oysters on the half shell
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Where to Get the Best Oysters in Maryland

There is a tradition of eating oysters at the beginning of a new year to bring luck and prosperity for the year ahead. The best oysters can be found in Maryland restaurants. Whether you enjoy them raw on the half-shell, baked, in an oyster shooter, or in a savory stew, oysters continue to be a culinary emblem of renewal and celebration as we welcome a new year.

Oysters are in season in Maryland from October to March, when they are known for their rich flavor and plump texture. Oysters from Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay and its tributary rivers are often briny and delicate. Even oysters from different areas of the bay have different flavors which can vary depending on where they are caught or farmed in the bay. 

The following restaurants were recommended and have at least a 4-star ranking on Open Table and entree pricing under $30. The list will be updated as more recommendations are received.

*Consumption of raw or undercooked foods may increase your risk of foodborne illness.

Where to Get the Best Oysters in Annapolis

Middleton’s Tavern
2 Market Space, Annapolis
In the heart of Downtown Historic Annapolis, Middleton’s has hosted George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Benjamin Franklin. They are also known for their oysters, on the half shell, steamed, or as an appetizer.  

O’Brien’s Oyster Bar & Seafood Tavern
113 Main Street, Annapolis.
The restaurant was built in 1774 and has been a dining fixture ever since. O’Brien’s has partnered with the Oyster Recovery Partnership to recycle the shells of the oysters served to help repopulate the oyster environment in the Chesapeake Bay. 

Sailor Oyster Bar
196 West Street, Annapolis.
Well-prepared, fresh seafood, creative menu, and generous portions.

Sailor Oyster Bar in Annapolis

Where to Get the Best Oysters in Baltimore

Gertrude’s
10 Art Museum Dr, Baltimore
Located in the Baltimore Museum of Art and serving locally sourced food. The main dining room overlooks a sculpture garden. Oysters on the half shell by the dozen or ½ dozen. 

Riptide – Fells Point
1718 Thames St, Baltimore
The waterfront venue is in the heart of Fells Point. DJ nights on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. 

Watershed
1065 S Charles St, Baltimore
In the newly remodeled Cross Street Market including a rooftop deck. Raw bar, and other menu options. Take out from the fish market is also available.

Where to Get the Best Oysters on the Eastern Shore

Harris Crab House
433 Kent Narrows Way N., Grasonville
Harris Seafood Co., the last commercial oyster house in Maryland, supplies the restaurant with oysters that can be steamed, raw, fried, stuffed,, or breaded in a sandwich. 

Libbey’s Coastal Kitchen and Cocktails
357 Pier 1 Rd, Stevensville
Located on the Chesapeake Bay near the bridge, the views are outstanding. Oysters are served in a wide variety of dishes and even in servings to share.

Where to Get the Best Oysters in Washington, DC

Rappahannock Oyster Bar at The Wharf
1150 Maine Ave SW, Washington, DC
Occupying the restored historic oyster shed (circa 1912) building at the Municipal Fish Market (the oldest fish market in the United States), the restaurant serves a lineup of small plate offerings, a raw bar, oyster po-boys, wines, craft beers, and unique cocktails.

More restaurant reviews.

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