Maryland Seafood Buffets Serving Crab The Way It Should Be

Maryland knows crab better than anywhere else in the country. When you want authentic seafood prepared with care and tradition, buffets offer endless options to satisfy your appetite.

I’ve gathered the best spots where you can enjoy fresh crab cooked the way locals have perfected it for generations.

Bonfire Restaurant – Ocean City, MD

Right along the boardwalk, this place brings beachside vibes to your crab feast. You’ll find heaping trays of steamed crabs seasoned with Old Bay just like grandma made them.

The all-you-can-eat setup means you never have to stop enjoying fresh seafood. Families love the relaxed atmosphere where kids can dig into crab legs without worrying about fancy manners.

Higgins Crab House – North Ocean City, MD

Walking into Higgins feels like stepping into a classic Maryland crab shack. Brown paper covers the tables, and the smell of spiced crabs fills the air instantly.

Their buffet keeps the crabs coming hot and fresh throughout your meal. I appreciate how they maintain that authentic Chesapeake Bay experience while offering variety beyond just crabs.

Fifer’s Seafood – Pasadena, MD

Locals have trusted Fifer’s for decades to deliver quality seafood without breaking the bank. Their buffet stations stay stocked with plump crabs that crack open easily to reveal sweet meat.

What sets them apart is consistency – you know exactly what you’re getting every visit. The casual setting welcomes everyone from construction workers to business folks craving authentic Maryland flavors.

Poseidon Seafood Buffet – Glen Burnie, MD

This massive buffet operation combines Maryland traditions with international seafood flavors. You’ll discover crab prepared in ways you’ve never imagined alongside the classic steamed varieties.

The sheer variety means picky eaters and adventurous diners both find something exciting. I’m always impressed by how they manage to keep everything fresh despite the enormous selection available.

Michael’s Café & Catering – Timonium/Middle River, MD

Michael’s brings upscale touches to the buffet concept without losing that Maryland soul. Their crab preparations show real culinary skill while respecting traditional recipes passed down through generations.

Perfect for special occasions when you want quality over quantity. The presentation looks beautiful, but the taste remains authentically Maryland – no pretentious nonsense here.

Bay Crawlers Crab Shack – North East, MD

Tucked near the water, Bay Crawlers captures that quintessential Chesapeake experience. Crabs arrive at your table still steaming, begging to be cracked open with wooden mallets.

The no-frills approach means they focus entirely on what matters – fresh seafood cooked right. You’ll leave with fingers smelling like Old Bay and memories of a proper Maryland feast.

Ichiban Seafood Buffet – Baltimore Area, MD

Ichiban proves that fusion can respect tradition when done thoughtfully. Their buffet offers Maryland crabs alongside Asian preparations that complement rather than compete with local flavors.

You get the best of multiple worlds here – steamed blue crabs sit next to sushi rolls and hibachi selections. The variety appeals to groups where everyone wants something different.

Harris Crab House – Kent Narrows, MD

Sitting right on the water at Kent Narrows, Harris Crab House has been a local treasure since 1982. The restaurant captures everything magical about Maryland crab dining with its waterfront views and relaxed atmosphere.

Their all-you-can-eat crab feast is legendary among locals and tourists alike. Fresh blue crabs arrive daily from local watermen, ensuring peak flavor and quality. The buffet spreads out an impressive array of steamed crabs seasoned with traditional Old Bay, alongside crab soup, hush puppies, and corn on the cob.

Families gather here for celebrations, and the outdoor deck becomes especially lively during summer evenings. Watching boats cruise by while cracking crabs creates memories that last forever.

Conrad’s Seafood Restaurant – Perry Hall / Abingdon, MD

Conrad’s has built a reputation over decades for serving generous portions at reasonable prices. Walking into either location feels like stepping into a neighborhood gathering spot where everyone knows good seafood.

What sets Conrad’s apart is their commitment to variety beyond just crabs. The buffet features crab cakes made from jumbo lump meat, fried shrimp, clams, and seasonal fish preparations. Of course, the star remains their perfectly steamed Maryland blue crabs, piled high and ready for picking.

The staff keeps the buffet constantly refreshed, so you always get hot, fresh seafood. Kids love the relaxed vibe, and parents appreciate the value. It’s comfort food done right, Maryland style.

Poseidon Seafood Buffet – Glen Burnie, MD

Poseidon takes the buffet concept to another level with an enormous selection that goes way beyond traditional Maryland fare. This place attracts serious seafood lovers who want options galore.

While Maryland blue crabs remain a centerpiece, the buffet also includes snow crab legs, mussels, oysters, and sushi stations. The kitchen prepares crabs multiple ways, from classic steamed to creative preparations with garlic butter. Seafood gets replenished quickly, ensuring everything stays fresh and piping hot throughout your meal.

Families appreciate the variety since even picky eaters find something they love. The spacious dining room handles crowds comfortably, making it perfect for large gatherings or casual weeknight dinners.