This place have top my expectations...me and my boyfriend found this place by chance. We were just looking to change or normal "go to" for good crab cakes and it just came up on my search. The first time we went we were amazed by how good the food was. Today we went back without reservation, just crossing our fingers that we had a chance to get in to celebrate Mother's Day with his parents. And it was amazing again!!! We had 1/2 dozen oysters and everyone got crab cake sandwiches, but me...I had it in a platter. Best Crab Cakes you will get in the area. read more

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Highly highly highly overrated!!! Why I think this place has a 5 star rating with 900ish reviews (at the time of this writing): I think it's mostly tourists who never experienced Maryland seafood giving this place its reputation and not local Baltimore foodies. Seeing the reviews and being a big fan of exploring Canton, this was a must-try. We went and... never mentioned it again, never thought about it again, the food and the service was average, not spectacular. I had the softshell crab and my wife had a seafood platter. Everything was as expected, but I've had much better more unique experiences elsewhere. Is this restaurant good? Yes it's good, but it's JUST good. It's VERY middle-of-the-road as far as Baltimore seafood restaurants go. It's not something I'd go out of my way for, or be put on an hour wait list for. Within Baltimore's Canton district, there are many better, more unique options I'd much rather explore. read more

Sooo for this to be the first stop where we ate I was a lil disappointed .. The parking is terrible we just found somewhere to park and ordered take out.. I ordered the seafood chowder, single crab cake and pound of steamed shrimp.. What I received was Mac and cheese instead of the chowder.. Then you can't even call them it just a recording that hangs up on you.. read more

OMG. Perfection at its best. Try the Pasta of the Day or the Fish of the Day. It was AWESOME! Nice portion of perfectly cooked seafood. The service was great and the prices reasonable. Definitely coming back for lunch or dinner. Nice area around, many choices to pick from but today so got lucky and picked the right one babyyyyy! Parking can be terrible, as it is anywhere in this area but you'll find a spot not too far away. 5 Stars! Dang it I forgot to take pics!!!! And the place is really nice too. Nice bar area and upstairs dining. Good job Mama's!! read more

Really good stuff all around. I had the filet but I got to try some of the scallops and those were where its at. I went here with my family and everything that I tried was awesome. I hope to get a chance to go back and eat here soon. The atmosphere was really good and even though it was slammed, the service was good. read more

Waaaaay too large servings, but the food is amazing!!! Grilled oysters, mac n cheese, fish n chips, crab and artichoke dip, cream of crab soup.....yes, all the Yelp pictures are accurate AND a few are mine! read more

As I type this I am in a total food coma! Lump crab cakes were amazing, along with the the Mac and cheese and the green beans were great, tasted like they were cooked in a garlic wine sauce. Seafood chowder was great, tons of seafood in it-clams, scallops, shrimp, potatoes, bacon and a cream base, it was very tasty. The restaurant is very cozy, service was nothing special. The decor reminded me of the great gaspy 1920s era. read more

Mama's on the Half Shell - Crab cake - Bars Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

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I've been coming here for 10 years and they have become inconsistent and more inconsistent. Once my favorite location for seafood is now a place that I don't want to return to. I had a scallop dish and I think they accidentally poured a whole lot of cumin on there. Didn't the chef taste it before serving? It used to be a hotspot for seafood but now I don't feel that way about it. read more

Was in the mood for seafood and found this place using yelp. Such a great find! I got the oyster po'boy and my friend the seafood club. Would definitely recommend the seafood club over the po'boy but both were great. The sauce for the po'boy was amazing and every bite of the club was filled with different textures and flavors that all worked together. This is a little more of a pricey place but it is seafood so it was somewhat expected. We went around noon on a Saturday and were seated right away. Didn't have any problems with the service. Probably could have had a few more refills of our waters (it was a hot day) but overall the service was friendly. read more

