Food In Baltimore

Food Lover’s Guide to Baltimore

As a bustling port city in Maryland, Baltimore has a rich, varied, and fascinating food scene that can leave even the most traveled gastronome speechless. The city’s culinary repertoire is packed with charm, character, and a distinct local touch that you can’t find anywhere else. This food lover’s guide to Baltimore will take you on a gastronomic journey, exploring hidden gems, traditional favorites, and innovative dining experiences that the city offers. So, grab your appetite and let’s get started!

Seafood: The Star of Baltimore Cuisine

When you think of Baltimore, one of the first food items that comes to mind is probably seafood, particularly crab. The city’s location on the Chesapeake Bay gives it access to some of the best and freshest seafood in the country.

Crabs and Crab Cakes

Start your culinary adventure with a trip to a classic Baltimore crab house. Many locals would argue that you haven’t really visited Baltimore until you’ve had a sit-down with some blue crabs. These crustaceans are typically steamed and seasoned with Old Bay, a local spice blend with a distinctive, mouth-watering flavor.

If you’re not in the mood to wrestle with crab shells, opt for crab cakes instead. Baltimore crab cakes are a marvel in themselves, composed mainly of crab meat, not filler, lightly bound with breadcrumbs or crackers, and often broiled to perfection. One great place to try these is Faidley Seafood in Lexington Market, an institution that has been serving arguably the best crab cakes in town since the 1880s.

Oysters

Baltimore’s oyster bars also deserve a shout-out. Oysters in Baltimore are typically served raw on the half shell, grilled, or in a stew. Thames Street Oyster House in Fell’s Point, for example, offers a fantastic selection of local and international oysters, making it a must-visit for any oyster aficionado.

Iconic Baltimore Dishes

Beyond seafood, Baltimore boasts a range of other iconic dishes that are deeply rooted in the city’s history and culture.

Baltimore Pit Beef

A Baltimore specialty, pit beef refers to barbecued beef that’s grilled directly over charcoal. It’s sliced thin, served rare, and typically piled high on a roll with raw onions and “Tiger Sauce,” a blend of horseradish and mayonnaise. Chaps Pit Beef, a local favorite, serves up some of the best pit beef sandwiches in the city.

Lake Trout

Don’t be fooled by the name; lake trout isn’t trout at all but rather a type of whiting. This iconic Baltimore dish features fish that’s typically battered and deep-fried until crispy, then served with white bread and hot sauce. For a truly authentic experience, try it at The Roost Lake Trout, a local favorite that has been serving this classic for years.

International Cuisine

Baltimore’s food scene isn’t just limited to traditional local fare; the city’s diverse population means you can find an impressive array of international cuisine as well.

Little Italy

For Italian cuisine, head to Little Italy, where family-run establishments have been serving pasta, pizza, and other Italian classics for generations. Sabatino’s is a much-loved spot for its traditional offerings and old-world charm. Their signature dish, the Bookmaker’s salad topped with lumps of tender shrimp, is a must-try.

Greek Cuisine

Home to one of the oldest Greek communities in the U.S., Baltimore offers some truly authentic Greek cuisine. Restaurants in Greektown, such as Samos Restaurant, serve traditional Greek dishes like souvlaki, spanakopita, and moussaka, all prepared with family recipes passed down through generations.

Asian Cuisine

For Asian flavors, Baltimore has you covered. Head to Pikesville for top-notch sushi at Jumbo Seafood, explore the vast array of Vietnamese pho restaurants in East Baltimore, or visit SoBo Cafe in Federal Hill for Korean BBQ tacos and other fusion treats.

Local Breweries and Distilleries

No food guide for Baltimore would be complete without mentioning its drink scene. Baltimore has a thriving craft beer culture, with a host of breweries offering everything from bold IPAs to smooth porters. Union Craft Brewing and The Brewer’s Art are popular choices, each offering a unique selection of brews in relaxed, friendly settings.

On the spirit side, Baltimore has a rich history of rye whiskey production. Revived distilleries like Sagamore Spirit are bringing back this tradition, offering distillery tours and tastings that make for a great addition to your culinary journey.

Sweet Treats

For those with a sweet tooth, Baltimore has plenty to offer.

Berger Cookies

A Baltimore original, Berger Cookies are fudge-dipped shortbread cookies that are as decadent as they are delicious. Grab a box from a local grocery store or order directly from the Berger’s bakery to take home a sweet piece of Baltimore history.

Smith Island Cake

While not unique to Baltimore, the Smith Island Cake, Maryland’s state dessert, is worth a try. This multi-layered cake with chocolate frosting can be found at many bakeries and restaurants throughout the city, including Smith Island Baking Co.

Baltimore’s culinary scene is a reflection of its rich history, diverse cultures, and geographical location. With a wide array of options from fresh seafood to world-class international cuisine, and locally brewed beverages to sweet delicacies, this city truly has something to satisfy every palate. So whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just someone looking to explore new flavors, Baltimore is sure to impress.