Cannon Street Public Landing
Classic Maryland seafood eatery and market, famous for all-you-can-eat blue crabs and fresh catches.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak blue crab season
Cannon Street Public Landing
Best Time
Peak blue crab season
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Classic Maryland seafood eatery and market, famous for all-you-can-eat blue crabs and fresh catches.
"Feast on delicious steamed blue crabs and fresh seafood in a classic, welcoming atmosphere."
🦀 AYCE Crab Strategy
Pace yourself with AYCE crabs! Sides like hushpuppies and corn are great, but don't fill up too fast.
🚶♀️ Navigating the Entrance
The restaurant is to the left of the seafood market. Don't be shy to ask for directions!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
All-You-Can-Eat Blue Crabs
Deck area
Feast on fresh, local blue crabs with classic sides. A true Maryland experience!
Seafood Market Freshness
Seafood Market
Pick up fresh seafood to cook at home or enjoy expertly prepared dishes.
Steamed Blue Crabs
Restaurant & Deck
Deliciously seasoned and perfectly steamed, a must-try for seafood lovers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Crab Season is Key
Deck vs. Inside Dining
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Chesapeake cruising
🦀 AYCE Crab Strategy
Pace yourself with AYCE crabs! Sides like hushpuppies and corn are great, but don't fill up too fast.
🚶♀️ Navigating the Entrance
The restaurant is to the left of the seafood market. Don't be shy to ask for directions!
Where can I buy live crabs in St Michaels?
☀️ Deck Dining Vibes
The deck is perfect for a sunny day. Enjoy the breeze and casual atmosphere.
☕ Coffee Snob Approved
Even coffee lovers rave about their fresh, well-brewed coffee.
Tips
from all over the internet
🦀 AYCE Crab Strategy
Pace yourself with AYCE crabs! Sides like hushpuppies and corn are great, but don't fill up too fast.
🚶♀️ Navigating the Entrance
The restaurant is to the left of the seafood market. Don't be shy to ask for directions!
☀️ Deck Dining Vibes
The deck is perfect for a sunny day. Enjoy the breeze and casual atmosphere.
☕ Coffee Snob Approved
Even coffee lovers rave about their fresh, well-brewed coffee.
🚗 Ample Parking
Plenty of parking available, including handicapped spots and easy ramp access.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Cannon Street Public Landing is a beloved spot for its authentic Maryland seafood experience, especially its all-you-can-eat blue crabs served on the deck. While the seafood is generally praised, some buffet items can be hit-or-miss. The friendly service and accessible facilities make it a welcoming destination for many.
"We ordered two dozen steamed blue crabs for carry out - delicious! When we called to place the order, we were unsure how many to order (appetizer amount for a group of 8). The woman on the phone was helpful and patient, especially given we were placing a same day order on the Fourth of July. Great experience and highly recommend!"
Margot Adams
"We had a dz MD blue crab ,mussels, calamari deep fried ,and bacon wrapped scallops. Everything was delicious including blueberry cheesecake.Waitrees was wonderful."
Mary Carr
"Great place for very good seafood. We had the all you could eat crabs on the deck and they were definitely worth the money. They came with fried chicken, hush puppies & an ear of corn. The crabs were nice fat ones. There were 5 of us and no one was disappointed. We also ate the stuffed mushroom caps, prime rib ( which was excellent), various deserts , and the coffee was very good. For me, a coffee snob, to say a resteraunt's coffee was good means it was fresh brewed and very good.
Lots of parking with handicapped parking and a ramp my friend easily got her rolator walker up to be seated.
We are all seniors and were treated very well. That means something these days. Overall it was an excellent experience and this was my first time eating there. I will absolutely go again."
Debbie Weems
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cannon Street Public Landing is accessible by car. There is ample parking available on-site, including handicapped parking. If you're arriving by boat, it's a popular stop along the Chesapeake Bay cruising routes.
Public transportation options may be limited depending on your starting point. It's best to check local transit schedules or consider ride-sharing services if you are not driving.
