The food is nothing special - nothing disappointing, but nothing that stands out from hundreds of other casual American-style restaurants in the region. And the prices are a little bit higher than average. But the view is amazing, especially off of the upper deck patio; and there's ample, easy docking for one's boat. I guess the best way to put it, is that Hemmingway's is a wonderful place to spend a few lazy hours with friends enjoying a fine outdoor day, especially as a lunch break from cruising the bay, and the food is decent enough that it doesn't detract from the enjoyment.
(3)
Mike G.
I used to stop here en route to OCMD every summer for years. It had been a couple years since I had been back, and, unfortunately, I will not be going back. The food was nothing like it used to be. The service was awful, however I completely discounted the quality of service in order to objectively judge the food. I brought a friend to this restaurant on a Friday evening at 7 PM, and I should have taken the emptiness of the restaurant as a hint as to what product & service I'd be receiving. I raved about the cream of crab soup, because it had previously been the best I'd ever come across. The cream of crab soup was absolutely terrible. No lump crab or old bay added on top. We ordered calamari which was served with an aioli chipotle sauce... this WAS a seafood restaurant, apparently not anymore. The crab cakes were okay, however they were formed as saucers, not the Maryland "cake". I don't know if ownership has changed, or it is just terribly managed. The only thing good about Hemingway's is the view. Go for the bar on the bay. Don't go to eat.
(2)
Larry H.
This is the one dock bar on the bay that everyone desperately "wants" to love but just can't... Amazing location (right in the shadow of the bay bridge) - CHECK. Amazing two tier deck with Spec-tac-ular sunsets - CHECK. Annnnnnd after that, everything just goes down hill... Overpriced - CHECK. Poorly prepared food - CHECK. Lack of live music - CHECK. Zero party atmosphere - CHECK. Run like a stuffy old yacht club that doesn't really want your business if you're under the age of 70 - CHECK. Hopefully someday ownership of this location will be transferred to someone who can take advantage of the location and turn it into a wildly popular destination. Until then... 1. Dirty Dave's Tiki Bar at Kentmorr Restaurant & Crab House 2. The Jetty Dock Bar 3. Red Eyes Dock Bar 4. Big Owl Dock Bar
(2)
David L.
Really wanted to like this. Our hosts were very keen on it. And the view is amazing at sunset. But it went downhill. They couldn't get drinks right. They were out of Yuengling Beer which is supposed to be on draft. If took more than 30 minutes for them to bring us Martinis and margaritas.....hardly rocket science for a bartender. Finally got a draft beer made for them by Samuel Adamd It took 45 minutes for us to get napkins and silverware....after the appetizers were delivered. The server was pleasant....just dazed and confused. Mandatory 20% tip for a party of 6!! Food.... Oh yes this is a restaurant. Most everyone had the crab cake and liked it. I had ahi tuna and it was good. Potatoes and veggies good too... Not special but good The calamari appetizer was good fish prepared not so well. Undercooked and coating didn't adhere to the fish. Crab was fried and soggy. Such a great location deserves great food and great service. To put it kindly, not quite.
(2)
Robin F.
One star is for the view and the decor, both of which are beautiful. The food and service are just not good. We tried this place several times, but no more. We live about 2 miles away, but won't be giving this place another chance. Food is overpriced, small entree portions. On our last visit we ordered happy hour apps, waiting over 30 minutes, calamari was cold, crab dip looks good with chunks of crab on top, but beneath was this tasteless, gluey, kind of cream cheese (it's $17 on the reg menu!). Waitress didn't know when happy was or how much the food was. Service was so slow, not completely her fault i guess, there were 2 waitress for the whole patio.
(1)
Bill D.
We had strong recommendations from a friend who stops here frequently on his way back from the beach. The setting on the waterfront is lovely. As we walked around to the patio, I was nearly paralyzed by the overamplified truly awful calypso. Look, I love calypso and reggae. But don't shriek it over recorded tracks at 80 dB. This wasn't Jamaica. The closest this came to The Islands was a bar mitzvah in The Hamptons where no person darker than a tennis tan would be let in. Wandering around the maze up the restaurant, we were greeted by a nearly empty restaurant. Our server, Nick, did a surprisingly good job despite it being only his third day. I asked for gluten-free options, and both Nick and his co-worker made good suggestions. I'd recommend they steer carefully around the salads, though. The dressings can be a minefield depending on the source of the vinegar, bleu cheese and whether soy sauce is an ingredient. The Ahi Tuna appetizer was a recommendation, but it shouldn't have been because of the soy sauce. We ordered two burgers, mine medium with no bun and slaw. His medium rare and slaw. Our orders were reversed and both came with fries. While the restaurant was empty, the patio was jumping so confusion in the orders occurred in the kitchen. Based on other reviews, this is a common theme. Your kitchen is out of control. I'd request you switch to a more upscale condiment brand like Boar's Head (which is also gluten free) and tastes way better than the horrible Heinz crap presented like this was a cheap diner. Nick and his co-workers played the best they could with the hand they were dealt. Our drinks were refilled without asking and their manners were excellent. Whoever's hiring and training the staff knows their business. I apologize to anyone may have seen us rinsing out with Listerine in the parking lot: new braces & they get really icky. That's no reflection on the food, but it was gauche.
(3)
Alyssa M.
