When it involves authentic Maryland seafood, few names carry as much weight as Blue Point Crab House. Known for serving fresh, high-quality crabs and a variety of seafood dishes, this establishment has become a go-to destination for locals and visitors alike. Whether you are looking for a quick lunch or planning a large family crab feast, understanding how to navigate their services ensures you get the best experience possible.
This guide provides everything you need to know about ordering from Blue Point Crab House. From finding the right location to choosing the best items on the menu, we have gathered the essential information to help you enjoy a seamless seafood meal at home or on the go.
Finding Your Nearest Location
Blue Point Crab House operates several locations throughout Maryland, making it convenient for residents in different areas to access fresh seafood. Each location maintains a reputation for quality, though hours and specific menu availability may vary slightly depending on the day of the week.
Common locations include:
- Baltimore: Located on North Montford Avenue, this spot is a staple for city residents looking for traditional Maryland crabs.
- Owings Mills: Serving the suburban community with a focus on quick carry-out and high-quality steamed options.
- Westminster: A popular choice for those in Carroll County, offering a full range of seafood platters and fresh catches.
Before heading out, it is always a good idea to verify the specific hours for your chosen location. Most spots open around noon and stay busy through the dinner rush, especially on weekends and holidays.
How to Place Your Order
Ordering seafood should be a straightforward process. Blue Point Crab House specializes in “to go” services, meaning their systems are optimized for speed and freshness. You generally have two main ways to secure your meal.
Ordering Online
The most efficient way to browse the menu and see current pricing is through their digital platform. Online ordering allows you to take your time looking at the different crab sizes and platter options without the pressure of a line behind you. You can specify your pickup time, ensuring that your food is hot and ready the moment you arrive.
Ordering by Phone
If you have specific questions about the daily catch or the size of the crabs available, calling the restaurant directly is a great option. Staff members can provide real-time updates on what is in stock. This is particularly helpful during peak crab season when certain sizes may sell out quickly.
Navigating the Menu Highlights
While steamed crabs are the main attraction, the menu offers a wide variety of seafood to satisfy different tastes. Understanding the menu sections will help you build a balanced meal.
Steamed Maryland Crabs
This is the cornerstone of the business. Crabs are typically sold by the dozen or by the bushel. They are sorted by size, ranging from small to extra-large (and sometimes “colossal”). Most orders come traditional Maryland-style, heavily coated in savory seafood seasoning.
Crab Cakes and Platters
If you prefer not to pick through shells, the crab cakes are a premium alternative. These are usually made with minimal filler, highlighting the sweet flavor of the lump crab meat. Platters often come with sides like coleslaw, potato salad, or french fries, providing a complete meal in one container.
Fried and Broiled Seafood
Beyond crabs, you can find a variety of other options including:
- Fried shrimp and scallops
- Steamed shrimp with onions
- Fish sandwiches (such as whiting or haddock)
- Soft shell crabs (when in season)
- Seafood salads
Understanding Market Pricing
One important thing to remember when ordering fresh seafood is that prices are not always fixed. Crabs are a seasonal commodity, and their cost can fluctuate based on the time of year, weather conditions, and supply levels. This is often referred to as “Market Price.”
To avoid surprises, always check the current daily rate before finalizing a large order. Prices are generally higher during holiday weekends like the Fourth of July or Labor Day due to high demand. If you are on a budget, mid-week orders often provide the same quality at a more stable price point.
Tips for a Successful Seafood Pickup
To ensure your meal stays fresh from the restaurant to your table, keep these simple tips in mind:
- Bring a Cooler: If you have a long drive, placing your steamed crabs in an insulated cooler (without ice) can help retain their heat.
- Check Your Order: Before leaving the parking lot, do a quick check to ensure you have all your sides, sauces, and mallets if you ordered them.
- Ask for Extra Seasoning: If you like your seafood particularly spicy, most locations are happy to provide an extra sprinkle of seasoning on the side.
- Handle with Care: Fried items should be kept in vented containers to prevent them from becoming soggy during the trip home.
Planning a Large Crab Feast
If you are hosting a party, ordering by the bushel is the most cost-effective way to feed a crowd. A bushel of crabs can feed anywhere from 6 to 10 people depending on the size of the crabs and what other food is being served. It is highly recommended to place bushel orders at least 24 to 48 hours in advance, especially during the summer months.
Don’t forget the essentials for your feast at home. You will need plenty of newspaper or brown paper to cover your tables, wooden mallets, crab knives, and plenty of paper towels. Having a dedicated “trash station” for shells will also make the cleanup process much easier once the meal is over.
Why Choose Carry-Out Seafood?
Choosing a “to go” seafood model offers several advantages. It allows you to enjoy premium restaurant-quality food in the comfort of your own home, which is often preferred for messy meals like steamed crabs. It also saves time, as you can skip the wait times associated with traditional sit-down dining during busy weekend hours.
Blue Point Crab House has refined this model over years of service, ensuring that the packaging is sturdy and the food is prepared to travel well. This focus on the carry-out experience is why they remain a top choice for those looking to bring a taste of the Chesapeake Bay to their own dining room table.
Conclusion
Ordering from Blue Point Crab House is a fantastic way to experience the best of Maryland’s seafood tradition. By choosing the right location, ordering in advance, and knowing what to look for on the menu, you can ensure a delicious and stress-free meal. Whether you are cracking into a dozen extra-large crabs or enjoying a golden-brown crab cake, the quality and freshness are sure to impress.
If you found this guide helpful, be sure to explore our other articles on local dining tips, food preparation guides, and how to find the best services in your area for more practical advice.