Food was just OK for the price. Service was just average. The server did not return to refill water glasses after requests. We had a large party and they refused to split tickets which was ok. However, anyone paying w a credit card, they applied an additional 3% surcharge on the entire bill. . Who does that. We r traveling from out of town for a graduation celebration and this place came highly recommended. I would not recommend due to the charge policy, food & service was a 4-5 on a scale of 0-10 . My nephew had the fried sampler platter. The fish was undercooked and other items were bland to the palate. The best thing I had was the Caesar salad. read more

The ambiance was casual with an incredible staff. They were both attentive and communicative. The food was of similar quality. I ordered the classic seafood combo and the oyster's rockerfeller, and boy, was I amazed! The drinks were refreshing too. As much as I wanted to stop, I ordered more. The staff was accommodating too. As long as you're a fair individual. I will be back, and I highly recommend. read more

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Went for a family dinner during the oyster happy hour. Considering this is a restaurant people would go in large groups with, it's pretty inaccessible due to the lack of any vegetarian or vegan options on the menu. I just had some fries, so basing this review off of those. They tasted like low-quality supermarket frozen fries. read more

I've been to Nacho Mama's a million times (sort of) but never stopped next door to visit it's other half - Mama's on the Half Shell. Unlike Nacho Mama's 1hr+ wait, it was only 30 mins on a Saturday evening (7pm) without reservation. We were sat in the only table in the middle of the room (literally) but they asked us if it was ok w/ us and it was, I was there for the food - not prime seating. In true first time fashion, we ordered what was recommended to us: -Clams -Crab & Artichoke Dip -Fried Shrimp -Shrimp Imperial w/ Mac & Cheese It was my FIRST TIME EATING CLAMS and it surpassed my fears. It was the right level of sea salt, citrus and butter. I am a fan. As for the Crab & Artichoke Dip, it was your typical dip in a bread bowl. Enough for 2, especially if you're gonna eat the bowl itself. I can't speak on the fried shrimp, as my friend ordered that plain ol' dish but the Shrimp Imperial was basically 4-5 butterflied shrimp SMOTHERED in crab imperial. And the mac and cheese was king supreme cheesy. This dish would have put me down if I finished it all. When I'm in need of some stick-to-your-ribs, classic baltimore, type of seafood, I'll be back. read more

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I went to Mamas on Monday to get some of my favorite oysters . I always patronize this business because I know the oysters will be amazing and so will the lemon drops . The only hiccup was that they were trying out a valentines Day menu and decided to put spinach and artichoke dip on it , which is a favorite of mine . I revive the dip and I take one bite and it is all cream cheese no spinach in sight. I told my sever I am sorry but I do not want the dip so can I swap it for a sandwich and she says yes . 30 minutes later I'm assuming the manager walks over and asks about the dip and why I don't like it . I explained and he says well would you like me to remake it because I can't take it back and I said well yes I'll take it in a to go container then . He proceeds to tell me this isn't a place for tasting and when I don't like it. I never heard any one in hospitality say that by the way then he proceeds to tell me the register doesn't even have a delete button If he could take it off. He also added that if the restaurant did a remake I would be charged for two . I never at any point disagreed with him or gave him push back so I wasn't sure why he gave me so many excuses about a $14.99 artichoke dip . I paid for the my entire tab which was $146 including the dip and left a tip for my server. I am ver dissatisfied with the snarky remarks of the gentleman that were unwarranted. It was only 5 patrons in the shop at the time and I see it being less of this guy continues to treat customers like that. read more

This place was amazing. The amount of food you get for the price was perfect. Even during COVID it was awesome. I'll be coming back again.

I've been living in Baltimore for 3 years and I haven't had this place until today. It is a great location and place with historic Baltimore concept. The food is just as great. I tried the crab cake sandwich and "bouillabaisse" with some friends. It's great. I would bring someone here that wants a great experience with Baltimore seafood. read more

Mama's on the Half Shell - Half & Half Crush - Bars Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

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The crab cakes and Mac and cheese are absolutely delicious! The staff is friendly and the service was quick!

