6 Seafood Buffets in Maryland That Locals Say Are Always Fresh

Maryland’s coastline along the Chesapeake Bay creates the perfect environment for catching delicious seafood. From blue crabs to oysters, the state is famous for serving up some of the freshest catches around. Locals know exactly where to go when they’re craving an all-you-can-eat seafood experience that won’t disappoint.

1. Waterman’s Crab House: Rock Hall’s Waterfront Gem

Seagulls circle overhead as crab boats dock directly behind Waterman’s Crab House, delivering their daily catch to this Eastern Shore institution. Perched on the waterfront in Rock Hall, this restaurant embodies the farm-to-table concept before it became trendy, or in this case, boat-to-table.

The weekend seafood buffet transforms the dining room into a celebration of Chesapeake Bay bounty. Steamed crabs arrive continuously throughout service, accompanied by Eastern Shore specialties like soft shell crabs (in season), oyster fritters, and Maryland crab soup. Live music on the deck creates the perfect backdrop for cracking crabs as the sun sets over the harbor.

Fourth-generation watermen supply much of the restaurant’s seafood, maintaining a connection to local fishing traditions that spans decades. The restaurant’s location in charming Rock Hall makes it worth the drive for Baltimore and Washington residents seeking authentic Maryland seafood.

2. Hooper’s Crab House: Waterfront Feasting in West Ocean City

Summer evenings at Hooper’s Crab House bring locals and tourists together around newspaper-covered tables piled high with steaming crabs. Located right on the water in West Ocean City, this family-owned establishment has perfected their seafood buffet over decades of operation.

The all-you-can-eat experience features Maryland blue crabs seasoned with their signature spice blend, alongside steamed shrimp, clams, and corn on the cob. What makes Hooper’s special is their commitment to sourcing – most seafood arrives from local watermen who deliver their catch daily.

Regulars recommend visiting during sunset when you can crack crabs while watching boats navigate the bay. The restaurant operates seasonally from April through October, with the buffet available every night during peak summer months.

3. Bonfire Restaurant: Ocean City’s Seafood Extravaganza

Walking into Bonfire Restaurant feels like discovering Ocean City’s best-kept secret. The enormous circular buffet stations stretch seemingly endlessly, featuring over 250 items with a special emphasis on locally-sourced seafood.

Maryland blue crabs take center stage, but the seafood selection extends to include fresh oysters, clams, mussels, and several varieties of fish prepared multiple ways. A highlight that regulars rave about is the made-to-order seafood pasta station where chefs sauté your selection of seafood in your choice of sauce.

Located on Coastal Highway, this family-friendly establishment has been serving Ocean City for over 30 years. The restaurant’s commitment to quality shows in their twice-daily seafood deliveries and the constant rotation of fresh items throughout service hours.

4. Higgins Crab House: A North Ocean City Tradition

Red and white checkered tablecloths set the scene at Higgins Crab House, a family tradition in North Ocean City since 1943. Wooden mallets crack against shells as diners dig into heaping trays of all-you-can-eat Maryland blue crabs dusted with Old Bay seasoning.

The seafood buffet here focuses on simplicity and quality rather than overwhelming variety. Steamed crabs arrive at your table hot and heavy, accompanied by classic sides like hush puppies, corn on the cob, and coleslaw. Locals particularly appreciate the no-frills atmosphere that puts the spotlight directly on the food.

First-timers often get crab-picking lessons from the friendly staff who’ve been with the restaurant for generations. With two locations in Ocean City, Higgins maintains its reputation by sourcing crabs from the same local watermen they’ve worked with for decades.

5. The Hobbit Restaurant: Upscale Buffet Brunches in Ocean City

Sunlight streams through floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the bay at The Hobbit Restaurant, transforming Sunday mornings into a celebration of Maryland’s finest seafood. Unlike typical buffets, this upscale establishment offers a more refined experience with white tablecloths and attentive service.

The weekend seafood brunch buffet has become legendary among Ocean City residents. Raw bar selections include freshly shucked oysters from the Chesapeake, jumbo shrimp, and seasonal ceviche. Hot stations feature crab imperial, blackened fish, and their famous cream of crab soup that locals claim is the best on the Eastern Shore.

Situated on 81st Street bayside, The Hobbit creates an atmosphere that’s both elegant and relaxed. Reservations are essential, especially during summer months when tables with water views are highly coveted for the spectacular seafood spread and mimosas.

6. Captain James Landing: Baltimore’s Ship-Shaped Seafood Destination

Built to resemble a ship docked permanently in Baltimore’s harbor, Captain James Landing stands out immediately among the city’s restaurants. This quirky exterior houses one of Baltimore’s most beloved seafood experiences, where Friday and Saturday night seafood buffets have become a local institution.

The spread features Maryland classics with a focus on blue crabs prepared multiple ways, steamed with Old Bay, formed into crab cakes, or incorporated into creamy crab dip. Baltimore residents particularly appreciate the all-you-can-eat steamed shrimp and the authentic cream of crab soup that rivals any in the state.

Located in Canton with views of the harbor, Captain James offers the unique experience of enjoying fresh seafood while technically dining “aboard ship.” The restaurant maintains direct relationships with Chesapeake Bay fishermen, ensuring the buffet features seafood that often went from water to table within 24 hours.