The Absolute Best Cheap Seafood in Baltimore [Updated 2025]

I’ve scoured the city, indulging in crab cakes, shrimp po’boys, and clam chowder from twelve of the top spots, each one a hidden gem just waiting to be discovered. Trust me, after tasting my way through Baltimore's bustling seafood scene, I’ve become quite the connoisseur of budget-friendly bites that don’t skimp on flavor.

You’re probably wondering why you should take my word for it. Well, I’ve navigated the local food scene as a passionate eater and a serious seafood lover, and I believe that great food shouldn’t break the bank. So, let’s dive into the delicious world of cheap seafood that Baltimore has to offer—your taste buds will thank you!

Sal & Son's Seafood Inc

Highlights
Fresh and made to order
Excellent softshell crab sandwich
Best crab cake under $50
Great walk-up format
Delicious shrimp options

Review of Sal & Son's Seafood Inc

When it comes to finding excellent seafood on a budget, Sal & Son's Seafood Inc is a gem I couldn't resist. As soon as I approached the walk-up window, the aroma of freshly cooked seafood tantalized my senses, promising a delightful experience. I decided to indulge in their famed softshell crab sandwich, and let me tell you, it exceeded my expectations! The crab was fresh, perfectly fried, and nestling between two fluffy buns – pure bliss!

But what truly caught my attention was the crab cake, a delightful surprise that packs a punch without breaking the bank. Trust me when I say, it’s one of the best crab cakes under $50 you can find in the city! Their menu also boasts a variety of shrimp options, which I have no doubt are equally delightful.

If you're in the mood for seafood that’s not only affordable but bursting with flavor, head over to Sal & Son's. With each bite, it became clear that this place knows how to do seafood right—fresh, simple, and delicious. It’s definitely a spot I’ll revisit, and I highly recommend you do too!

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Blakes Crab House

Highlights
Buy one dz, get 1/2 doz free
Fresh, full female crabs
Quick order turnaround
Friendly staff and ample parking
Great prices and quality

Blakes Crab House: A Sea of Savings and Flavor

When I arrived at Blakes Crab House, I was immediately drawn in by the charming vibe and tantalizing aroma of fresh seafood wafting through the air. What sets this place apart is their unbeatable deal: buy one dozen crabs, get half a dozen free! Now that’s what I call a crab-tastic bargain!

As I savored my first crab, I was delighted to discover they serve only fresh, full female crabs—a true delicacy in the seafood world. You could taste the ocean's essence in every succulent bite. Plus, the quick order turnaround meant I didn’t have to wait long to dive into my feast, which is always a plus when hunger strikes!

The friendly staff truly made the experience special; they treated me like family and were always ready to offer recommendations. Not to mention, there was ample parking, which is a rare find in Baltimore! With an emphasis on both quality and affordability, Blakes has snagged a top spot on my list for cheap seafood in the city. If you're hunting for a casual yet satisfying crab experience, this quaint joint is a must-visit!

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Mama's On the Half Shell

Highlights
Amazing crab egg rolls
Perfectly seasoned shrimp
Warm and attentive service
Casual outdoor seating
Unforgettable dining experience

Mama's On the Half Shell is a delightful gem tucked away in Baltimore, and I must say, it’s a must-visit for seafood lovers on a budget. As soon as I stepped in, I was welcomed by a warm atmosphere and friendly staff—talk about attentive service!

The highlight of my meal? The amazing crab egg rolls. These crunchy bites were bursting with flavor and packed with tender crab meat, perfectly seasoned to tantalize my taste buds. I then savored the seasoned shrimp, which was cooked to perfection, leaving me craving more with every bite.

What makes Mama's special is not just the food; it’s the casual outdoor seating that invites you to sit back, unwind, and soak in the Baltimore charm. Despite being a laid-back eatery, the dining experience feels unforgettable, thanks to the combination of quality dishes and friendly service that caters to every need.

If you're looking for affordable seafood that doesn't skimp on taste, Mama's On the Half Shell is undoubtedly your destination. Don’t miss out on this flavorful adventure—your palate will thank you!

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Thames Street Oyster House

Highlights
Fresh and plump oysters
Generous crab cake portions
Friendly and attentive service
Delicious bouillabaisse
Ideal for Fells Point visitors

Thames Street Oyster House is a delightful gem tucked away in the heart of Fells Point. As soon as I walked in, the friendly and attentive staff made me feel right at home, setting the stage for a memorable seafood adventure. My first indulgence was the fresh and plump oysters—each one brimming with the taste of the sea and a hint of saltiness that perfectly danced on my palate.

Next up was their generous crab cake, which was anything but the tiny disappointment often found in budget eateries. This crab cake was a hefty portion, packed with a tantalizing mix of flavors and just the right crunch on the outside. To round out my meal, I ordered their delicious bouillabaisse—a true testament to their commitment to quality without breaking the bank.

Overall, Thames Street Oyster House is an absolute must-visit for seafood lovers who want to savor top-notch dishes without emptying their wallets. If you’re in the mood for an affordable seafood feast, this charming spot is definitely worth a visit. Celebrate your love for seafood here, and you'll leave with a smile as wide as the harbor!