Food was horrible. Horrible. Horrible. Tasteless. Horrible. Horrible. Horrible. Crab cake was $16 and super super small. Crab wasn't even fresh. Wings... not good. Crab bisque.... horrible and not fresh. I was sooooo disappointed. I wanted to try this place out for years... and finally came here... so disappointed!!!
(1)
Steph H.
View at sunset and of the bridge is spectacular. I realize we dined on a Saturday night, perfect weather, I the summer but that does not excuse the length of time it took for our meals to arrive...and not all at the same time. I will say the food was very good (crab cakes.). I will absolutely give this establishment a second chance - just not durning peak season.
(2)
Rich B.
2 stars for the nice view of the bay bridge! Figure there's a huge fish on the side of the buiding, so I ordered the fish and chips. The french fries were warm and limp, the fish was bland and mushy. I got a piece and a 1/2. Figure for 18.95 I would get some descent fish, after all there is a huge bay outside of the restaurant.
(2)
Dave S.
Quite expensive for what you get. See picture of unclean flatware. In what world does a burger with Swiss cheese and cole slaw become one with cheddar and fries. Oh Heinz yellow mustard on a $12 burger is not mustard. Fail.
(2)
Andrew G.
I had the most bizarre "dining" experience at Hemingway's this Saturday. I got there a little bit ahead of my friends so I asked the hostess what was good on the menu. The ribs, the burger, the pretzels...I thought that was a bit strange since it is billed as a seafood place on the water...but I didn't think anything of it. We were seated and our waitress said that their kitchen was a little backlogged so we immediately put in an order for crab dip and drinks. We got those in a decent amount of time, but our server came back and told us that the kitchen wouldn't be able to accept our food order! Huh?! We said we would eat our dip and then check in again about getting a food order placed. No dice. It wasn't even like they were crowded. So bizarre!
(1)
Valerie E.
Arrived to find a nearly empty restaurant, and seated at a nice window seat. We were excited for a nice lunch with such a lovely view. The view is all they have that will satisfy you. We sat for 20 min with not a single server to check on us. I had to ask the hostess if anyone was going to wait on us. Servers seemed to be standing around doing nothing. Unreal. Then we still waited another 5 min for a server. She was pleasant, but seemed distracted or upset. She was prompt with our drinks, then our food arrived not too long after ordering. My Anjou Pear Gorgonzola Salad had no pears nor gorgonzola...not kidding...just spinach, drowned in dressing and candied walnuts. $14.00 for spinach, dressing and walnuts? Okaaayyy...server asked if everything was okay, but I was in no mood to send my food back. I just ate so we could leave. Then my boyfriend's fish tacos....some of the fish apeared to not be cooked through. We separated the uncooked fish and then he ate the rest...thankfully he was not sick from it. Go here if you're in the mood for a view with slow service and overpriced, incorrect menu items.
(1)
Sarah W.
Stopped in to eat on a Sunday and it was not very busy. The first star is for the view and the second star is for the decor inside the restaurant and the fresh orange crushes. Our server was extremely snobby and condescending. She recommended the wings, which were not good at all (it's hard to screw up wings, too). The food is overly priced and they do not serve crabs. I ordered the fish tacos which turned out to be ok - nothing spectacular. The cole slaw is soupy and the french fries were cold. Had it not of been for the awful service, we might have decided to dine here again, but are so turned off by the waitress and will not be returning.
(2)
James W.
The absolute worst. The view is amazing, I'll give them that. But any part of your dining experience that may rely on some sort of customer service will disappoint you in ways you didn't know existed. 90 minutes to get food? On a slow night? One refill for the entire dinner, cold food, and NO apology at any point! A member in our group actually sat in a chair that broke and sent him to the floor, I simply cannot make this up! The waitress was the cherry on top. Cursing, audibly in front of customers, and never taking responsibility for any of the mishaps throughout the evening. You will overpay, and you will feel cheated out of your money and your time. If you're looking to waste an evening out, this is your spot. Better yet, find a garbage can and eat from it, you'll actually be less disappointed than this p.o.s. restaurant.
(1)
Nilanjana M.
We have been to Hemingway's for their Sunday Brunch before and that is the only reason I'll not give it a 1 Star ! The experience today was awful ! The bright Sunday morning was all but ruined because of a terribly backed-up kitchen. We waited, waited and waited - 45 mins for the Crispy Oysters we had ordered as appetizers. The entrees took another hour to arrive ! And when they did, the burger was overcooked, the bread soggy and the crab cakes miniscule - I have never seen such over-priced low quality food on the shore before ! The hostess and servers were apologetic and did their best to save the ruined brunch but SORRY , I am not going back to this restaurant again !
(2)
Christopher S.
Best fish and chips I have ever had. Great service. Nice decor. Great view of the bay. We had four kids with us. They all are fine. Chicken, grilled cheese, buttered noodles. Seven people in total with a bill at eighty dollars. A little pricey for lunch... So only four stars.
(4)
Chad C.
Great view. Terrible food. Overpriced. The fried oysters were frozen and bland. Crab mac and cheese looked like cat food had been added to Kraft. My wife's review of the fish tacos, "the worst fish tacos I have eaten in my life."
(1)
Mojdeh S.
