Baltimore, Maryland, is a city rich in history and culture, but it’s also a paradise for food lovers. Known for its fresh seafood, particularly the iconic Maryland blue crab, Baltimore’s culinary scene offers a diverse array of flavors and dishes that are sure to delight any palate. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll take you through the must-try foods in Baltimore, sharing my personal experiences, detailing the best restaurants, and providing practical tips for reservations and routes.
1. Maryland Blue Crab and Crab Cakes
Overview
No visit to Baltimore is complete without trying the famous Maryland blue crab. Whether you’re cracking open steamed crabs seasoned with Old Bay or savoring a perfectly fried crab cake, this local delicacy is a must-try.
My Experience
I’ve had the pleasure of dining on blue crabs at various spots around the city. The experience of sitting down with friends, armed with a mallet and a bib, and working through a pile of freshly steamed crabs is quintessentially Baltimore. Crab cakes, on the other hand, offer a more refined but equally delicious way to enjoy this seafood.
Top Spots to Try
- Faidley’s Seafood: Located in Lexington Market, Faidley’s is renowned for its award-winning crab cakes. Made with jumbo lump crab meat and minimal filler, these crab cakes are a must-try.
- Reservation Platform: Walk-ins are welcome, but it can get crowded during peak times, so try to visit during off-peak hours.
- Route: 203 N Paca St, Baltimore, MD 21201. Easily accessible by bus or a short walk from the University of Maryland, Baltimore campus.
- LP Steamers: For a more casual, traditional crab feast, head to LP Steamers. This no-frills seafood shack serves up steamed crabs, crab cakes, and other seafood dishes in a laid-back setting.
- Reservation Platform: Call ahead to check availability, especially on weekends.
- Route: 1100 E Fort Ave, Baltimore, MD 21230. Located in the Locust Point neighborhood, it’s a short drive from the Inner Harbor.
Tips for Enjoying Crabs
- Technique: Don’t be intimidated by the process of eating steamed crabs. The key is to use a mallet to crack the shells and extract the sweet meat inside. There are plenty of online tutorials if you’re a first-timer.
- Seasoning: Old Bay is the classic seasoning for Maryland crabs. Its blend of spices enhances the flavor of the crab without overpowering it.
- Timing: The best time for blue crabs is during the summer months, from late May to early October, when they are in season and at their freshest.
2. Pit Beef
Overview
Pit beef is Baltimore’s answer to barbecue, and it’s a must-try for meat lovers. This local specialty features beef that is grilled over an open flame, then thinly sliced and served on a Kaiser roll with horseradish sauce and raw onions.
My Experience
My first taste of pit beef was at Chap’s Pit Beef, and it was an unforgettable experience. The beef was perfectly charred on the outside, juicy on the inside, and the combination of the spicy horseradish sauce and the sweetness of the raw onions created a flavor explosion.
Top Spots to Try
- Chap’s Pit Beef: This iconic spot has been serving up pit beef since 1987. Their sandwiches are packed with flavor and have earned them a loyal following.
- Reservation Platform: No reservations needed; it’s a casual spot with counter service.
- Route: 5801 Pulaski Hwy, Baltimore, MD 21205. Located in East Baltimore, it’s a bit of a drive from downtown but worth the trip.
- Chubby’s Barbecue: Another great spot for pit beef, Chubby’s offers a variety of barbecue meats, but their pit beef is a standout.
- Reservation Platform: Walk-ins are welcome.
- Route: 4540 Montgomery Rd, Ellicott City, MD 21043. Located a short drive from Baltimore, it’s a great stop if you’re exploring the surrounding area.
Tips for Enjoying Pit Beef
- Sauces: Don’t skip the horseradish sauce and raw onions—they’re essential for the full pit beef experience.
- Sides: Pair your sandwich with classic barbecue sides like coleslaw, baked beans, or mac and cheese.
- Cooking Style: Pit beef is typically cooked medium-rare to medium. If you prefer your meat well-done, be sure to specify when ordering.
3. Berger Cookies
Overview
Berger Cookies are a Baltimore institution. These cake-like cookies are topped with a thick layer of rich, fudge-like chocolate icing. They’re the perfect indulgence for anyone with a sweet tooth.
My Experience
Tasting Berger Cookies for the first time was a delightful experience. The cookies are soft and buttery, and the chocolate icing is decadently thick and sweet. It’s easy to see why these cookies have become a beloved Baltimore tradition.
Top Spots to Try
- Lexington Market: Many stalls in Lexington Market sell Berger Cookies, making it an easy place to pick up a box.
- Reservation Platform: No reservations needed; just walk in and explore the market.
- Route: 400 W Lexington St, Baltimore, MD 21201. Easily accessible by bus or a short walk from downtown.
- Online Orders: If you can’t make it to Baltimore, you can order Berger Cookies online from their official website, and they’ll ship them directly to your door.
Tips for Enjoying Berger Cookies
- Storage: Keep your Berger Cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can also be refrigerated if you prefer a firmer texture.
- Pairing: Enjoy them with a glass of cold milk or a hot cup of coffee for a perfect treat.
- Sharing: Berger Cookies make great gifts, so consider picking up an extra box to share with friends and family.
4. Coddies
Overview
Coddies, also known as cod cakes, are a classic Baltimore snack made from mashed potatoes and salted cod, shaped into patties, breaded, and fried until golden brown. They’re typically served with yellow mustard on saltine crackers.
My Experience
Coddies were a delightful discovery for me. The combination of the savory cod and the creamy mashed potatoes, with the crunch of the breading and the tang of the mustard, made for a satisfying snack. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that encapsulates the spirit of Baltimore’s working-class roots.
