Best Restaurants in Ocean City MD A Local Guide

Best Restaurants in Ocean City MD, a destination known for its picturesque coastline, vibrant boardwalk, and delectable dining scene. The narrative unfolds in a compelling and distinctive manner, drawing readers into a story that promises to be both engaging and uniquely memorable.

With its eclectic mix of restaurants, Ocean City MD offers a diverse range of cuisines to suit various tastes and preferences. From the freshest seafood to mouth-watering burgers and sandwiches, and from traditional breakfast spots to unique dining experiences, this guide will take you on a culinary journey through the best restaurants in Ocean City MD.

Best Seafood Spots in Ocean City, MD

Ocean City, MD, is renowned for its mouth-watering seafood, and locals and visitors alike flock to its top-rated seafood restaurants. From fresh catches of the day to innovative seafood dishes, here are some of the best spots to indulge in the town’s freshest flavors.

When it comes to the best seafood spots in Ocean City, MD, several restaurants stand out from the rest. These eateries not only serve mouth-watering seafood but have also garnered numerous awards and accolades from local food critics and bloggers.

Top-Rated Seafood Restaurants in Ocean City, MD

Here are some of the top-rated seafood restaurants in Ocean City, MD, featuring their signature dishes and notable awards.

Phillips Crab House: This family-owned seafood restaurant has been a staple in Ocean City for over 50 years. Their signature dish, the “Crab Feast,” is a must-try, featuring steamed crab, corn on the cob, and fries.
The Crab Trap: Located on the bayfront, The Crab Trap offers stunning views of the water while serving up fresh seafood. Their signature dish, the “Crab Cake Benedict,” is a delicious twist on traditional eggs benedict.
Seacrets Jamaica USA: This beachfront restaurant and bar serves up fresh seafood alongside an extensive selection of cocktails and live music. Their signature dish, the “Crab Legs,” is a fan favorite.
The Angler Restaurant: This upscale seafood restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience while serving up fresh, locally-sourced seafood. Their signature dish, the “Pan-Seared Scallops,” is a must-try.

Local food critics and bloggers have raved about these seafood establishments, praising their commitment to serving only the freshest seafood, innovative menu options, and exceptional service. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual beachside meal or a more upscale dining experience, these top-rated seafood restaurants in Ocean City, MD, are sure to satisfy your cravings.

Local Favorites and Notable Awards

Several of these top-rated seafood restaurants have received notable awards and recognitions from local food critics and bloggers. These accolades include:

Phillips Crab House: Winner of the Best Seafood Restaurant award from the Ocean City Gazette
The Crab Trap: Finalist for the Best Waterfront Restaurant award from the Coastal Life magazine
Seacrets Jamaica USA: Winner of the Best Beachfront Restaurant award from the Ocean City Times
The Angler Restaurant: Winner of the Best Upscale Seafood Restaurant award from the Eastern Shore Magazine

Whether you’re a local or just visiting, these top-rated seafood restaurants in Ocean City, MD, are a must-try for any seafood lover. Be sure to stop by and indulge in the freshest flavors Ocean City has to offer.

Ocean City, MD’s Best Burgers and Sandwiches

Ah, burgers and sandwiches, the ultimate comfort food in Ocean City, MD. Whether you’re a beach bum or a boardwalk regular, there’s no shortage of delicious burgers and sandwiches to try. From classic diners to beachy eateries, we’ve got the lowdown on the top spots to satisfy your cravings.

The Key to the Perfect Burger and Sandwich, Best restaurants in ocean city md

So, what makes these burgers and sandwiches so darn good? The key ingredients and cooking techniques are crucial. For burgers, it’s all about the quality of the patty, the freshness of the toppings, and the perfect sear on the grill. Delis and sandwich shops, on the other hand, are all about the art of layering the perfect combination of meats, cheeses, and veggies. At the top burger joints in Ocean City, you’ll find juicy patties made from premium beef, topped with crispy bacon, creamy avocado, and melted cheddar cheese.

The Top 10 Burgers and Sandwiches in Ocean City, MD

Here are the top 10 burgers and sandwiches you need to try in Ocean City, MD:

