Steamed Crabs in Baltimore Your Ultimate Guide to the Best Take-Out Seafood Feast

If there’s one thing Baltimore does better than almost anywhere else in the world, it’s steamed crabs. For generations, locals have gathered around picnic tables covered in brown paper, armed with wooden mallets, cold drinks, and plenty of Old Bay seasoning to enjoy the Chesapeake Bay’s most famous delicacy.

But here’s the best part: you don’t have to spend hours crabbing, cleaning, or steaming them yourself. With the rise of high-quality Baltimore take-out seafood spots, you can bring home an authentic crab tradition in minutes. In this guide, we’ll cover where to get the best steamed crabs in Baltimore, how to order like a pro, and how to turn your take-out into a full seafood feast.

Why Steamed Crabs in Baltimore Are So Special

Baltimore isn’t just a city that eats crabs; it lives crabs. The Chesapeake Bay is home to the Maryland blue crab, known for its sweet, tender meat and distinctive flavor. The local steaming method using a mix of beer, vinegar, and a heavy dusting of Old Bay locks in that flavor and creates the signature Baltimore taste.

Unlike other regions that boil crabs, steaming keeps the meat from becoming waterlogged, giving you a richer bite. The seasoning sticks to the shell, making every crack and pull of meat a little reward. This is why steamed crabs in Baltimore are a culinary icon and a bucket-list food for visitors.

How to Choose the Right Take-Out Crab House

Not all steamed crabs are created equal. If you want the real deal, here’s what to look for:

1. Fresh, never reheated – The best crab houses steam to order.
2. Locally sourced – Chesapeake Bay crabs in season (April–November) mean peak freshness.
3. Transparent sizing and pricing – Clear menu listings for small, medium, large, XL, and jumbo crabs.
4. Custom seasoning options – Some like it mild, others want a mountain of spice.

One local favorite that checks every box is Cravin’ Crabs in Halethorpe. Family-owned since 1972, they specialize in take-out steamed crabs, crab cakes, soups, shrimp, and all the sides you need for a feast at home.

The Sizes & Prices You’ll See

When ordering steamed crabs, you’ll notice they’re priced by size and usually sold by the dozen or half-dozen. Here’s a quick reference:

• Regular – Smaller crabs, affordable for big groups.
• Medium & Large – Great balance of size, flavor, and price.
• Extra Large (XL) – Meaty claws and body; popular for special occasions.
• Jumbo – The kings of the table, rare and premium-priced.

Pro Tip: If you’re hosting a crab feast at home, order a mix of sizes. Smaller crabs are great for kids or beginners, while seasoned pickers will go for the XL and jumbo.

What to Order Alongside Your Crabs

A seafood feast isn’t just about the crabs, it’s about the sides and extras that make the experience unforgettable. Here are Baltimore take-out classics to add to your order:

• Steamed Gulf Shrimp with onions and potatoes
• Maryland Crab Soup or Cream of Crab Soup
• Crab Dip with celery sticks or soft pretzels
• Steamed Corn on the Cob
• Coleslaw & Mac and Cheese
• Homemade Lemonade or local craft beer (BYO if taking home)

At Cravin’ Crabs, you can get all these and more in one stop, making your home crab feast quick to set up.

Setting Up the Perfect At-Home Crab Feast

Here’s how to recreate the Baltimore crab house experience at home:

1. Cover the table with kraft paper or newspaper for easy cleanup.
2. Lay out the tools – wooden mallets, crab knives, paper towels, and small bowls for shells.
3. Serve family-style – dump the crabs right onto the table for that authentic, communal feel.
4. Keep drinks cold – a bucket of ice and bottled drinks keep the party flowing.
5. Don’t rush – part of the crab tradition is picking slowly, talking, and enjoying the moment.

When Is the Best Time to Order Steamed Crabs in Baltimore?

While crabs are available year-round, the peak season in Maryland runs from late spring to early fall. During this time, you’ll get the freshest, sweetest meat. In winter, many crab houses use crabs from Louisiana or the Carolinas, which are still delicious but slightly different in flavor.

For weekends or holidays, call ahead places like Cravin’ Crabs can sell out of larger sizes fast.

Why Take-Out Beats Dine-In for Crab Feasts

Even though Baltimore is home to iconic crab restaurants, take-out has its own advantages:

• Eat where you want – backyard, beach, or kitchen table.
• Save money – no table service fees or drinks at restaurant prices.
• More relaxed – no time limits, no noise, just your group and your feast.
• Custom setup – you control the seasoning, sides, and serving style.

For locals, take-out from a trusted crab house like Cravin’ Crabs is the go-to move for birthdays, family gatherings, or just a Saturday night treat.

Keeping the Baltimore Crab Tradition Alive

Part of what makes steamed crabs in Baltimore so special is the connection between generations. Families teach kids how to crack shells, share stories over the table, and savor the simple pleasure of working for each bite. Ordering from a local crab house supports small businesses and keeps that tradition thriving.

So whether you’ve lived here your whole life or you’re visiting for the first time, make time for this iconic Baltimore experience.

Final Thoughts & Call to Action

The next time you’re craving a taste of the Chesapeake Bay, skip the big chain seafood spots and go straight for the real deal, fresh steamed crabs in Baltimore from a family-owned take-out crab house.

Order from Cravin’ Crabs and bring home everything you need for an unforgettable seafood feast. From steaming hot blue crabs dusted in Old Bay to creamy crab soup and buttery corn on the cob, they’ve got your next gathering covered.

Call (410) 636-2722 or order online today and make your own table the best crab feast in Baltimore.