Best Southern American Restaurants in Essex

Price

$$
$$$
$$$$

Regions

BaltimoreBaltimore Suburbs

Neighborhoods

Bolton HillBowleys QuartersCantonDowntownEast BaltimoreEssex

Top Rated

CharmingFancyGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasionsGreat for brunch

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeout only

Seating Options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Accessibility

Gender-neutral restroomWheelchair access

44 restaurants available nearby

1. By The Docks

4.5

Awesome(1961)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Essex

Booked 21 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

4.7

Exceptional(862)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Southern american • White Marsh

Booked 19 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 Bowley's on the Bay restaurant

3. Bowley's on the Bay

4.5

Awesome(87)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Bowleys Quarters

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 Charly’s Waterfront restaurant

4. Charly’s Waterfront

4.3

Awesome(138)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Essex

Booked 2 times today

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 Bar Louie - White Marsh restaurant

5. Bar Louie - White Marsh

4.1

Excellent(6)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Southern american • White Marsh

Booked 5 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.

6. River Stone Grill

4.8

Exceptional(131)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Perry Hall

Booked 4 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 Dave & Buster's - Baltimore (White Marsh) restaurant

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

3.9

Excellent(65)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Fells Point

Booked 13 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 Mr. Bill's Terrace Inn restaurant

8. Mr. Bill's Terrace Inn

4.6

Exceptional(110)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Essex

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

Booked 4 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. Bygone

4.6

Exceptional(3682)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Harbor East

Booked 37 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

A
Ayana
Orlando / Central Florida East •2 reviews
4.0
Dined 2 days ago
Great restaurant. It took 25 min to get seated with a reservation
More info
The Choptank - BaltimorePrice: Moderate• Seafood• Fells Point
•
4.4
L
laura
Baltimore / Maryland •9 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
Great food; great service; great hometown quaint restaurant! good happy hour; come here often. Love the cauliflower bites and specials!
More info
Hook & VinePrice: Expensive• Southern• Chesapeake Beach
•
4.8
A
AshleyVIP
Philadelphia County •6 reviews
5.0
Dined on Jan 31, 2025
My absolute favorite restaurant! Great service and the best food around
More info
ForgePrice: Moderate• Southern• North East
•
4.7
P
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
E
Eleanor
Washington, D.C. Area •2 reviews
5.0
Dined on Dec 24, 2024
Rachel took wonderful care of us. The food was delicious and served very promptly. There was a mix up with our Open Table reservation but manager Robert promptly texted me the morning of to accommodate us at an earlier seating because of the holiday. Rachel was very hospitable and made sure we had everything we needed. From the cocktails, to the appetizer, to the entrees and desserts we took to go, an outstanding meal. It was the perfect Christmas Eve dinner for our little family. A well-deserved reputation as an excellent establishment.
More info
Iron RoosterPrice: Moderate• Breakfast• Annapolis
•
4.4

Explore OpenTable

Neighborhood
Cuisine Nearby
Southern american Cuisine

Essex

Southern american

Timonium
Severna Park
Port Covington
Quarry Lake
Crownsville
Belvedere Square
Reisterstown
Federal Hill
Annapolis
Roland Park
Odenton
Little Italy
Columbia
Parkton
Southeast Baltimore
Locust Point
Ocean City
Hampstead
Brooklyn
Woodstock