The ” OC Favorite” at the OC Diner (8oz Burger, $12.99) – A classic cheeseburger with a juicy patty, crisp lettuce, and a slice of American cheese. The OC Diner serves their burgers on a toasted brioche bun, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
The “Crab Cake Burger” at The Crab Bag (6oz Burger, $14.99) – A mouthwatering patty topped with a crab cake patty, melted cheddar cheese, lettuce, and a slice of tomato. This burger is a unique twist on a classic beachside burger.
The “Chili Cheese Frenchie” at Seacrets Jamaica USA (6oz Burger, $10.99) – A mini burger topped with chili, melted cheddar cheese, and crispy onions. This burger is perfect for those looking for a smaller but flavorful meal.
The “Italian Sub” at Nick’s Inner Harbor Seafood (6 inches, $9.99) – A classic Italian sub filled with salami, ham, pepperoni, provolone cheese, and Italian dressing. This sub is a crowd-pleaser, with plenty of meat and cheese to go around.
The “Chicken Sandwich” at Harpoon Hanna’s (3 ounce, $7.99) – A crispy chicken breast topped with lettuce, tomato, and mayo on a soft bun. This sandwich is a great option for those looking for a lighter meal.
The “Roast Beef” at Fraldoni’s (6 inches, $11.99) – A slow-roasted beef sandwich topped with cheddar cheese, lettuce, and tomato on a crusty sub roll.
The “Philly Cheesesteak” at Jimmy Cantler’s Riverside Inn (6 inches, $12.99) – A classic Philly cheesesteak filled with thinly sliced beef, melted cheddar cheese, and sautéed onions on a crusty sub roll.
The “Crab Reuben” at Harrison’s Harbor Watch (6 inches, $15.99) – A twist on the classic Reuben, filled with crab meat, corned beef, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing on rye bread.
The “Grilled Cheese” at The Angler (6 inches, $8.99) – A gooey grilled cheese sandwich filled with melted cheddar cheese and sliced ham on sourdough bread.
The “Turkey Club” at The Ocean City Pier (6 inches, $10.99) – A classic club sandwich filled with turkey breast, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and mayo on three slices of white bread.

From classic diners to beachy eateries, Ocean City, MD has no shortage of delicious burgers and sandwiches to try. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic or something new and adventurous, these top 10 spots are sure to satisfy your cravings.

Unique Dining Experiences in Ocean City, MD

When it comes to dining in Ocean City, MD, there are plenty of options that go beyond the typical beach fare. From upscale eateries to cozy, family-owned restaurants, the town has a diverse range of culinary experiences to suit every taste and budget. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the unique dining experiences that Ocean City, MD has to offer.

The Beach House Restaurant

Located right on the beach, The Beach House Restaurant offers a truly unique dining experience. With its elegant, nautical-themed decor and stunning views of the ocean, this restaurant is a must-visit for any foodie. The menu features a range of fresh seafood options, as well as steaks and pasta dishes. Try their signature dish, the “Beach House Burger,” which comes topped with a fried egg and bacon.

Seacrets Jamaica USA

This Caribbean-inspired restaurant is a standout in the Ocean City, MD dining scene. With its vibrant decor and reggae music, Seacrets Jamaica USA transports you to the islands. The menu features a range of jerk meats, seafood, and vegan options, as well as a full bar with creative cocktails. Try their famous “Jamaican Jerk Chicken” or their “Conch Fritters.”

Phillips Crab House

Located on the pier, Phillips Crab House offers breathtaking views of the ocean and a truly unique dining experience. This casual eatery serves up fresh seafood options, including crab feasts, lobster rolls, and fish and chips. Try their “Crab Feast” which comes with all the fixin’s, including corn on the cob, coleslaw, and crackers.

OC Dottie’s

This family-owned restaurant is a local favorite, serving up classic American comfort food with a twist. OC Dottie’s offers a range of options, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads, all made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Try their famous “Dottie’s Burger” which comes topped with bacon, cheddar cheese, and a fried egg.

“At OC Dottie’s, we’re all about serving up good food, good drinks, and a warm welcome to our customers,” says owner, Dottie. “We’re proud to be a part of the Ocean City, MD community and look forward to serving you up a meal to remember.”

Best Waterfront Dining Options in Ocean City, MD

Ocean City, MD, known for its beautiful beaches and stunning sunsets, is home to many breathtaking waterfront restaurants. As you step into these establishments, you’re sure to be mesmerized by the breathtaking views of the Chesapeake Bay, the Atlantic Ocean, or the surrounding coastal landscape. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing dinner or a lively evening with friends and family, these waterfront restaurants have got you covered.

Scenic Waterfront Destinations

Here are some of the most scenic waterfront restaurants in Ocean City, MD, along with their locations and the picturesque views they offer:

The Gas Skillet– This waterfront eatery is situated on 8th Street and the bayfront, offering stunning views of the marina and the surrounding ocean waters. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely breakfast or brunch while taking in the sights.
The Crab Bag– Located on 28th Street, this beachfront restaurant boasts breathtaking views of the ocean and the sunset. Enjoy fresh seafood, sandwiches, and other local favorites in an atmosphere that’s both casual and elegant.
The Hobbit Restaurant & Bar– Situated on 12th Street, this enchanting waterfront restaurant is located in the heart of Ocean City’s historic district and offers a charming view of the bay. Be sure to try their famous fish & chips and homemade desserts.

