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Summer Dining Guide 2004

DOWNTOWN ANNAPOLIS

Waterview

Phillips Annapolis Harbor
Serving regional seafood and mouth-watering crab many ways for 40-plus years, the Phillips family knows what makes a perfect Bay repast. Their downtown Annapolis location, with a sweeping view of City Dock and the harbor, offers a covered outdoor patio and an indoor dining room and lounge where diners can dip into appetizers, soups, sandwiches, two kinds of crabcakes and lots more. Phillips Annapolis Harbor, 12 Dock Street, Annapolis, 410-990-9888. Lunch and dinner daily. www.phillipsfoods.com

Pusser's Landing at the Marriott
A chair on the deck at Pusser's Landing at the Marriott is about as close as you can get to Ego Alley. Catch the always-lively waterfront scene at lunch or dinner from Pusser's Dining Dock or Dock Bar, each with 16 tables. (No reservations are accepted for outside seating-they're for inside only-but the view from the dining room is swell, too.) The menu features Caribbean-style seafood, steaks, sandwiches and burgers. For docking, call the Schooner Woodwind at 410-263-7837 to inquire about a berth at the marina adjacent to the Marriott, Pusser's Landing at the Marriott, 80 Compromise Street, Annapolis, 410-626-0004. Breakfast, lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch.

Middleton Tavern
For a prime view of the City Dock parade, look no further than Middleton Tavern. The covered porch offers some of the city's most coveted summer seating; it's a great place to recharge with a beverage and an selection from the very generous menu (steaks, seafood, crab cakes, salads and more). The mussels and crab dip here were voted the best in Annapolis-taste and see. Middleton Tavern, 2 Market Place, Annapolis, 410-263-7973. Lunch, dinner, Sunday brunch. www.middletontavern.com

O'Brien's Oyster Bar and Restaurant
With a little luck, you could score one of O'Brien's eight outdoor tables, from which you can see City Dock. And when it's time to shake your booty, head inside for the largest dance floor in the area. Enjoy happy hour from 4-7 Monday through Friday and an eclectic menu featuring oysters, seafood, burgers, wraps, steak, soups, salads and more. Look for special martini and margarita menus for summer. O'Brien's Oyster Bar & Restaurant, 113 Main Street, Annapolis, 410-268-6288. Lunch, dinner. www.obriensoysterbar.com

OB's Prime
Opening in July above O'Brien's is the city's newest dining experience, OB's Prime. With elegant surroundings, a Wine Bar Lounge, and a luxurious Board Room and Cigar Lounge, it promises fine food in the classic tradition. OB's Prime, 111 Main St., Annapolis, 410-269-1210. Dinner Wednesday through Sunday. www.obsprime.com

Ego Alley
Maybe you're not the guy in the Hawaiian shirt, but that doesn't mean you can't appreciate the tropical style and decor of Ego Alley. This hip joint serves a variety of Carribbean cuisine, but also offers traditional options for the less adventurous. Ego Alley has outside tables just across from the Harbor. The drink specials change daily, and many a local band has been known to perform upstairs at Samson's Music Lounge. Ego Alley, 136 Dock St., Annapolis, 410-263-3353. Lunch and dinner. www.egoalleytropicalgrill.com

Buddy's
Ribs, jumbo crabcakes, salads, steaks and more: whatever your appetite desires, Buddy's can deliver. The spacious dining room overlooking City Dock and Main Street offers great views, and the atmosphere is relaxed and friendly. Bring the kids: ages 10 and under eat free. Buddy's, 100 Main Street, Annapolis, 410-626-1100. Lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch. www.buddysonline.com

DOWNTOWN ANNAPOLIS

Outdoor Dining

Griffins
Take a table outside this dockside tavern and sample Griffins' famous crab dip. It's the perfect snack to share when you're just 80 feet from the harbor. Try one of the 30 beers offered, or pick an entrée from their casual menu. Enjoy live music on Thursdays and a DJ on Fridays after 9. (Don't be afraid of the beasts on the walls inside-they're just decorations.) Griffins, 22 Market Space, Annapolis, 410 268 2576. Lunch and dinner daily. www.griffins-citydock.com

McGarvey's Saloon & Oyster Bar
If oysters are what you're craving, stop by McGarvey's Saloon and Oyster Bar. This bustling establishment is reminiscent of an old time saloon and even serves its own Aviator lager. For a quieter dining experience, ask for the back room or the outdoor patio. The patio seats 20 people at smaller tables and is set up, weather permitting, until 11 p.m. There's a great raw bar, but if cooked is your thing, there are also plenty of entrees, including the soft-shell crab sandwich, Ruben, burgers and plenty of appetizers. McGarvey's Saloon & Oyster Bar, 8 Market Space, Annapolis, 410-263-5700. Lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch. www.mcgarveyssaloon.com

Harry Browne's
The illuminated State House dome provides a dramatic backdrop for diners at Harry Browne's. This elegant establishment offers café-style seating for 14 on the sidewalk out front-under awning, when the weather requires-as well as service in the well-appointed interior. With the view, enjoy an extensive selection of appetizers, soups, salads and entrees for both lunch and dinner. Harry Browne's, 66 State Circle, Annapolis, 410-263-4432. Dinner daily, lunch Monday through Saturday, Sunday brunch. www.harrybrownes.com

Reynolds Tavern and Sly Fox Pub
If you're in the mood for an authentically British escape, opt for a special lunch or high tea (daily) or casually elegant dinner (Wednesday through Saturday) inside Reynolds Tavern, one of the oldest buildings in Annapolis. If the day is fine, dine al fresco any day at café tables fronting the circle-or head out back to the Sly Fox Pub, which seats 110 in the extensive courtyard and patio at the rear. Reynolds Tavern and Sly Fox Pub, 7 Church Circle, Annapolis, 410-263-7973. Open daily. www.reynoldstavern.org

Rams Head Tavern
The city's best brewpub and place to hear live music has a hidden summer asset: an outdoor patio, where a flourishing wisteria provides a leafy canopy for outdoor diners. The menu has pages of options, from rib-eye steaks to jambalaya and burritos-wash them down with one of the half a dozen microbrews offered by the Fordham Brewing Company (other labels abound, too). Rams Head Tavern and Fordham Brewing Company, 33 West Street, Annapolis, 410-268-4545. www.ramsheadtavern.com

Sean Donlon's
Enjoy live folk and bluegrass in this re-creation of an 18th century Georgian pub. Indoors, Sean Donlon's has many little nooks for a drink or a full meal; although the dark wood and traditional Irish décor are welcoming, patrons can also dine outdoors, at tables along West Street or in the garden out back. Choose from traditional and Irish dishes, lots of sandwiches and burgers. Free parking in Gotts Court lot after 5, with stamp. Sean Donlon's, 37 West St., Annapolis, 410-263-1993. Lunch and dinner daily, weekend brunch. www.seandonlons.com

Breeze and The Weather Rail at Loews Annapolis Hotel
A shady patio in front of Loews Annapolis Hotel offers seating for 20 people for dining at Breeze, the hotel's sleekly contemporary restaurant. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served here; menu standouts include crabcakes, salads, seafood, and the sinful cream of crab soup. Well-behaved dogs are welcome outside-the hotel prides itself on its "Loews Loves Pets" Policy. Loews' Weather Rail Lounge and Patio also offers patio dining, with a grill lunch in summer and regular dinner. Breeze and The Weather Rail Lounge and Patio at Loews Annapolis Hotel, 126 West St., Annapolis, 410-295-3232.

DOWNTOWN ANNAPOLIS

Dock and Walk

Ristorante Piccola Roma
Voted the best Italian restaurant in town by What's Up? Annapolis readers, Piccola Roma offers authentic regional cuisine in a handsome, sophisticated setting. Pastas, meats and seafood are offered, along with an extensive wine list. For Main Street charm with Continental flair, it's a fine choice. Ristorante Piccola Roma, 200 Main Street, Annapolis, 410-268-7898.