How I heard of this place: Our good friends and travel companions recommended a lunchtime pit-stop at Hemingway's on our drive to St. Michaels. We came to enjoy the renovations and partake of the esteemed clam chowder. Type of cuisine: A cornucopia of seafood eats, including a raw bar for fresh Chesapeake Bay oysters, calamari, crabs, fresh and farm-raised fish, not to mention burgers, steak and baby back ribs. Ambiance: Fresh and vibrant, the openness of the exposed, high, A-frame ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows looking out onto the Chesapeake Bay create a lively yet calming, serene escape from the world outside. A variety of kitsch, yet delicately placed paraphernalia give a warm, homey feel to this hardwood floor setting. What I ordered: I was saving my appetite for dinner and opted out of appetizers, yet my dining companions were adequately tempted by the scrumptious menu. To start, Creamy Crab Bisque ($8.95) mixed with the soup of the day ($7.95) to create a vegetable-rich, creamy delicacy, and Fried Oysters ($11.95) - a half-dozen Select Oysters, hand breaded, flash fried and served on horseradish cream with chopped salsa. Of course, my temptation was easily swayed when one dining companion asked if I would share the Seafood Skins ($11.95): potato skins loaded with shrimp, jumbo crab meat, topped with cheese and broiled to order. For our main entrees, my husband gratuitously jumped at the Farm Raised Atlantic Salmon ($25.95), roasted on white cedar with brown sugar BBQ sauce and served with a pickled cucumber salad and roasted red potatoes. I shared the Salmon B.L.T. ($12.95) with the other of our dining companions, enjoying the thick layer of Atlantic salmon, bacon, arugula, and roasted tomatoes with an herb mayo served on multi-grain toast with fries. What I loved: The flaky, tender salmon of my B.L.T. accompanied by the lemon-peppery fresh arugula. Why I loved it: A warm, inviting establishment shared with close friends over a fresh and hearty meal. Cost: Average to high ($10.95 to $29.95 per sandwich and entree)
(3)
W H.
Pretty sure my credit card was stolen/swiped when my CC disappeared for 25 minutes when I paid my bill. Service and food were no better than average.
(1)
Brittany S.
For a regular restaurant i'd probably take off 1 star for the hostess who was only seating reservations even though there were plenty of tables open. Luckily the manager was there to seat us right away. The reason this place is a perfect score well... The view is 10 stars alone and the service is just as good. The food is just the cherry on top. Our server was very friendly and bless her for working on Father's Day, she was attentive and very nice. We ordered the crab fondue and calamari as an appetizer which were gone in a few minutes 1. They were damn good and 2. We were starving. The fondue was my favorite of the two, it was nice to have something different than just the regular ol' crab dip and the bread was to die for. I then ordered the grilled chicken breast, Hemingway's style which was really good, perfect light and healthy meal, didn't leave too overly full after. The spinach and asparagus was perfect cooked not too soggy. The tomatoes were amazing just a little sweet but added the perfect contrast to the dish. The big chunks of crab meat were sprinkled on top. Yum! And because I was being so healthy, we decided to go with 2 desserts to share. We shared the chocolate molten cake which was melt in your mouth chocolate goodness and the Smith Island cake which was one of the best cakes I've ever had. Everybody had a good time, the live music was the perfect setting and everyone enjoyed their dish. No problems docking our boat, just drive right up and enjoy :) For boaters - skip Annapolis for sure!!! There is nowhere to dock your boat and there are sooo many people which means a long wait for food. Definitely skip the crowds of people and come here! You will not regret it!
(5)
Judy M.
This was hands-down the worst service I have ever experienced. We apparently arrived on amateur night. Things went wrong instantly when the hostess told us that she was sorry, but despite our reservation, there would be a 20 minute wait before being seated. Once seated at a wonderful outdoor table with a view of the sun setting behind the bay bridge, things went into slow motion. It took forever for anyone to take our order, and during the long, long wait for our food, our waiter returned to the table to find out which of our orders he had forgotten. When our food finally arrived (2 hours after our initial arrival!), several members of our party were informed that part of their order was no longer available. They had to substitute orders. Several others in our party had to remind the waiter of parts of their order that had not arrived. The food for the member of our whose order had been forgotten arrived when almost everyone at the table had finished their food. The waiter brought us two complimentary ice cream sundaes, explaining that the kitchen was "slammed tonight." It's hard to comment objectively on the quality of the food given the frustration of the evening. I'll be happy to return and enjoy the beautiful porch view when this place is under new management.
(1)
F P.
We've lived in the area for over 20 years and have always wanted this restaurant to improve - but every time we try it, the food is terrible and very expensive. The crab bisque was the worst I've ever had, almost a gelatinous goo with little if any crab meat. The crab dip was on par with something from the nearby Food Lion; not that it was horrible, but it just wasn't any better than what you could buy in a tub for half the price. And the mahi-mahi fish tacos had to come from Taco Bell. Dried out, over fried, could be chicken, mess in a taco shell. If I didn't like you, I would recommend Hemingway's. We've tried to like this place every couple of years, but I can only imagine that it stays in business because of the people driving to the beach or coming into the marina.
(1)
Connie C.
The location is near the Bay Bridge but the food is not tasty! If you want real seafood go to the Crab Shack at the corner on your way in. The view from Sandy Point Park is more beautiful.
(1)
John C.
