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Best Southern American Restaurants in Essex

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44 restaurants available nearby

A photo of By The Docks restaurant
1. By The Docks
4.6
Exceptional(1974)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Essex
Booked 7 times today
By The Docks in Essex, Middle River, exemplifies top-notch American cuisine with its outstanding offerings. Known for its "phenomenal" eight-ounce Colossal Jumbo Lump Crab Cake, it's no surprise diners repeatedly praise it as the "best crab cakes in Maryland." The restaurant's dedication to quality shines through in every dish, crafted with fresh ingredients and scratch-made sauces, soups, and dressings. Guests rave about the generous portions and diverse menu, featuring everything from hand-cut steaks to slow-roasted prime rib. The warm, "friendly service" and inviting atmosphere make it a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic American flavors. Whether you're a local or visiting, By The Docks is a culinary gem you won't want to miss!
A photo of Michael's Cafe White Marsh/ Middle River restaurant
2. Michael's Cafe White Marsh/ Middle River
4.8
Exceptional(871)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • White Marsh
Booked 12 times today
At Michael's Cafe White Marsh, the Seafood cuisine is a true standout, celebrated for its quality and authenticity. Diners rave about the "delicious" blackened salmon and the "amazing" crab deviled eggs and petit crab cakes, each bite brimming with freshness and expertly seasoned for a memorable taste experience. Michael's is renowned for consistently delivering dishes that are "cooked to perfection," with the Rockfish Nicholas often highlighted as "delicious!" The careful attention to detail and passion from Chef Fabricio and his team ensure each seafood dish is an authentic tribute to the sea, making it a must-visit for seafood lovers.
A photo of Charly’s Waterfront restaurant
3. Charly’s Waterfront
4.3
Awesome(138)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Essex
Charly's Waterfront in Essex is a remarkable destination for authentic American cuisine, offering a diverse menu that delights every palate. Diners rave about the "amazing food and incredible service," with standout dishes like the Cream of Crab Soup and Lobster Roll receiving high praise. The restaurant's fun and inviting atmosphere, complemented by friendly staff who go "above and beyond," makes it an ideal spot for special occasions or casual dining. Whether you're indulging in old bay duck fat popcorn or savoring the generous portions of succulent lobster, Charly's delivers a genuine American dining experience that keeps guests coming back for more.
A photo of Bowley's on the Bay restaurant
4. Bowley's on the Bay
4.5
Awesome(87)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Bowleys Quarters
Booked 1 time today
Chesapeake Bay’s newest restaurant & dining location. Located waterfront in Bowleys Quarters, our new indoor restaurant, Bowleys On The Bay is sure to be your new dining destination. Located inside Long Beach Marina at 800 Chester Road in Bowleys Quarters Maryland, we are easily accessible by boat or by car. Our Summer resort style destination & beach dining is now complimented by our new indoor dining area.During the Summer months, walk our beach, grab a waterfront outdoor shaded table, sit under a swaying palm tree, enjoy amazing views & a cool Island vibe with our tropical soundtrack. During our off season, come grab an indoor bar stool, high top table or dining room chair & get cozy with an amazing menu selection.We offer weekly specials, a Sunday Brunch & more. Please check our Facebook daily & our website for updates on all the wonderful times you’ll share with us this coming year.
A photo of Bar Louie - White Marsh restaurant
5. Bar Louie - White Marsh
4.1
Excellent(7)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • White Marsh
Booked 6 times today
At Bar Louie, we're passionate about delivering flavor packed experiences. Defined by our award-winning handcrafted martinis and cocktails, our lunch, dinner and happy hours elevate the top-shelf bar experience. In a vibrant atmosphere energized by our local community, we serve all guests looking to create unforgettable moments - making us the go-to-spot for all occasions, from a spontaneous happy hour hangout to a celebratory spot for milestone events.
A photo of Dave & Buster's - Baltimore (White Marsh) restaurant
6. Dave & Buster's - Baltimore (White Marsh)
3.7
Very Good(68)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Fells Point
Booked 5 times today
Each Dave & Buster's has more state-of-the-art games than ever, more mouth-watering menu items and the most innovative drinks anywhere. From wings to steaks, we've got whatever suits your appetite and our premium bar assures we're stocked to satisfy! Plus, you can watch your game on one of our massive HDTVs with epic stadium sound.
A photo of River Stone Grill restaurant
7. River Stone Grill
4.7
Exceptional(134)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Perry Hall
Booked 9 times today
