Blakes Crabs On Erdman Ave: A Culinary Gem Hidden in Plain Sight

In the heart of Baltimore's Hampden neighborhood, a small, family-owned restaurant has been serving up some of the city's best seafood for over two decades. Blakes Crabs On Erdman Ave is a culinary gem that has flown under the radar for many locals and visitors alike, but its loyal following and rave reviews make it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to indulge in a delicious crab feast. In this article, we'll delve into the history, menu, and secrets behind this beloved Baltimore institution.

A Family Legacy of Good Food

Blakes Crabs On Erdman Ave has been a part of the Baltimore culinary scene since 1997, when Blake Hartman Sr. first opened the doors to his casual, no-frills seafood restaurant. The Hartman family has a long history of cooking and serving up good food, with Blake's great-grandfather running a seafood market in Baltimore's Inner Harbor. The family's passion for seafood and commitment to using only the freshest, locally-sourced ingredients has been the driving force behind Blakes Crabs' success.

"My dad always said, 'If you're not using the best ingredients, you might as well not be in the business at all,'" says Blake Hartman Jr., who took over the reins of the restaurant from his father in 2010. "We're proud to source our seafood from local waters and farms, and we're committed to serving our customers the best possible food every time they come in."

The Menu: A Crab Lover's Paradise

A Variety of Crabs to Suit Every Taste

Blakes Crabs On Erdman Ave's menu is a love letter to all things crab. From classic Maryland-style crab feasts to more adventurous options like crab-stuffed jalapeños, there's something for every crab enthusiast. Here are a few of the restaurant's signature dishes:

• Crab Feast: A heaping plate of steamed blue crabs, served with a side of butter and Old Bay seasoning.
• Crab Cakes: Pan-seared crab cakes made with jumbo lump crab meat, pan-seared to a golden brown and served with a remoulade sauce.
• Crab Stuffed Jalapeños: Crab-stuffed jalapeños filled with a mixture of jumbo lump crab meat, cream cheese, and spices, served with a side of cocktail sauce.

Other Menu Highlights

In addition to its extensive crab offerings, Blakes Crabs On Erdman Ave also serves up a variety of other seafood favorites, including:

• Steamed Mussels: Freshly steamed mussels served with a side of garlic bread for dipping.
• Grilled Salmon: A fresh, grilled salmon fillet served with a side of quinoa and steamed vegetables.
• Crab Bisque: A rich, creamy soup made with a variety of seafood, including crab, shrimp, and mussels.

The Experience: Casual, Friendly, and Authentic

Blakes Crabs On Erdman Ave is a no-frills, casual dining experience that's perfect for families, couples, and large groups. The restaurant's cozy, rustic decor and friendly staff make it feel like a neighborhood institution, rather than a trendy seafood spot. Here's what you can expect when you visit:

• A casual, laid-back atmosphere that's perfect for families and groups.
• Friendly, attentive service from a staff that's knowledgeable about the menu and happy to make recommendations.
• A menu that changes seasonally, with a focus on locally-sourced ingredients and creative, crab-based dishes.

Awards and Accolades

Blakes Crabs On Erdman Ave has received widespread critical acclaim and numerous awards, including:

• 2019 Best Seafood Restaurant in Baltimore Magazine's Best of Baltimore issue.
• 2018 Crabs are the Life award from the Maryland Crab Association.
• 2017 Best Crab Feast in Baltimore Magazine's Best of Baltimore issue.

Conclusion

Blakes Crabs On Erdman Ave is a true Baltimore culinary institution, serving up some of the city's best seafood in a casual, friendly atmosphere. With its commitment to locally-sourced ingredients, creative menu offerings, and dedication to customer service, this hidden gem is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to indulge in a delicious crab feast. Whether you're a local or just visiting the city, Blakes Crabs On Erdman Ave is a culinary experience you won't soon forget.