WOW!!!!! I love mamas! The oysters were fresh and delicious, a very good variety. The crab toast was amazing. As soon as my fiancé and I finished our first bite we were both like, wooooooooow. It was cheesy and served on garlic bread. There were huge lumps of crab meat. Next I had the tilapia sandwich which was huge and so good I wanted to finish but I brought the other half home for dinner. The tilapia was fresh and so crispy like fried chicken. It was thick white and flaky, so flavorful! It was on old school soft white bread which I loved. I liked the spicy sauce too. The whole thing was just perfect. My man had the tuna wrap. I didn't try it because I was too into my sandwich but he said it was great and he'd have it again. It certainly looked good. It'll be hard not to order the tilapia sandwich the very next time I go to Mamas but I'm excited to try the crab cake sandwich since the crab toast was so good. The tilapia sandwich is something I can see myself craving like twice a month it was that good. Enjoy! I had to edit this because I forgot to mention how great the service was. Our server checked on us a minute after each dish so we always had what we needed and our drinks were always full. She was super super nice. read more

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One of my go to's over the years. The crab dip and seafood club are always on point. I still feel like they have the best food on the square. I always get friendly service from these guys as well. Also you can't go wrong with the oysters. read more

First time in Baltimore. Read all if the reviews especially for crab cakes and thought this would be a great place to stop. First of all crab cakes only offered in a sandwich; disappointing. The restaurant had a nice vibe. Service was slow. Waiter was nice but took a while to be greeted and never came back to check on meals or refill drinks. I ordered my salad with dressing on the side. Salad was served covered in dressing. The steamed shrimp was excellent. Blackened salmon over ceaser was good but now wow factor. I will say The oysters were Amazing!! We always leave a good tip but the 18% already added gratuity is not appreciated especially when the service doesn't warrant more than 15%. Overall I'd rate it a 5 out of 10 read more

Came all the way from Las Vegas to have some crab cakes and this place did not disappoint. We received a warm welcome as soon as we entered. Clean, charming and great service. My husband and I split the Caesar salad, crab cake and fried shrimp. Caesar salad was great not to overdressed Crab cake was juicy, tons of crab meat and perfectly seasoned Fried shrimp were crispy with tons of flavor Will definitely be back to try more next time we are in town! read more

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I came here with a friend for the $35 3-course restaurant week dinner. Totally worth it! We had Brussel sprout salad, fried risotto, Surf&Turf, pasta, and creme brûlée for dessert. We also ordered oysters and drinks. Every dish was very delicate and delicious. We were pretty full because they all came with big portion. Highly recommended! read more

Mama's on the Half Shell - Bars Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

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Packed out place, so come early & be ready to wait at weekends. Fresh oysters are good. Had a mix of 4 types in a dozen platter. All good & just a little salty. The scallops on a bed of creamed spinach, amazing! I asked for a crab cake no sides, just the cake (who needs fries???) just a lump of crab meat! Delicious. House styled Bloody Mary is the perfect accompaniment. (Not so keep on the pickled string beans). read more

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This place came highly recommended from local colleagues and completely delivered. Started out with raw local oysters and the cooked ( Parmesan and Boston). All were excellently prepared fresh and flavorful. Exactly what i would expect. Nice selection of local beers to complement the food. I went with an out meal stout and enjoyed it. I went with the crab cake for dinner and was impressed. Many are too fishy for me but this was perfect. Good balance of crab and filler to deliver just the right texture. The atmosphere here is what I would expect from an east coast fish shack. Excellent place for dinner with friends or on a date. read more

The best crab cakes in Baltimore! I also had the combination steamer with the sweetest clams I have ever had! The ambiance is fantastic and rustic, a true Baltimore feel, a must try! read more

Mama's on the Half Shell - Steamer Combination Platter - Bars Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