For those cruising the Chesapeake, Cannon Street Public Landing is a convenient stop. It's known to be a good spot for docking and enjoying a meal.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups or during peak season and holidays, as it can get very busy.
Hours can vary seasonally. It's advisable to check their official website or call ahead for the most up-to-date operating hours, particularly for the seafood market and restaurant.
There is no entrance fee to access the restaurant or market area. You only pay for the food and drinks you order.
Yes, takeout is available for many items, including their famous steamed blue crabs. It's a great option if you want to enjoy their seafood elsewhere.
The all-you-can-eat crab experience typically includes sides like fried chicken, hushpuppies, and corn. Be sure to clarify the specifics with your server.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The all-you-can-eat blue crabs are a major draw. Other popular items include steamed mussels, fried calamari, bacon-wrapped scallops, and their prime rib. Don't forget to try the Smith Island cake for dessert!
Yes, the seafood market is known for its freshness, offering a variety of seafood options to purchase and take home.
Common sides include fried chicken, hushpuppies, corn on the cob, and coleslaw.
While seafood is their specialty, they do offer options like prime rib and fried chicken. It's best to check the menu for current non-seafood selections.
Reviewers have specifically praised the coffee, noting it's fresh-brewed and very good, even for coffee enthusiasts.
📸 📸 Photography
The deck area offers scenic views, especially during sunset. Capturing the vibrant blue crabs and the bustling market can also make for great shots.
Yes, you can take photos of the seafood market, showcasing the fresh catches of the day.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parking is plentiful and accessible, making it easy to get in and out with little ones. While the crab-eating can be messy, it's part of the fun! Consider bringing wet wipes or asking for extra napkins. The staff is generally accommodating to families.
⚓ Chesapeake Cruisers
Whether you're looking for a hearty AYCE crab meal after a day on the water or a quick stop for fresh fish, this landing provides a classic Eastern Shore experience. The accessible parking and ramp also make it easy for crews with varying mobility needs to come ashore.
💰 Budget-Conscious Diners
Look out for daily specials or consider visiting during off-peak hours for potentially better deals or a more relaxed experience. The seafood market also provides an option to buy fresh seafood at market prices, which can be more economical if you plan to cook yourself.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The All-You-Can-Eat Crab Experience
When ordering AYCE, it's wise to pace yourself. While the temptation is to dive in, remember that the goal is to enjoy a good quantity of crabs. The accompanying sides are delicious but can fill you up quickly. Many visitors find the deck area to be the ideal spot for this experience, offering a more relaxed and casual atmosphere compared to the indoor dining room.
It's important to note that the quality and availability of crabs can fluctuate with the season. The peak season for blue crabs in Maryland generally runs from April through October. Outside of this window, you might find fewer crabs available or a different variety. Always check with your server about the current offerings and any specials.
Beyond the Crabs: A Culinary Journey
For meat lovers, the prime rib has received high praise, often described as excellent. This demonstrates the kitchen's versatility. Desserts are also a highlight, with the Smith Island cake being a frequently mentioned and highly recommended treat. Even the coffee has garnered positive remarks, noted for being fresh-brewed and of good quality, a detail appreciated by discerning coffee drinkers.
The restaurant also offers buffet options on certain occasions, which can be a good way to sample a variety of dishes. However, reviews suggest that while some buffet items like fried shrimp and oysters are excellent, others like crab cakes and mac and cheese might be less impressive. It's always a good idea to check recent reviews or ask about the current buffet offerings.
Accessibility and Family-Friendliness
For families, the casual atmosphere, especially on the deck, makes it a suitable environment. While the AYCE crab experience can be a bit messy, it's often a fun and engaging activity for children who enjoy seafood. The availability of kid-friendly sides like fried chicken and corn also adds to its appeal for families.
Service is generally described as friendly and helpful, with staff willing to answer questions about the menu and offerings. This welcoming approach contributes to a positive dining experience for families and individuals alike.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit