Unearth The Voyage
Baltimore knows its crab cakes. Walk into any of these spots for the first time, and you’ll quickly understand why locals keep coming back week after week.
From old-school markets to waterfront hangouts, each place has its own way of turning fresh Maryland crab into something you won’t stop thinking about. Here are 15 crab-cake destinations that make first-time visitors into lifelong fans.
1. Faidley’s Seafood (Lexington Market)
Market energy, fast-moving line, and the kind of crab cake people talk about long after they fly home. Faidley’s has been serving crab cakes at Lexington Market since 1886, making it one of the oldest seafood stands in the country.
The atmosphere is pure Baltimore: bustling, no-frills, and totally authentic.
Your crab cake arrives golden-brown, packed with jumbo lump crab, and barely held together by any filler. That’s exactly how locals like it.
You can order at the counter, grab a seat at one of the high-top tables, and enjoy your meal surrounded by the hum of market shoppers and vendors.
Many people say this is where their Baltimore crab-cake journey should begin. The simplicity is part of the charm.
There’s no fancy plating or complicated sides, just a perfectly fried or broiled crab cake that lets the seafood shine.
If you’re visiting for the first time, expect a line during lunch hours. It moves quickly, though, and the wait is always worth it.
Faidley’s has earned its reputation by staying consistent and staying true to what made it famous in the first place: really, really good crab cakes.
2. Koco’s Pub (Lauraville)
Big, bold, and famously meaty. Koco’s is a top pick when you want that “how is this mostly crab?” reaction on the first bite.
The crab cakes here are massive, weighing in at around six ounces of pure jumbo lump crab meat with almost no filler to speak of.
This neighborhood pub doesn’t try to be fancy, and that’s exactly why people love it. The vibe is relaxed and welcoming, with regulars chatting at the bar and families filling the booths.
It’s the kind of place where everyone seems to know each other, but newcomers are treated just as warmly.
Koco’s broils their crab cakes to perfection, creating a slightly crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and packed with flavor. You can order them as an appetizer, sandwich, or platter, and no matter which way you go, you’re getting serious value for your money.
One heads-up: they do occasional short seasonal closures, so it’s smart to check their hours before you go. But when they’re open, Koco’s delivers one of the best crab-cake experiences in the city.
First-timers often leave planning their next visit before they even finish eating.
3. Jimmy’s Famous Seafood (Southeast Baltimore)
A Baltimore icon for a reason: huge fan base, lots of energy, and crab cakes that are front-and-center on the menu. Jimmy’s has built a reputation not just locally, but nationally, thanks to their bold social media presence and consistently great seafood.
But behind all the buzz is a restaurant that genuinely delivers.
Their crab cakes are available in multiple styles, including a well-known gluten-free option that doesn’t compromise on taste or texture. Whether you order them fried, broiled, or as part of a larger seafood platter, you’re getting generous portions of sweet Maryland crab meat.
The seasoning is on point without overpowering the natural flavor.
Jimmy’s also has a lively, high-energy atmosphere that makes it feel like an event every time you visit. It’s a great spot for groups, celebrations, or just a fun night out with good food.
The staff is friendly and efficient, even when the place is packed.
If you’re new to Baltimore or just exploring the crab-cake scene, Jimmy’s is a must-visit. It’s the kind of place that earns its fame through consistency and quality, not just hype.
Once you try their crab cakes, you’ll understand why so many people keep coming back.
4. Thames Street Oyster House (Fells Point)
If you want a more chef-driven seafood experience and a serious crab cake, this is the move. Thames Street Oyster House brings a refined touch to Baltimore’s seafood scene without losing the soul of what makes a great crab cake.
The presentation is beautiful, often plated with seasonal touches and thoughtful sides that complement the star of the dish.
Located in the heart of historic Fells Point, the restaurant has a cozy, intimate vibe with exposed brick walls and dim lighting. It’s the kind of place where you can have a romantic dinner or celebrate something special.
Reservations are highly recommended because this spot is consistently in-demand.
The crab cakes themselves are expertly prepared, with a perfect balance of seasoning and a focus on letting the quality of the crab shine through. You’ll taste the difference that fresh, carefully sourced ingredients make.
Each bite is tender, flavorful, and satisfying in a way that feels both elevated and comforting.
