Hidden gems for foodies in Essex, Maryland
Of course! Grab a napkin, pull up a chair, and get ready to take a culinary tour of Essex, Maryland. This is a town with its sleeves rolled up, a place where the aroma of Old Bay hangs in the humid air like a promise, and where family-run joints serve up heaping portions of comfort with a side of local charm. I'm your guide, a local with a hearty appetite and a deep love for the hidden gems that make this community so deliciously unique.
Let's embark on a flavor-filled journey through ten of Essex's must-visit eateries. We're not just talking about what to eat; we're talking about the *experience*.
***
### **A Foodie's Pilgrimage Through Essex, Maryland: Ten Stops for the Perfect Bite**
Essex isn’t just a dot on the map near Baltimore; it’s a state of mind. It’s the gentle rock of boats in a marina, the triumphant shout of “O!” during the National Anthem at an Orioles game drifting from a corner bar, and the satisfying, messy crack of a steamed blue crab. The dining scene here is a beautiful, unpretentious reflection of its people: hearty, honest, and full of flavor. Forget white tablecloths; here, the best meals are often served on checkered tablecloths or wax paper-lined baskets.
Here’s your essential guide to eating your way through Essex.
---
#### **1. NO.1 Chinese Restaurant: The Neighborhood Takeout Hero**
**Location:** 145 Back River Neck Rd
Walk into NO.1 Chinese Restaurant and you’re immediately greeted by two things: the irresistible, savory-sweet aroma of woks firing at a thousand degrees and the genuine welcome from the folks behind the counter. This isn't a place for delicate, tweezered gastronomy; this is the real deal, the kind of Chinese-American cuisine that has sustained families on busy weeknights and fueled weekend celebrations for decades. The dining room is cozy and no-frills, a testament to a business built on consistency and generous portions.
**What to Order:**
* **The Can't-Miss:** Start with the **Crab Rangoon**. These are not the measly, mostly-cream-cheese versions you find elsewhere. These are plump, golden-brown purses, crispy on the outside and bursting with a creamy, savory-sweet filling. For your main, you absolutely must get the **General Tso’s Chicken**. It’s the benchmark. The chicken is incredibly tender, lightly battered, and fried to perfection before being tossed in a glossy, tangy, and slightly spicy sauce that is the stuff of legends. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and heat.
* **The Local's Secret:** Ask for the **House Special Lo Mein**. It’s loaded with shrimp, chicken, beef, and vegetables, all wok-tossed with springy noodles in a light, savory sauce. It’s a complete meal in itself and a masterclass in texture and flavor.
* **The Experience:** This is quintessential takeout, but do yourself a favor and eat it there, piping hot from the kitchen. Soak in the hum of the place—the ringing phone, the steady *clang-clang* of the metal spatula against the wok, the satisfied sighs from regulars picking up their usual order.
---
#### **2. Buon Appetito Essex: A Cozy Italian Hug**
**Location:** 405 Mace Ave
Tucked away on Mace Ave, Buon Appetito is a warm, inviting slice of Italy. The atmosphere is lively and familial, with the clinking of wine glasses and the scent of garlic and simmering tomatoes wrapping around you like a welcome embrace. The walls are adorned with classic Italian memorabilia, and the chatter is a happy mix of families, couples on date night, and friends sharing a laugh. It feels like you’re eating in a beloved relative’s dining room.
**What to Order:**
* **The Can't-Miss:** You cannot, and I repeat, *cannot* leave without having the **Eggplant Parmigiana**. It’s a masterpiece. Layers of thinly sliced, melt-in-your-mouth eggplant, breaded and fried to a delicate crisp, are smothered in a robust, tangy house-made marinara and an abundance of gloriously bubbly, stretchy mozzarella. It’s a divine, cheesy, comforting revelation.
* **The Local's Secret:** While their pasta is superb, venture into the **Veal dishes**. The **Veal Marsala** is exquisite—tender scaloppine sautéed with earthy mushrooms in a rich, sweet Marsala wine sauce. It’s elegant, deeply flavorful, and a sure sign you’ve ordered like a pro.
