Harris Crab House & Seafood Restaurant

Our History: The Harris Family

The Harris Crab House & Seafood Restaurant, Dessert First Coffee + Dessert Bar, and Harris Seafood Co. are esteemed waterfront, family-owned businesses that have thrived for decades. With our docks situated in the heart of Maryland's seafood industry, you can witness the daily catch unloaded before your eyes by hardworking watermen.

The Harris family's journey began in 1947 when Capt. Billy Harris and his wife Sis returned home after World War II and purchased an oyster house next to his father Holton's oyster plant. This marked the beginning of a seasonal operation that would eventually grow into a year-round seafood market supply, thanks to the Harris family's entrepreneurial spirit and dedication.

In 1981, Capt. Bill expanded the family's ventures by opening their first restaurant, which quickly gained popularity due to its fresh, local seafood offerings. As the restaurant outgrew its space, a new, larger facility was constructed on the original oyster house's site, owned by Holton Harris. Today, the Harris Crab House stands proudly, continuing the family's legacy.

Kent Island: A Rich History

Before the construction of the Bay Bridge in 1952, Kent Island was renowned as a haven for relaxation. Travelers from the western shore would board ferries, such as the Emma Giles, Dreamland, Smokey Joe, and Westmoreland, to reach the Love Point Hotel or Matapeake Ferry Terminal beaches. Visitors spent their time picnicking, canoeing, crabbing, and fishing amidst the beautiful landscapes. These activities remain popular among residents and visitors alike, despite the changes Kent Island has undergone over the past century.

Watermen have traditionally played a significant role in shaping Kent Island's culture. Through their hard work and perseverance, they have supported families, becoming self-reliant on the water. From the boat to the shucking house, from the steamer to the table, the labor of these dedicated individuals ensures fresh, delicious seafood for all to enjoy.

Supporting Local Watermen

At the Harris Crab House, we believe in the importance of sourcing our seafood from local watermen like Captain Bobby, a third-generation crabber in the Kent Narrows. By ordering crab feasts, crab cakes, and other delectable seafood items, you directly contribute to the livelihoods of these resilient community members. Savoring fresh seafood not only benefits your dinner experience but also helps strengthen the local seafood economy.

Our Offerings

At the Harris Crab House, we provide a wide range of services for our valued patrons:

1. *Dine-in and Carry-out*: We welcome guests to enjoy our exquisite seafood dishes in our comfortable dining area or to take their meals home for an unmatched carry-out experience.

2. *Oysters*: As the last year-round oyster processing house in Maryland, we pride ourselves on offering fresh, locally-sourced oysters all year round.

3. *Dessert First Coffee + Dessert Bar*: Our dockside dessert and coffee bar is a must-visit for those waiting for a table or fueling up for a day of adventure. We offer fresh baked goods, desserts, breakfast sandwiches, quiches, and an array of specialty coffee drinks from local favorite, Rise Up Coffee.

4. *Gift Cards*: Share the joy of fresh seafood and delectable desserts by gifting Harris Crab House gift cards to friends, family, or colleagues.

5. *Gold Belly*: For those unable to visit us in person, we offer shipping services through Gold Belly, ensuring our delicious seafood can be enjoyed nationwide.