One of the best crab shacks in the state, where eating a steamed crab has been elevated to an art form: a hands-on, messy endeavor, normally accompanied by corn on the cob and ice-cold beer. Cantler's is a little ways outside of Annapolis, but can be approached by road or boat (a waterfront location is a crab-house industry standard).
The soft crabs are particularly well-respected, probably due to large on-site peeling sheds, where crabs are allowed to molt. Children's menu available (mains $3 to $6).