IF THE PANDEMIC HAMPERED YOUR TRAVELS and you haven’t cruised the Chesapeake Bay for a while, then welcome back to its sunny shores. While you were away, the oyster and rockfish populations blossomed, and blue crabs grew plump in the shallow marshlands. During the past few years, quite a few new restaurants have opened and tapped into the cornucopia of fine local seafood. Some innovative chefs grace plates with creative flavors and ingredients, while others take a traditional path with family recipes handed down for generations by watermen’s wives. Many concoct ways to consume invasive species, such as the blue catfish and northern snakehead, but eateries that nail up a sign declaring “Steamed Maryland Crabs!” attract the most attention. To help you rediscover the bounty of the Bay, Marinalife has handpicked 10 terrific crab shacks and seafood houses for you to explore.
THE CHOPTANK Baltimore, MD
In the heart of the historic Fells Point district, The Choptank has risen from the foundation of the 200-year-old Broadway Market. Its menu reads like a culinary voyage around the Chesapeake Bay with steamed crabs, just-shucked oysters, tender mussels, crab soup and fried chicken. On the spacious outdoor deck, sample 20 draft beers while live bands play tunes, and the stars twinkle above the urban skyline. thechoptankbaltimore.com Where to Dock: The Sagamore Pendry Hotel & Dock
Maryland
WATERSHED Baltimore, MD
BOWLEYS ON THE BAY BAR & RESTAURANT Middle River, MD For a tropical getaway without long-distance travel, Bowleys on the Bay has created a resort destination groove on Frog Mortar Creek in Baltimore County. Push your toes into the sand on 300 feet of beach surrounded by palm trees while sipping a rummy cocktail and listening to a steel drum band. You can watch boats glide into Long Beach Marina or see planes take flight at Martin State Airport as you nibble on fresh local seafood, hearty sandwiches, and meat dishes. bowleysonthebay.com Where to Dock: Long Beach Marina
It’s hard to say what Baltimore loves more — seafood or sports. But if you’d like to indulge in both, head over to
Watershed in the Federal Hill neighborhood, which is in easy
walking distance from Orioles Park and the Ravens’ M&T Bank Stadium. A menu laced with classic dishes
Bowleys on the Bay
Choptank
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SUMMER 2022
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