Thames Street also offers an impressive oyster selection and other seafood dishes, so it’s a great spot if you want to explore more than just crab cakes. But make no mistake, the crab cakes alone are worth the visit.
This is where food lovers go when they want Baltimore tradition with a chef’s touch.
5. Costas Inn (Dundalk / East Baltimore area)
A legendary crab-house vibe with a loyal following. This is one of those places where locals speak in confident sentences like “just get the crab cake.” Costas Inn has been serving seafood to the Dundalk community for decades, and it shows in every aspect of the experience, from the no-nonsense service to the perfectly seasoned crab cakes.
The atmosphere here is casual and authentic, with paper-covered tables and a laid-back crowd that knows exactly what they came for. You won’t find fancy decor or trendy menu items.
What you will find is honest, delicious seafood prepared the way it’s been done for years.
Costas’ crab cakes are generously sized and loaded with jumbo lump crab meat. They’re available fried or broiled, and both versions are excellent.
The filler is minimal, letting the sweet taste of the crab take center stage. Pair your crab cake with classic sides like coleslaw or fries, and you’ve got a meal that hits all the right notes.
If you’re looking for a true Baltimore crab-house experience, Costas Inn delivers every time. It’s the kind of place that turns skeptical first-timers into believers and believers into regulars who bring their friends and family back again and again.
6. G&M Restaurant & Lounge (Linthicum Heights)
Technically just outside the city, but firmly in the “Baltimore crab cake conversation.” People come specifically for the crab cakes, and they make it easy to do dine-in or carryout. G&M has earned a spot on nearly every “best crab cakes” list for good reason: they’re enormous, delicious, and incredibly consistent.
Each crab cake weighs about eight ounces and is packed with jumbo lump crab meat. There’s barely any filler, which means you’re getting pure crab flavor in every single bite.
They’re broiled to golden perfection, with a slightly crispy outside and a tender, sweet interior that melts in your mouth.
The restaurant itself has a comfortable, family-friendly atmosphere with booth seating and attentive service. It’s popular with locals and travelers alike, especially those flying in or out of nearby BWI Airport.
Many people make G&M their first or last stop on a Baltimore trip.
If you can’t dine in, their carryout service is efficient and well-organized. The crab cakes travel well, so you can enjoy them at home or even take them on the road.
Whether you’re a first-timer or a longtime fan, G&M delivers a crab-cake experience that’s hard to beat. It’s no wonder people keep coming back.
7. Pappas Restaurant & Sports Bar (Parkville)
A Baltimore-area staple with a long-running reputation for a big, signature crab cake. Pappas is very “bring the whole crew” friendly, making it a classic regular-making spot for families, friend groups, and sports fans.
The atmosphere is lively and relaxed, with TVs lining the walls and a menu that has something for everyone.
Their crab cakes are a major draw, known for being generously sized and packed with sweet, tender crab meat. Whether you order them as an appetizer to share or as your main dish, you’re getting serious bang for your buck.
The seasoning is traditional and balanced, letting the quality of the crab speak for itself.
Pappas has that neighborhood-favorite feel where regulars are greeted by name and newcomers are made to feel right at home. The service is friendly and efficient, even during busy game nights or weekend dinners.
It’s the kind of place where you can enjoy great food without any pretense.
If you’re looking for a spot that combines excellent crab cakes with a fun, easygoing vibe, Pappas hits the mark. It’s perfect for casual gatherings, family dinners, or just a night out when you’re craving Baltimore’s best.
First-timers quickly understand why this place has such a dedicated following.
8. L.P. Steamers (Locust Point)
Come for the neighborhood seafood-house feel, stay for the full Baltimore experience. If you want your crab cake in a place that feels distinctly local and not touristy, this is a strong bet.
L.P. Steamers is tucked into the Locust Point neighborhood, offering a casual, welcoming atmosphere that locals have loved for years.
The crab cakes here are prepared with care and packed with jumbo lump crab meat. They’re available broiled or fried, and both versions are fantastic.
The broiled option has a beautiful golden crust, while the fried version adds a satisfying crunch without overshadowing the delicate crab flavor inside.
Beyond the crab cakes, L.P. Steamers offers a full menu of seafood favorites, including steamed crabs, shrimp, and oysters.
