes , Jimmy’s 2025 expansions include outdoor seating. Expect 21% gratuity; order online for takeout.

G&M Restaurant and Lounge (Linthicum Heights): Jumbo Lump Masters

G&M Restaurant and Lounge near BWI Airport is a top Maryland restaurant for seafood and crab cakes, using only jumbo lump meat since 1974. Praised by Only In Your State , it’s a go-to for authentic Maryland fare.

Why Dine at G&M Restaurant and Lounge?

• Signature Dishes: The 8oz Jumbo Lump Crab Cake ($35), broiled with just crab, mayo, and seasoning—no fillers.
• Ambiance: Cozy lounge with a full bar and family seating.
• Culinary Connection: Emphasizing Maryland’s blue crabs, G&M ships via G&M Crab Cakes website .
• Price Range: $25–$45 per person.

Ranked among Chowhound’s best crab houses , G&M’s 2025 menu adds gluten-free options. Reserve via OpenTable for busy evenings.

Boatyard Bar & Grill (Annapolis): Waterfront Seafood Haven

Boatyard Bar & Grill in Eastport, Annapolis, is one of the best restaurants in Annapolis for fresh seafood, with stunning Chesapeake Bay views. Featured in Baltimore Magazine , it’s a local favorite.

Why Dine at Boatyard Bar & Grill?

• Signature Dishes: Lump Crab Cake ($38), pan-seared with remoulade—jumbo lumps from local waters.
• Ambiance: Nautical decor with indoor/outdoor seating overlooking the harbor.
• Culinary Connection: Celebrating Maryland’s maritime bounty with sustainable sourcing.
• Price Range: $30–$60 per person.

Voted best in OpenTable’s Diners’ Choice , Boatyard’s 2025 happy hour (3–6pm) features $1 oysters. Book patio tables early for summer.

The Crab Claw Restaurant (St. Michaels): Eastern Shore Classic

The Crab Claw Restaurant in St. Michaels on the Eastern Shore is a famous restaurant in Maryland for steamed crabs and waterfront dining since 1965. Highlighted by Chowhound , it’s a quintessential crab experience.

Why Dine at The Crab Claw Restaurant?

• Signature Dishes: Steamed Blue Crabs ($50/dozen) and Crab Cakes ($32), seasoned with Old Bay.
• Ambiance: Casual dockside picnic tables with Bay views.
• Culinary Connection: Pure Maryland tradition, focusing on fresh, local catch.
• Price Range: $25–$50 per person.

A staple in Reddit’s best crab discussions , The Crab Claw’s 2025 season opens April. Arrive early for picnic tables; BYOB allowed.

In Summary

Maryland’s 6 best restaurants in Maryland, from Faidley’s iconic crab cakes to Charleston’s fine dining, capture the state’s culinary soul. Maryland, the Old Line State, is a culinary gem where Southern hospitality meets diverse flavors, blending crabs with innovation. Whether exploring famous restaurants in Maryland, best restaurants in Baltimore, best restaurants in Annapolis, or best restaurants in Ocean City, this Maryland restaurant guide covers top Maryland restaurants and Maryland famous restaurants. Use a Maryland restaurant map for best places to eat in Maryland, top places to eat in Maryland, and famous places to eat in Maryland. Plan your 2025 Maryland food guide adventure and savor the best food in Maryland!