Treaty of Paris Restaurant at the Maryland Inn
If you've been in business for 300 years, you must be doing something right. The Treaty of Paris Restaurant, a landmark on the ground floor of the colonial-era Inn at the top of Main Street, has fine dining with a difference: an atmosphere that recalls the august historic personages who once met here. The Hunt Board Brunch is a tradition well worth a Sunday visit. The Treaty of Paris Restaurant at the Maryland Inn, 18 Church Circle, Annapolis, 410-216-6340. Lunch and dinner daily, Sunday Brunch. www.annapolisinn.com

Galway Bay
One of the friendliest establishments in Annapolis (and an authentically Irish one at that), Galway Bay offers perfectly-poured pints and house specialties like shepherd's pie, chops, corned beef and seafood. Enjoy live music on the weekends or conversation in the lively, spacious bar. Galway Bay, 63 Maryland Ave., Annapolis, 410-263-8333. www.galwaybayannapolis.com

Joss Café and Sushi Bar
Looking for a special spot to savor sushi? Stop into Joss, a Main Street favorite, for a cozy and welcoming dining experience. The tempura, sashimi, or delectable rolls offer a memorable taste of Japanese cuisine. (Try the sake, too.) A "Best of Annapolis" choice. Joss Café and Sushi Bar, 195 Main St., Annapolis, 410-263-4688. Lunch and dinner. www.josscafe-sushibar.com

Maria's Sicilian Ristorante and Cafe
If you're after a taste of Italy while visiting City Dock, Maria's can provide it. Try lunch or dinner inside, or take one of the five outside tables. Hungry? One memorable offering is the Seafood Maria, a half lobster with mussels, clams, and more, served over pasta with a choice of sauces. Other selections include pastas, salads, and lunchtime sandwiches. Maria's Sicilian Ristorante and Café, 12 Market Space, Annapolis, 410-268-2112.

Mangia Italian Grill and Sports Café
You'll smell the aroma of fresh-baked brick oven pizza (voted Annapolis' best) wafting out the door of Mangia, located next to the Annapolis Summer Garden Theatre. Upstairs, there's casual dining, with calzone, stromboli, seafood, pastas, sandwiches and more. View the passing scene from café tables outside. Mangia Italian Grill and Sports Café, 81 Main Street, Annapolis, 410-268-1350.

Luna Blu
For Continental style and innovative Italian specialties, visit the cool and charming Luna Blu. This West Street trattoria offers veal, pasta, seafood and chicken prepared with flair by the owner-chef. For a molto buono choice, try the daily specials. Luna Blu Ristorante Italiano, 36 West Street, Annapolis, 410-267-9950. Lunch weekdays, dinner Monday through Saturday, closed Sundays.

EASTPORT

On the Water

Carrol's Creek Cafe
A dazzling makeover has only enhanced the appeal of Carrol's Creek Café, where diners enjoy four-star cuisine both indoors and out, along with one of the capital's best water views. The contemporary American offerings include plenty of seafood, as well as original takes on meats and pastas. Don't miss the cream of crab soup-and the desserts. Carrol's Creek Café, 410 Severn Ave., Annapolis, 410-263-8102. Lunch, dinner, Sunday brunch. www.carrolscreek.com

Chart House
Now restored to fabulous condition after a dousing by Hurricane Isabel, Chart House is the place to take out-of-towners for a taste of Annapolis. The views of sailboats, Spa Creek and the city skyline from the high-ceilinged dining room are exceptional, as are the upscale offerings of salad bar, steaks, and seafood. Chart House, 300 Second St., Annapolis, 410-268-7166. www.charthouse.com

EASTPORT

Dock and Walk

O'Leary's Seafood Restaurant
With rave reviews for its fresh, fabulous renditions of seafood, O'Leary's is a top choice for dinner anytime. Enjoy a wide variety of menu items and specials prepared to your specifications in handsome surroundings just off Spa Creek. O'Leary's Seafood Restaurant, 310 3rd Street, Annapolis, 410-263-0884.

