5 Best Crab Cake Sandwiches in Baltimore, MD

Savoring the Top 5 Crab Cake Sandwiches in the City

When it comes to the iconic crab cake, Baltimore, Maryland, is unequivocally the epicenter. This historic port city is synonymous with blue crabs and the culinary artistry that transforms sweet, succulent lump crab meat into a sandwich that is nothing short of legendary. Whether you're a local or a visitor, finding the perfect crab cake sandwich—one that's packed with crab, minimally bound, and broiled to golden perfection—is a quintessential Baltimore experience. Here's a look at five of the city's top establishments renowned for serving up the best crab cake sandwiches around.

1. Koco's Pub

• The Vibe: Tucked away in a charming, bright yellow building, Koco's Pub is a beloved neighborhood institution that has earned a fierce reputation for its crab cakes. It's a classic pub setting with a friendly, local feel that perfectly complements its celebrated fare.
• The Crab Cake: Koco's is a must-visit for any crab cake aficionado. They specialize in a Maryland classic that strikes the perfect balance of flavors and textures. You can choose between generous four- or eight-ounce portions of their famous fried or broiled crab cakes, served with fresh vegetables and potatoes. It's a truly satisfying experience that locals rave about.
• Location: 4301 Harford Rd, Baltimore, MD 21214

2. Faidley's Seafood

• The Vibe: Stepping into Faidley's Seafood is like stepping back in time. Located in the historic Lexington Market, this standing-room-only establishment has been a Baltimore landmark for over four decades. It's always packed with a lively crowd, offering an authentic, bustling market experience.
• The Crab Cake: Faidley's is famous for its colossal, giant jumbo-lump crab cakes that are widely considered among the best in the city. Minimal filler allows the sweet crab meat to shine through. Paired with fresh raw oysters, it's a quintessential Baltimore meal in an unforgettable setting.
• Location: 203 N Paca St, Baltimore, MD 21201

3. Mama's on the Half Shell

• The Vibe: Situated in the vibrant Canton neighborhood, Mama's on the Half Shell offers a lively yet comfortable atmosphere, reminiscent of a classic East Coast oyster bar. It's an excellent spot for both a casual meal at the bar or a sit-down dinner with friends.
• The Crab Cake: Mama's consistently delivers some of the best crab cakes in Maryland. Their delicious fried crab cake is often served with a zesty mustard and seasonal sides, such as Brussels sprouts. It's a perfect blend of crispy exterior, tender interior, and rich crab flavor.
• Location: 2901 O'Donnell St, Baltimore, MD 21224

4. Costas Inn

• The Vibe: An iconic landmark destination just outside the city in Dundalk, Costas Inn has been serving up authentic Maryland seafood for generations. It's known for its welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere and its deep roots in the community.
• The Crab Cake: Costas Inn is celebrated for both its Maryland steamed crabs and its famous crab cakes. The key to their acclaimed crab cake sandwich lies in the freshness of the crab meat and their expertly crafted, homemade batter. Each bite delivers that classic, comforting taste of Maryland seafood.
• Location: 4100 North Point Blvd, Baltimore, MD 21222

5. Gertrude's Cafe

• The Vibe: Located inside the elegant Baltimore Museum of Art, Gertrude's offers a refined dining experience with a focus on regional Chesapeake cuisine. The atmosphere is sophisticated and artistic, providing a lovely backdrop for a meal.
• The Crab Cake: Chef John Shields's renowned restaurant is a top choice for a classic crab cake done right. Their "Boardwalk Crab Cake" is small but mighty, showcasing high-quality lump crab meat with minimal filler. Beyond the sandwich, don't miss their seafood salad with avocado and generous lumps of crab meat.
• Location: 10 Art Museum Dr, Baltimore, MD 21218

Baltimore's culinary heart beats to the rhythm of the Chesapeake Bay, and these five establishments proudly uphold the tradition of the perfect crab cake sandwich. Each offers a unique atmosphere and a celebrated take on this Maryland icon, ensuring that every bite is an authentic taste of Baltimore.

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