A Guide to 11 of Maryland's Best Oyster Houses

What Makes Maryland Oysters Special?

The Chesapeake Bay's unique ecosystem, with its mix of saltwater from the Atlantic and freshwater from its many tributaries, creates ideal growing conditions for oysters. This results in oysters with a distinctive flavor profile—often a perfect balance of salty, briny, and subtly sweet.

Top 11 Oyster Destinations in Maryland:

1. Thames Street Oyster House (Baltimore, MD):
   • The Experience: A premier seafood destination in historic Fells Point, Thames Street Oyster House is renowned for its extensive and meticulously sourced raw bar, featuring a wide variety of Maryland and other East Coast oysters.
   • The Vibe: An upscale yet lively tavern atmosphere with beautiful harbor views. Reservations are highly recommended for this popular spot.
2. Dylan's Oyster Cellar (Baltimore, MD):
   • The Experience: Located in the Hampden neighborhood, Dylan's Oyster Cellar is a beloved spot known for its high-quality raw bar and creative seafood dishes in an intimate, neighborhood setting.
   • The Vibe: A cozy and inviting restaurant perfect for a date night or a relaxed evening enjoying expertly shucked oysters and a great wine list.
3. True Chesapeake Oyster Co. (Baltimore, MD):
   • The Experience: This unique restaurant, located in a historic former mill, takes the "bay-to-table" concept to heart by farming its own oysters at a nearby aquaculture farm. True Chesapeake Oyster Co. offers a true taste of the local ecosystem.
   • The Vibe: A stunning, industrial-chic space that combines a restaurant, bar, and event venue.
4. Boatyard Bar & Grill (Annapolis, MD):
   • The Experience: A bustling and iconic Annapolis establishment, the Boatyard Bar & Grill is famous for its lively atmosphere and fantastic seafood. Their raw bar is a central feature, serving up fresh local oysters.
   • The Vibe: A fun, nautical-themed restaurant and bar that's a favorite hangout for sailors, locals, and visitors to the state capital.
5. Ryleigh's Oyster (Hunt Valley, MD):
   • The Experience: A long-standing name in the Baltimore-area oyster scene, Ryleigh's Oyster continues to serve a great selection of fresh oysters and seafood in its Hunt Valley location.
   • The Vibe: A comfortable and classic oyster bar and restaurant, perfect for enjoying happy hour specials or a full seafood dinner.
6. Woodberry Kitchen (Baltimore, MD):
   • The Experience: While not exclusively a seafood spot, James Beard Award-winning Chef Spike Gjerde's Woodberry Kitchen is a pioneer of Mid-Atlantic, farm-to-table cuisine. When oysters are on the menu, they are sourced from local Chesapeake purveyors and are often prepared in unique ways, like being roasted in a wood-fired oven.
   • The Vibe: A stunning restaurant housed in a restored 19th-century mill, offering a rustic and sophisticated dining experience.
7. The Crab Claw Restaurant (St. Michaels, MD):
   • The Experience: A classic Eastern Shore seafood house, The Crab Claw has been serving fresh seafood on the St. Michaels harbor for over 50 years. While famous for steamed crabs, they also serve delicious, fresh local oysters.
   • The Vibe: A casual, no-frills, waterfront restaurant where you can enjoy seafood on the deck while watching the boats go by.
8. Awful Arthur's Seafood Company (St. Michaels, MD):
   • The Experience: Another St. Michaels favorite, Awful Arthur's offers a great raw bar with a variety of fresh oysters and other seafood in a relaxed pub atmosphere.
   • The Vibe: A fun and casual spot perfect for grabbing a dozen oysters and a cold beer after a day of exploring the charming town.
9. Waterman's Crab House (Rock Hall, MD):
   • The Experience: Located in the quintessential Chesapeake Bay town of Rock Hall, Waterman's Crab House provides an authentic Eastern Shore seafood experience right on the water.
   • The Vibe: A laid-back restaurant and dock bar where you can enjoy fresh-shucked raw or steamed oysters with beautiful harbor views.
10. The Jetty Restaurant and Dock Bar (Grasonville, MD):
    • The Experience: Situated at Kent Narrows, The Jetty is a lively spot with a large outdoor dock bar and beach area. They are known for their fun atmosphere, live music, and great seafood.
    • The Vibe: A perfect summer hangout for enjoying oysters and drinks while taking in the waterfront scene.
11. Old Salty's Restaurant (Fishing Creek, MD):
    • The Experience: For a truly off-the-beaten-path adventure, head to Old Salty's on remote Hoopers Island. This restaurant serves seafood straight from the boats of local watermen.
    • The Vibe: An authentic taste of the Chesapeake watermen's culture. Their oysters are as fresh as they come, served in a simple, welcoming setting surrounded by water.

Maryland's oyster scene is as rich and diverse as the Chesapeake Bay itself. From the sophisticated raw bars of Baltimore and the lively pubs of Annapolis to the rustic, waterfront shacks of the Eastern Shore, there is a perfect oyster experience waiting for every palate. Exploring these top-tier destinations is the best way to savor the unique, briny, and delicious taste of a true Maryland oyster.