Boatyard Bar & Grill
It's an airy, attractive eatery, a neighborhood gathering spot, and one of the country's hottest sailing bars-all good reasons to check out Eastport's Boatyard Bar & Grill. Stop by for lunch, dinner and weekend breakfasts, or satisfy happy-hour hungries with tasty "small plates" from the Bar Menu. Boatyard Bar & Grill, 400 Fourth Street, Annapolis, 410-216-6206. www.boatyardbarandgrill.com

Davis' Pub
Voted "best local watering hole" in Annapolis, Davis' has casual food and drink and a friendly, laid-back atmosphere that pleases both natives and tourists. After a fishing trip or afternoon sail, it's the place to unwind with a cold drink and an order of burgers, shrimp, steak or crab cakes. Davis' Pub, 400 Chester Ave., Annapolis, 410-268-7432. Lunch, dinner.

EASTPORT

Outdoor Dining

Ruth's Chris Steak House
Filets, rib-eyes, T-bones, porterhouse and prime steaks are the juicy fare at this well-regarded national chain (lobster, salmon, swordfish and tuna are available, too). Dine at one of eight outside tables, or take a seat in the richly-appointed dining room. Valet parking is available. Ruth's Chris Steak House, 301 Severn Avenue, Annapolis, 410-990-0033. Dinner daily. www.serioussteaks.com

The Wild Orchid Café
Behind the columned front porch on this restored bungalow is a hideaway offering some of best food in the city: fine seafood, game, and fresh regional produce, plus a discriminating wine list. The Wild Orchid's back patio dining area is the perfect spot for a summer repast, with unusual perennial plantings to enhance your lunch, dinner, or Sunday brunch. Handicapped accessible. The Wild Orchid Café, 909 Bay Ridge Ave., Annapolis, 410-268-8009. www.wildorchidcafe.net

GREATER ANNAPOLIS

Waterview

Cantler's Riverside Inn
Scenic Mill Creek is the home of Jimmy Cantler's Riverside Inn, a true Annapolis institution, where locals, watermen, and tourists gather for fabulous views, steamed crabs, seafood platters and all-American burgers and dogs. Whether you're on the covered waterside deck or hanging out in the beer garden, it's one big happy family. If you're coming by boat, call ahead to inquire about docking space on the pier. Cantler's Riverside Inn, 458 Forest Beach Drive, Annapolis, 410-757-1311. Lunch and dinner daily.

Sam's Waterfront Café
A 180* panorama of Chesapeake Harbor gives Sam's Waterfront Café one of the city's best boat-filled vistas. Admire it from the outdoor café (open for weekend dinners) or the inner dining room, where the exceptional menu features crab, rockfish, poultry and pastas. Boaters can use four slips on the private dock, or tie up to the bulkhead. Sam's Waterfront Café, 2020 Chesapeake Harbour Dr. East, Annapolis, 410-263-3600. Lunch and dinner daily, Sunday brunch. www.chesapeakeharbour.com

Yellowfin Steak & Fish House
Colorful and contemporary, with a bank of windows overlooking the sparkling South River, Yellowfin puts sizzle in a summer evening. Start with a selection from the martini or margarita menus, then enjoy light fare, salads, steak or seafood as you watch the sun go down. Boaters can call ahead to arrange docking at nearby Liberty Marina. Yellowfin Steak & Fish House, 2840 Solomon's Island Rd., Annapolis, 410-573-1333. Dinner daily. www.yellowfinrestaurant

Paul's on the South River
With more than half-a-century at its waterfront location, Paul's has pleased generations of Annapolitans with its fine food and elegant service. Crab, shrimp, steak, poultry and vegetarian choices are featured. The summer season brings with it a light menu at Paul's, with salads, sandwiches and specials featuring light sauces and freshly grown herbs. A place for a special occasion. Paul's on the South River, 3027 Riva Rd., Riva, 410-956-3410. Lunch Tuesday through Friday, dinner Tuesday through Sunday. Closed Monday.