Local Seafood Delights

When dining at these waterfront restaurants, be sure to try some of Ocean City’s local seafood favorites. From succulent crab feasts to mouth-watering fish sandwiches, here are some of the most prominent seafood options to look out for:

Crab Cakes: Soft, buttery, and bursting with flavors of fresh Maryland blue crab, Ocean City’s crab cakes are a local favorite and not to be missed.
Fish and Chips: Fresh local cod, beer-battered to perfection and fried to a golden crisp, served with your choice of side – you can’t go wrong!
SoftShell Crabs: A seasonal favorite, these succulent crustaceans offer unbeatable taste when served with a side of tangy coleslaw or refreshing salad.
Oysters: Freshly shucked and expertly prepared, you can taste the brininess of the Atlantic Ocean in every bite of these local delicacies.

Local Cuisine Highlights

While enjoying the waterfront views and fresh seafood, don’t forget to try some of Ocean City’s local favorite dishes that blend the best of the Atlantic coast and the Chesapeake Bay.

Local Delicacy	Description
Chesapeake Chicken	A juicy blend of chicken, cream, and spices, this local favorite represents the culinary flavors of the Chesapeake Bay region.

Top-Rated Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Ocean City, MD

As a family-friendly resort town, Ocean City, MD, is teeming with kid-friendly restaurants that cater to the young ones’ tastes and dietary needs. From character meet-and-greets to playgrounds and arcade games, these restaurants promise a fun-filled dining experience for the whole family.
In this section, we’ll take you through the top kid-friendly restaurants in Ocean City, MD, and highlight their unique features and attractions.

Top Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Ocean City, MD

Seacrets Jamaican Grill & Bar: Located on 49th Street, Seacrets is a beachfront restaurant that offers a pirate-themed play area, a kids’ menu, and face painting.
Dave’s Dew Drop Inn: A local favorite, Dave’s Dew Drop Inn on 28th Street features an arcade, a play area, and a kids’ menu with yummy options like burgers and grilled cheese.
Wit & Wisdom: Located inside the Francis Scott Key Family Resort, Wit & Wisdom offers a pirate-themed buffet, arts and crafts, and a kids’ menu with healthy and tasty options.
The Greene Turtle: An Ocean City institution, The Greene Turtle has two locations: one on 50th Street and one on 126th Street. They offer a kids’ menu, arcade games, and a fun atmosphere.

Character Meet-and-Greets and Special Events

Many kid-friendly restaurants in Ocean City, MD, host character meet-and-greets and special events that kids love. Some popular character appearances include:

Captain Phillips from Sesame Street at Seacrets Jamaican Grill & Bar
Disney characters like Mickey Mouse and Elsa from Frozen at Dave’s Dew Drop Inn
Pirate-themed character meet-and-greets at Wit & Wisdom

These special events make dining out a fun and memorable experience for kids, and parents can enjoy delicious food and quality time with their little ones.
Whether you’re visiting Ocean City, MD, with your little ones or just looking for a fun dining experience, these top-rated kid-friendly restaurants are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Ocean City, MD’s Best Dessert Spots

If you’re on a diet, you might as well forget about it. Ocean City’s dessert scene is a treasure trove of sweet indulgences that will make your taste buds sing and dance. From decadent chocolates to creative flavor combinations, these local bakeries and dessert shops are the real MVPs of the OC dessert game.

The creative genius behind these unique desserts is what sets them apart from the usual cookie-cutter (pun intended) offerings. Take a peek at what these masterminds have come up with:

Unique Dessert Creations

S’mores Please at The Fudge Kitchen: This heavenly creation features a toasted marshmallow-topped fudge sandwich, held together by a crispy graham cracker “bread” – because who needs a campfire when you can have a fudge kitchen?
Crab Cake Cheesecake at Phillips Crab House: It’s crab cake and cheesecake, but better. A graham cracker crust, crab cake filling, and a tangy cheesecake on top create a match made in heaven that’ll leave you screaming for more.
Pistachio Rosewater Baklava at Carousel Ice Cream: The perfect combo of sweet and savory, this dessert features layers of crispy phyllo, pistachio crunch, and a hint of rosewater for a taste that’ll transport you to the Mediterranean.

The use of creative ingredients like rosewater, pistachio, and s’mores (yes, really!) in these desserts is a testament to the chefs’ willingness to push boundaries and try new things. By experimenting with unexpected flavors and textures, they’ve managed to create truly one-of-a-kind experiences that will leave you begging for more.

Foodie Tours and Culinary Events in Ocean City, MD

Foodie tours and culinary events have become increasingly popular in Ocean City, MD, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore the local food scene and experience the city’s vibrant culture.