Run don't walk! We went to this restaurant during happy hour. We ordered a wrap and a appetizer and three drinks. We ordered another round of two drinks. When the bill arrived it was $75.00 +. I called the server's attention that I was charged $27.00 for two "Rob Roys" and she told me the computer was programmed to charge this amount. The food was terrible ie: the crab fondue was dry and the sauce looked and tasted like library paste, The wrap had big chunks chicken instead of sliced and was tasteless. Be ware, none of the locals eat hear, There a lot of great restaurants on Kent Island but this not one on them .
(1)
Whitney R.
Just tried to go to Hemingways for a late lunch. The hostess said it was a 30 minute wait. There were tables available inside and outside. When I questioned her further she said, "it's a kitchen thing, not a service thing". So I asked if we could sit outside (beautiful water views) and have a drink while we wait. The hostess replied, "my manager won't let me seat anyone for any reason. I don't want to get in trouble." I said, "ok we'll leave", to which she said "have a great day!" ??? I'm a hospitality consultant. Thank you for the good story to use in training staff of what not to do. Not surprising when I went to write this review the place has few stars. Perhaps it's a service culture problem and someone should take a look at the top. Luckily the crab shack nearby was delightful! Go there!!
(1)
Dustin S.
Great sunset views but if your looking for good food keep driving the the narrows exit 43. Is super expensive and the food is blaaa.....although if you like flower balls in your 10 dollar cream of crab soup than this is the place for you. I live on kent island and no locals come here for reasons above. It's owned by a corporation, no shore ties here.
(1)
Phanna P.
We were here to see a friend sing. Great entertainment but I have less to say about the menu. We sat outside with a great view, but the menu was limited to a lite fare. I'm not sure why such a limited menu, but if you were seated inside you'll have the full menu. The crab cake sandwich was a good sized portion, orange crush was delicious. I didn't like the tipsy raspberry. Get rid of the darn flies. It was not fun trying to eat and use a free hand to shoo the flies away.
(3)
Ron R.
I would like to write a review about how delicious the crab bisque I ordered tasted. I would also like to tell you about the wonderful Mahi Mahi tacos my wife ordered. But I can't. We were never served. We arrived and were told there would be a 30 minute wait, but she was clearing her wait list and it might be sooner. Forty minutes later my wife asked the hostess if she forgot about us. She asked what we meant - her wait list was cleared and everyone had been seated. She was actually rather defensive about it, but proceeded to sit us inside as we asked - just to get away from the mediocre music being played outside, It didn't help. We were right over the band and our table rocked with the beat. Our waitress took our order for lemonade, the aforementioned crab bisque and the tacos. The lemonade came quickly, along with some very hot bread, but 45 minutes later we still hadn't been served our meals. I threw five bucks on the table to cover the drinks, and walked out. I doubt I'll ever be walking in again. What a shame. Hemmingway's used to be one of our favorite places.
(1)
Pam H.
Service was a tad slow but the view made up for it. Crab Fondue appetizer was yummy! It was hot and cheesy!
(3)
Corey W.
Stopped in Hemingways on the way to the beach; had to make a pit stop to watch the USA/Belgium World Cup soccer match. Sat at the bar on the upper level (apparently there is a bigger bar down stairs); they had good HH specials for both food and alcohol. Calamari was really good; seasoned with Old Bay and a nice thick marinara sauce - good stuff. Fried pickles were good as well; a little greasy but still really good. Staff was very attentive and it's nice to stare out the windows and watch traffic pass by as you sip on a cold beverage.
(4)
Nora T.
This review is solely for the service . Our server Melissa was the absolute worst. Rushed us through the meal. Total bitch. Rudely sarcastic when we tried to help her. We asked for bread and she said "I don't know if we have any- I'll check" when every other table had it. Made me want to run away from this place.
(2)
Jessica M.
Crab fondue was just weird. Very little crab meat. Same with the crab bisque. It was basically a crab base with one piece of meat in it. The calamari was acceptable as was the crab cake. Crab cake was minimally seasoned but mostly meat. Would not recommend.
(2)
Lorrie L.
Stella on tap! Need I say more :) shared a crab cake app and it was probably the best one I have ever had , and I order them everywhere! I ordered grilled rock fish and he ordered scallops... Both were cooked perfectly and wonderful! Service was pleasant and not bothersome. Reservations get you by the window (usually).
(5)
Erin B.
Went here for my birthday dinner with my husband and three kids. Absolutely the worst restaurant on the island. After the TWO DEAD FLIES fell on our table our waitress told us about the fly problem... We waited well over an hour for our food - the seafood pot pie was taking a while. When our food finally arrived the "ice cream scooped" mashed potatoes were cold - my daughter's Streak Frites - at $31.95 was pre-sliced, cold, dry and burnt. My $33 Chilean sea bass was cold, was served with cold mashed potatoes instead of rice and 4 stalks of asparagus. The " seafood pot pie" was a bowl of slop with two triangles of phyllo dough. We walked out without eating anything. The manager was defensive and abrasive and unapologetic. What a huge disappointment. No wonder no one ever comes here.
(1)
Isaac T.
This Resturant is a little pricey but has a great ambience and view. We sat outside and had a great view of the water and boats. The food was great. I ordered the Caesar salad, really good dressing. This is a great place to stop on the way to Ocean City.
(5)
Andria O.
