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Signature Dishes
Annapolis cuisine is characterized by its fresh seafood, especially crabs and oysters, prepared in a variety of ways. The flavors are generally simple and highlight the natural taste of the ingredients, often seasoned with Old Bay spice and herbs.
Maryland Crab Cakes
Lump crab meat is delicately bound together with minimal filler and seasoned with Old Bay spice, then broiled or fried to a golden brown. Often served with tartar sauce or remoulade.
Steamed Crabs
Blue crabs, typically steamed with Old Bay seasoning, are a quintessential Chesapeake Bay delicacy. They are often enjoyed at communal gatherings, where diners crack and pick the crabs for their succulent meat.
Oysters on the Half Shell
Freshly shucked oysters from the Chesapeake Bay are served raw on a bed of ice, offering a briny and refreshing taste of the sea. They are often accompanied by lemon wedges, cocktail sauce, or mignonette sauce.
Cream of Crab Soup
A rich and creamy soup made with blue crab meat, cream, sherry, and Old Bay seasoning. Variations may include vegetables like celery, onion, and carrots.
Rockfish (Striped Bass)
Rockfish, or striped bass, is a popular local fish that can be prepared in various ways, including grilled, pan-seared, or baked. It is often served with seasonal vegetables and a light sauce.
Smith Island Cake
While technically from Smith Island, it's a Maryland state dessert found frequently in Annapolis. This multi-layered cake is a labor of love, featuring thin layers of cake separated by a cooked frosting. Often chocolate or vanilla flavored.
Local Tips
To fully experience the culinary scene of Annapolis, consider these tips:
Eat Local
Support local seafood restaurants and markets to ensure you're getting the freshest and most sustainable seafood.
Ask About Crab Sourcing
Inquire about the origin of the crabs to ensure they are from the Chesapeake Bay region for the authentic experience.
Attend a Crab Feast
Immerse yourself in the local culture by attending a crab feast, where you can learn the proper way to crack and pick crabs.
Try Seasonal Specials
Look for seasonal specials on restaurant menus to experience the freshest and most flavorful dishes.
Explore the City Dock
The City Dock is a hub of activity, with numerous restaurants and shops offering a variety of seafood and other local specialties.
About Annapolis
Food History
Annapolis cuisine is deeply rooted in its maritime history and its location on the Chesapeake Bay. Native American influences, early European settlement, and the area's role as a major port have all shaped its culinary identity, with seafood playing a central role.
Food Culture
Food in Annapolis is more than just sustenance; it's a social and cultural experience deeply intertwined with the area's history and maritime heritage. Seafood festivals, crab feasts, and oyster roasts are common occurrences, bringing people together to celebrate the bounty of the Chesapeake Bay.
Crab Feasts
A quintessential Chesapeake Bay tradition, crab feasts are communal gatherings where large quantities of steamed crabs are consumed, typically on picnic tables covered in newspaper. It's a messy but enjoyable experience, fostering a sense of community.
Waterman Culture
The watermen who harvest the seafood are an integral part of Annapolis's culture. Their hard work and dedication provide the fresh seafood that is central to the region's cuisine.
Seasonal Eating
The availability of seafood in Annapolis is highly seasonal, influencing the dishes served throughout the year. Crab season, oyster season, and rockfish season are all eagerly anticipated.
Historic Taverns and Restaurants
Many of Annapolis's restaurants and taverns are located in historic buildings, adding to the city's charm and providing a glimpse into its past. Dining in these establishments is a way to connect with the city's history.