I just love Mama's. It's not pretentious, the prices are normal for quality seafood/steaks. I've gone twice, once for lunch and once for dinner. Lunch: I started with the oyster sampler and the oysters were fresh and delicious. Then I had the crab cake platter with two sides. After pretending to consider the salad as a side, I chose mac & cheese and mashed potatoes (I mean, how could I not?) and washed it down with a grapefruit crush. Everything was great! A dash of hot sauce and old bay on everything and I thoroughly enjoyed my lunch. Dinner: The salad with oysters and the tartare were memorable. I also shared a filet stuffed with an oyster and a bottle of wine. Great service and food. Definitely get the fried oyster. Recommendations: Crab cake - not too mayo-y, just the way I like it Mac & Cheese - cheesy, with breadcrumbs and served piping hot Fried Oysters Grapefruit Crush - way better than the orange, trust me! read more

Mama's on the Half Shell - Single crab cake platter with Mac and whipped potatoes, so good. - Bars Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

I am always happy when I come to Mama's. The food is phenomenal: the burger and the crabcake sandwich are particular favorites of mine, as are the Caesar salad and the macaroni and cheese. Their brunch is famous for a reason, and I would highly recommend the Captain Crunch french toast. Awesome seafood and drink specials for happy hour, which goes until a reasonable 7:00pm on week nights. The staff is great, overall--always willing to plug in my phone charger :) My only service complaint would be that as I was leaving one night and had over-indulged, I asked for a to-go cup of water and was rudely refused. Sorry buddy, but my friends are still finishing their dinner, and I was trying to remove my intoxicated self from your establishment and sober up. I asked nicely, didn't need the attitude. More disappointing that he seemed to be some type of manager. I've always had excellent service from my servers and bartenders! The ambiance and decor are also great--lots of interesting stuff to look at and read! Mama's is definitely one of my go-to places, especially when I have friends or family in town! read more

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The seafood omelet, needful breakfast and huevos rancheros were huge hits amongst my group at brunch yesterday! The service was great and we were seated immediately because we had a reservation. My only problem was how loud the restaurant was. I would have preferred to sit outside but it was unfortunately closed when we got there around noon on Sunday. read more

Mama's on the Half Shell - Needful breakfast with scrambled eggs, bacon and house potatoes - Bars Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

If you're gonna be visiting Baltimore, you have to check out Mamas on the Half Shell! For starters, with Baltimore being a place known for their seafood, you can't help but to have high expectations of the seafood. Having been living up north for the past few years where hospitality isn't used often, to be kindly greeted upon entering the restaurant was a great start!! So the menu had a wide variety of options from steamed, grilled, to smoked. I didn't know what to choose!! I decided on the fried oyster po'boy and I couldn't have been more pleased! I mean this thing was loaded with oysters, even the fries were great!!!! I definitely have to try this place again read more

This is my favorite place to take friends who visit Baltimore and are looking for the Baltimore seafood experience. It's not ridiculously crowded like many of the restaurants in Fell's Point, AND I think they serve better quality food that's cooked less hastily. I've tried their seafood chowder, seafood club, and tilapia sandwich. All were pretty awesome! My favorite has to be the seafood club - it's packed full of flavor and still juicy. The serving sizes are pretty big so you get good value for your money. Service is fast and attentive. Once we unfortunately got splashed by a waiter who dropped a bowl of soup, but they were really apologetic and nice and even gave us a free meal. read more

My family and I were in Baltimore for the weekend and found this restaurant within 20 minutes away from the harbor. The restaurant has many seating options such as outdoor, bar, and upstairs. The food was exceptional! There were 7 people in our party so we ordered a variety of things. The crab cakes are great, the sides are also spot on, the steamed mussels were plentiful for a a great price, and the bouillabaisse was the most loved item at the table by far! Great seafood, a must try if in the Baltimore area! read more

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The food isn't anything to rave about. It's okay. I was expecting more. We ordered the fried oysters appetizer, Mac and cheese, crab cakes, oyster po boy and the fried calamari. I'm sure that there are plenty of other seafood places in Baltimore and this didn't satisfy the pallet at all. The best thing honestly was the crab cake. Everything else is ehh. I would highly recommend going elsewhere to satisfy your seafood cravings. read more

