Best Southwest American Restaurants in Essex

45 restaurants available nearby

1. By The Docks

4.6

Exceptional(1942)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Essex

Booked 29 times today

At By The Docks in Essex, Middle River, the spirit of classic American cuisine is celebrated with a distinct Maryland twist. Renowned for their eight-ounce Colossal Jumbo Lump Crab Cake, this restaurant epitomizes quality and authenticity in every dish. Patrons rave about the "best crab cakes ever," highlighting the fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The menu, featuring everything from hand-cut steaks to specialty sautéed dishes, is crafted with care, ensuring that sauces, soups, and dressings are homemade. A favorite among locals, By The Docks stands out for its consistent excellence, with guests frequently praising not only the food but the welcoming atmosphere and attentive service. Whether it's a family dinner or a special occasion, By The Docks promises a memorable dining experience, truly capturing the essence of American cuisine with a Maryland flair.

A photo of Michael's Cafe White Marsh/ Middle River restaurant

2. Michael's Cafe White Marsh/ Middle River

4.7

Exceptional(849)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • White Marsh

Booked 28 times today

At Michael's Cafe in White Marsh, Baltimore, the essence of a great steakhouse is vividly brought to life. Celebrating over 40 years of culinary excellence, this restaurant has become a beloved staple in the community, especially since its re-establishment in 2019. What makes Michael's stand out is their unwavering commitment to quality and service, as highlighted by a patron who raved, "the weekend prime rib special is to die for." Their approach combines traditional steakhouse favorites with innovative dishes, ensuring every visit is both familiar and exciting. Guests consistently praise the atmosphere and the food, with remarks like "Always a great spot to grab delicious food" underscoring their satisfaction. Michael's Cafe is a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic steakhouse experience with a modern twist.

A photo of Charly’s Waterfront restaurant

3. Charly’s Waterfront

4.9

Exceptional(136)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Essex

Booked 1 time today

Charly’s Waterfront in Essex is a quintessential American dining gem, celebrated for its authentic and high-quality American cuisine. Guests rave about the "exceptional service" and the "incredible food," highlighting dishes like the Cream of Crab Soup, which is noted for its perfect balance and rich flavors. The atmosphere is described as "fantastic," with a scenic waterfront setting that complements the culinary experience. The restaurant boasts a variety of seating options, including a vibrant outdoor space ideal for enjoying their renowned Lobster Roll or spicy margarita. Whether you're a local or just passing through, Charly’s Waterfront promises a dining experience that's both memorable and distinctly American.

A photo of Bowley's on the Bay restaurant

4. Bowley's on the Bay

4.5

Awesome(87)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • 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 Dave & Buster's - Baltimore (White Marsh) restaurant

5. Dave & Buster's - Baltimore (White Marsh)

3.9

Excellent(62)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Fells Point

Booked 14 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.

6. River Stone Grill

4.7

Exceptional(118)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Perry Hall

Booked 9 times today

River Stone Grill in Perry Hall is a beacon of American cuisine, offering an eclectic menu that captures the heart of American dining. From succulent hand-cut steaks and gourmet salads to killer pot roasts and classic Reubens, each dish is crafted to perfection. Patrons rave about the "exceptional food" and the cozy, welcoming atmosphere, making it a standout in Perry Hall. The restaurant shines with glowing reviews, such as one customer's praise: "The NY strip was cooked a perfect medium rare," and another's delight in the "amazing brunch service." Whether it’s a casual meal or a special occasion, River Stone Grill promises an authentic and high-quality American dining experience that consistently exceeds expectations. Join the many who have become repeat customers and experience the charm and culinary excellence of River Stone Grill.

A photo of Bar Louie - White Marsh restaurant

7. Bar Louie - White Marsh

5.0

Exceptional(2)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • White Marsh

Booked 12 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 Mr. Bill's Terrace Inn restaurant

8. Mr. Bill's Terrace Inn

4.6

Exceptional(109)

Price: Very Expensive

• Mexican • Essex

At Mr. Bill's Terrace Inn in Essex, the essence of American cuisine is celebrated with their legendary steamed crabs, hailed as "the best we’ve had this year" by satisfied diners. Since 1954, this family-owned gem has mastered the art of casual, family dining. Patrons rave about the unique and "fantastic" BTI seasoning that elevates their famous crabs, making each visit a memorable flavor experience. It's not just the food but also the warm, attentive service that makes Mr. Bill's a must-visit destination. Whether it's the "meaty and heavy" crabs or the cozy atmosphere, every element at Mr. Bill's underscores a commitment to quality and authenticity in American dining.

A photo of Red Lobster - Nottingham restaurant

9. Red Lobster - Nottingham

3.7

Very Good(4)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Perry Hall

Booked 3 times today

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.

10. Gunther & Co.

4.8

Exceptional(2966)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Canton

Booked 43 times today

Nestled in the historically rich Gunther Boiler Building in Canton, Baltimore, Gunther & Co. is a beacon of Modern American cuisine. With a menu that beautifully marries local inspiration with global influences, each dish showcases an unwavering commitment to quality and creativity. Patrons rave about the "unique and outstanding flavor combinations" and the "remarkable food" that make every visit memorable. The restaurant's ambiance, highlighted by a stunning 16-foot living wall, complements its culinary excellence, making it a prime destination. As one reviewer puts it, Gunther & Co. is "hands-down one of the best places we’ve eaten in a long time," cementing its reputation as a must-visit for an authentic and exceptional American dining experience.

‘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.

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45 restaurants available nearby

1. By The Docks

2. Michael's Cafe White Marsh/ Middle River

3. Charly’s Waterfront

4. Bowley's on the Bay

5. Dave & Buster's - Baltimore (White Marsh)

6. River Stone Grill

7. Bar Louie - White Marsh

8. Mr. Bill's Terrace Inn

9. Red Lobster - Nottingham

10. Gunther & Co.

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