Posted on March 21st, 2025.

 

Ocean City, Maryland, is more than just a coastal town—it's a culinary adventure waiting to be explored. From the bustling streets flanked by the open sky and vast ocean to the fragrant aromas wafting from local kitchens, every dish tells a story rooted in tradition, community, and the bounties of the sea.

With each bite, you'll be transported into a world of history and sunshine, bonding with fellow diners over treasured recipes and indulging in the flavors that make this destination one worth returning to. So come and discover the endless flavors and memories that await in this beloved coastal town.

 

Savor the Legacy: Iconic Crab Cakes

Crab cakes reign as one of the must-try dishes when visiting Ocean City. The history of crab cakes is a tale of evolution from simple means to an emblem of indulgence. Centuries ago, settlers in Maryland discovered the abundant blue crabs teeming in the waters of the Chesapeake Bay. This rich resource became a staple in their diet, leading to a multitude of crab-based dishes.

Over time, crab cakes emerged as a refined, beloved form of culinary artistry. What makes a crab cake truly iconic is its core ingredient—the succulent blue crab meat. This delicacy is adored for its subtly sweet flavor and tender texture, which, when handled with care, creates a dish that’s both deeply satisfying and comforting. You might wonder why crab cakes are among the must-try foods in Ocean City; it’s because each bite holds the essence of the sea, enveloped in a perfect blend of seasoning that enhances rather than overpowers.

Let’s not forget the pride of the locals, which you can taste in every bite of these expertly crafted crab cakes. Many families across Ocean City have passed down their secret recipes through generations, each tweak a reflection of regional flair and personal touch. When preparing crab cakes, every ingredient counts, from the high-quality crab meat to the combination of spices and the binding agents used. Traditionally, simplicity is key. The goal is to let the natural sweetness of the crab shine, whether it’s encased in a mixture of mustard, herbs, and breadcrumbs or delicately pan-seared to achieve a golden crust.

Because of this carefully preserved tradition, crab cakes have become an iconic representation of Maryland’s cultural and culinary landscape, a must-try dish when you find yourself visiting these shores.  These cakes garner international acclaim and remain a source of pride for local chefs striving to keep this maritime heritage alive.

As you wander through the eateries of Ocean City, savoring the variety of interpretations, you’ll notice how each offers its own distinct take while respecting the cultural foundation from which the dish originates.

 

Refreshing Local Elixirs: The Orange Crush

As you continue to navigate the palate of Ocean City, don't overlook a true hidden gem: the Orange Crush. Born from the sands and surf, this cocktail is a combination of fresh-squeezed orange juice, vodka, triple sec, and a splash of fizzy soda. Perfectly refreshing on a warm sunny day, this concoction captures the essence of summer in a glass.

Legend has it that this must-try Ocean City drink originated right here on the Maryland shore in the early 1990s. The simplest elements combine to create something uniquely unforgettable, embodying coastal charm and a zest for life that Ocean City locals and visitors both cherish. Sipping an Orange Crush is like taking a gulp of sunshine, its sweet and tangy profile delivering a signature taste that keeps patrons coming back for more.

Beyond its refreshing taste and cheerful color, the Orange Crush represents a rite of passage for visitors seeking an authentic Ocean City experience. You simply cannot leave the area without indulging in one of these must-try Ocean City food cocktails. Across the city, numerous local bars and restaurants pride themselves on their rendition of this popular drink, often swearing by slight variations that highlight local ingredients or techniques.

Whether you prefer your Orange Crush served in a classic cocktail glass or with a twist on tradition, such as a flavored rim or additional tropical fruit garnish, the city offers a rich variety of options. Many establishments even infuse their Orange Crushes with creative expressions of flavor, adding fruits like grapefruit, pineapple, or cranberry to craft uniquely themed variations. 

For a true taste of Ocean City, discovering the finest Orange Crush becomes an adventure in itself. Regulars might recommend you start at the bustling Boardwalk or venture into cozy bayside bars, each offering its own spin on this beloved beverage. As you explore, you will find that some of the best versions are crafted at places that cling closely to the original recipe, while others proudly flaunt their innovative flair. 

 

Beyond the Plate: Experience Ocean City’s Culinary Scene

When you're thinking about must-to-go places in Ocean City, MD, you can’t overlook the Boardwalk’s iconic Thrasher’s French Fries. These hand-cut, vinegar-spritzed delicacies have maintained their reputation as a standout since 1929. Each batch is prepared from the freshest potatoes, cooked to a perfect golden crisp, creating a snack that's nearly inseparable from a stroll down the boardwalk on a breezy afternoon.

Next on the list is Fisher’s Popcorn, a hometown staple that started with a humble pushcart back in 1937. The aroma of this freshly popped treat, enveloped in caramel or slathered in butter, tempts both locals and tourists alike. Whether you're sitting on a bench taking in the ocean views or enjoying a ride on the Ferris wheel, these sweet kernels make for an Ocean City munch.

Don't miss out on Dumser's Dairyland either; their homemade ice cream stands as a delicious beacon during hot summer days or any visit. Famed for its creamy richness and wide variety of flavors, Dumser’s ice cream is like biting into a memory of childhood summers spent by the sea.

For a dining experience that's as much about quality as it is about the view, make your way to Hooked, which is known for embracing local and sustainable seafood to curate exquisite, flavorful dishes. Their menu bursts with creativity, featuring favorites like seafood pot pie and lobster mac and cheese, providing the perfect complement to a day spent exploring the Assateague Island National Seashore or admiring the sunrise over the Ocean City Inlet.

Similarly, the Shark on the Harbor echoes this dedication to sustainability, with inventive dishes crafted daily based on the freshest catches. Situated in West Ocean City, this spot blends eclectic ambiance with panoramic harbor views, catering not just a meal but an unforgettable dining experience. 

By weaving together the best of Ocean City's gastronomy with the endless adventures awaiting you, your visit becomes an exploration of sights, tastes, and moments that make lasting memories. Each restaurant and activity inevitably stitches into your journey, making it as flavorful as the dishes served on Ocean City's endless coastal horizon.

Related: What are the Must-try Dishes of Maryland's Coastal Cuisine?

 

Our Ultimate Recommendation

As you journey through the rich culinary tapestry of Ocean City, the Assateague Bar & Grill stands ready to greet you with its own set of delights that mirror the region's celebrated flavors. Imagine sitting down to a dish that captures the essence of coastal living—a plate where local ingredients tell a story with each bite. Our menu isn’t just a collection of recipes; it is a carefully curated array that reflects the diversity and creativity of Ocean City's food scene.

Here, the local heritage is celebrated through nourishing plates of freshly caught seafood and iconic treats that have made Ocean City a gastronomic destination. Whether your appetite leans towards the savory crash of the seafood boil infused with regionally inspired spices or the delicate balance of a locally sourced salad strewn with seasonal veggies, our offerings are designed to satisfy every palate.Curious to see for yourself? Explore our menu and embark on a flavorful journey. 

Feel free to reach out at (443) 664-8158 or [email protected]. Our hope is that you leave not just with a satisfied appetite but with memories that beckon you back to our shores again and again.