Coastal Cuisine: Guide to Annapolis Waterfront Dining
If you’re anything like us, you crave the relaxation that comes with being waterside. While your FLOHOM itself is an idyllic aquatic experience, you’ll want to adventure out and see why Annapolis is one of the top waterfront destinations on the East Coast. Here’s some of the best places to grab a bite to eat while soaking up the beauty of the Chesapeake Bay and its watershed.
1. Choptank
Downtown Annapolis’ newest hotspot, The Choptank is a fish and crab house with unbelievable views of the water. It has two floors of dining with plenty of patio seating on their wrap-around decks, making it an ideal location for nice weather. Experience the bustle of Ego Alley and catch some live music while enjoying a refreshing cocktail and delicious meal in full relaxation at The Choptank.
Favorite food: Server’s recommended fresh catch
Favorite drink: Forget-Me-Knot
110 Compromise St.
443.808.1992
Open Sun–Thur: 11a-12a | Fri & Sat: 11a-2a
2. Chart House
Chart House has some of the best seafood in Annapolis and undeniably one of the best views of the city from its position on Spa Creek. The building was once a working marina and has been transformed, most recently with a million-dollar remodel, into a remarkable eatery with a stunning backdrop and inviting interior. Their happy hour is quite popular, and it’s a wonderful destination to sit back and watch some of the many on-water events such as sailboat racing and the Blue Angels air show.
Favorite food: Mac Nut Mahi
Favorite drink: Tableside Mojito Flight for two
300 Second St.
410.268.7166
Open Sun: 10a-9p | Mon – Thur: 4:30p-9p | Fri – Sat: 4:30-10p
3. Severn Inn
Located just over the Severn river on the eastern side of the city, Severn Inn has a view of the Naval Academy like no other place in Annapolis. Their upscale cuisine and exquisite drinks are matched with a fun, casual atmosphere that creates the perfect ambience for an exceptional yet laid-back dining experience. Watch the sunset over the water while enjoying the perfect wine pairing served with locally inspired fare at this Annapolis staple.
Favorite food: Short Rib Bolognese
Favorite drink: Seeds and Soda
1993 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd.
410.349.4000
Open Wed & Thur: 12p-9p | Fri & Sat: 12p-10p | Sun: 10a-9p
4. Beacon Waterfront Galley and Dock Bar
This laidback waterfront restaurant serves coastal casual fare and has 110 feet of dockage. Tucked away in a little harbor, it’s an ideal space for feeling a bit removed from the city while still enjoying the waterfront views and the local cuisine. The dock bar is open year round (weather permitting) and often has live music.
Favorite food: Steamed shrimp
Favorite drink: Beacon Firecracker
2020 Chesapeake Harbour Dr.
443.949.8456
Open Mon: 11:30a-10p | Wed & Thur: 4p-10p | Fri & Sat: 11:30a-11p | Sun: 11:30a-9:30p
5. Cantler’s Riverside Inn
Jimmy Cantler’s Riverside Inn is the definitive Annapolis crab house, just ask any local. A member of the community since 1974, Cantler’s is the top place for crab picking with an unbeatable view of Mill Creek. Located in a small marina across the Naval Academy bridge, getting there offers a wonderful taste of the beautiful rivers and creeks winding out along the Chesapeake Bay.
Favorite food: Steamed crabs with hush puppies for dessert
Favorite drink: Orange Crush