Schultz's Crab House is a restaurant in Essex, Maryland, specializing in Chesapeake-style crab cakes and homemade seafood entrees. Since its founding in 1969, the establishment has served the local community and visitors with classic Baltimore cuisine in a welcoming, family-owned atmosphere. The restaurant operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations and does not offer delivery. It is open daily from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., extending to 10:00 p.m. on weekdays, and has earned a 4.40 rating based on customer reviews. The business serves Essex and surrounding areas, drawing patrons from nearby neighborhoods and schools.
Established in 1950 as Schultz’s Cafe by William and Mildred Schultz, the business has evolved through multiple iterations, beginning as a tavern on the Gunpowder River and later becoming Schultz’s Lounge. The current name, Schultz’s Crab House, was adopted in 1969 when Karen and Bob McKinney took over the liquor license, retaining the family name due to financial constraints. The building, originally three separate storefronts, was unified and expanded over time, with the original structure located across the street from the current site. The business remained in the same location for decades, maintaining a strong connection to the community. In 1979, Karen and Bob purchased the building, and the restaurant celebrated a mortgage-burning party in 1987, a testament to decades of loyal patronage.
Located on Old Eastern Avenue, Schultz's Crab House sits just a short distance from several key landmarks. It is about 0.1 miles from Hopkins Creek, bordered by Eastern Boulevard to the west, and within a half-mile radius of both Our Lady of Mount Carmel High School and Mount Carmel High School. Nearby neighborhoods include River Point and Renaissance Square, placing the restaurant in a central, accessible part of Essex.
The business is recognized for having a well-optimized website that search engines read clearly and for maintaining thorough, consistent information across online platforms. This strong digital presence enhances its visibility and accessibility to customers seeking authentic seafood dining.
With a legacy rooted in the heart of Essex and a commitment to traditional Chesapeake flavors, Schultz’s Crab House remains a staple of local dining.