The famous coastal city known for sailing is also famous for its seafood, especially local blue crabs, rockfish and oysters. But the town’s restaurant scene casts an even wider net, encompassing fine dining, international cuisine and much more.

Waterside Dining

Diners know what they’re getting at Cantler’s Riverside Inn  – hot, plump, steamed Maryland blue crabs, and lots of them. Or check out Mike’s Restaurant & Crab House , on the banks of beautiful South River, for steamed blue crabs and family fare. 

A top-notch wine list (which sells for half-off on Tuesdays) and unobstructed views of the colourful waterways have made Carrol’s Creek  an Annapolis landmark since 1983.

Island flare and rum-soaked cocktails at Pussers Caribbean Grille  provide a dash of pizzazz for waterfront diners, while the funky décor of Yellowfin Steak and Fish House provides a unique setting to watch the sunset over the water.

The award-winning views at Chart House Restaurant take their cue from the acclaimed cuisine – entrées like snapper Hemingway and succulent prime rib. While at the Severn Inn , panoramic scenes of the Naval Academy Bridge and its surrounding waterways set the stage for well-crafted pub food.

International Flavours

Provencal French cuisine is the cornerstone of Café Normandie on Main Street, which blends classic Maryland seafood fare with timeless French technique.

Family-owned India’s of Annapolis highlights the freshness and elegance of Indian cuisine, and adds a little spice to a romantic atmosphere.

Hip and lively Lemongrass serves vibrant Thai cuisine, while modern Italian cuisine (think sushi-grade ahi tuna carpaccio) wins accolades at sophisticated Osteria 177 .

Party Latin-style at Paladar Latin Kitchen & Rum Bar , where the bold flavours of Central and South America play against the long list of fine imported rums.

Fine Dining

Across from the Maryland State House is Harry Browne’s Restaurant , an award-winner that  features seasonal cuisine and Chesapeake Bay classics like its pan-seared rockfish.

A few miles west is Les Folies Brasserie, which brilliantly combines French panache with a friendly, neighbourhood vibe. Its raw bar is legendary, as is the sautéed foie gras with caramelised apples.

Lewnes’ Steak House has been an Annapolis staple since 1921, thanks in no small part to some of the finest U.S. Prime Aged Beef available. The brawny décor matches the perfectly marbled chops, which get seared in an 1,800-degree broiler. Another great choice for steak, The Chop House is famous for its exemplary service and well-aged cuts of steak.

Pubs & Taverns

A classic fish house, Boatyard Bar & Grill features no-filler crab cakes, lobster rolls and raw bar shooters. Even First Lady Michelle Obama called the crab cakes the best she’d ever had.

You can’t miss the vivid blue façade of Federal House Bar & Grille , part of Annapolis’ Historic District. Happy hours include live music and comedy, and the fresh menu features cream of crab soup and tasty sandwiches.

One of the oldest continuously operating taverns in America, Middleton Tavern has been serving patrons since 1750. The Rams Head Tavern  – another Maryland favourite – pours locally brewed beers to complement its hearty pub fare.

Galway  Bay brings a touch of Ireland to historic downtown Annapolis with award-winning corned beef and cabbage and frosty pints of Guinness.

For more information about these and other great dining options in Annapolis and Anne Arundel County, go to www.visitannapolis.org.