It’s the kind of place where you can make a whole meal out of exploring different dishes, or you can keep it simple and focus on what they do best: crab cakes.
The vibe is laid-back and friendly, with a mix of regulars and visitors who’ve heard the buzz. Service is attentive without being overbearing, and the staff genuinely seems to care about your experience.
If you’re exploring Baltimore and want a taste of authentic local seafood culture, L.P. Steamers should be on your list.
9. Nick’s Fish House (Baltimore Peninsula)
Waterfront energy, lots of seafood cravings happening at once, and “famous crab cakes” right in the house identity. Nick’s Fish House is a go-to when you want crab-cake vibes plus a view.
Situated along the water, the restaurant offers outdoor seating where you can enjoy your meal with a breeze and a beautiful backdrop.
The crab cakes are a signature item, made with jumbo lump crab and minimal filler. They’re broiled to perfection, with a light seasoning that enhances rather than hides the natural sweetness of the crab.
Each bite is tender and flavorful, living up to the “famous” label that Nick’s proudly uses.
The atmosphere is lively and fun, especially during warmer months when the outdoor patio is packed with diners enjoying seafood and drinks. It’s a popular spot for groups, celebrations, and casual get-togethers.
The menu is extensive, so even if someone in your party isn’t in the mood for crab cakes, they’ll find plenty of other options.
Nick’s Fish House strikes a great balance between being a destination restaurant and a comfortable neighborhood spot. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the combination of great food, waterfront views, and welcoming service makes it easy to see why people keep returning.
10. Rusty Scupper (Inner Harbor)
Go here when you want a more “dress it up” crab-cake meal: harbor views, polished service, and Maryland crab cakes as a menu cornerstone. Rusty Scupper offers an upscale dining experience right on the Inner Harbor, making it perfect for special occasions, business dinners, or anytime you want to elevate your crab-cake experience.
The views alone are worth the visit. Floor-to-ceiling windows overlook the harbor, giving you a stunning backdrop whether you’re dining for lunch or dinner.
The interior is elegant and comfortable, with attentive service that makes you feel taken care of from the moment you walk in.
As for the crab cakes, they’re prepared with the same care and quality you’d expect from a high-end seafood restaurant. Jumbo lump crab meat is the star, with just enough seasoning and binder to hold it together.
The result is a crab cake that’s both refined and satisfying, living up to Maryland’s reputation for excellence.
Rusty Scupper also offers an extensive menu with other seafood dishes, steaks, and seasonal specials. It’s a great choice if you’re dining with people who have different tastes.
But if you’re there for the crab cakes, you won’t be disappointed. This is where you go when you want the full package: great food, great views, and a memorable dining experience.
11. Mama’s on the Half Shell (Canton)
A local favorite that keeps crab cakes in steady rotation and gives you lots of ways to order them: starter, entree, brunch-style, and more. Mama’s on the Half Shell is a Canton neighborhood gem known for its creative approach to seafood and its commitment to using fresh, quality ingredients.
The crab cakes here are versatile and delicious. You can enjoy them as an appetizer to share, order them as your main course, or even have them for brunch paired with eggs and other breakfast favorites.
No matter when or how you order them, they’re consistently excellent, with generous portions of jumbo lump crab meat and a light, flavorful seasoning.
The restaurant has a fun, eclectic vibe with colorful decor and a lively atmosphere. It’s popular with locals who appreciate the creative menu and the friendly, laid-back service.
The staff is knowledgeable and happy to make recommendations based on your preferences.
Mama’s also offers a great selection of oysters, other seafood dishes, and creative cocktails, making it a fun spot for a night out or a weekend brunch. The flexibility of the menu means you can visit multiple times and have a completely different experience each time.
It’s the kind of place that earns regulars by being consistently good and always welcoming.
12. Sip & Bite (Canton)
A long-running diner where the move is simple: keep it classic, add a crab cake, and leave happy. Perfect for a low-key “how did I not know about this?” stop.
Sip & Bite has been serving the Canton community for decades, and it’s earned a loyal following thanks to its unpretentious approach and consistently good food.
This is a 24-hour diner, so you can satisfy your crab-cake craving any time of day or night. The menu is extensive, with everything from breakfast classics to Greek specialties to Maryland seafood.
But the crab cakes are a standout, made with real jumbo lump crab meat and cooked just right.
