Posted on July 12th, 2024.

Imagine launching into a culinary adventure where each meal feels like a delectable journey through the heart of Maryland’s coastal gems. While seafood is undoubtedly the star, the ambiance of each spot you visit plays a major role in enhancing your dining experience.

From the bustling vibes of boardwalk favorites to serene waterfront escapes, every restaurant offers something unique, etching a lasting memory with every bite.

The essence of Maryland's seafood scene isn't just in the food; it's in the stories behind each dish, the local traditions upheld, and the way these eateries frame their menus around the fresh catch of the day.

Take a casual yet iconic boardwalk stop where comfort food meets seaside charm. Known for their crispy, flavorful fries, this spot also offers seafood that mirrors the coastal freshness Maryland is known for.

The sun setting over the Atlantic, combined with the family-friendly atmosphere, creates moments where great food and beautiful views intertwine seamlessly.

Then, there's the vibrance of Ocean City venues celebrated not just for their mouth-watering dishes but also for the stunning natural backdrops they provide. A meal here goes beyond a plate of food – it’s a combination of flavors, sights, and sounds that create a full sensory experience.

Or perhaps, you prefer a more intimate setting where history and culinary artistry unite. Picture dining in a former movie theater turned restaurant, where every corner whispers tales of the past, yet the menu is brimming with forward-thinking seafood creations.

This is where fresh, locally sourced ingredients meet innovative cooking, all set against a backdrop of live performances. Meanwhile, in the heart of quaint towns like Berlin, you’ll find spots that capture the pure simplicity and nostalgia of Maryland's fishing heritage.

Whether it’s watching fishermen at work as you dine or savoring dishes that capture the essence of the sea, each of these places offers a slice of Maryland life that’s deliciously inviting and soaked in tradition.

A Taste of The Best: Top Seafood Restaurants in Maryland

With a rich variety of seafood restaurants Maryland has to offer, one cannot overlook the unrivaled coastal experiences found in Ocean City.

Notably, Thrasher's French Fries, though famous for its crispy fries, is a staple must-visit location along the boardwalk. Complementing their well-loved fries, Thrasher’s boasts fresh local seafood, including perfectly seasoned shrimp and delicate soft-shell crabs. The relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere, paired with the salty ocean breeze, makes it an ideal spot for casual dining with grand views of the Atlantic.

Another gem among the best seafood restaurants Maryland is Fager's Island in Ocean City. Renowned for its breath-taking sunsets and eclectic menus, Fager’s Island provides a memorable dining experience. Their raw bar offers an array of fresh oysters sourced directly from the Chesapeake Bay, and the succulent crab cakes are a house specialty, made with generous lumps of crab meat and minimal filler.

Coupled with live music and a scenic waterfront setting, dining here feels more like an event rather than just a meal. This makes it a perfect place for date night or special celebrations.

In Berlin, you absolutely have to try The Globe. Housed in a former movie theater, The Globe offers an artistic and laid-back ambiance that’s perfect for an intimate meal or a fun night out. While its interior brims with historic charm, its menu is all about fresh, inventive seafood dishes.

Picture yourself savoring their signature seafood tower, stacked high with an assortment of clams, lobster tails, and crab legs, each bite echoing the dedication to freshness. Additionally, The Globe regularly features live performances, ensuring that your visit is both flavorful and entertaining.

Dockside Dining: The Charm of Waterfront Seafood in Maryland

Yet, for a more relaxed experience steeped in maritime tradition, consider heading to the rustic harbor town of West Ocean City, where waterfront seafood dining takes on an almost nostalgic charm.

Marina Deck Restaurant is a prime location to savor the tastes of Maryland while soaking in the serene views of the commercial fishing harbor. Their extensive menu showcases local favorites such as broiled rockfish, fresh-off-the-boat scallops, and the ever-popular Old Bay-spiced steamed blue crabs.

As you enjoy your meal, you may spot local fishermen hauling in their daily catches, which truly emphasizes the authenticity and freshness of your seafood. This laid-back, open-air eatery also offers kid-friendly options and a casual, seaside atmosphere that lets you unwind and savor the flavors without any pretense. The sunsets over the marina are priceless, casting a beautiful glow across the water and enhancing your dining experience.

Furthering your exploration of waterfront seafood Maryland, The Lighthouse Sound in Bishopville is another exquisite choice. Situated along the St. Martin River, this restaurant pairs stunning panoramic views with an elevated dining experience. Imagine facing the serene waters as you delve into their signature dishes like the plump, savory scallops drizzled in a lemon-butter sauce or their rich, creamy crab soup.