* **The Experience:** This is a place to settle in. Order a carafe of house red wine, share an antipasto, and let the evening unfold. The service is attentive and personal; they remember your name and your favorite dish. It’s the epitome of Italian hospitality.
---
#### **3. Boss Burger, LLC: The Burger Artisan**
**Location:** 6036 A Rossville Blvd
Don’t let the unassuming strip mall location fool you. Boss Burger is a temple of beef, a place where the humble burger is elevated to an art form. The vibe is modern and casual, with a cool, minimalist decor that puts all the focus on what’s coming out of the kitchen: sheer, unadulterated burger brilliance.
**What to Order:**
* **The Can't-Miss:** The namesake **Boss Burger** is a mandatory first visit. Imagine a juicy, perfectly grilled half-pound patty topped with applewood smoked bacon, melted cheddar, crispy onion straws, fresh lettuce, tomato, and their signature Boss Sauce on a toasted brioche bun. It’s a symphony of textures and flavors in every single bite.
* **The Local's Secret:** For the truly adventurous, the **El Jefe Burger** brings the heat with pepper jack cheese, jalapeños, and a spicy chipotle mayo. And don’t you dare skip the sides! Their **Old Bay Fries** are a Maryland essential, and the **Onion Rings** are beer-battered, golden hoops of perfection.
* **The Experience:** This is a build-your-own-adventure for burger lovers. The menu is a checklist of high-quality ingredients. Go classic or go wild. It’s a bustling, energetic spot where the buzz is all about the food. Prepare to get messy and leave supremely satisfied.
---
#### **4. Essex Diner: Breakfast of Champions**
**Location:** 15 Eastern Blvd
The Essex Diner is a timeless institution. The second you step inside, the world outside slows down. It’s all about the comforting hum of the grill, the endless refills of diner coffee, the friendly banter between waitstaff and regulars, and the unmistakable sound of bacon sizzling. With its vinyl booths and counter stools, it’s a beautiful, unfiltered snapshot of American life.
**What to Order:**
* **The Can't-Miss:** You come here for breakfast, and you order the **Chipped Beef on Toast**. This is the ultimate Maryland comfort food, a creamy, peppery, salty gravy loaded with shredded dried beef, served over crisp, buttery toast. It’s a hearty, stick-to-your-ribs masterpiece that will power you through the entire day.
* **The Local's Secret:** Their **French Toast**, made with thick-cut Texas toast, is a sweet, eggy, cinnamon-kissed dream. And if you’re there for lunch, the classic **Reuben Sandwich** is piled high with corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing on grilled rye—it’s a flawless execution of a classic.
* **The Experience:** This is about nostalgia and community. Sit at the counter and watch the short-order cook perform his ballet with eggs and hash browns. Eavesdrop on the conversations around you. This is more than a meal; it’s a morning ritual.
---
#### **5. Lady Frances Crabhouse: The Quintessential Maryland Crab Feast**
**Location:** 202 Back River Neck Rd
Welcome to paradise, crab lovers. Lady Frances is *the* spot in Essex for a true, messy, magnificent Maryland crab feast. It’s a sprawling, casual, and wonderfully loud place where the floors might be covered in sand and the tables are layered with brown paper. The air is thick with the scent of steaming seafood and Old Bay. This is where you come to get your hands dirty.
**What to Order:**
* **The Can't-Miss:** A dozen **Steamed Male Jimmies (Large Crabs)**, heavily seasoned with J.O. #2 or Old Bay. That’s it. That’s the order. They arrive bright red and piping hot. You’ll need a mallet, a knife, and a stack of napkins. Pair them with ice-cold beer and a side of **Crab Fries** (fries dusted in crab seasoning).
* **The Local's Secret:** While the crabs are the main event, their **Crab Cake Dinner** is a serious contender. They are famously all lump meat, minimal filler, perfectly seared on the outside and succulent on the inside. They are, without exaggeration, some of the best in the state.
