What is Travelers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Carrol's Creek Cafe
Review
About
Travelers' Choice
2024
Carrol’s Creek Café is Annapolis’ premier waterfront seafood restaurant. We sit on the Eastport side of Spa Creek with an amazing view of the Annapolis skyline from our dining room or outside deck, in season. Ample parking is available and is validated for 2.5 hours. No pets are allowed. OUR KITCHEN IS A CERTIFIED TREE NUT AND PEANUT FREE ENVIRONMENT. UNFORTUNATELY NO OUTSIDE FOOD, INCLUDING DESSERTS, MAY BE BROUGHT INTO THE RESTAURANT.
Features
CUISINES
American, Seafood
Meal types
Lunch, Dinner
Special Diets
Vegetarian friendly, Vegan options, Gluten free options
FEATURES
Accepts Credit Cards
American Express
Discover
Free off-street parking
Free Wifi
Full Bar
Gift Cards Available
Highchairs Available
Mastercard
Outdoor Seating
Parking Available
Private Dining
Reservations
Seating
Serves Alcohol
Table Service
Television
Validated Parking
Visa
Waterfront
Wheelchair Accessible
Location
Free off-street parking, Parking Available, Validated Parking
Menu
Is this a Welsh restaurant?
Save this restaurant
Hours
Open until 4:00 PM
Sunday
11:30 AM - 8:00 PM
Monday
11:30 AM - 4:00 PM5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Tuesday
11:30 AM - 4:00 PM5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Wednesday
11:30 AM - 4:00 PM5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Thursday
11:30 AM - 4:00 PM5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Friday
11:30 AM - 4:00 PM5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Saturday
11:30 AM - 4:00 PM5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Contribute
4.3
1,547 reviews
Excellent
852
Very good
456
Average
153
Poor
56
Terrible
30
Angela D
Annapolis68 contributions
Feb 2023 • family
What we liked: I’ve been to Carrol’s Creek several times, even bring the office Holiday party there. The wait-staff is well trained. I’ve enjoyed several of their appetizers and the onion soup. Our recent meal we had crab cakes, which a friend raved about. They didn’t disappoint.
We had a birthday in our party and they brought a complimentary dessert with a candle.
Beautiful view.
What we didn’t: My husband and I shared the cheesecake and we were disappointed in the size of it for the price. Smaller than a cupcake and not as tasty as we’d expected since their desserts are made in-house.
Be careful if you have a BOGO coupon, as I did.
They will take the lowest price meal off, even though it states “equal or lesser value.” We ordered 2 crab cake entrees, I confirmed with the waiter when I ordered, and they initially didn’t give us the 2nd crab dinner free. The manager did make it right, but I think the practice is misleading and it disappointed me.
Written February 23, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Wags
Manheim1 contribution
Jun 2023 • family
First time visit for Sunday lunch. Validated parking in lot. Overall very impressed with service. Waitress came to table almost immediately after being seated. Expansive wine and craft beer menu. Waitress made great recommendations including the birds nest scallops appetizer which had a very good flavor. Black and Blue salad was great portion and they will swap the type of cheese. Crab cake is well cooked without too much grease or filler. Was most impressed by the service with timely drink refills and attentive bussing of table in between courses. And amazing views
Written June 4, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
KSH50
Reston249 contributions
Apr 2024 • couples
My wife and I were "first timers" there. She loved her humongous fresh local oysters, as I did the she crab soup. We then shared a coconut shrimp appetizer and rockfish tacos. The tacos were outstanding, with the shrimp a solid "good." Bill was $77, including a glass of wine. We'll definitely go back. From my viewpoint, portions tend to be on the big side. Well worth a visit.
Written April 24, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Momsdazeoff
Severna Park22 contributions
Nov 2024 • family
Seeking a future reservation. Phone call directs caller to make reservations online. Online reservations request a direct phone call to schedule dinner reservations. So called back. Pressed #1 as directed and attempted to book a table for 7 six nights from now on Dec 6th. Hoping visitors would be able to view a beautiful Maryland water view sunset. Was told the dining room was not open for seating until 5pm--after time of sunset. So told the hostess I would get right back with her after checking out her suggested time with other guests. Our party agreed upon a 5pm reservation. Called the hostess back. Was immediately hung up on. Called back and was hung up on after stating I wanted to make a dinner reservation. Called back a 3rd time. Requested a 5pm reservation for 7 people on Dec 6th. Was told by same speaker that she needed to place me on hold while she discussed my request time (she herself had suggested) with her manager. After over 20 minutes on hold I gave up. Lol. Pretty crazy. Plenty of great restaurants in Annapolis area to choose from. One of them will welcome a party of 7 without such drama. Suggest readers go somewhere else like we are.