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Faidley's Seafood

Highlights
Best crab cakes
Flavorful and tender
Must-visit Lexington Market
Great side dishes
Unique potato salad

When it comes to cheap seafood in Baltimore, Faidley's Seafood is a must-visit gem nestled in the heart of the historic Lexington Market. As I approached, the delightful aroma of the ocean immediately called to my senses, hinting at the culinary treasures within.

Once inside, the star of the show is undoubtedly their famous crab cakes. Priced affordably, these golden delights are packed with flavor and tender, fresh lumps of crab meat. Each bite is a burst of seaside goodness that transports you straight to the Chesapeake Bay. But it’s not just about the crabs; the unique potato salad is a delightful accompaniment that complements every delicious morsel.

Don't skip the side dishes, as they add an extra layer of enjoyment to your meal.** Faidley’s** has mastered the balance between great taste and value, making it one of Baltimore's best-kept secrets for seafood lovers on a budget. If you find yourself wandering through Lexington Market, do yourself a favor—dive into Faidley's and indulge in their treasures. It’s an experience that proves incredible seafood doesn’t have to break the bank!

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Angie's Seafood

At Angie's Seafood, I was greeted with the fragrant aromas of the ocean, tantalizing my taste buds before I even took a bite. Their fried shrimp and crab cakes were the stars of the show—golden, crispy, and bursting with flavor, all at a price that won’t break the bank! The informal atmosphere invites you to kick back and enjoy your meal without any fuss. For a true Baltimore experience, don’t miss out on their fresh catch of the day specials. Overall, Angie's proves that delicious seafood doesn’t always come with a hefty price tag!

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Baltimore Seafood

Baltimore Seafood is a hidden gem that truly captures the essence of the city's maritime charm. As I stepped inside, the aroma of fresh catch enveloped me, teasing my taste buds with promises of delectable dishes. Their crab cakes are an absolute steal—crispy on the outside and bursting with sweet, tender lump crabmeat. I also savored their shrimp salad, generously piled on a soft roll. The atmosphere is both welcoming and casual, making it a perfect spot for a quick lunch. For those craving affordable, mouthwatering seafood, I wholeheartedly recommend making Baltimore Seafood your next stop!

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Happy Times Seafood

At Happy Times Seafood, the charm is as palpable as the aroma of fresh catch that greets you at the door. The prices are delightfully low, making it a haven for seafood lovers on a budget. I savored their crab cakes, which were juicy and filled with lump crab meat. Each bite was an oceanic hug! The shrimp po' boy was equally impressive—crispy, flavorful, and generously stuffed. The friendly staff adds a dash of warmth to the casual vibe. If you’re in the mood for a seafood feast that won't break the bank, Happy Times is definitely worth a visit!

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Captain James Seafood Palace

Captain James Seafood Palace is a hidden gem in Baltimore, where affordability meets flavor. As I approached the vibrant waterside spot, the tantalizing aroma of fried fish wafted through the air, promising something special. The menu offers a delightful array of seafood, but the crab cakes truly stole the show—juicy, with a delightful crunch, and generously packed with real crab meat. I was also pleasantly surprised by their boatload of shrimp options, all at reasonable prices! Casual dining with a view makes for a perfect combo. If you're hunting for delicious and cheap seafood, Captain James might just be your next favorite stop!

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Blue Point Crab House

At Blue Point Crab House, I dove into the fresh flavors of the Chesapeake with glee! The crab cakes were a delightful surprise—light, fluffy, and packed with flavor, all for a wallet-friendly price. The atmosphere buzzed with a casual charm, making it a perfect spot for a seafood feast without the hefty bill. The staff were friendly, adding a personal touch to my meal. If you’re craving affordable seafood that doesn’t skimp on taste, this gem is a must-visit in Baltimore. I left with a satisfied palate and a promise to return for more of those succulent crabs!

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Nick's Fish House

Nestled along the waterfront, Nick's Fish House is a treasure trove for seafood lovers on a budget. The laid-back atmosphere complements the no-frills menu, where you can savor mouthwatering crab cakes without breaking the bank. I particularly enjoyed their steamed crabs, a local favorite, bursting with flavor. The generous portions ensure you leave satisfied, but not pinching pennies! Their vibrant outdoor seating area offers a lovely view, making it the perfect spot for a casual meal. Overall, Nick's is a must-visit for anyone craving delicious, affordable seafood in Baltimore. Don’t miss the chance to indulge!

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Jimmy's Famous Seafood

At Jimmy's Famous Seafood, affordability meets flavor in a delightful symphony. Their crab cakes are nothing short of legendary—crispy on the outside and bursting with lump meat inside! The fried shrimp offers a crunchy texture that pairs perfectly with their house-made cocktail sauce. Don’t miss out on the oysters on the half shell, which are as fresh as the bay itself. The lively atmosphere adds to the charm, making it a fantastic spot for casual dining. Overall, Jimmy's proves that you don’t have to break the bank for top-notch seafood in Baltimore! 🍤🌊

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