Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Maryland's Premier Seafood Dining Experience
Harris Crab House has been a cornerstone of Maryland's seafood industry since 1947, rooted in a legacy of family-owned tradition and dedication to quality. Founded by Capt. Bill Harris after his service in World War II, our business has evolved from a seasonal oyster house to a year-round destination for fresh seafood, employing over 170 community members and sourcing from 200+ local watermen. We pioneered the first restaurant on our waterfront property in 1981, expanding to become a beloved institution where guests experience the Chesapeake Bay's culinary heritage firsthand.Our commitment to sustainability and supporting local livelihoods remains unwavering, as evidenced by our status as Maryland's last commercial oyster house. From all-you-can-eat crab feasts to our dockside coffee bar featuring Rise Up Coffee, every offering reflects our passion for connecting people with the freshest catch. The Harris family's entrepreneurial spirit continues to drive innovation while maintaining the highest standards of service, ensuring our guests enjoy both exceptional meals and a living history of Kent Island's maritime culture.
Services
Crab Feasts
Oyster Buffet
Seafood Takeout
Coffee & Dessert Bar
Gift Cards
Merchandise Sales
Details
- Year established: 1947
Highlights and features
- Family-owned since 1947 with generational seafood expertise
- Supports 200+ local watermen and employs 170+ community members
- Last commercial oyster house operating year-round in Maryland
- Award-winning crab seasoning recipe perfected over decades
- Historic waterfront location offering immersive maritime experience
What people say
BEST crab house in the country
Spice they use is OUTSTANDING
Staff very friendly and attentive
Fresh baked goods and desserts
Waterfront location with great views
Services
Crab Feasts
Our legendary crab feasts feature freshly steamed Maryland blue crabs seasoned with our signature spice blend perfected over decades. Available Monday-Thursday starting at 11am, this dining experience combines quality seafood with casual waterfront atmosphere. Reservations recommended for peak hours.
Oyster Buffet
The Friday Oyster Buffet returns October 3 with premium oysters and seafood selections from 4:30-8:30pm. This weekly event showcases Maryland's maritime heritage through fresh, locally sourced shellfish in a festive dining environment with live music options.
Seafood Takeout
As Maryland's last year-round oyster processing house, we offer fresh seafood takeout including crab cakes, oysters, and seasonal catches. Available for local pickup or nationwide shipping via Goldbelly, our products maintain the same quality standards as our restaurant offerings.
Coffee & Dessert Bar
Our waterfront dessert and coffee bar serves Rise Up Coffee specialties alongside fresh baked goods and breakfast items. Open daily for quick service, this casual option provides convenient fueling before or after crab house dining experiences.
Gift Cards
Purchase Harris Crab House gift cards for any occasion, available in-store or online. We also offer branded merchandise including apparel that celebrates local seafood pride, with designs featuring our iconic blue crab motif.
Questions
What are the pricing options for crab feasts?
All-you-can-eat crab feast pricing varies by season and crab availability. Please call 410-827-9500 for current rates and reservations.
When does the Friday Oyster Buffet operate?
The AYCE Friday Oyster Buffet runs weekly from 4:30-8:30pm, starting October 3 through the end of the season.
Can I order seafood for delivery outside Maryland?
Yes, we ship fresh seafood nationwide through Goldbelly, preserving the same quality as our local market offerings.
What makes your crab seasoning unique?
Our proprietary spice blend has been perfected over 77 years of operation, creating the signature flavor customers rave about nationwide.
Do you offer catering services?
While not explicitly mentioned, our history of large-scale seafood processing suggests catering options may be available through direct inquiry.
Is there live music at the restaurant?
Yes, Thursday Locals Night features live music from 5-8pm at the Pearl rooftop location during operating season.