I had been wanting to check out Hemingways for awhile, as I pass by it when going to Fisherman's Inn. It was a beautiful day, so we decided to check it out.... We should've gone to Fisherman's Inn. The crab bisque HORRIBLE, had no flavor and no CRAB! I had to send mine back, but my 3-year old loved it. Since we couldn't decide on what we wanted we ordered several appetizers. The sweet chili shrimp were okay, really small and nothing exciting about them, they were just fried shrimp covered in sauce. The crab cake was meaty but had a weird tasting filler but again it was just okay. The calamari was about as average as everything else we ordered. We also tried the blackened tuna per our waitresses suggestion and it was okay but probably better than anything else we had. All in all we ordered: the sweet chili shrimp, the crab cake appetizer, calamari, blackened tuna appetizer, a kids grilled cheese, 4 orange crushes and an apple juice. The service was HELLA slow! And it's expensive (our meal came to $120)! The only thing we did enjoy was the AMAZING view and the orange crushes. If you go to Hemingway's you're not paying for good food, you're paying for the AWESOME view. Although, the grilled cheese my toddler had was pretty tasty. I won't come back unless they change the menu and the chef. My suggestion keep driving....
(1)
J J.
The service was terrible. I ordered crab soup as an appetizer. I waited 20 minutes for it which I had to remind our server, Tyler to bring. Then after waiting another 35 minutes for food that was not brought to our table; we ended up leaving. I attempted to pay for the soup but was comp'd by the manager. She apologized & stated the menu had recently been changed which caused the delay in receiving our food. I advised I had no problem waiting for the food, it was having to ask other servers for service.
(1)
Arthur C.
Hemingway's was one of our favorite stops on trips to the Eastern Shore but had fallen on hard times. Now under new management it's redone and very attractive. Tables have a view of the Bay Bridge through large windows. We watched private planes take off and land at the neighboring air field while waiting for lunch. We shared what Hemingway's calls 50/50 soup; a blend of cream of crab soup with Maryland crab soup which is tomato based and more like a crab vegetable soup. The blend won raves. It cut down on the heaviness of traditional cream of crab while retaining its richness. Then one of us had the Hemingway's burger which was fabulous and the other two shared a crab cake appetizer which won raves for it's lack of filler. Welcome back
(4)
Steve K.
One of my regular spots when sailing the bay. Short channel and close docking. Nice views and covered outdoor seating. Food and service ok for this type of place. It's just a seaside restaurant/bar. Not really for foodies or picky eaters.
Went here for lunch today and the food was so-so, nothing special. I got the panzanella salad with blackened tuna on top, others got the hemingway salad with tuna (she said it was awesome) it's a mix of mesclun greens with strawberries, blue cheese, balsamic; caesar salad with blackened tuna (very good), order of steamed clams (expensive for a dozen but fresh & delicious), crab cocktail (tasty but expensive- a few cucumber slices topped off with a lump of crabmeat). The panzanella salad came out on a plate too big for the salad, the veggies were fresh but the bread was very stale and chewy (I guess it's supposed to be like that), and the dressing was a bit lacking. Panzanella consisted of mesclun greens, bits of mozzarella cheese, tomatoes, cucumbers, bread, red onions. We asked for bread in the beginning and it was GREAT. Fresh, soft, hot with bits of cranberries in it. Make sure you ask for some! The view was beautiful so make sure you get a seat near the windows I'm giving this place a 3/5 because the service was terrible. We waited at least 25 minutes for our main entrees to show up (which were salads!!), while all the other tables who came in after us were served their hot foods first.... huh? o.o I might be back- the view was killer and their happy hour specials sound do-able.
(3)
Kate P.
I enjoy a lot of places and will often give four stars, but rarely does a restaurant experience go over the top to create a five-star experience. I do not think it gets much better than Hemingways, though. My mother and I stopped here for dinner after a day at the Delaware Beaches for her birthday on a Sunday night. There was a short wait for an outside deck table, but we were happy to wait so that we could explore the beautiful area. It is right next to the Bay Bridge and a marina. It has a lamp-lit dock with abundant lounge chairs to enjoy the view. We were seated on a roof-deck area with, once again, great views of the bay, bridge, and boats. There was a bar below that with no wait and still great views, but the menu is slightly smaller. The service was fantastic everywhere. Everyone was extremely friendly and attentive to any needs or requests. My mom got the cream of crab soup, which she seem to thoroughly enjoy. Although it is a seafood place, I was really feeling a steak, so I ordered the NY strip. It was absolutely amazing. Cooked perfectly, juicy on the inside with a flavorful, but slightly crispy exterior. They put a candle in a creme brulee for my mom's birthday, too. Overall great experience! The only improvements could have been better signs directing people to the restaurant from the main road (although the elusiveness of it gave it a unique mystique) and they mentioned being backed up in the kitchen. We had no problem with time waiting for a table or food, but if they expect large crowds, they might want to work on the kitchen situation.
(5)
David T.
The view from this seaside restaurant is great, the food is disapointing. I think they are hoping the sunset will keep your mind off the bland over-priced food. I've tried it twice, both after a full day of boating on the bay. Unless seeking safe harbor from a storm, I'm going to cruise on by this place in the future.
(2)
Kenneth C.
My girlfriend and I took a day trip across the bay for lunch and decided to do in because of the view. The food was very good and our was attentive and friendly. We were both very pleased with the crab cake and the clams abs sausage appetizer.