After coming here several times and having a great experience and great food. Today I ordered a salad that just tasted a little sour. The taste really turned my stomach and I no longer wanted to eat. We sent the salad back and the manager brought it back out to us and said that there was nothing wrong with it and told us he didn't understand why we were sending it back. He was really rude to us during the entire Encounter. Mama's you just lost a long time customer. read more

My 2 friends and I ultimately decided to come here during our trip to Baltimore a month ago as this particular establishment was renowned for their seafood, but also happened to have some vegetarian options. The restaurant is beautiful and appears to be a repurposed building from the 1800s. We were seated in the 2nd floor dining area, which was crowded without feeling too cramped. Our server took our order, but she rarely came back to check up on us and the food took almost an hour to come out. We get that it was a busy Saturday night, but this seemed a little excessive. My friends tried out their crab cake appetizer to share, and 1 got the combination steamer for her main, while the other got the crab and fried green tomato special that they had available that day, while I got an order of their fried green tomatoes sans crab, green beans, and mac and cheese. I also got one of their orange crushes, as I had heard that it was a local specialty. The food was fine, but it was super heavy and salty. The friend who got the combination steamer had to rub some off the spice rub off her meal as she found it too salty. At least the drinks were good, and my friends raved about their crab cake appetizer. Looks like this place is popular with the locals as well as with tourists, so take that for what you will. read more

Amazing! I heard about Mama's from a Baltimore magazine crab cake review and decided to check it out while I was visiting Canton. The neighborhood is lovely and everyone I spoke with was very friendly. I ended up at Mama's for Sunday brunch so I decided to try their brunch menu and forgo the crab cake. I had the lobster and hash with scrambled eggs. Amazing flavors from the lobster and potato seasonings. Everything else being served nearby looked great too. The place is fairly small inside so if you're a group of 2+ you many have trouble being seated. I will definitely return to Mama's! read more

Mama's on the Half Shell - Lobster and Hash - Sunday Brunch - Bars Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

We got seated pretty quickly despite the restaurant being pretty busy. We ordered for the kids first since we weren't quite ready yet, but our waiter took ages to come back to us and finally took our order. He came back after the kid meals came out. By the time our orders came out, the kids were done eating! They were busy, but that just took way too long! Other than that, the food was pretty good and made fresh. Restaurant decor was cute. read more

Mama's on the Half Shell - Crabcake platter - Bars Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

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I think I could easily go back to Mama's and have a 5-star experience because aspects of my dinner there were phenomenal, but the negatives were so bad that I can't rate this restaurant above 2 stars in good faith. Here's why: food poisoning. I went in with three others last Monday and we all were sick well into the next day. That just isn't acceptable. Add to that the extremely unprofessional bar service my boyfriend and I received during happy hour, my boyfriend's mussels coming out cold, and my po'boy being a complete disaster, and here we are. Now that all of that is off my chest, here's why I'm giving Mama's the benefit of the doubt: excellent table service upstairs, absolutely dreamboat calamari, and an oyster stew that will knock your socks off. The happy hour menu is exceptional, and, believe me, the bartenders don't skimp on those $5 crushes. Something tells me I'll be back sometime soon, but I'll definitely be a little more skeptical of the seafood next time around. read more

This place has the best crab cakes I have tasted in a long time. The cakes are full of tender sweat crab and cooked to perfection. The Maryland crab soup was good too. One server was working but she didn't miss a beat. She offered great service with good recommendations and a pleasant attitude. Thank your for a stress free zone after work. I will be back! read more

I highly recommend Mama's if you visit Baltimore. It is set on a corner in a very nice area full of other restaurants. We arrived in time for happy hour and started with oysters on the half shell and the spicy tuna dip. For main coarse in had the crab cake platter which was on special. They were the best crab cakes I have had; lots of crab with little breading. read more

Seafood heaven ! The best sea food I have ever had. This is one of those restaurants that are worth visiting and trying their fantastic dishes. Everything from the fried calamari to the lobster Mac and cheese to the bread rolls were out of this world. There was a wait , however it is worth every minute of the anticipation. read more

Mama's on the Half Shell - Calamari and Oysters - Bars Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

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