“He was a bold man that first ate an oyster”
– Jonathan Swift
No matter where you are in Charm City, you are a stones throw away from an oyster bar.
We all have a consistent hankering for the delectable treat, and our local waitstaff can collectively serenade your palate with the particulars of the daily oyster catch (they basically put the adjective arsenal of a Master Sommelier to shame).
Another fun fact? Baltimore has a signature drink that pairs perfectly with oysters. Actually, we should spend a minute on this, because…well, it’s important.
Known locally as the “Crush,” this drink is a favorite by residents and tourists alike. In fact, you will have a hard time walking into a bar in Baltimore without noticing a large, hand-cranked juicer with bags of oranges and grapefruits stacked neatly nearby. This drink is simple, subtly sweet and refreshing – a perfect complement to the saltiness and brininess of many of the local oyster offerings.
So, what are the best local spots to sit back, relax, and enjoy some oysters on the half shell? Here is a list of my top 3 favorite spots:
1. Mamas on the Halfshell Oh, Mamas. Located in the Canton neighborhood (about 5 miles from the Inner Harbor), Mamas on the Halfshell is a famed Oyster haunt for locals. The Jack Larkin raw bar spans the length of almost the entire first floor, and is a cozy spot to enjoy drinks, appetizers, or your entire meal. The list of oyster dishes and fresh seafood is expansive, so I suggest picking one of the signature oyster appetizers and going from there. Also, most of the dishes are very shareable, and you absolutely must order a ‘crush’ with your meal. It’s the law.
Order-Up! The fresh, local oysters are lovely, but do try the fried oysters with homemade mustard aioli. Seriously, people. Holy cow. This is my happy place. Other must-orders at this spot include: Calamari, Seafood Chowder, Steamed Shrimp (with Old Bay) and the Crabcake Platter with Mac ‘n Cheese & Coleslaw is also a must. Keep in mind that you may be in a seafood coma after this meal, so don’t operate any heavy equipment.
2. Thames Street Oyster House: Located in the quaint and historic neighborhood of Fells Point, this little oyster house sits upon cobblestone streets and offers a beautiful view of the harbor. I’d suggest going for lunch or an early dinner and grabbing the hightop table next to the entrance for optimal people-watching whilst you enjoy your seafood tower. The menu is heavy-laden with oyster dishes (be sure to try the mignonette with shallots), but there is also a great New England vibe to the menu (Lobstahs, anyone?).
Order-Up! The Queen Anne or the Lord Baltimore. Both of these shellfish towers will literally blow your mind – and they are ideal for sharing (oysters, shrimp, crab, lobster claws, lobster tails…oh my!) Other notables are the Lobster Mac ‘n Cheese and a classic crabcake (in fact, Thames Street was voted as having one of the best crabcakes in Baltimore by Baltimore Magazine!).
3. Nick’s Oysterbar at Cross Street: Ok guys, this is L-O-C-A-L. This is an oyster bar, a sushi bar and a seafood restaurant (I would vote it as one of the best places to mix and mingle with the Federal Hill crowd). Located inside of Cross Street market, Nick’s offers bar seating and standing room while you enjoy your local eats. Blue Points and Chincoteague’s are usually a staple on the oyster menu, and shuckers keep a freshly-grated TUB of horseradish, sliced lemons, sriracha, and cocktail sauce at nearly every seat. Beers come in 16 oz and 32 oz, and you can take your cup home with you as a token of your awesome oyster experience.
Thanks for reading!
Love and Vitalità,
Jess
Feedback? Comments? Concerns? Email me at vitalitatravel@gmail.com!
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