Top 10 Most Famous Restaurants in Maryland (Currently Open)
Maryland is a food lover’s paradise, brimming with bold flavors, coastal charm, and culinary creativity. From the Chesapeake Bay’s iconic crab cakes to elegant fine-dining experiences, the Old Line State offers a dining scene as diverse as its landscape. Whether you’re a local on the hunt for something new or a visitor looking to experience authentic Maryland cuisine, this list highlights the top 10 most famous restaurants in Maryland that are currently open and serving up unforgettable meals.
Faidley’s Seafood – A Baltimore Classic for Crab Cake Lovers
If there’s one restaurant synonymous with Maryland seafood, it’s Faidley’s Seafood in Baltimore’s historic Lexington Market. Founded in 1886, Faidley’s has earned legendary status for its jumbo lump crab cakes, widely regarded as some of the best in the state.
Why it’s famous:
Faidley’s represents the heart and soul of Maryland seafood. Every bite of their golden-brown crab cake reflects generations of tradition and craftsmanship.
What to try:
Jumbo lump crab cake (a must!)
Fresh oysters and clams
Crab soup and seafood platters
Insider tip: Grab your meal and eat standing at the counter, just like the locals have done for over a century.
Charleston – Elegant Dining in Baltimore’s Harbor East
When it comes to fine dining, Charleston sets the standard. Owned by Chef Cindy Wolf, this upscale restaurant has earned national acclaim for its refined blend of Lowcountry cuisine and Mid-Atlantic ingredients.
Why it’s famous:
Charleston has won multiple awards, including recognition from the James Beard Foundation, for its exceptional menu and wine program.
What to try:
Tasting menu with wine pairings
Shrimp and grits
Duck confit with seasonal vegetables
Vibe: Elegant yet inviting. Perfect for special occasions or romantic dinners overlooking the harbor.
Woodberry Kitchen – Farm-to-Table Done Right
Tucked inside a beautifully restored 19th-century mill in Baltimore, Woodberry Kitchen is the creation of Chef Spike Gjerde, a James Beard Award winner. This spot redefined the region’s farm-to-table movement and remains one of Maryland’s top destinations for locally sourced dining.
Why it’s famous:
The restaurant focuses exclusively on Mid-Atlantic farms and producers, making every dish a celebration of the local landscape.
What to try:
Roasted chicken with farm vegetables
Local cheese board
Seasonal cocktails crafted with house-made syrups
Vibe: Rustic-chic and cozy, with an emphasis on sustainability and comfort.
Miss Shirley’s Café – Maryland’s Brunch Darling
If brunch is your favorite meal of the day, Miss Shirley’s Café is your dream come true. With locations in Baltimore and Annapolis, it’s one of Maryland’s most popular spots for hearty Southern-inspired breakfast and brunch.
Why it’s famous:
Miss Shirley’s combines family-friendly hospitality with mouthwatering comfort food featuring Maryland seafood twists.
What to try:
Crab cake eggs Benedict
Chicken and waffles
Cinnamon roll pancakes
Tip: Expect a crowd on weekends—arrive early or make a reservation.
The Crab Claw Restaurant – St. Michaels’ Waterfront Gem
Located on the scenic Eastern Shore in St. Michaels, The Crab Claw Restaurant has been serving fresh seafood since 1965. It’s the quintessential Maryland crab house experience—with unbeatable views of the Miles River.
Why it’s famous:
It’s a beloved stop for visitors exploring the Chesapeake Bay region, serving Old Bay–seasoned seafood straight from the water.
What to try:
Steamed blue crabs
Crab dip with pretzel bread
Fried shrimp baskets
Vibe: Casual, laid-back, and perfect for outdoor dining in the warmer months.
Attman’s Delicatessen – A Baltimore Deli Legend
Founded in 1915, Attman’s Delicatessen is a time capsule of Baltimore’s historic “Corned Beef Row.” It’s the place for anyone craving authentic Jewish deli fare made the traditional way.
Why it’s famous:
Attman’s is one of the oldest family-run delis in the U.S. and continues to attract visitors for its stacked sandwiches and warm, old-school charm.
What to try:
Corned beef sandwich on rye
Pastrami Reuben
Matzo ball soup
Vibe: Casual and nostalgic—a true slice of Baltimore history.
The Black Olive – Mediterranean Elegance in Fells Point
For a more refined yet relaxed dining experience, The Black Olive in Baltimore’s Fells Point offers exquisite Greek-inspired cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood and simple, high-quality ingredients.
Why it’s famous:
Known for its sophisticated flavors and extensive wine list, this family-run spot is a favorite among both locals and travelers.
What to try:
Whole grilled Mediterranean fish
Lamb chops with oregano and olive oil
Baklava for dessert
Vibe: Romantic and warm, ideal for date nights or intimate dinners.
Founding Farmers – A Potomac Favorite
Just outside Washington, D.C., Founding Farmers in Potomac delivers hearty farm-to-table fare in a comfortable, welcoming setting. Though it’s part of a small chain, this Maryland location has carved out its own reputation for excellence.
Why it’s famous:
It’s a sustainability-driven restaurant co-owned by American family farmers, serving delicious comfort food with a modern twist.
What to try:
Chicken and waffles
Deviled eggs sampler
Shrimp and grits
Vibe: Casual yet polished—perfect for brunch with friends or a weekday lunch.
Magdalena – Modern European Flair in Baltimore
Located inside The Ivy Hotel, Magdalena offers one of Maryland’s most refined dining experiences. The menu seamlessly blends French, English, and Mid-Atlantic influences, making it both global and local.
Why it’s famous:
The restaurant’s reputation for artistry and impeccable service makes it one of the top destinations for fine dining in Baltimore.
What to try:
Seasonal tasting menu
Foie gras with Maryland apple compote
Chesapeake oyster appetizers
Vibe: Elegant, modern, and intimate—ideal for those who appreciate culinary creativity.
Thames Street Oyster House – The Heart of Harbor Seafood
Set along Baltimore’s picturesque waterfront, Thames Street Oyster House is the ultimate destination for oyster enthusiasts and seafood lovers. It’s a go-to for visitors wanting a true taste of Maryland’s maritime heritage.
Why it’s famous:
It’s consistently recognized as one of the best seafood restaurants in the Mid-Atlantic, known for its incredible oyster selection and harbor views.
What to try:
Raw oyster sampler
Lobster roll
Maryland-style crab cakes
Vibe: Upscale casual, with a lively waterfront atmosphere. Reserve early for dinner—especially if you want a table by the windows.
Maryland’s Culinary Soul: A Delicious Conclusion
From century-old seafood markets to chic harborfront restaurants, Maryland’s dining scene tells a story of tradition, innovation, and pride. Whether you’re cracking open crabs on the Eastern Shore or savoring a fine-dining tasting menu in Baltimore, each restaurant on this list captures something truly authentic about Maryland’s culinary culture.
Here’s what makes these restaurants special:
They’re all currently open and thriving.
They represent a diverse range of cuisines and experiences—casual to luxury.
They showcase Maryland’s seafood heritage, local farms, and vibrant city dining.
They make for unforgettable meals you’ll talk about long after you’ve left the table.
So next time you’re searching for the best restaurants in Maryland, let this list guide you to your next great meal. Whether it’s the comfort of Attman’s Deli, the sophistication of Charleston, or the coastal charm of The Crab Claw, you’re in for an unforgettable culinary adventure.
Don’t just read about Maryland’s famous restaurants—experience them. Taste the legacy, the flavor, and the heart of the Old Line State one plate at a time.