Mike's Restaurant & Crab House
As the name implies, Mike's specialty is crabs-steamed, soft-shelled, in crab cakes or crab imperial. And the place to enjoy them is Mike's open-air tiki bar, where you can pull up, dock, dine, and dance to live music on the weekends. This South River landmark has lots of other options, too (ribs, steak, chicken and seafood), but for authentic Chesapeake flavor, you won't go wrong with the ol' crustaceans. Mike's Restaurant & Crab House, 3030 Old Riva Rd., Riva, 410-956-2784. Lunch and dinner daily.

South River Café
There's plenty of room to relax indoors and out at the South River Café, formerly Surfside 7. On a summer evening, you can sip a drink (from one of four bars) and watch the boats go by while anticipating a meal of stuffed rockfish or grilled steak. Patrons arriving by boat (the café is just beside the South River Bridge) can dock at the end of the pier. South River Café, 48 South River Rd., Edgewater. 410-956-8075. Lunch and dinner daily; open until 2 a.m.

GREATER ANNAPOLIS

Outdoor Dining

Northwoods
It's no surprise that summer evenings on the covered deck at Northwoods are just as special as ones in the intimate dining room. Whether patrons opt for one of the nine tables outdoors or dine in, Northwoods offers a Complete Dinner Special every night except Saturday that might be the best bargain in town. Four courses, including luscious desserts, are just $32.95. Northwoods, 609 Melvin Ave., Annapolis, 410-268-2609. Dinner daily. www.northwoodsrestaurant.com

Les Folies Brasserie
Regional French cuisine is presented with flair at this handsome eatery, where co-owners Alain Matrat and Jean-Claude Galan preside. The menu brims with traditional favorites, from appetizers through entrees and desserts, and the wine list is exceptional. Outdoor dining is available at four tables, weather permitting. Les Folies Brasserie, 2552 Riva Rd., Annapolis, 410-573-0970. Lunch Mon.-Fri., dinner daily. www.lesfoliesbrasserie.com

Copeland's
Get ready to be transported to Cajun country when you enter Copeland's. This Jennifer Road establishment serves up classic Cajun and Creole dishes that you can enjoy to the tunes of cool jazz and bluegrass. Enjoy second level patio seating, great for a large party or just dining for two. Or sample a glass of wine in the cigar bar, which has a pianist on weekend nights. Come hungry-portions are generous. Copeland's, 177 Jennifer Rd., Annapolis, 410-571-0860. Does not accept reservations.

Sputnik Café
Ready for something new and different? Launch yourself towards Crownsville and experience the Sputnik Café. The outdoor patio is as unusual as the interior, and the menu is an adventurous mix of global, Asian and vegetarian choices like Thai red curry sea bass served with sticky rice and asparagus, Korean bulgogi strip steak or Sputnik green papaya salad. Sputnik Café, 1397 Generals Hwy., Crownsville, 410-923-3775. www.sputnikcafe.com

GREATER ANNAPOLIS

Other

Heroes
With 44 different beers on tap and an extensive menu, Heroes is a favorite among local sports fans (especially if you root for Maryland). Its quiet location, removed from the tourist bustle of downtown, is a plus, too. Heroes, 1 Riverview Ave., Annapolis, 410-573-1996.

Cheeburger Cheeburger
Burgers in a variety of sizes, sizzling fries, thick milkshakes and other classic soda fountain offerings are the trademark of this Festival at Riva establishment. If you finish the famous pounder (20 ounces of beef), your picture will be posted on the Wall of Fame. Cheeburger Cheeburger, 2329 B Forest Dr., Annapolis, 410-224-7297.

