50 Best Seafood Restaurants near Essex

“Best crabs I had in years! Season well heavy meaty with lots of the yellow sauce inside! I don’t like the butter. The staff is nice. The shrimp is good as well . I live 45 minutes away I don’t care I will take the ride lol. Check them out you will not be disappointed“

“Awesome a great Baltimore tradition for crabs, recently enjoyed the soup flight that comes with bread and it was amazing, I recommend the seafood gumbo.. my new favorite, engaging prompt bartender, sitting at the bar alone still felt so welcoming, 63 year old female FYI.“

“We had our wedding here. Island View Waterfront Cafe was everything we envisioned for our wedding!! It had that backyard wedding feel with GORGEOUS waterfront views! Jess was absolutely amazing to work with and her love for weddings and desire for you to have your dream day is evident after working with her. She is a great communicator and was a huge help during the different planning stages of our wedding. During our rehearsal and on the day of I came to her with all the questions and she had already had the answers and plans for those worked out and she is a HUGE reason why our day went so smoothly! We love and Cherish being an Island View Couple!! Some cool perks: flexibility to pick our own vendors; chairs and tables were included in the rental; we rented out the the evening before for our rehearsal and hosted an informal pizza party as we were setting up and organizing all the decor which made everything so much easier; you get to work with Jess and I can't say enough good things about her!!“

“Today we took our young kids here for lunch and it was exactly what we were looking for! Great outside dining area on the water and we asked to be sat right next to the kids area (which was perfect!) so that our little one could play while we enjoyed our food and drinks. Everything was delicious and we felt the prices on food and drinks were very reasonable. We will definitely be back!“

“Nothing like the Birdland; ½ lb steamed shrimp 🦐 & ½ lb wings 🐔— the perfect combo. Had to get a ½ dozen crabs too 🦀 Great food, even better company, and top-tier service every time, thanks to Stephanie! We truly love being able to have dinner here!“

“Crabs were delicious & steamed perfect..so good! Love this carry-out place“

“We had a wonderful first visit to Charley’s! Our party of seven arrived around 4:30 without a reservation, but what appeared to be the manager quickly had a table cleaned and ready for us within five minutes. He was attentive and present throughout the restaurant, which was great to see. Our server was excellent, the food came out surprisingly fast, and the whole family loved the cozy, fun atmosphere—especially the arcade room. The plants and café lights are a nice touch too. We’re already looking forward to coming back!“

“Food & service is superb. A great dining experience“

“This was by far the BEST seafood in the area. Food was delicious, service was superb, staff very friendly. Shuttle service right on point! Overall experience 10/10 in all areas. I definitely will be back and telling everyone looking for great seafood and experience! Thank you!“

“Food is excellent and so is the server Rubi! Will eat here again“

“Food was great. Our server Ruslan was so kind and attentive. A wonderful experience!“

“Gretta was great. Had 1 bad crab out of 12 Kate replaced no problem and no questions asked.“

“had an amazing experience at Baltimore Seafood! I ordered the Poseidon Boil with lobster and king crab, and it was absolutely incredible. The seafood was fresh, perfectly seasoned, and cooked just right—the flavors were rich, buttery, and everything you want in a great boil.

I also tried the Caribbean Old-Fashioned, which was the perfect blend of smooth, tropical, and bold. It paired beautifully with the seafood.

Our waitress, Kaleah, made the experience even better. She was warm, attentive, and extremely helpful. Her service was truly outstanding and made the entire meal feel special.

I highly recommend Baltimore Seafood and will definitely be returning! 🦞🦀🍹“

“We come to eat at the Rosedale location maybe once a month. Even on long waits when we are extra hungry, we always request Draven because he is a rockstar! Our drinks are never empty and requests such as extra napkins, gloves, bibs etc are always met expeditiously. We never have to wait long for food and it is always fresh and hot. Our family are creatures of habit and we typically get the same thing every time. Let’s start with the clam chowder. A generous bowl with a heaping portion of clam. We especially enjoy the crackers on the side for our picky toddler to nibble on. For dinner I always get the Cajun boil with the hook n reel blend *spicy* with sausage and hard boiled eggs as an add on. I like to get a 20 oz. draft ipa. It pairs very well with the spiciness of the boil. Our toddler usually ends up with tenders and sweet potato waffle fries. Recently she has started to eat broccoli (hallelujah!) so we get that on the side as well. For a family of 3, we spend around $130. If you request Draven, please expect to be amazed by the service and expect to tip at LEAST 20% for impeccable service. For those bad at math, 20% of $130 is $26, which I like to bump up to $30. Sorry this was so long! If you got this far, enjoy your dinner at Hook n Reel in Rosedale. We always do!“