* **The Experience:** This is a culinary sport. It’s a social, hours-long event of picking, chatting, and laughing. Don’t wear anything nice. Embrace the mess. It’s a rite of passage for any Marylander or visitor.
---
#### **6. Two Guys Grill: The Neighborhood Pub Grub Standout**
**Location:** 1024 Eastern Blvd
Two Guys Grill is the quintessential friendly neighborhood bar and grill. It’s where everyone knows your name, the TVs are always tuned to the big game, and the food consistently exceeds expectations. It’s unpretentious, welcoming, and serves up some of the most satisfying bar food you’ll ever have.
**What to Order:**
* **The Can't-Miss:** The **Pit Beef Sandwich**. This is a Baltimore-area classic, and Two Guys does it right. Thinly sliced, smoky, incredibly tender beef piled high on a Kaiser roll. The key is the condiments: a generous dollop of tiger sauce (horseradish and mayo) and raw onion. It’s simple, messy, and absolutely phenomenal.
* **The Local's Secret:** Their **Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak** is a thing of beauty. Tender grilled chicken, tangy buffalo sauce, melted provolone, and cool, creamy ranch dressing all stuffed into a soft hoagie roll. It’s the perfect flavor combination.
* **The Experience:** Grab a seat at the bar, order a draft beer, and strike up a conversation with the person next to you. It’s a place to watch the game, blow off steam, and enjoy a seriously good meal among friends.
---
#### **7. Steamin Demons: Fiery Wings & Bar Bites**
**Location:** 603 Eastern Blvd
For those who like a little (or a lot of) heat with their eats, Steamin Demons is your sanctuary. This is a dedicated wing joint that takes its craft seriously. The atmosphere is dark, cozy, and rock-n-roll, a perfect backdrop for tackling their infamous heat levels.
**What to Order:**
* **The Can't-Miss:** An order of **Traditional Wings**. The question is, what heat level are you? They range from Lemon Pepper (mild and zesty) to Suicide and beyond. For the perfect balance of flavor and heat, go for the **Hot Old Bay** or the **Demon Gold** (a mustard-based BBQ sauce). They are fried to a crispy exterior while staying juicy inside, and coated in a glorious amount of sauce.
* **The Local's Secret:** Their **Chesapeake Fries** are a must-have side. Crispy fries loaded with crab dip, cheddar cheese, and Old Bay. It’s a decadent, shareable (or not) pile of deliciousness.
* **The Experience:** This is a challenge. Dare your friends to try a hotter sauce. It’s a fun, casual, and interactive dining experience where the burn is part of the fun. Just make sure you have a cold drink handy.
---
#### **8. Crabland: Another Seafood Shack Gem**
**Location:** 120 Eastern Blvd
Right down the road from Lady Frances, Crabland offers another fantastic option for your seafood fix. It has a slightly more laid-back, no-frills fish shack vibe. The focus is purely on fresh, well-prepared seafood, served quickly and without pretense. It’s a fantastic choice for a quick yet amazing seafood lunch or a carry-out feast.
**What to Order:**
* **The Can't-Miss:** The **Steamed Shrimp**, by the pound, with Old Bay. They are consistently perfect—plump, juicy, and infused with spice. They peel easily and are utterly addictive. It’s a simpler, less messy alternative to crabs that is just as delicious.
* **The Local's Secret:** Their **Fried Oyster Platter** is a hidden treasure. The oysters are fresh, lightly battered, and fried to a beautiful golden brown without a hint of grease. Served with fries and coleslaw, it’s a classic seafood plate done right.
* **The Experience:** Quick, efficient, and delicious. This is where you go when you need a high-quality seafood fix without the hours-long commitment of a full crab feast. Grab a picnic table and dig in.
---
#### **9. Tempo Lounge: Drinks, Music, and Surprising Food**
**Location:** 402 Back River Neck Rd
Tempo Lounge might first present itself as your friendly local bar, but it holds a delicious secret: a kitchen that punches way above its weight. It’s a cozy spot with dim lighting, a great jukebox, and a steady crowd of locals. It’s the kind of place where you go for a drink and end up staying for dinner because the food smells so good.