(4)
Josh L.
A great place to visit by boat. Ample dock space and someone helped us dock. I had a seafood salad that was pretty good. Pretzel rolls were tasty. My girlfriend had chilled seafood platter that was very good. Would go back.
(3)
Michelle G.
We stopped in at the height of dinner hour on a Friday night in January, and the place had lots of empty tables, but the servers were rushing about like they were utterly slammed. Still, we got great service and the food arrived reasonably quickly. The crab cake sandwich was the highlight. One of the best in my life, with very little filler. The spinach, crab and artichoke dip, on the other hand, was soupy and too heavy. Did they put mayonnaise in it? Kind of tasted like it... eww... The fish fingers on the kids menu were surprisingly excellent and almost reminded me of the authentic fish and chips from my husband's hometown on the Scottish seaside. Even though we brought our two year old, I wouldn't say this place is exactly kid-friendly. I think it has aspirations of fanciness, even if 90% of the actual clientele are hungry, road-weary drivers whose legs are still jelly and nerves are a little wracked from crossing the bay bridge.
(4)
Ric M.
There should be a law that reverts 5% of the revenue from any restaurant named after "Papa", on the water, to a school of restaurant management. Saturday night, 5/31/2014, the day was beautiful, the sunset spectacular and they run out of food at 8:15? The parking lot was full of angry patrons who had spent hours waiting for food that never came. A riot was barely averted. We hitched a ride into town to eat (we were there on our boat because there was a restaurant at the marina) and the stories of incompetence were rampant. Go, have a drink, see the sunset, and eat elsewhere. New Rules, never eat at any place called Hemingways that Earnest didn't eat at. This was the worst.
(1)
Holly R.
The views are amazing, the staff was a little slow to get us started. Food was so so, but came out fast. Great place to have a drink on the water though....
(3)
Rocky T.
I've only visited this place once (the view) & it will probably be my last (the view) unless I want to enjoy the beautiful view. I ordered the (the view) crabcake sandwich & it wasnt (the view) tasty at all especially (the view) considering the price. Did I mention "the view"? Lol The beautiful sunset view from the outside rear of this restaurant is the only thing going for this place IMHO.
(1)
Mark T.
WNt here based on yelp search. Was NOT disappointed. Place was amazing. Sat immediately on a sat night, perfect night on patio with a beautiful sunset, great waitress (Megan) who was very attentive, and the food was great. Made for a really great evening. Had a great solo artist playing beach music which set the perfect atmosphere. Only downside was the filet which seemed to have some sweet seasoning which wasn't popular with my 8 year old. Tasted good to me but not my kid. Just needed to know would have helped. Amazing place and will definitely go back.
(4)
Barbra I.
Views, sunset and decent food. In that order. Don't expect an excellent meal, but if you go for happy hour it's definitely worth it as they have small plates at cheap rates. Oysters were yum!
(4)
Mike D.
The facility itself is excellent. Fun nautical decor. Great view of the Bay. Staff friendly and competent. Wait times on the longer side. Fish & chip (flounder) super breaded and greasy. Tartar sauce more mayo than is right. Desserts taste out of the box.
(3)
Mary F.
The Easter Brunch was a rip off! $32.50 per person which all of the food was cold, over cooked or the tray of food was just empty. Stay home and save your money!
(1)
sherri s.
We split a crabcake for an appetizer. We had the rockfish imperial and the crab mac n cheese. I think we got 2 of the best dishes on the menu. We raved about them, as did our server when we placed our order. The service was lacking at first. We waited about 15 minutes before anyone took our drink orders and we had to ask someone to find out who our server was and to bring us some water. But once that was settled, our service was great. After finishing our dinner (that we enjoyed while listening to live music from below), we walked downstairs to the grass and the water's edge to watch a perfect sunset over the Bay Bridge. We'll defintely be back!
(4)
Karen D.
We went to Hemingway's for our 10th wedding anniversary. I told them ahead of time that it was our celebration. We got there a little early on 5/10/14 (a Saturday) and said we'd sit at the bar and have a drink until our table was ready. We ended up having 2 drinks each because Kimberly, the hostess wanted to make sure we got a good seat with a good view of the sun going down over the Chesapeake Bay. So it took 45 minutes to get seated. But the drinks were good and the seats were pretty good once we got them. I ended up getting tuna and my husband got mahi-mahi. Everything was good. Kimberly ended up comping us a free dessert for having to wait. I got the apple pie, which was great! It was a good experience!
(4)
Alex M.
Great crab cakes (all that meat and no potatoes!) and rockfish. Definitely a place to come back to. Fantastic dining space and view of the Bay Bridge.
(4)
Amir P.
Food was OK++ but the location, location, location is a sight that you must see to believe. Especially from the outdoor bar while the sun sets. You are looking at the bay bridge right in front of you.
(4)
Lisa G.
Yes it was pricey (only reason I didn't give 5 stars) but the open face cram melt was DELICIOUS! Can't wait for another! View was delightful and service was great! Recently visited again... Crab cake was so so (prefer faidley's!) but calamari was great! Cheeseburger not cooked well.
(4)
George J.