“This was my first time there. Crabs were spot on, in size and price. Service was amazing. Easy parking. Great views. I'll be back.“

“We spend most holidays at Jimmy's! The entire dining experience is always memorable. From the ladies that greet you warmly at the entrance, to the very pleasant and professional older Greek gentleman who took our order, all make us feel welcome. No matter what you order, the food is always delicious. We certainly enjoyed our Thanksgiving dinner, looking forward to returning for Christmas. Thank you 🤩.“

“Rusty Scupper was amazing. The goold was delicious but what really set them apart was how they went the extra mile for my parents anniversary dinner. I got my parents a gift card and made reservations, in the reservation saying it wasy parents anniversary celebration, could they give them a quiet table. They did that and so very much more. My mom can't stop talking about how incredible they were, how special she felt, how incredible the food was and how she had 3 wait staff, one in training but she had never felt so special in her life. Her excitement and joy makes me smile and I want everyone to know that Rusty Scupper could have set them in a nice table and said Happy Anniversary, that would have been great service but what they did was make an unforgettable memory for my parents. Going above and beyond, thank you Rusty Scupper staff, thank you so very much. You gave my parents an experience that is above and beyond "like something out of a movie" mom keeps saying!!!!“

“Food was delicious!!!! Delivered nice and hot. It was almost too pretty to eat. I can’t wait to order again!!“

“Definitely a 10/10 spot went there around 7:30 for dinner !! Food was awesome and in good prices I got a crab cake for 18$ with a 2 dollar add on for fries and coleslaw. Recommend getting there early just because wait times are crazy. Service was awesome I was there 5/21 and sitting on the first floor outside the server was amazing but sadly I can’t remember the young girls name she was tall and skinny. I’m definitely coming back!!!“

“Great place to come eat and enjoy family and friends. They also have live music, fantastic.“

“the food was excellent!! couldn't have asked for better. our waiter's name was John and was the absolute best!!“

“Excellent food , they certainly picked the right name for it because it’s bangin“

“absolutely the best dinner i’ve had in a longgggg time. we split the steak and crab cake and we were so completely satisfied!!! will come back soon and often!!“

“You know a restaurant is top notch when you’re willing to miss a flight just to dine there. That’s how I feel about Costas Inn. I had my first taste of their amazing, heavy, and very sweet crabs a few years ago, and I’ve been hooked ever since. Now, I gladly make the two-hour drive just to order six crabs — though I never make it past three! But what truly sets this place apart is the family atmosphere. Every visit feels like coming home. You’re always welcomed with a warm smile, and with every bite, you’re reminded why you came back. Tonight was extra special. Not only did I get to meet the owner’s daughter, who embodies the heartwarming smile and customer service this place is known for, but I was also lucky to be served by Dominic, our waiter. With the cutest smile and an attentive, friendly attitude, he made sure our experience was perfect from start to finish. If you ever get the chance to visit, don’t hesitate — grab a seat and start cracking!“

“I love the mamas on the half shell in Owings Mills. The food is great and I am a frequent diner. I love Mary, Alaina, and Gavin the best. They are so courteous and customer service orientated. The crab soup there and the cream of crab is to die for. Also love their coddies! The restaurant is beautiful and I also love sitting outside as well. Always seems very clean. Would highly recommend this restaurant. Mindy.“

“I had my bday dinner there last night. Our reservations originally were for 6-8 and it ended up being 13. They accommodated everyone with zero issues, on a Saturday evening at that. Everything was amazing… service, food and drinks. Thank you for helping me celebrate a great birthday❤️“

“The food was excellent and the atmosphere was excellent and waiters was excellent thank you for good prepared food“

“The bald guy was the BEST server! He knew the menu and was able to provide recommendations for food pairings. Very nice restaurant that some may consider pricey, but the portions are very large. The mango margarita was tasty. I got a bowl of 1/2 & 1/2 soup and the lobster tail imperial. The entree comes with one side, I got rice and ordered Alfredo and broccoli with hollandaise sauce (a la carte).“

“In July, we bought 2 bushels of crabs because we had people coming from out of state. They were the best crabs we ever had. They were really fantastic. Captain Jimmys took very good care of us. We now will be a lifetime customer. Getting ready to order crabs for Labor Day. I would highly recommend getting your crabs captain Jimmys. 10 stars“