**What to Order:**
* **The Can't-Miss:** The **Tempo Burger**. This isn't just a bar burger; it’s a legendary creation in Essex. A juicy, half-pound patty topped with cheddar, bacon, onion rings, and BBQ sauce. It’s massive, messy, and magnificent.
* **The Local's Secret:** Their **Mushroom Swiss Burger** is another winner, featuring sautéed mushrooms and melted Swiss cheese in a rich gravy. Also, keep an eye on their daily specials, which often feature amazing homemade soups and unique sandwiches.
* **The Experience:** This is about blending great social vibes with unexpectedly excellent food. It’s a place to unwind, catch some live music on weekends, and discover that one of the best burgers in town is served in a unassuming neighborhood bar.
---
#### **10. River Watch Restaurant & Marina: Dinner with a View**
**Location:** 207 Nanticoke Rd
We’ve saved the best view for last. Perched on the water at the end of Nanticoke Road, River Watch offers a dining experience unlike any other in Essex. The atmosphere is relaxed and nautical, with panoramic windows offering stunning views of the marina and the water. Whether you sit on the deck in the summer or by the fireplace in the winter, the setting is unforgettable.
**What to Order:**
* **The Can't-Miss:** The **Chesapeake Platter**. You can’t go wrong with a sampler that lets you taste the best of the region. It typically includes a crab cake, fried shrimp, and another fresh fish of the day, all perfectly prepared. Enjoying this with a waterfront view is the quintessential Essex experience.
* **The Local's Secret:** Their **Cream of Crab Soup** is thick, rich, and loaded with lump crab meat. It’s the ultimate Maryland starter. For a main, the **Prime Rib** (often a weekend special) is slow-roasted, incredibly tender, and a stunning value.
* **The Experience:** This is your destination for a slightly more upscale (but still very casual) experience. Come for a sunset dinner, watch the boats come and go, and savor a fantastic meal in a truly special setting. It’s the perfect capstone to your Essex culinary tour.
***
So there you have it—a culinary map to the heart of Essex, Maryland. From the messy, joyful chaos of a crab feast to the quiet comfort of a diner booth at dawn, this town feeds your soul as much as it fills your belly. Now get out there and taste it for yourself
Let's embark on a flavor-filled journey through ten of Essex's must-visit eateries. We're not just talking about what to eat; we're talking about the *experience*.
***
### **A Foodie's Pilgrimage Through Essex, Maryland: Ten Stops for the Perfect Bite**
Essex isn’t just a dot on the map near Baltimore; it’s a state of mind. It’s the gentle rock of boats in a marina, the triumphant shout of “O!” during the National Anthem at an Orioles game drifting from a corner bar, and the satisfying, messy crack of a steamed blue crab. The dining scene here is a beautiful, unpretentious reflection of its people: hearty, honest, and full of flavor. Forget white tablecloths; here, the best meals are often served on checkered tablecloths or wax paper-lined baskets.
Here’s your essential guide to eating your way through Essex.
---
#### **1. NO.1 Chinese Restaurant: The Neighborhood Takeout Hero**
**Location:** 145 Back River Neck Rd
Walk into NO.1 Chinese Restaurant and you’re immediately greeted by two things: the irresistible, savory-sweet aroma of woks firing at a thousand degrees and the genuine welcome from the folks behind the counter. This isn't a place for delicate, tweezered gastronomy; this is the real deal, the kind of Chinese-American cuisine that has sustained families on busy weeknights and fueled weekend celebrations for decades. The dining room is cozy and no-frills, a testament to a business built on consistency and generous portions.
**What to Order:**
* **The Can't-Miss:** Start with the **Crab Rangoon**. These are not the measly, mostly-cream-cheese versions you find elsewhere. These are plump, golden-brown purses, crispy on the outside and bursting with a creamy, savory-sweet filling. For your main, you absolutely must get the **General Tso’s Chicken**. It’s the benchmark. The chicken is incredibly tender, lightly battered, and fried to perfection before being tossed in a glossy, tangy, and slightly spicy sauce that is the stuff of legends. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and heat.