River Stone Grill in Perry Hall delivers an authentic Italian dining experience that truly stands out. Known for its classic Italian dishes, diners rave about the "hand-rolled Italian meatballs" that echo traditional recipes straight from Italy. The restaurant offers a wide array of Italian selections that are consistently praised for their flavor and quality. One delighted guest shared, "Everything was delicious," particularly highlighting the penne and shrimp with a blush vodka sauce. The vibrant and inviting atmosphere complements the exquisite menu, making it a perfect spot for both casual lunches and special celebrations. With stellar service and a welcoming environment, River Stone Grill promises an Italian culinary journey that diners won't soon forget.
A photo of Mr. Bill's Terrace Inn restaurant
8. Mr. Bill's Terrace Inn
4.6
Exceptional(111)
Price: Very Expensive
• Southern american • Essex
Booked 3 times today
Mr. Bill's Terrace Inn in Essex is a seafood lover's paradise, renowned for serving Baltimore's best steamed crabs. This family-owned gem, with its casual and welcoming atmosphere, has been delighting diners for decades. The crabs are consistently praised as "spectacular," with patrons raving about their size, flavor, and the unique seasoning that is neither too salty nor too spicy. Guests frequently highlight the crabs as "heavy and meaty," making each bite a satisfying experience. With outstanding service and a "wonderful atmosphere," Mr. Bill's is the go-to spot for anyone seeking authentic and high-quality seafood.
A photo of Red Lobster - Nottingham restaurant
9. Red Lobster - Nottingham
3.4
Very Good(8)
Price: Moderate
• Southern american • Perry Hall
Elevate your day at Red Lobster, where fun meets fancy and every meal is a celebration. Whether you’re marking a special occasion or treating yourself or your crew, Red Lobster is the perfect place to enjoy all your seafood favorites. Dive into our signature shrimp, wild caught lobster and crab, and more. Plus, a variety of fish and popular non-seafood items like our Cajun Chicken Linguini Alfredo. Looking for a showstopper? Create Your Own Ultimate Feast or select a Live Maine Lobster straight from the tank. Or explore our Daily Deals with a different special available each weekday at a price you’ll love. Toast the day with Signature Cocktails including Lobster Punch and Main Deck Margarita Flights to make any moment feel festive. You won’t want to miss our newest menu items or special promotions like Lobsterfest and Crabfest. Reserve online today. Group Dining, To Go, or Catering options. For parties of 11+, please call.
A photo of Bygone restaurant
10. Bygone
4.6
Exceptional(3702)
Price: Very Expensive
• Southern american • Harbor East
Booked 60 times today
Bygone in Harbor East, Baltimore, is a shining beacon of Contemporary French and American cuisine, blending the best of both worlds with finesse and flair. Diners frequently rave about their exquisite dishes, with one enthusiast remarking, "The duck breast was some of the best I’ve ever had." This gastro bistro not only offers a delightful culinary journey but also captivates with breathtaking views of the city. The sophisticated ambiance, reminiscent of a classic social club, complements the modern energy, making it a perfect venue for any special occasion. "Everything was amazing," echoes the sentiment of many guests who are eager to return.
‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • AshleyVIP
    Philadelphia County •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Honestly always an amazing experience. There was a large birthday celebration while we were there so I was a little worried maybe our food would lack or take a long time but it was amazing as always and came out quickly. This is my favorite food ever!
    More info
    ForgePrice: Moderate• Southern• North East
    •
    4.8
  • ecotait
    Washington, D.C. Area •63 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Cameron (our server) was great — efficient, timely and professional. southern greens starter was delicious. Old Fashioned was tasty— BUT the 8 oz glass came to me half full (and a lot of that was ice). There was about 1 oz of liquid. For $14, fill up that glass. We suggest ordering beer or wine. The rockfish entree was delicious (as was the asparagus). So was the chicken pot pie. Hostess was absolutely delightful .
    More info
    Iron RoosterPrice: Moderate• Breakfast• Annapolis
    •
    4.5
  • EllenVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •16 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Jambalaya was excellent. Pretzel bread is yummy. Other entrees also were good. It was very busy and kitchen was working hard. Louder than usual but most tables were filled and thus to be expected.
    More info
    Hook & VinePrice: Expensive• Southern• Chesapeake Beach
    •
    4.7
  • Zachary
    Hawaii •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Mar 3, 2025
    Came to the Choptank for my mother-in-laws birthday dinner. The food did not disappoint and the atmosphere made it delightful for her special day! Tyler our server was very kind, informative and funny. He made our experience the perfect day, especially knowing to bring out some dessert for the birthday girl.
    More info
    The Choptank - BaltimorePrice: Moderate• Seafood• Fells Point
    •
    4.4
  • Paulette
    Caribbean •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Jan 24, 2025
    The food was very good. A variety to choose from. Definitely will be back to try more selections.
    More info
    ZELLS Kitchen and LoungePrice: Expensive• Southern• Largo
    •
    4

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