The atmosphere is pure diner: vinyl booths, Formica tables, and a counter where you can watch the kitchen in action. It’s the kind of place where regulars sit in the same spot every time and the staff remembers their orders.
But newcomers are always welcome, and the friendly service makes everyone feel at home.
Sip & Bite is perfect for those moments when you want a great crab cake without any fuss or formality. It’s affordable, accessible, and reliably delicious.
Whether you’re stopping by after a night out or grabbing lunch on a lazy afternoon, this diner delivers exactly what you’re looking for.
13. Gertrude’s Chesapeake Kitchen (Baltimore Museum of Art)
Crab cakes in a museum setting. Yes, really.
It’s one of the most uniquely Baltimore ways to do the dish, and a great pick for out-of-towners who want an “experience,” not just a plate. Gertrude’s is located inside the Baltimore Museum of Art, offering a refined dining experience that celebrates Chesapeake Bay cuisine with a chef-driven approach.
The restaurant is named after chef John Shields’ grandmother, Gertrude, and the menu reflects a deep respect for Maryland’s culinary traditions. The crab cakes are made with locally sourced jumbo lump crab meat and prepared with care and expertise.
They’re beautifully plated and bursting with flavor, offering a taste of the Chesapeake that’s both authentic and elevated.
Dining at Gertrude’s means you can combine your meal with a visit to the museum, making it a perfect outing for art lovers and foodies alike. The setting is elegant and peaceful, with large windows overlooking the museum’s sculpture garden.
It’s a far cry from the bustling crab houses and dives, but it’s no less authentic in its celebration of Maryland seafood.
If you’re looking for a crab-cake experience that’s a little different, Gertrude’s delivers. It’s ideal for a special lunch, a pre-show dinner, or anytime you want to enjoy excellent food in a beautiful, culturally rich setting.
14. Kooper’s Tavern (Fells Point)
A harbor-neighborhood hangout where the crab cake is a consistent go-to. Great if you want a strong crab cake without making it a whole formal “seafood night.” Kooper’s Tavern is a Fells Point favorite known for its relaxed vibe, solid menu, and welcoming atmosphere that draws both locals and visitors.
The crab cakes here are reliable and delicious, made with jumbo lump crab meat and just enough seasoning to bring out the natural flavor. They’re available as an appetizer or entree, and both options are generously portioned.
Whether you’re stopping in for a casual lunch or meeting friends for dinner, the crab cakes are always a safe and satisfying choice.
Kooper’s has a lively, neighborhood-tavern feel with a long bar, comfortable seating, and a menu that goes beyond seafood. You’ll find burgers, sandwiches, salads, and other American classics, making it a great spot for groups with different tastes.
The atmosphere is friendly and unpretentious, perfect for a laid-back meal.
Located in the heart of Fells Point, Kooper’s is also a convenient stop if you’re exploring the area’s cobblestone streets, shops, and waterfront. It’s the kind of place where you can enjoy a great crab cake without any fuss or formality, and that’s exactly what keeps people coming back time and time again.
15. The Avenue Kitchen & Bar (Hampden)
Hampden energy plus crab cakes, including mini crab cakes and crab-cake dishes depending on the menu. A fun pick when you’re mixing crab-cake cravings with exploring a walkable neighborhood.
The Avenue Kitchen & Bar brings a modern, neighborhood-bistro vibe to the quirky Hampden area, known for its vintage shops, street art, and eclectic community.
The menu here is creative and seasonal, with crab cakes often featured in different formats. You might find them as sliders, full-sized entrees, or even incorporated into other dishes.
The kitchen takes a fresh approach while respecting Maryland tradition, using quality ingredients and thoughtful preparation to create something both familiar and exciting.
The atmosphere is stylish yet comfortable, with a mix of bar seating, booths, and tables. It’s a popular spot for brunch, lunch, and dinner, and the crowd reflects Hampden’s diverse, creative community.
The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, happy to guide you through the menu and make recommendations.
The Avenue is a great choice when you want a crab-cake experience that feels a little more contemporary and adventurous. Pair your meal with a craft cocktail or local beer, then spend some time exploring the neighborhood.
It’s the kind of spot that gives you a taste of both Baltimore tradition and the city’s evolving culinary scene.
