Seafood Sensations: Diving into OCMD’s Best Seafood Restaurants
Planning a trip to Ocean City, Maryland? Visions of sun-kissed skin, crashing waves, and endless boardwalk fun probably dance in your head. But beyond the beach and amusements, a crucial question lingers: where to eat? With a dazzling array of options, from bustling boardwalk stands to elegant dining rooms, finding the absolute *best* food in OCMD can feel like navigating a culinary maze.
This guide will be your compass, leading you on a delectable journey through Ocean City’s vibrant food scene. We’ll uncover hidden gems, revisit classic favorites, and highlight the restaurants and dishes that truly make OCMD a culinary destination. Get ready to satisfy your cravings and create unforgettable memories, one delicious bite at a time. Prepare to discover the best food OCMD has to offer, a feast for the senses that complements the beauty of the shore.
Ocean City’s prime location on the Atlantic coast guarantees access to some of the freshest seafood imaginable. Whether you’re craving succulent crab cakes, plump oysters, or a perfectly grilled catch of the day, OCMD has a seafood restaurant to satisfy every palate.
First on our list is The Crab Bag, a local institution known for its no-frills atmosphere and mouthwatering steamed crabs. Don’t expect fancy décor; this place is all about the crabs. They’re seasoned perfectly and piled high, ready to be cracked and devoured. The Maryland crab soup is also a must-try starter. Expect to spend between twenty and forty dollars per person. The Crab Bag is located on Coastal Highway. It is truly a place that demonstrates what the best food OCMD has to offer.
Next, we venture to Harrison’s Harbor Watch Restaurant. This elegant eatery boasts panoramic views of the Ocean City Inlet, making it the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or special occasion. While the views are stunning, the food is equally impressive. The signature crab cakes are made with jumbo lump crab meat and are lightly seasoned, allowing the natural sweetness of the crab to shine through. The restaurant also offers a wide selection of fresh fish, prepared in a variety of ways. Prices typically range from thirty to sixty dollars per person. Find Harrison’s Harbor Watch Restaurant on the inlet for an experience that delivers.
For a more casual seafood experience, check out Macky’s Bayside Bar & Grill. This lively spot offers a relaxed atmosphere, delicious food, and stunning sunset views over the bay. The menu features a variety of seafood dishes, including grilled shrimp tacos, crab dip, and fried oyster baskets. Macky’s also has a great selection of cocktails and live music on select nights. Expect to pay between fifteen and thirty-five dollars per person. Macky’s is on Bayside, providing great views. Macky’s is always a top contender for the best food OCMD has.
Breakfast Bliss: Fueling Your Day the OCMD Way
A day of sun, sand, and surf requires a hearty breakfast to fuel your adventures. Fortunately, Ocean City has plenty of breakfast spots to choose from, whether you’re in the mood for pancakes, eggs, or a breakfast buffet.
Start your day at Layton’s Family Restaurant, a classic OCMD diner that has been serving up delicious breakfasts for decades. Layton’s is known for its friendly service, generous portions, and reasonable prices. The pancakes are fluffy and light, the omelets are packed with fillings, and the bacon is crispy and perfectly cooked. Prices are generally between eight and twenty dollars per person. Located centrally in OCMD, Layton’s is always a reliable spot.
Another great option is Barn 34. This popular spot offers a more modern take on breakfast classics. The menu features creative dishes like crab benedict, avocado toast, and breakfast burritos. Barn is known for its fresh ingredients and innovative flavor combinations. Expect to pay between twelve and twenty-five dollars per person. You can find it on Coastal Highway, ready to supply breakfast.
For a truly indulgent breakfast experience, head to Embers Restaurant, known for its expansive breakfast buffet. The buffet includes everything from scrambled eggs and bacon to waffles and fruit. It’s the perfect option for families or anyone with a big appetite. Pricing is generally around twenty dollars per person for the buffet. This expansive breakfast is found on Coastal Highway.
Boardwalk Bites & Casual Eats: Indulging in OCMD’s Iconic Treats
No trip to Ocean City is complete without indulging in some of the boardwalk’s iconic treats. From salty fries to sweet taffy, the boardwalk is a culinary playground for all ages. It’s here, among the games and the throngs of people, that you truly experience what makes the best food OCMD stand out.