Written November 30, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kidzdoc1
Annapolis1 contribution
Jun 2022 • none
Dear Mr. Jacobs,
I usually do not complain verbally and especially in writing but I feel compelled to do so under last night’s circumstances. I have lived in Annapolis for over thirty years and have enjoyed your restaurant many times in the past.
Last night we visited Carrol’s Creek because it was our one year anniversary of dating since we actually had our very first restaurant date there.
We ended up being very disappointed the first time because we were rushed by the waiter who seemed very impatient. We decided to take a second chance and returned to Carrol’s Creek for our anniversary.
It took a very long time (perhaps 30 minutes) for any one to show up at our table to even offer us beverages. After ordering appetizers and stating that we will decide on dinner later, it again took a very long time to get the appetizers. We finished our cocktails and appetizers about 8:45. We decided on what we wanted for dinner and a bottle of wine but were then informed that the kitchen was closed. At no point were we notified that the kitchen would be closing.
We asked to speak to the manager and Geneva came to our table. After explaining our situation, she indignantly apologized. At that point, we asked whether something could be done as we were hungry. Geveva continued to be very aloof and offered us bread. Most other fine establishments would have offered more.
At that point we were very perturbed and distraught, particularly since this evening was so special for us. Nothing further was offered and uncharacteristically, my girlfriend asked for a voucher but even that was met with a cold resistance. We were then given a $50 voucher. The final insult was that after receiving the bill, we waited for about 15 minutes for someone to retrieve it and eventually went inside to find somebody to pay.
We did use our voucher to partially pay for our appetizers and cocktails as we vowed never to return.
We expected much more in service and empathy from a restaurant that both of us had enjoyed immensely for years even before we we dating. To the both of us, Carrol’s Creek had special meaning.
I certainly hope that your staff will be better trained in customer service so that other patrons might enjoy what used to be a wonderful restaurant, gem and landmark in Annapolis. However, it will no longer be a recommendation of mine.
Sincerely,
Steven Brown, MD
Written June 16, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Monica C
Here is the email I sent back hours after your requested response.
Dear Dr. Brown,
I would just like to say how sorry I am for your disappointing
experience here on Tuesday evening. This is not the level of service
that we have strived for over the last 38 years. After speaking with
your server, I believe that she unfortunately missed any reference to
your desire to order additional items later in the evening. It really
would not be in her best interest to intentionally not sell guests as
much food and beverages as they desire. I have had a conversation
with her about communicating with guests in a similar situation so
that items can be ordered prior to any of our services closing for the
evening. Prior to Covid we did keep the restaurant open later but now
with all the staffing shortages and changes in guest habits we are
closing earlier. It is regrettable that our kitchen was so put away
and sauces and side items were discarded by the time we understood
that you would like to order. I can only apologize again for the lack
of service that we provided. I truly appreciate you taking the time
to contact me and explaining everything. My staff and I will
certainly use your experience to learn from and improve upon so that
this will not happen to future guests. I wish you the best for a
happy and healthy summer.
Best regards,
Jeffrey Jacobs
Written June 19, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Debbie G
Chicago23 contributions
Jun 2022 • family
We came here to celebrate my mom‘s birthday and the reservation was noted the same. The restaurant was not full nor did the restaurant look short staffed. The service was among the worst I’ve ever had anywhere. We ordered four appetizers and we’re given two small plates that were dirty. We had to flag down the waiter to ask for new ones and then we waited and waited and waited. At one point the waiter came back and asked us “what did you need, I was at the other table for so long I forgot”. The lamb appetizer was outstanding, the shrimp very average and small shrimp, the empanadas were not good… They just tasted like the breading. Then the scallops, they were completely raw on the inside. I cook them at home and I’m very familiar what they should look and taste like. By the time the waiter came back, it just wasn’t worth waiting for a new order. No dessert menu was offered. Instead I gave him my credit card and then we waited, waited, and waited for him to come back with the check. The setting is gorgeous but the food is below average and the service is horrible. I such a disappointment for my mom‘s special birthday. We came back to our Airbnb and had leftovers from the night before.
Written June 5, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
cornmanrichards
York350 contributions
Mar 2023 • couples
We were visiting Annapolis for the first time and were looking for a place to eat. Many of the surrounding restaurants did not receive favorable reviews but this did and it is along the water on the Eastport side. It is a small walk from the center of the waterfront area but worth it. Many of the clientele were business people on lunch while we were dressed casually but we were welcomed and treated as well as anyone. The food was delicious and extremely reasonably priced for what we had. Definitely worth trying if in Annapolis.