The Melting Pot
If you're fond of fondue, this is your spot. Dip into four-course dinners where your meal is cooked right at your table-and don't miss the chocolate fondue for dessert. Reservations recommended. The Melting Pot, 2348 Solomons Island Rd., Annapolis, 410-266-8004. Dinner daily. www.meltingpot.com

Main Ingredient
An attractive neighborhood café serving top-rated breakfasts, lunches and dinners, Main Ingredient also has a catering division and a bakery. Its desserts were deemed the Best in Annapolis-they're a celebration in themselves. Main Ingredient Catering, Bakery Café, 914 Bay Ridge rd., Annapolis, 410-626-0388. www.themainingredient.com

Jalapenos
Tapas, burritos, shrimp and seafood are among the four-star offerings at this charming Spanish-Mexican restaurant, where the handsome surroundings conjure a Mediterranean atmosphere and the bar serves up excellent sangria and margaritas. Reservations recommended. Jalapenos, 85 Forest Plaza, Annapolis, 410-266-7580.

Sakura
Take a seat around the grill at one of Sakura's teppanaki tables and watch your chef whip up a sizzling meal. His sleight-of-hand with a carving knife will amaze you; his renditions of steak, chicken, shrimp and vegetables, served with rice, will satisfy you. This Japanese steak/seafood house and sushi bar was voted the most entertaining restaurant in Annapolis. Sakura, 2625 Housely Road, Annapolis, 410-573-0006. Lunch and dinner daily.

La Mona Lisa Ristorante Italiano
Behind its unassuming façade, La Mona Lisa is a handsome new Italian restaurant serving exceptional selections of seafood, veal, lamb and beef in the authentic preparations. Try the four-course tasting menu, or order a la carte. The fresh fish carved tableside is a specialty; ask about their wine and food tastings. La Mona Lisa, 2444 Solomons Island Rd., Annapolis, 410-266-7595. Lunch Monday through Friday, dinner daily.

KENT ISLAND

Waterview

Silver Swan Restaurant
Swans, osprey, blue herons and ducks decorate the non-stop Bay views at the waterfront Silver Swan Restaurant. Dine inside on elegant Eastern Shore fare at lunch or dinner, or enjoy cocktails on the patio. The adjacent Silver Swan Store will fill your picnic basket with a variety of take-out items (fish platters, BBQ burgers, selections from the restaurant menu, and even ice cream). There are 10 slips for boaters; call ahead for reservations. Silver Swan Restaurant, 412 Congressional Drive, Stevensville, 443-249-0400, Closed Mondays. www.queenannemarina.com

Fisherman's Inn and Crab Deck
Fisherman's Inn has been a Kent Island fixture since 1930, and its seafood savvy is evident on the extensive menu. The best place to enjoy their signature steamed crabs? The covered, open-air Crab Deck, which can accommodate up to 300 and features a custom bar and menus. The adjacent Inn has several levels of seating where you can enjoy a non-stop view of workboats and the Bay. Go by boat and dock at one of the 20 transient slips. Fisherman's Inn & Crab Deck, Exit 42 off Route 50, Grasonville, 410-827-8807 (Inn), 410-827-6666 (Crab Deck). Lunch and dinner daily. www.fishermansinn.com, www.fishermansinn

Harris Crab House
Hungry? Head for Harris' Crab House and its $24.95 all-you-can-eat shrimp and crab feast, offered Monday through Fridays. This waterside eatery, decorated with antique oyster tins and other sea memorabilia, is a favorite of Kent Islanders and many drop-ins who visit by boat (its five slips are first-come, first-served). Dine inside or on the roof-top for an unmatched view. Harris Crab House, Exit 42 at Route 50, right turn under the bridge, Grasonville, 410-827-9500. Lunch and dinner daily. www.harriscrabhouse.com

The Jetty
For waterfront fun on Kent Narrows, head for The Jetty, where there's always a happy crowd at the Dock Bar and live music Wednesday through Sunday. Steamed crabs are available (call ahead to check), along with lots of appetizers, wraps, sandwiches, steaks, seafood-and yes, fries by the pound. The Jetty, 201 Wells Cove Rd., Grasonville. 410-827-4959. www.jettydockbar.com

