Welcome to The Crab Claw
At The Crab Claw, nestled in the picturesque St. Michaels, Maryland, seafood takes center stage. Our story is one of passion for the Chesapeake Bay's rich bounty, where every dish tells a tale of tradition and quality. From the famed crab cakes, celebrated as the "Best on the Bay," to the heartwarming oyster stew, we embrace the essence of coastal dining. Diners enjoy a vibrant atmosphere with breathtaking harbor views, perfect for indulging on fried shrimp or freshly caught soft crabs. With an unwavering commitment to exceptional service, The Crab Claw invites you to savor the flavors of the sea, creating unforgettable memories.
- 304 Burns St, St Michaels, MD 21663 Hotline: (410) 745-2900
If you find yourself wandering the charming streets of St. Michaels, Maryland, make sure to stop by The Crab Claw, a celebrated destination for seafood lovers and a must-experience culinary gem by the waterfront. Nestled at 304 Burns St, this eatery is not just a restaurant; it’s a vibrant gathering spot where locals and tourists connect over their shared love for the ocean’s bounty.
The Crab Claw paints an inviting picture with its outdoor dining area, offering diners a delightful view of the harbor. You might even catch boats gliding by as you enjoy your meal—creating a beautiful backdrop that enhances the overall dining experience. As one customer aptly noted, this is a place for “easy breezy outdoor waterfront dining,” where you can relax with a cold drink while savoring fresh seafood.
- Appetizers: Start your meal with tempting options like Clams Casino, Crab Dip, or the well-loved Crab Balls. Each dish is crafted with care, promising a burst of flavor in every bite.
- Soups and Salads: Dive into a warm bowl of Cream of Crab Soup or the robust Clam Chowder—both highly praised for their richness and freshness. If you're in the mood for something lighter, the Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad is a fantastic choice.
- Platters: The signature Crab Cakes are touted as the "best on the bay" for a reason, providing a satisfying and authentic taste of Maryland’s coastal cuisine. Don’t miss the Chesapeake Bay Seafood Sampler, a grand assembly of crab cakes, shrimp, oysters, and more—it’s a feast that delivers on every front!
What truly stands out at The Crab Claw is its interactive dining experience—particularly with the famous Maryland hard crabs. Diners can expect guidance on how to crack these crabs, fully engaging in the joy of this labor-intensive yet rewarding culinary endeavor. As customer Rachel B. shared, "It’s so fun but also laborious!” The experience becomes as memorable as the delicious food itself.
Lastly, The Crab Claw shines in its commitment to delivering both quality cuisine and fast, friendly service. Patrons frequently praise the efficient staff, who ensure that your visit is as enjoyable as the meal is delicious. From local beers to potent Bloody Marys, every element of your dining experience at The Crab Claw is designed for pleasure.
In summary, The Crab Claw isn’t simply a meal; it's a celebration of seafood culture, an enjoyable environment, and a true taste of Maryland. Whether you’re a seasoned crab connoisseur or a first-time visitor, this restaurant promises to leave a lasting impression—and I can’t recommend it highly enough.

We had a blast at this touristy crab restaurant! We had to try the Maryland hard crabs while in St. Michael's. They give you instructions on how to crack the crabs effectively. It's so fun but also laborious! The crabs are expensive, so mentally prepare for the cost! It was nice sitting by the water and watching the boats go by. We had a great time and would definitely recommend coming here.

A good destination for lunch or dinner. Great view of the harbor. Seafood is very good and service fast. The outdoor dining area is preferred with picnic tables. Boats may dock there and tie up for a meal. A short walk from S Talbot street.

Whether the outside weather is good or bad, we make a trip down from South Jersey every fall if we can and it never disappoints always a good experience food comes quickly and it's always above average. It just stinks that food prices are getting higher so that may deter us from coming as often. Beer is local and delicious. We always order a few pitchers while taking our time, eating those delicious crabs and watching the channel with the sparkly water and sailboats bopping by

This place is always Amazing! We always go here every summer at least once. It always a great treat and experience. Love love love it

You can't visit the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum and not stop in The Crab Claw for a bite. The place has a great vibe that just makes eating seafood all the more enjoyable.

Easy breezy outdoor waterfront dining with yummy crab cakes and frozen drinks that are perfect for summer.

Excellent service, fluffing great crab fluff, tasty eats and potent Bloody Marys, recipe for a good time.