I came here on a Sunday afternoon after a hunting trip with my father and his coworker. We showed up 30 minutes before the kitchen opened and were able to sit at the bar. The staff was very accommodating and were more than happy to tend to us despite our early arrival and our morning drink orders; mimosas for me! For those who don't know Hemingway's has undergone renovation a few years ago and looks completely different inside. The decor still retains the seafaring theme but with less nets and and crab crates. The main dinning area is very open and well lit through natural light. I ordered the Atlantic Salmon BLT and it was delicious. I would definitely recommend Hemingway's to anyone crossing the bay bridge.
(4)
Jordan C.
Kuddos: for the convenient location adjacent to Route 50, water view, outdoor seating when it's warm, and renovated, well designed interior Misses: next to Route 50, uncreative menu with the typical seafood selections you would expect at a chain restaurant, very bad wine list - made up of wines you could buy at most drug stores.
(2)
Jeff R.
2 stars only because of the view! Stuffed shrimp was cold. They heavily prep menu items and just reheat very sad for what you pay! Mixed drinks are resort prices and average. Servers apologize for the kitchen all night long to the other tables around us! The place needs a real manager who can run both front of house as well as the back! Go to Fisherman's Crab Deck or Kentmoor! Better ingredients better food better pricing!
(2)
Drew W.
My parents and I stopped for dinner at Hemingway's on our way home from a Navy Football game. Eating crab cakes on the water in Maryland, what could be better? Apparently, just about anything. It started off with me telling the hostess that someone had left their car lights on in the parking lot. After telling her the model, make and color of the car, she replied that she didn't know how to inform guests about this bit of information. Our waitress was nice, a bit eager to get us moving on ordering but I understand the place gets packed. My Mom had said she wanted to order the crab cakes but was afraid to since few things are more disappointing than a bad crab cake, which is true. Instead she ordered the crab bisque and a caesar salad. The bisque was good, saving this meal from 1 star. As she began to eat her salad, she looked up and and said that she had never tasted a less inspired salad before. She didn't finish it. My father had the short ribs and grimaced through part of it until he gave up. It was tough with bland side vegetables. He didn't finish it. Being that I grew up eating Maryland crabs and crab cakes but now live in Brooklyn, I decided to throw caution to the wind and order the crab cakes. What a huge mistake. I ordered it fried and yet the small cake was soggy. It was dwarfed by the brioche roll. The crab cake was the same consistency and flavor as the bun. Blech. So sad. Add to all this that Hemingway's charges premium prices and we left more disappointed in Hemingway's than nearly any restaurant any of us had been to. It's not that the food was inedible but it was so blatantly mediocre that it was almost worse. No view can make up for that.
(2)
Massiel G.
Me and my hubby stop by here after checking the silver swan for our ceremony an decide to look at Hemingway for reception and try there food out. We were seated quickly, and the waiter very nice. We first had the crab spinach dip which was very delicious. Then I had chicken sandwich and my hubby crab cake. There fries were really good I wanted to Oder more!!! My sandwich was amazing I really enjoy it and my hubby enjoy his crab cake as well!!! We met the manager Jerry who we though was very wonderful and professional about our reception and information. I recommend this place very nice view nice staff an good food!!!
(4)
Samantha W.
We stopped by here for dinner on the way home from the beach last weekend and had a nice time. We had our dog with us and called ahead to make sure we could bring her. The back patio is dog-friendly so we grabbed a table with umbrella upon arrival. Our waitress immediately brought some water out for the dog which I thought was really nice of her. We ordered a couple beers and Jumbo Crab Cake Sandwiches. I thought it was great. Large crab cake, tasty remoulade and a heaping of chips on the side, with pickle spears. I was famished but it was delicious. A little pricey ($17/each) but I don't get crab cakes often so it was worth the splurge. The patio and outside bar were really nice, and had spectacular views of the bay. We arrived before 5 pm and it wasn't crowded at all.
(4)
Janet C.
Our experience today as a party of 10 at the restaurant was very disappointing. - My vegetable crab soup tasted just like a can of Campbell's vegetable soup with some crab meat in it. I didn't expect the Campbell's taste for a small bowl for $9.00. - The service was very poor. My one friend waited for almost 15 minutes after everyone else got their drinks for his beer. The same friend didn't get his entree until 15 minutes after the whole table got entrees, and then the crab cake was still frozen. He had to wait another 15 minutes for a new crab cake. The waiter didn't handle the situation with genuine care although he didn't charge him for his crab cake. - Since we had a large party - they automatically charged us a 20% tip. It's common to have gratuity added to the check but usually it's 18%. The 20% seemed a bit excessive especially because the service was so poor. - The food was mediocre overall yet the restaurant charges twice as much as other restaurants of the same caliber.
(2)
Ryan S.
We recently went for dinner as we were passing through the area. The atmosphere was amazing, as the restaurant overlooks the water and bay bridge. It has a great setup and beautiful views as the sun begins to set. The food however was a different story. Bland, bland, bland, not to mention fairly pricey. We ordered the crab soup, which had no flavor and very little crab. I ordered the jumbo lump crab cake sandwich, which seemed to be lacking lump crab meat and again had ZERO flavor. The best thing we had was the coconut shrimp which had a great sauce. We left feeling unsatisfied and very dissappointed. Its a shame that a restaurant with such great presence has such lack luster food. A must see of the view, but go eat somewhere else.
(1)
Bryan J.