Annie's Paramount Steak & Seafood House
Beef, veal, fresh seafood, pasta and light fare are served with a view of Mears Point Marina and Kent Narrows at Annie's. Linger over a sunset with one of the chef's exceptional meals. It's an easy trip by car or boat (dock at Mears Point) for lunch, dinner, or a cold beer in the separate sports lounge with its big-screen TVs. Annie's Paramount Steak & Seafood House, Exit 42 off Route 50, right at Rt. 18, right at Kent Narrows Way. 410-827-7103. Lunch and dinner daily. www.annies.biz

Kent Island

Other

Kent Manor Inn and Restaurant
Looking to get away from the bustle of Annapolis? Venture across the Bay Bridge to Kent Manor Inn. There are five rooms in which to dine, and all are outfitted in classic Victorian décor. This hideaway is great for wedding receptions, family dinner, or a romantic evening for two. Don't feel like driving home? You're in luck. The historic inn offers 24 rooms for overnight guests. Kent Manor Inn, 500 Kent Manor Dr., Stevensville, 410-643-7716. Lunch, dinner, Sunday brunch. www.kentmanor.com

CENTERVILLE

Julia's
In historic Centerville, you'll find a quiet hideaway serving American cuisine with an Asian flair. Chef David Clark finds new inspiration with classics like rack of lamb and filet mignon, and offers a summer menu featuring jumbo lump crab summer rolls, lemon grass mussels, black sea bass with Chinese mustard, and more. Julia's, 122 N. Commerce St, Centerville, 410-758-0471. Lunch Monday through Friday, Dinner Wednesday through Sunday.

EDGEWATER

Outdoor Dining

The Old Stein Inn
Come warm weather, the Old Stein welcomes diners to its pleasant Biergarten behind the Inn, where xx tables, some with umbrellas, are available for lunch or dinner. Try schnitzel under the stars-or other house specialties including beef, venison, assorted wurst, shrimp and crabcakes. There's live Bavarian music every Saturday from Heidi and Hans or Heimat Echo. The Old Stein Inn, 1143 Central Ave., Edgewater, 410-798-6807. Lunch and dinner Wednesday through Sunday. www.theoldstein-inn.com

DAVIDSONVILLE

Outdoor Dining

Killarney House
It's always "Top o' the mornin' to ya" in Davidsonville's Killarney House. This pub is reminiscent of one you might find back in the Emerald Isle, with a spacious dining room beyond. Enjoy all the traditional Irish favorites and more, including a New York Strip Steak, jumbo lump crabcake or filet of salmon stuffed with crabmeat. Improve on this Irish adventure by sitting out on the patio on a nice day-there are plenty of tables. Killarney House, 584 West Central Ave., Davidsonville, 410-798- 8700. Lunch, dinner and Sunday Brunch. www.killarney-house.com

GAMBRILLS

Outdoor Dining

Kaufmann's Restaurant
What's better than steamed crabs at Kaufmann's? Eating them while enjoying a summer day on their newly added outdoor patio which seats 200 people. There's a cooling waterfall at the outdoor bar, and plenty of big TVs to watch in case the big game is on.In addition to crabs, Kaufmann's offers fresh seafood, steak, prime rib and more. Dine to live music every Friday and Saturday night. Lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch with live jazz 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Kaufmann's, 329 Gambrills Rd., Gambrills, 410-923-2005.lunch and dinner, Sunday brunch. www.kaufmannsrestaurant.com

Other

Fuji Steakhouse
Japanese chefs toss veggies, steak and seafood into the air and grill them with flair at Fuji, located in the Village at Waugh Chapel. It's a fun choice for a birthday celebration or office party, especially if your group includes sushi lovers. Fuji Steakhouse, Village at Waugh Chapel, Gambrills, 410-721-6880. Lunch and dinner daily.