Whether you choose to sit outside on the spacious deck or dine indoors with large windows framing the scenic outdoors, the ambiance is refined yet comfortably inviting. The Lighthouse Sound’s attention to detail is evident not just in their sophisticated plating but also in the freshness of every bite, making it the perfect spot for those special occasions or simply treating yourself to an exquisite meal on the coast.

Travel just a bit further and you’ll find yourself in the charming town of Ocean Pines at the Ocean Pines Yacht Club, where nautical ambiance meets culinary excellence. Overlooking the Isle of Wight Bay, the Yacht Club offers a seasonal menu filled with locally sourced seafood. An ever-changing array of dishes ensures that every visit offers something new, whether it’s the robust flavor of their herb-encrusted salmon or the classic Maryland crab dip paired with warm pretzel bread.

The open pop-up dining concept provides both an intimate and communal experience perfect for family gatherings or catching up with friends. Also, the live entertainment and weekly events make it a lively waterfront dining destination where good food and great company go hand in hand. So next time you’re pondering where to eat seafood in Maryland, let these delightful destinations guide you to an unforgettable waterfront meal.

The Perfect Pair: Maryland Seafood Menus and Cold Beer

Your next stop on this gastronomic journey through Maryland’s seafood scene should be the Assateague Bar & Grill. Situated conveniently, this restaurant seamlessly marries delectable Maryland seafood menus with the very essence of local craft brews. The menu gleams with treasures like crabby pretzels, featuring freshly caught crab meat paired with gooey, melted cheese served over a warm pretzel, making it a delight to share or savor alone.

Their seared sea scallops stand out, cooked to perfection and kissed by a delicate lemon butter sauce conjuring memories of ocean sprays. What amplifies these culinary masterpieces is the selection of cold beer Maryland’s local breweries have on offer. The crisp and refreshing notes of a cold lager create a harmony with the delicate flavors of seafood, enhancing each bite and sip.

At Assateague Bar & Grill, you can dive into a Maryland seafood dining experience with a chilled pint of Assawoman Bay IPA or Fun in the Sun pale ale, acting as perfect companions to your seafood feast.

Not far, head over to Macky’s Bayside Bar & Grill in Ocean City, where the fusion of fresh seafood and cold beer sets the stage for memorable evenings. The venue’s bustling vibe is mirrored in their lively seafood offerings, with crab dip taking a front seat paired effortlessly with a can of Eastern Shore’s very own Crab Claw Pilsner.

The creamy, spiced dip contrasts delightfully with the crisp, clean beer, creating a symphony of flavors you won’t soon forget. For a more traditional pairing, opt for the beer-battered fish and chips. Each crunchy bite followed by a swig of local Fin City Brewing Co’s Hook, Line, and Lager completes the crispy texture.

The waterfront views add that magical touch as you enjoy the cool breeze, making it a quintessential seafood dining Maryland experience. The combination of stellar seafood and inviting lagers keeps you coming back for more, proving that, indeed, cold beer and Maryland seafood menus are a match made in culinary heaven.

Related: https://abarngrill.com/blog/assateague-adventure-a-visitors-guide-to-assateague-island

Wrapping Up

Maryland's seafood scene offers a diverse and unforgettable dining experience, with each restaurant showcasing its own unique charm and flavors. Whether you're enjoying a casual meal on the boardwalk, taking in the stunning views at a waterfront venue, or indulging in a more intimate setting, the seafood in Maryland is always fresh and full of tradition.

Your immersive journey through Maryland’s coastal culinary offerings wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the essence of what our very own Assateague Bar & Grill brings to the table. Here, the menu is a tapestry woven with the finest local ingredients, each dish carefully crafted to highlight the unparalleled richness of Maryland’s seafood.

From the enticing allure of our seared sea scallops bathed in a lemon-butter sauce to the comfort of our beloved crabby pretzels, there’s something to tantalize every palate. We invite you to explore our diverse menu, brimming with fresh, local catches and unique culinary creations designed to elevate your dining experience.

Contact Us Now!

Reach us at +1 (443) 664 8158 or contact@abarngrill.com. Your culinary adventure awaits at Assateague Bar & Grill, where every dish tells a story of the sea and every meal is a celebration of Maryland’s rich maritime heritage.