“Great crabs great customer service“

“Lemme just start i 10/10 recommend this place just amazing everything is seasoned to perfection great servers atmosphere definitely come here if your looking for a great night“

“Hubby and I ordered for the first time and picked it up. The salmon and shrimp dishes are seasoned so well yet simple and cooked perfectly! While calling to order the young man I spoke with was very patient and helpful while I asked questions to ensure eating the food was safe for my dietary restrictions.“

“Food so good . Cajun catfish delicious“

“I live in New Jersey and I have ordered multiple shipments from Kahler's regularly. I am very satisfied with the overall experience. All shipments arrived on time, were packaged will, and crabs received were as described in size when ordering. I have ordered from other sellers in Maryland and they have not been able to compete with the taste or quality. I would highly recommend ordering from Kahler's and not anywhere else. In my book Kahler's have the best crabs in Maryland for shipment and I will only be ordering from them going forward having tried multiple other places at this point. 5 stars all the way for Kahler's . I hope this review helps others to know Kahler's is the place to order from and you will not be disappointed. THANK YOU Kahler's for offering great service and great tasting crabs perfectly seasoned.“

“We had our daughters bridal shower their on Saturday March 4th. It was for 50 people. The food and the service was excellent. They went above, what we expected. The chef came out spoke to us and assisted in any way they could. The service was wonderful. If you are looking for a venu to host a party, "Hull Street Blues " is it. Wonderful, wonderful, service and great people !“

“Simply put…W O W! The history alone drew me to stop in. The food will keep me coming back! If you haven’t, why? Incredible crabs and a clean, relaxed atmosphere and staff! See y’all again SOON!“

“Something Magical about this place! Crabs are very heavy and reasonably priced. My "fav"is Snow Crab Legs and that golden steamed corn on cobb. Staff members, always smiling, very knowledgeable about their product; each one seems very happy to have his/her job, so courteous. BLAKE'S is the Best in Baltimore!“

“Always good always hot always fresh i also love how neatly the crabs r placed in the bag an season is on time!!!!! Dave is always kind prices always great wish i could give 1000 stars keep up the great work Dave I appreciate u“

“Went there today to get a large female crabs. And they were the best crabs. I've had in a very long time. I wanna think. The guy at the front desk, I forget his name, but he was great. And we touched on eating crabs being on vacation, smoking cigars and drinking a good scotch. I will definitely recommend this place to anybody who wants a good bargain on crabs and delicious crabs.“

“Today is the second time I have gotten Steamed Crabs from them, and just like the first time, this time the Crabs 🦀 were excellent. This is now going to be my go to place for Crabs.“

“Authentic New Orleans food!“

“Never had a bad experience here! The crabs and service are always on point!“

“Dear Brittany,

I wanted to express how amazing the food and ecstatic decor were during my recent visit. The staff was incredibly friendly and knowledgeable, making the experience even better. The food is like no other—clearly made with love every time. Whenever I’m in town, this place is a must-visit. Keep up the great work!

Best regards,
Erica B.“

“Bought mediums & corn last weekend. Spice mix on the crabs was spot on and not skimpy. Corn was out of this world good. Prices beat the other 2 crab places west on Joppa Road significantly. Do not sleep on Pete's a diamond in the rough.“

“Every time we come our waitress Sue gives us the ultimate dining experience. She has been the best waitress I’ve ever had anywhere. The food is always exceptional, and by far the most delicious seafood around here. Always a perfect 5 star ⭐️“

“The food was excellent, but what really made the evening was Donnie. His service really added to our enjoyment of the evening. His recommendations were excellent, he knew exactly how to read our table and when to offer service. He could not have been more accommodating.“

“Awesome salad!!! I love the atmosphere and music.“

“We stopped here on our way home, and it’s definitely a must-stop spot! Even though I’m not a big seafood lover, I decided to give it a try — I got wings (which were delicious) and some Alfredo too. I’m usually hesitant about seafood restaurants because there aren’t always many non-seafood options, but this place completely surprised me. Everything was flavorful, fresh, and cooked perfectly.

The snow crabs were also amazing — the rest of my group couldn’t stop talking about them! Whether you’re a seafood fan or not, this place is worth the visit. Great food, great service, and such a fun stop on the way home.“

“Delicious quesabirrias and very friendly staff“

“We came for the steamed crab special on Tuesday, which was $25 off a dozen crabs. They were large, heavy and flavorful. We were surprised to hear they were from Louisiana instead of MD. The mozzarella moons and brussel sprouts appetizers were also delicious.“