Written April 8, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tranquility2008
107 contributions
Feb 2023 • none
We have to make a drive to enjoy this restaurant as we don't live close. Parking tickets are validated at the front desk for 2.5 hrs. Their red wine onion soup is a must, the broth is so flavorful, different than the standard french onion soups available elsewhere. The beet/mozzarella salad was surprisingly tasty and satisfying, it "hit the spot" for sure. Have enjoyed the lobster mac & cheese when offered as a special, my husband has given his thumbs up for the Thai style shrimp and scallops. He had the special offering of chilean sea bass served with fingerling potatoes and baby zucchini and yellow squash- delicious. We took home a quart of their gourmet ice cream (salted caramel) which was heavenly. Thank you Carrol's Creek for a fine evening.
Written February 16, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Eva H
2 contributions
Sep 2021 • none
I had lunch. The cream of Crab soup arrived somewhere between lukewarm and cool. I ordered the scal0ps. The presentation was lackluster. There were 4 scallops , two regular size and two i/3 the size. The rice served with it looked like gray oatmeal and lacked flavor. I felt so unhappy but hoped to end the meal on a good note. Ordered the apple dessert. The sever slide it across the table and the frozen microwaved item was tough and lacked apples. This $45.00 lunch was really disappointing.
Written October 1, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
TeensTravelEurope
Annapolis16 contributions
Feb 2024 • friends
Was out with friends and stopped in for happy hour. They offer several happy hour appetizer specials. The bar was packed but the bartenders were doing a great job of taking care of everyone - and still smiling. We selected three appetizers from the Happy Hour appetizer menu and all three were amazing. The mussels were divine and I can't wait to take my husband back!
I love to do happy hour little plates and drinks. Carrol's Creek's food was a huge step up from the usual happy hour menu and quality. Don't get me wrong, I love some nachos and wings. But this was something else!
Written February 7, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
BackPacker793748
Washington73 contributions
Jul 2021 • none
The hostesses were very helpful and friendly, and seated us outside as requested. There is a beautiful view of the water and boats as you dine. The cream of crab soup had no crab as far as we could tell, but was ok.; The Caesar salad was good, and my shrimp dinner was well prepared and flavorful. The crab cakes were good, but needed sauce from my shrimp dish to enhance their flavor, and they were absurdly expensive (Our fault - they said market price and we didn't ask, but the server should have said something). So all-in-all great view, ok food. Good service.
Written July 25, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Datl
Annapolis58 contributions
Oct 2023 • couples
Gone downhill. We have been coming for years but the last few times have been sad. Its turning into an average restaurant with high prices. The crab cakes were small and dry. The veggies were cold and not cooked enough. The scallops were good. The shrimp pasta was overcooked. The waiters nor bus boys are properly trained. They don't check on you. The bus boys hover to grab each plate as you immediately finish. The place could be updated and cleaner. It used to be our top choice.
Written October 30, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
db2kp
Tarentum231 contributions
Aug 2023 • couples
Stop over in Annapolis for the evening. Arrived and were seated right away. It was our anniversary weekend so there was a an anniversary card on the table and the hostess wished us a happy anniversary. Ordered cocktails that were perfect. Started with oysters then peach caprese. Both we’re good. Husband ordered cream of crab soup, excellent! We ordered crab cakes and sautéed jumbo shrimp and crab. Both very good. Everything came too fast initially and we had to tell the waiter to slow it down. That was our only issue- the waiter had no personality and we felt like we were bothering him. We received a free desert for our anniversary, nice touch. My husband had been there before and loved it, so he wanted us to enjoy our anniversary there together. We will be back.
Written August 27, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
david b
1 contribution
Apr 2022 • none
They accommodated our large family group accompanying our father/grandfather to his USNA reunion with a large table overlooking the water. The food was excellent as was the service, and they were very patient as we took our sweet time ordering, eating and drinking. A wonderful evening.
Written May 12, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
paxa
Washington DC6800 contributions
Aug 2021 • none
In Annapolis for the evening and really wanted to find a place that's right on the water to have dinner and this cafe met all the requirements. There is extensive covered outdoor seating right by the water and the marina. Only thing is the side that has the best views is west facing so around sunset can get really hot on summer days, although would be perfect when it gets cooler. We had Ceasar salad with grilled shrimps and rock fish fillet, both pretty good although the latter quite pricy at $42. The apple tart was a pretty tasty dessert. Also the bread rolls that came with dinner were above average. Aside from the waterside location there is also validated free parking for two hours which is convenient and somewhat offsets the higher dinner cost.
Written September 6, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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