From upscale waterfront dining to casual crab shacks, Ocean City delivers fresh catches and Chesapeake classics at every turn. Here are the ten must-visit seafood restaurants where locals and visitors alike line up for crab cakes, oysters, and unforgettable bay views.
Table of Contents
8. Hooked Seafood on the Beach
1. Sunset Grille
Perched on the bayside dock, Sunset Grille offers panoramic water vistas alongside upscale seafood fare . Signature dishes include jumbo lump crab cakes, seared sea scallops, and the catch‑of‑the‑day specials, all paired with an extensive wine list and craft cocktails. The romantic ambiance and live acoustic music make it a top date‑night destination .
2. Tide Room
Located in the heart of West Ocean City, the Tide Room specializes in farm‑to‑dock seafood, showcasing locally harvested oysters, mussels, and flounder . The minimalist décor highlights its raw bar, where guests watch oysters shucked to order. Seasonal menu rotations and chef‑driven small plates set this spot apart .
3. Delmarva Boil Company
For a hands‑on feast, Delmarva Boil Company steams up Old Bay‑seasoned crab boils in shareable seafood towers . The casual, family‑friendly atmosphere encourages groups to dive into buckets of shellfish, while live DJs and yard games keep the vibe festive .
4. Captain’s Table Restaurant
A mainstay since 1960, Captain’s Table delivers classic Maryland seafood in a refined setting. Patrons rave about the perfectly seasoned crab cakes, rich lobster bisque, and pan‑seared tuna. Their commitment to using fish landed daily from local docks ensures unparalleled freshness .
5. Higgins Crab House
Renowned for Maryland‑style crab dinners, Higgins Crab House sources live blue crabs daily from local fishermen . Their signature all‑you‑can‑eat crab feast comes with drawn butter, coleslaw, and cornbread, making it a must‑try for crab aficionados .
6. Shark on the Harbor
Shark on the Harbor combines contemporary cuisine with sustainable sourcing, featuring organic produce and locally caught seafood . Highlights include sushi‑grade tuna poké, lobster mac‑n‑cheese, and seasonal fish tacos. The chic ambiance and harbor views elevate every meal.
7. BLU Crabhouse & Raw Bar
Family‑owned BLU Crabhouse & Raw Bar focuses on Eastern Shore classics with an eclectic twist. Their raw bar features East and West Coast oysters, while hot dishes include crab nachos and steamed littleneck clams. The laid‑back, welcoming atmosphere makes it a local favorite.
8. Hooked Seafood on the Beach
Perched right on the sand, Hooked Seafood on the Beach serves coastal comfort fare with sweeping ocean views. Signature dishes include coconut‑crusted shrimp, fish tacos, and the daily catch sandwich. Its barefoot‑casual vibe and beachfront seating are perfect for sunset dinners.
9. Waterman’s Seafood Co.
Waterman’s Seafood Co. blends Eastern Shore tradition with a laid‑back sports‑bar atmosphere . Dishes feature jumbo crabcakes, crab pretzel bites, and signature crab dip. Live music and big‑screen sports add to the lively, casual experience .
10. On the Bay Seafood
For a true local market experience, On the Bay Seafood offers fresh‑catch markets and a small dine‑in counter . Patrons pick seafood straight off the boats, then choose cooking styles—steamed, grilled, or blackened. Their emphasis on freshness and simplicity keeps seafood purists returning .
Each of these seafood restaurants highlights Ocean City’s coastal heritage and commitment to fresh, local ingredients—ensuring your next meal is as memorable as the view. Enjoy!
