Annapolis

Coastal Cuisine: Guide to Annapolis Waterfront Dining

A guide to Annapolis waterfront dining, featuring Choptank, Chart House, Severn Inn, Beacon Waterfront Galley, and Cantler's Riverside Inn.

There are few dining experiences as memorable as a meal right on the water. Annapolis is blessed with an abundance of waterfront restaurants, each with its own charm and character. Here's our guide to the best waterfront dining the Capital city has to offer.

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.

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.

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