The Scoop on Baltimore's Famous Crab Dip

    This past weekend, I had the chance to try crab dip for the first time at Mount Washington Tavern in Baltimore. I had never visited this restaurant before, but my cousin, a Loyola graduate, raved about it from his own experience. He and his family recommended it to us, insisting that we had to try the crab dip. Although I’m not typically a seafood person, the idea of tasting crab dip has always intrigued me. I’ve always been a fan of dips, especially buffalo chicken dip, so the texture and consistency of the crab dip were something I was excited to experience. The restaurant itself had a cozy yet vibrant vibe, with friendly staff and a warm welcoming atmosphere that made it the perfect spot to enjoy a meal with my sister!

    The crab dip at Mount Washington Tavern is nothing short of spectacular and is the perfect introduction to Baltimore’s liking for all things crab. Served warm and bubbling, it arrived at the table in a beautifully baked dish with a golden, cheesy crust! As I took my first bite I was surprised, it was unlike anything I expected from seafood. The creamy base was packed with generous amounts of fresh Maryland blue crab, perfectly seasoned to balance the natural sweetness of the crab without it being overpowering. I think I liked the dip because it wasn’t purely crab, it included cheese and other ingredients I enjoy.

Here is the crab dip!

    Eating this dish at Mount Washington Tavern was not just a food experience, but a cultural one. Baltimore is famous for its seafood, particularly blue crab, and crab dip is beloved by people here. After trying it, I felt more part of the city’s food culture. I learned how local foods and customs may be reflected in food, which can be a reflection of location. As a New Yorker, I’m very particular about my pizza and bagels and always want visitors to experience them. So, getting the chance to try a food my friends from Maryland have been raving about was a fantastic experience. Now that I’ve tried crab dip, I’m eager to try more foods off my list, like blue crabs and crab cakes. Although I’ve never been a big fan of seafood, this experience made me realize how local cuisine may provide a greater understanding of the culture from which it originates. The combination of good food, great ambiance, and my sister made it a memorable experience.