Crab dominates Maryland’s food identity, especially blue crab seasoned heavily with Old Bay Seasoning and served steamed or picked into crab cakes. Seafood remains central, with oysters and fish appearing across menus, but crab holds the strongest cultural weight. Dishes are often built around the seasoning profile as much as the protein itself. The food reflects coastal access, with preparation styles that emphasize seasoning, steaming, and straightforward presentation.