CROFTON

Outdoor Dining

Sly Horse Tavern
A replica of Historic Williamburg's famous Raleigh Tavern, Sly Horse also has eight tables on an outdoor patio, which are open for dining al fresco on pleasant days. Enjoy excellent beef and seafood dishes or daily specials from the "Horse Sheet." Intimate booths in the Colonial fireside dining room are another fine choice. Reservations are recommended. Sly Horse Tavern, 1678 Village Green, Crofton, 410-721-4550.

Other

Fins
In the mood for something new and different? Have a fling with Hawaiian Fusion at Fins, a new arrival to the local scene. Fins offers seafood, steaks and sushi at their new restaurant in Crofton Centre. Visit for a taste of regional and Pacific rim cuisine. Lunch, dinner, light fare and a junior menu (for little surfers) are served. Fins, 1629 Crofton Centre, Crofton, 4301-261-3366. Lunch and dinner daily. www.finsonline.net

Ledo's Pizza at Eddie's Place
Fans rave about the distinctively crispy, thin crust, square cut pizza at Ledo's. The Italian specialties are worth a try, too-lasagna, spaghetti and meatballs are great take-out choices for a family dinner when it's too hot to cook. And the price is right. Ledo's Pizza at Eddie's Place, 1286 Route 3 South, Crofton, 410-721-5200. Lunch and dinner daily.

ODENTON

Hunan L'Rose
This elegant and popular Chinese restaurant, now in its 12th year at this location, gets high marks for traditional favorites like Whole Lobster Cantonese, Peking Duck and Mongolian Pork. For a sumptuous variety of appetizers, try the poo-poo platter, which is served on its own grill. Hunan L'Rose, Odenton Shopping Center, Rt. 175, Odenton, 410-672-2928, 301-621-9388.

ARNOLD

Waterview

Deep Creek Restaurant
Whether you're in the mood for a simple salad or an extra-large plate of pasta, soft-shelled crabs or seafood, Deep Creek can oblige. The windows of this popular Arnold establishment overlook the junction of the Magothy River and Deep Creek, and the picnic tables on the front lawn are the perfect place to attack a pile of steamed crabs. Transient slips are available at the marina for those arriving by boat; call ahead. Deep Creek Restaurant and Marina, 1050 Deep Creek Ave., Arnold, 410-974-1408. Lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch. www.deepcreekrestaurantandmarina.com

Other

O'Loughlin's
Buffalo meets potato country: Get the best of two worlds when you visit this pub. Although wings aren't a traditional Irish dish, O'Loughlin's is famous for them. Sit at a tall table and socialize in the bar area or choose a quieter booth in the restaurant part. With neighborhood friendliness, food and drink (lots of different beers) and a cozy corner location, you'll have a memorable time. Call-aheads accepted, but no reservations. O'Loughlin's, 1258 Bay Dale Dr., Arnold. 410-349-0200.

PASADENA

Waterview

Cheshire Crab
Family-friendly dining in a casual waterfront atmosphere draws boaters, locals and day-trippers to Cheshire Crab. Tie up at the Pleasure Cove Marina or come by car to enjoy steamed crabs, sandwiches, and fresh seafood. For a splash-down on a hot afternoon, there's even a pool. Cheshire Crab, 1701 Poplar Ridge Rd., Pasadena, 410-437-6600. Lunch and dinner daily. www.pleasurecovemarine.com

Windows on the Bay
The view from the dining room at Windows on the Bay lives up to its name, overlooking White Rocks Marina on Rock Creek. The enclosed deck allows waterside seating year-round, and the menu is extensive, with tempting appetizers and an abundance of entrees including veal, chicken, steak and seafood. 14 slips are available for restaurant customers. Reservations recommended. Windows on the Bay, 1402 Colony Rd., Pasadena, 410-255-1413, Lunch and dinner daily; occasional Saturday closings. www.windowsonthebaypasadena.com