* **The Local's Secret:** Ask for the **House Special Lo Mein**. It’s loaded with shrimp, chicken, beef, and vegetables, all wok-tossed with springy noodles in a light, savory sauce. It’s a complete meal in itself and a masterclass in texture and flavor.
* **The Experience:** This is quintessential takeout, but do yourself a favor and eat it there, piping hot from the kitchen. Soak in the hum of the place—the ringing phone, the steady *clang-clang* of the metal spatula against the wok, the satisfied sighs from regulars picking up their usual order.
---
#### **2. Buon Appetito Essex: A Cozy Italian Hug**
**Location:** 405 Mace Ave
Tucked away on Mace Ave, Buon Appetito is a warm, inviting slice of Italy. The atmosphere is lively and familial, with the clinking of wine glasses and the scent of garlic and simmering tomatoes wrapping around you like a welcome embrace. The walls are adorned with classic Italian memorabilia, and the chatter is a happy mix of families, couples on date night, and friends sharing a laugh. It feels like you’re eating in a beloved relative’s dining room.
**What to Order:**
* **The Can't-Miss:** You cannot, and I repeat, *cannot* leave without having the **Eggplant Parmigiana**. It’s a masterpiece. Layers of thinly sliced, melt-in-your-mouth eggplant, breaded and fried to a delicate crisp, are smothered in a robust, tangy house-made marinara and an abundance of gloriously bubbly, stretchy mozzarella. It’s a divine, cheesy, comforting revelation.
* **The Local's Secret:** While their pasta is superb, venture into the **Veal dishes**. The **Veal Marsala** is exquisite—tender scaloppine sautéed with earthy mushrooms in a rich, sweet Marsala wine sauce. It’s elegant, deeply flavorful, and a sure sign you’ve ordered like a pro.
* **The Experience:** This is a place to settle in. Order a carafe of house red wine, share an antipasto, and let the evening unfold. The service is attentive and personal; they remember your name and your favorite dish. It’s the epitome of Italian hospitality.
---
#### **3. Boss Burger, LLC: The Burger Artisan**
**Location:** 6036 A Rossville Blvd
Don’t let the unassuming strip mall location fool you. Boss Burger is a temple of beef, a place where the humble burger is elevated to an art form. The vibe is modern and casual, with a cool, minimalist decor that puts all the focus on what’s coming out of the kitchen: sheer, unadulterated burger brilliance.
**What to Order:**
* **The Can't-Miss:** The namesake **Boss Burger** is a mandatory first visit. Imagine a juicy, perfectly grilled half-pound patty topped with applewood smoked bacon, melted cheddar, crispy onion straws, fresh lettuce, tomato, and their signature Boss Sauce on a toasted brioche bun. It’s a symphony of textures and flavors in every single bite.
* **The Local's Secret:** For the truly adventurous, the **El Jefe Burger** brings the heat with pepper jack cheese, jalapeños, and a spicy chipotle mayo. And don’t you dare skip the sides! Their **Old Bay Fries** are a Maryland essential, and the **Onion Rings** are beer-battered, golden hoops of perfection.
* **The Experience:** This is a build-your-own-adventure for burger lovers. The menu is a checklist of high-quality ingredients. Go classic or go wild. It’s a bustling, energetic spot where the buzz is all about the food. Prepare to get messy and leave supremely satisfied.
---
#### **4. Essex Diner: Breakfast of Champions**
**Location:** 15 Eastern Blvd
The Essex Diner is a timeless institution. The second you step inside, the world outside slows down. It’s all about the comforting hum of the grill, the endless refills of diner coffee, the friendly banter between waitstaff and regulars, and the unmistakable sound of bacon sizzling. With its vinyl booths and counter stools, it’s a beautiful, unfiltered snapshot of American life.
**What to Order:**
* **The Can't-Miss:** You come here for breakfast, and you order the **Chipped Beef on Toast**. This is the ultimate Maryland comfort food, a creamy, peppery, salty gravy loaded with shredded dried beef, served over crisp, buttery toast. It’s a hearty, stick-to-your-ribs masterpiece that will power you through the entire day.