First up is Thrasher’s French Fries, a true OCMD institution. These fries are legendary for their crispy texture and salty flavor. They’re served in a simple paper cup with a generous helping of salt and vinegar. Be warned: ketchup is not an option! A large bucket of fries will set you back around ten dollars, but it’s worth every penny. Thrasher’s locations dot the boardwalk.
For a sweet treat, head to Dolles Candyland, home of the famous salt water taffy. Dolles has been making taffy in Ocean City since, using the same traditional recipes. The taffy comes in a variety of flavors, from classic vanilla and chocolate to more adventurous options like watermelon and banana. A small bag of taffy costs around five dollars. The scent alone makes Dolles a must-stop shop.
No trip to the boardwalk is complete without a slice of pizza. Grotto Pizza is a popular choice, known for its thin-crust pizza and signature sauce. A slice of pizza costs around four dollars. Many argue Grotto Pizza is a vital part of experiencing the best food OCMD has to offer.
Pizza Perfection: Slicing into OCMD’s Best Pizza Joints
Beyond the boardwalk slices, Ocean City boasts a surprisingly diverse pizza scene, with options ranging from classic New York-style pies to innovative creations.
A fantastic pizza option is Pizza Tugos Tap Room, offering a wide selection of pizzas, craft beers, and appetizers. The atmosphere is casual and family-friendly, making it a great spot for a relaxed dinner. A large pizza typically costs between twenty and thirty dollars. It’s located on Coastal Highway.
Anthony’s Pizza is a solid go-to for pizza, pasta, and more. This establishment offers a great variety of options and is a solid choice for family dining. A large pizza will typically cost between seventeen and thirty dollars depending on toppings.
If pizza by the slice is your style, there is Albertino’s Brick Oven Pizza, located downtown near the boardwalk. A local favourite and worth a try.
Fine Dining & Special Occasions: Elevating Your OCMD Dining Experience
While OCMD is known for its casual eateries, it also boasts a selection of upscale restaurants that are perfect for special occasions or a romantic night out.
For an elegant dining experience, head to Fager’s Island. This iconic restaurant offers stunning views of the bay, live music, and a sophisticated menu featuring fresh seafood, steaks, and pasta. The ambiance is upscale and romantic, making it the perfect spot for a celebration. Expect to pay between forty and seventy-five dollars per person.
Liquid Assets presents an upscale dining experience. It offers a wide array of fine dining options, coupled with an extensive wine list and a knowledgeable staff. Expect to pay between thirty and sixty-five dollars per person.
Hidden Gems & Local Favorites: Unearthing OCMD’s Culinary Secrets
Beyond the well-known restaurants and boardwalk attractions, Ocean City is home to a number of hidden gems and local favorites that are worth seeking out. These spots often offer a more authentic and unique dining experience. These places contribute to the overall landscape of the best food OCMD has.
One such gem is The Bayside Skillet, a charming waterfront restaurant known for its creative breakfast and lunch dishes. The menu features fresh, local ingredients and unique flavor combinations. Expect to pay between ten and twenty-five dollars per person.
OC Brewing Company offers great meals and a wonderful local experience. It is a microbrewery and restaurant. Serving craft beers and a diverse menu, it’s a great experience.
Conclusion: Savoring the Flavors of OCMD
Ocean City, Maryland, is more than just a beautiful beach destination; it’s a culinary paradise waiting to be explored. From the freshest seafood to the sweetest boardwalk treats, OCMD offers a diverse and exciting food scene that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. This ultimate guide has highlighted some of the best restaurants and dishes that OCMD has to offer, but the real adventure lies in discovering your own personal favorites.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, grab your appetite, and head to Ocean City to embark on a delicious culinary journey. Explore the hidden gems, revisit the classic favorites, and create unforgettable memories, one delicious bite at a time. And don’t forget to share your own favorite OCMD restaurants in the comments below! After all, the best food OCMD offers is ultimately the food that brings you the most joy and makes your vacation truly special. Now get out there and explore the exciting and unique world of OCMD cuisine!