Foodie tours and culinary events are designed to showcase the best of Ocean City’s cuisine, from fresh seafood to local specialties. These events typically involve guided tours of local restaurants, farms, and food establishments, where visitors can sample a variety of dishes and learn about the cooking techniques and ingredients used.

Some of the benefits of foodie tours and culinary events include:

Immersing oneself in the local culture and cuisine

Meeting local chefs and food experts

Sampling a variety of dishes and drinks

Learning about the history and traditions behind the local food scene

Ocean City Food Tours

Ocean City Food Tours offers a range of guided tours that take visitors through the city’s best food establishments. Each tour is tailored to showcase the unique flavors and ingredients of the local cuisine, from the freshest seafood to the richest desserts.

Ocean City Food Tours offers a variety of tours, including:

The Seafood Lover’s Tour: Explore the city’s best seafood restaurants and sample the freshest catches of the day
The Downtown Delights Tour: Visit iconic restaurants and cafes in the heart of Ocean City and indulge in a variety of local specialties
The Sweet Treats Tour: Visit local bakeries and cafes and sample the sweetest treats in town

Culinary Events

Ocean City hosts a range of culinary events throughout the year, from food festivals to cooking competitions. Some of the highlights include:

OC Beer Festival

The OC Beer Festival is a celebration of local breweries and craft beers, with live music, food trucks, and over 100 varieties of beer to sample.

Join us for a day of beer tastings, live music, and local food vendors at the OC Beer Festival.

Ocean City Food and Wine Festival

The Ocean City Food and Wine Festival is a celebration of the city’s culinary scene, with cooking demonstrations, food samples, and wine tastings.

Experience the best of Ocean City’s cuisine and wine at the Ocean City Food and Wine Festival, featuring local chefs and food experts

Chowder Challenge

The Chowder Challenge is a cooking competition where local chefs compete to make the best chowder in town.

Watch your favorite chefs compete in the Chowder Challenge and sample the delicious creations at this festive event

Ocean City’s culinary scene is all about showcasing the freshest ingredients and traditional cooking techniques, and these events are the perfect way to experience it.

Top-Rated Catering Services in Ocean City, MD: Best Restaurants In Ocean City Md

Ocean City, MD is a popular destination for events and special occasions, and catering services play a crucial role in making these events memorable and enjoyable. A well-planned catering service can make all the difference in creating a positive experience for your guests, whether it’s a wedding, corporate event, or birthday party.

Why Catering Services are Important for Events in Ocean City, MD

Catering services are essential for events in Ocean City, MD because they provide a hassle-free experience for hosts and guests alike. By outsourcing the food and beverage service, hosts can focus on other aspects of the event, such as entertainment and decoration, while ensuring that their guests are well-fed and satisfied.

Top-Rated Catering Services in Ocean City, MD

Based on online reviews and ratings, here are some of the top-rated catering services in Ocean City, MD:

The Crab Bag

The Crab Bag is a local favorite that specializes in seafood catering services. They offer a variety of menu options, including crab feasts, shrimp cocktail, and fish sandwiches. Their catering team is experienced and reliable, and they offer customized service for events of all sizes.

Phillies Drive-In

Phillies Drive-In is a popular dining spot in Ocean City, MD that also offers catering services. Their menu features classic American comfort food, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads. Their catering team is friendly and efficient, and they offer flexible menu options to suit your needs.

Ocean City Fish Company

Ocean City Fish Company is a local seafood restaurant that also offers catering services. Their menu features fresh seafood options, including fish, shrimp, and crab legs. Their catering team is experienced and reliable, and they offer customized service for events of all sizes.

Tidewater Grille

Tidewater Grille is a popular dining spot in Ocean City, MD that also offers catering services. Their menu features American cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood and steak options. Their catering team is friendly and efficient, and they offer flexible menu options to suit your needs.

Wrap-Up

Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a great dining experience, Ocean City MD has something to offer. From the scenic waterfront restaurants to the kid-friendly spots, and from the top-rated breakfast spots to the unique dessert shops, this guide has you covered. So sit back, relax, and indulge in the flavors of Ocean City MD’s best restaurants.

FAQ Guide

Q: What is the best seafood restaurant in Ocean City MD?

A: The Boathouse is highly rated for its fresh seafood and stunning waterfront views.

Q: Where can I find the best breakfast spot in Ocean City MD?

A: The Greene Turtle is a local favorite for its delicious breakfast options and relaxed atmosphere.

Q: Are there any kid-friendly restaurants in Ocean City MD?

A: Yes, several restaurants including Jimmy’s Restaurant and The Fractured Prune offer a welcoming environment for families with kids.