* **The Local's Secret:** Their **French Toast**, made with thick-cut Texas toast, is a sweet, eggy, cinnamon-kissed dream. And if you’re there for lunch, the classic **Reuben Sandwich** is piled high with corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing on grilled rye—it’s a flawless execution of a classic.
* **The Experience:** This is about nostalgia and community. Sit at the counter and watch the short-order cook perform his ballet with eggs and hash browns. Eavesdrop on the conversations around you. This is more than a meal; it’s a morning ritual.
---
#### **5. Lady Frances Crabhouse: The Quintessential Maryland Crab Feast**
**Location:** 202 Back River Neck Rd
Welcome to paradise, crab lovers. Lady Frances is *the* spot in Essex for a true, messy, magnificent Maryland crab feast. It’s a sprawling, casual, and wonderfully loud place where the floors might be covered in sand and the tables are layered with brown paper. The air is thick with the scent of steaming seafood and Old Bay. This is where you come to get your hands dirty.
**What to Order:**
* **The Can't-Miss:** A dozen **Steamed Male Jimmies (Large Crabs)**, heavily seasoned with J.O. #2 or Old Bay. That’s it. That’s the order. They arrive bright red and piping hot. You’ll need a mallet, a knife, and a stack of napkins. Pair them with ice-cold beer and a side of **Crab Fries** (fries dusted in crab seasoning).
* **The Local's Secret:** While the crabs are the main event, their **Crab Cake Dinner** is a serious contender. They are famously all lump meat, minimal filler, perfectly seared on the outside and succulent on the inside. They are, without exaggeration, some of the best in the state.
* **The Experience:** This is a culinary sport. It’s a social, hours-long event of picking, chatting, and laughing. Don’t wear anything nice. Embrace the mess. It’s a rite of passage for any Marylander or visitor.
---
#### **6. Two Guys Grill: The Neighborhood Pub Grub Standout**
**Location:** 1024 Eastern Blvd
Two Guys Grill is the quintessential friendly neighborhood bar and grill. It’s where everyone knows your name, the TVs are always tuned to the big game, and the food consistently exceeds expectations. It’s unpretentious, welcoming, and serves up some of the most satisfying bar food you’ll ever have.
**What to Order:**
* **The Can't-Miss:** The **Pit Beef Sandwich**. This is a Baltimore-area classic, and Two Guys does it right. Thinly sliced, smoky, incredibly tender beef piled high on a Kaiser roll. The key is the condiments: a generous dollop of tiger sauce (horseradish and mayo) and raw onion. It’s simple, messy, and absolutely phenomenal.
* **The Local's Secret:** Their **Buffalo Chicken Cheesesteak** is a thing of beauty. Tender grilled chicken, tangy buffalo sauce, melted provolone, and cool, creamy ranch dressing all stuffed into a soft hoagie roll. It’s the perfect flavor combination.
* **The Experience:** Grab a seat at the bar, order a draft beer, and strike up a conversation with the person next to you. It’s a place to watch the game, blow off steam, and enjoy a seriously good meal among friends.
---
#### **7. Steamin Demons: Fiery Wings & Bar Bites**
**Location:** 603 Eastern Blvd
For those who like a little (or a lot of) heat with their eats, Steamin Demons is your sanctuary. This is a dedicated wing joint that takes its craft seriously. The atmosphere is dark, cozy, and rock-n-roll, a perfect backdrop for tackling their infamous heat levels.
**What to Order:**
* **The Can't-Miss:** An order of **Traditional Wings**. The question is, what heat level are you? They range from Lemon Pepper (mild and zesty) to Suicide and beyond. For the perfect balance of flavor and heat, go for the **Hot Old Bay** or the **Demon Gold** (a mustard-based BBQ sauce). They are fried to a crispy exterior while staying juicy inside, and coated in a glorious amount of sauce.
