A bowl full of Maryland pride? Nah—we’re shelling out for crab cakes. These seven local legends each bring a unique twist—from revitalized waterfront charm and jazz nights, to casual counter-service comfort. Expect jumbo lump indulgence, Old Bay kicked crunch, and everything in between. So loosen the belt, bring your appetite, and get ready for a crab cake odyssey that proves Columbia’s not playing around when it comes to crustacean cuisine.
Wild Seafood
Address: 7901 Oceano Ave, Jessup (Maryland Wholesale Seafood Center)
Price: $10–$14
Freshness is king at this Jessup staple. Formerly Frank’s Seafood, Wild Seafood has been slinging top-tier crab and fish since 1984. These crab cakes are all flavor—jumbo lump, minimal filler, and that just-caught taste. Longtime manager Dave Webb and the team serve up seafood with heart, from daily catches to party platters. It's a retail stall, so grab your cake to-go and savor it at home.
wildseafoodmd.comGlenwood’s
Address: 8900 Stanford Blvd, Columbia
Price: Half-pound jumbo lump, $42.90
This upscale gem dishes out golden-seared half-pound crab cakes loaded with jumbo lump. It’s served alongside crispy fries and tangy coleslaw in a cozy setting with live jazz on select nights. A perfect date-night spot — the atmosphere matches that decadent lump crab take.
glenwoodsdining.comSeasons 52
Address: 10300 Little Patuxent Pkwy, Suite 3150, Columbia
Price: Appetizer, $15.50
Their crab cake appetizer is light, fresh, and plated on a whisper of mustard sauce. The emphasis is on seasonality, with a garden-fresh take that doesn’t overload the palate — plus, keep an eye out for the seasonal crab cake sandwich, too.
seasons52.comVictoria Gastro Pub
Address: 8201 Snowden River Pkwy, Columbia
Price: Around $24 (as a sandwich or plated)
This Columbia mainstay blends upscale pub vibes with seriously craveable food—and their crab cake doesn’t disappoint. It’s a Chesapeake-style classic: jumbo lump, lightly broiled, and served with remoulade. You can get it as a sandwich with house fries or as an entrée with greens and sides. Either way, it’s rich, well-balanced, and hits all the right notes. Pair it with one of their craft brews for the ultimate Maryland-meets-gastropub moment.
victoriagastropub.comBlackwall Barn & Lodge
Address: 8390 Main St, Ellicott City
Price: $28–$32
This rustic lodge delivers big on ambiance and even bigger on crab. Expect rich, golden-brown crab cakes with minimal filler and maximum flavor. The upscale lodge atmosphere pairs perfectly with their scratch kitchen menu—grab a cocktail and settle in.
blackwallbarnandlodge.comThe Food Market – Columbia
Address: 10480 Little Patuxent Pkwy, Columbia
Price: Around $18–$22
A newer player in the Columbia dining scene, but already a crab cake contender. Their take is bold and creative—packed with lump crab, lightly seared, and full of flavor. It’s upscale comfort food with a modern twist, served in a sleek, stylish space.
thefoodmarket.comHudson Coastal
Address: 10380 Little Patuxent Pkwy, Columbia
Price: Around $30
This upscale coastal kitchen brings refined plating and rich, lump-packed crab cakes to the table. It’s a polished, flavor-forward experience — with chef-driven flair, thoughtful sides, and presentation that’s almost too pretty to eat (almost).
hudsoncoastal.com
PLUS ONE: Just across the county line, but too good to leave out...
Timbuktu
Address: 1726 Dorsey Rd, Hanover
Price: $15–$20
This Anne Arundel institution is legendary for its massive, pan-seared crab cakes. Jumbo lump, barely any filler, and that perfect golden crust. The bustling, old-school atmosphere only adds to the charm—expect a wait, but it’s worth every minute.
timbukturestaurant.com
Whether the mood’s upscale or laid-back, classic or creative, this crab cake crawl brings the best of Maryland to your plate—right here in Columbia and beyond.