Top Spots to Try
- Attman’s Delicatessen: This iconic deli on Baltimore’s historic Corned Beef Row offers delicious coddies along with a variety of other traditional deli fare.
- Reservation Platform: No reservations needed; it’s a deli with counter service.
- Route: 1019 E Lombard St, Baltimore, MD 21202. Located in East Baltimore, it’s a short drive from downtown.
- Faidley’s Seafood: In addition to their famous crab cakes, Faidley’s also offers excellent coddies.
- Reservation Platform: Walk-ins are welcome.
- Route: 203 N Paca St, Baltimore, MD 21201. Located in Lexington Market.
Tips for Enjoying Coddies
- Serving: Traditional coddies are served with yellow mustard and saltine crackers. Don’t skip these accompaniments—they add the perfect balance of flavors.
- Texture: Look for coddies that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside for the best experience.
- Homemade: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try making coddies at home. There are plenty of recipes available online that can guide you through the process.
5. Lake Trout
Overview
Despite the name, Lake Trout isn’t actually trout—it’s a local term for fried Atlantic whiting, typically served with a side of fries. This beloved Baltimore fast food is known for its crispy coating and tender, flaky fish.
My Experience
My first taste of Lake Trout was at The Roost, a well-known spot for this local specialty. The fish was perfectly fried, with a crispy exterior and moist, flavorful flesh. It’s a simple, no-frills dish that’s deeply satisfying and perfect for a quick meal.
Top Spots to Try
- The Roost: Known for its excellent fried fish, The Roost offers a variety of seafood dishes, but the Lake Trout is a standout.
- Reservation Platform: No reservations needed; it’s a casual, take-out spot.
- Route: 518 W Mulberry St, Baltimore, MD 21201. Located in the Harlem Park neighborhood.
- Sunny’s Subs: Another great spot for Lake Trout, Sunny’s Subs is a popular local joint that serves up delicious fried fish and subs.
- Reservation Platform: Walk-ins are welcome.
- Route: 2200 N Monroe St, Baltimore, MD 21217. Located in the Penn-North neighborhood.
Tips for Enjoying Lake Trout
- Freshness: Ensure the fish is freshly fried for the best texture and flavor.
- Condiments: Lake Trout is often served with hot sauce and ketchup—add these to your liking for an extra kick.
- Sides: Pair your Lake Trout with fries or coleslaw for a complete meal.
6. Baltimore Peach Cake
Overview
Baltimore Peach Cake is a traditional local dessert made with a yeast dough, topped with fresh peaches, and glazed with a sugary syrup. It’s a summertime favorite in Baltimore and a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.
My Experience
I had the pleasure of trying Baltimore Peach Cake at Hoehn’s Bakery, a local institution. The cake was light and fluffy, with the peaches adding a juicy sweetness that was perfectly balanced by the sugary glaze. It’s a delightful treat that’s perfect for a summer afternoon.
Top Spots to Try
- Hoehn’s Bakery: This family-owned bakery has been serving Baltimore Peach Cake for decades and is known for its high-quality baked goods.
- Reservation Platform: No reservations needed; it’s a bakery with counter service.
- Route: 400 S Conkling St, Baltimore, MD 21224. Located in the Highlandtown neighborhood.
- Fenwick Bakery: Another great spot for Peach Cake, Fenwick Bakery offers a variety of traditional baked goods and pastries.
- Reservation Platform: Walk-ins are welcome.
- Route: 7219 Harford Rd, Parkville, MD 21234. Located just outside of Baltimore, it’s a short drive from downtown.
Tips for Enjoying Peach Cake
- Seasonality: Peach Cake is best enjoyed in the summer when peaches are at their peak ripeness.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep the cake fresh. It’s best eaten within a day or two of purchase.
- Pairing: Enjoy your Peach Cake with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
7. Snowballs
Overview
Snowballs are a popular summer treat in Baltimore, consisting of finely shaved ice topped with flavored syrup and often finished with a dollop of marshmallow cream. They’re the perfect way to cool down on a hot day.
My Experience
Trying a Baltimore Snowball was a refreshing and fun experience. The variety of flavors available is staggering, and the addition of marshmallow cream adds a delightful twist. I tried the egg custard flavor, a Baltimore classic, and it did not disappoint.
Top Spots to Try
- The Charmery: Known for its creative ice cream flavors, The Charmery also offers delicious snowballs during the summer months.
- Reservation Platform: No reservations needed; it’s an ice cream shop with counter service.
- Route: 801 W 36th St, Baltimore, MD 21211. Located in the Hampden neighborhood.
- One Sweet Moment: A popular snowball stand offering a wide variety of flavors and toppings.
- Reservation Platform: Walk-ins are welcome.
- Route: 6010 Falls Rd, Baltimore, MD 21209. Located in the Mount Washington neighborhood.
Tips for Enjoying Snowballs
- Flavors: Don’t be afraid to try unique flavors. Egg custard is a local favorite, but there are countless other options to explore.
- Toppings: Adding marshmallow cream is a classic choice, but you can also opt for other toppings like whipped cream or chocolate syrup.
- Season: Snowballs are typically available during the warmer months, from late spring to early fall.
Baltimore’s culinary scene is a reflection of its rich history and diverse culture. From iconic seafood dishes like Maryland blue crabs and crab cakes to local favorites like pit beef and Berger Cookies, there’s no shortage of delicious foods to try. By exploring the city’s best eateries and following these tips, you can savor the flavors of Baltimore and create unforgettable culinary memories. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these must-try foods offer a taste of Charm City’s unique and vibrant food culture. Enjoy your culinary journey through Baltimore!