* **The Local's Secret:** Their **Chesapeake Fries** are a must-have side. Crispy fries loaded with crab dip, cheddar cheese, and Old Bay. It’s a decadent, shareable (or not) pile of deliciousness.
* **The Experience:** This is a challenge. Dare your friends to try a hotter sauce. It’s a fun, casual, and interactive dining experience where the burn is part of the fun. Just make sure you have a cold drink handy.
---
#### **8. Crabland: Another Seafood Shack Gem**
**Location:** 120 Eastern Blvd
Right down the road from Lady Frances, Crabland offers another fantastic option for your seafood fix. It has a slightly more laid-back, no-frills fish shack vibe. The focus is purely on fresh, well-prepared seafood, served quickly and without pretense. It’s a fantastic choice for a quick yet amazing seafood lunch or a carry-out feast.
**What to Order:**
* **The Can't-Miss:** The **Steamed Shrimp**, by the pound, with Old Bay. They are consistently perfect—plump, juicy, and infused with spice. They peel easily and are utterly addictive. It’s a simpler, less messy alternative to crabs that is just as delicious.
* **The Local's Secret:** Their **Fried Oyster Platter** is a hidden treasure. The oysters are fresh, lightly battered, and fried to a beautiful golden brown without a hint of grease. Served with fries and coleslaw, it’s a classic seafood plate done right.
* **The Experience:** Quick, efficient, and delicious. This is where you go when you need a high-quality seafood fix without the hours-long commitment of a full crab feast. Grab a picnic table and dig in.
---
#### **9. Tempo Lounge: Drinks, Music, and Surprising Food**
**Location:** 402 Back River Neck Rd
Tempo Lounge might first present itself as your friendly local bar, but it holds a delicious secret: a kitchen that punches way above its weight. It’s a cozy spot with dim lighting, a great jukebox, and a steady crowd of locals. It’s the kind of place where you go for a drink and end up staying for dinner because the food smells so good.
**What to Order:**
* **The Can't-Miss:** The **Tempo Burger**. This isn't just a bar burger; it’s a legendary creation in Essex. A juicy, half-pound patty topped with cheddar, bacon, onion rings, and BBQ sauce. It’s massive, messy, and magnificent.
* **The Local's Secret:** Their **Mushroom Swiss Burger** is another winner, featuring sautéed mushrooms and melted Swiss cheese in a rich gravy. Also, keep an eye on their daily specials, which often feature amazing homemade soups and unique sandwiches.
* **The Experience:** This is about blending great social vibes with unexpectedly excellent food. It’s a place to unwind, catch some live music on weekends, and discover that one of the best burgers in town is served in a unassuming neighborhood bar.
---
#### **10. River Watch Restaurant & Marina: Dinner with a View**
**Location:** 207 Nanticoke Rd
We’ve saved the best view for last. Perched on the water at the end of Nanticoke Road, River Watch offers a dining experience unlike any other in Essex. The atmosphere is relaxed and nautical, with panoramic windows offering stunning views of the marina and the water. Whether you sit on the deck in the summer or by the fireplace in the winter, the setting is unforgettable.
**What to Order:**
* **The Can't-Miss:** The **Chesapeake Platter**. You can’t go wrong with a sampler that lets you taste the best of the region. It typically includes a crab cake, fried shrimp, and another fresh fish of the day, all perfectly prepared. Enjoying this with a waterfront view is the quintessential Essex experience.
* **The Local's Secret:** Their **Cream of Crab Soup** is thick, rich, and loaded with lump crab meat. It’s the ultimate Maryland starter. For a main, the **Prime Rib** (often a weekend special) is slow-roasted, incredibly tender, and a stunning value.
* **The Experience:** This is your destination for a slightly more upscale (but still very casual) experience. Come for a sunset dinner, watch the boats come and go, and savor a fantastic meal in a truly special setting. It’s the perfect capstone to your Essex culinary tour.
***
So there you have it—a culinary map to the heart of Essex, Maryland. From the messy, joyful chaos of a crab feast to the quiet comfort of a diner booth at dawn, this town feeds your soul as much as it fills your belly. Now get out there and taste it for yourself
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