Terrible food. Seriously. Overpriced, and everybody working there is miserable and unfriendly. Only thing saving it is the view.
(2)
Merri M.
Went for our first time it was Sun of Memorial Day weekend absolutely perfect night and sat at the bar outside. Service was terrible no drink menus we were told to look up at the drinks listed on the ceiling that you can't see and there was zero food. The bartender said he was just as confused because they served food at the bar the day before until 7pm and stopped during a big rush. All they had to offer was bag chips and pretzels clearly purchased from a gas station. Other than a great view never will go back.
(1)
Christie B.
In my opinion I think this place is over priced. Not enough to choose from and our food was not that hot. Not sure I would come back.
(2)
Jennifer E.
Don't bother... really. This restaurant has everything in the world going for it, and manages to fail at each one. It is a lovely buidling, artfullly decorated, with a dynamite view... But what it manages to serve up is totally uninspired (and overpriced) food, lukewarm beer, poor service (staff are nice, just not attentive), and forced indoor seating with limited views. Recently, on a gorgeous 82 degree day when we specifically went there to dine al fresco, we were told the outdoor decks were closed. I pressed the issue, and was firmly told no. Never mind that they subsequently seated a party outdoors... The server, and later the manager to whom I complained, told me I should have "pressed my issue further." Really? You expect your patrons to vigorously press to enjoy the only positive your restaurant has??? I've given this place plenty of opportunities to get it right, and they are consistent at getting it wrong. I'm done with them.
(1)
JoAnn H.
view and location awesome. Food good. Service not so much. Bartender not personable and overheard him give a snarky remark to another patron who had to wait for a drink. Just because the location is perfect does not mean the service should be lacking!
(3)
Tyler K.
Worst service I have ever had, took our mom here for Mother's day and couldn't get anyone to do anything. We couldn't get the bartenders out back to even acknowledge us so we went upstairs to get beer. The bartender inside was very nice and quick, but our actual waiter forgot EVERYTHING and didn't seem to care when we pointed out that we still didn't have water that we asked for as soon as we sat down. The food was mediocre at best, but we were so livid by the time we got it that it didn't matter. DO NOT WASTE YOUR MONEY OR TIME HERE
(1)
Michael R.
Great atmosphere, menu has enough (not a lot but enough). Great wings, large beer/alcohol selection, great service, perfect view. Also - kid friendly as our little ones loved the grass area they have that they were running around at with other kids. This place can be romantic enough to have a date / fun enough for a night out with the guys/girls or easy enough for family night.
(4)
Matthew L.
Great bay location with amazing view of the Bay Bridge. The food is okay. The restaurant is a bit pricey and specializes in seafood and crab cakes. I prefer the outside bar. Great specials and bay side seating. In the summer people play horse shoes and corn hole. People also bring their boats up to the dock and stop for lunch. A fun place to sit out with friends.
(3)
Brian G.
Great place right off the bay with amazing views at sunset. We were visiting the nearby beach with our 4 legged child and were happy that their outdoor deck was dog friendly. It was a nice warm summer day and was an amazing end to hot day having a couple beers and watching the sun go down.
(4)
Nicole M.
Awful... definite tourist trap. The only thing this place has going for it is the view. And you would have to be seated by the pretentious hostess in order to enjoy it. Making up wait times to create some sort of false demand is not appealing. Food is subpar at best...
(1)
Anderson L.
I went in to look at this place for an upcoming wedding rehearsal dinner and got the cold shoulder. The rude, lazy, and seemingly uninterested in making money, banquet manager wouldn't even get off her seat to introduce herself and answer a question or two. Instead she sent a poor little soul who looked like she was just fresh out of high school, to cover for her and say that she was busy. Busy......too busy to book a party of 30+ people in the future and earn revenue for your restaurant. Busy.....too busy to talk to a couple that you are standing 20 feet from as you check your facebook account while you are at the bar? If this is the way folks get treated before they even have a meal at your restaurant I can only imagine how the rest of the experience would go. I was completely turned off and will never set foot in there again.
(1)
Fred B.
We read the reviews from others and they mostly over stated the experience. The place was empty and the kitchen was extremely slow. The crab cakes are just a little bit bigger than a meatball. Don't come hungry or you will be stopping for another meal. Stick to Timbuck Too or G & M near BWI. Either of those places you get a crab cake you will love.
(1)
Kay J.
The restaurant itself is very tastefully decorated. We sat on the patio, great view of the bridge. I wasn't shocked by the prices, but for the prices I would expect much much better service. We were helped by one server that only took my drink order (not the 2 others with me) then randomly walked away. Another server came back and my husband ordered a diet coke. We had to eventually flag her down since she didn't bring it or lemons I originally asked for. The food was OK. I would say that you should proactively bring tarter and ketchup with sandwiches and fish dishes that have fries, etc. During all of this I noticed customers not getting silverware and being re-asked did I tell you the specials? All this forgetfulness with only 4 tables on the patio and 3 servers. In addition to all of this it was breezy and they had very large sunbrellas. We witnessed one knock over with quite a bit of force (heavy and wide) that nearly took out 2 tables. The customer (not the wait staff or manager) had to pick up the umbrella and make sure people were OK. The next umbrella fell between our table and another (again customers took action to make sure people were OK). I spoke to the manager and said they need to secure the bases to the deck or put down the umbrellas. She said, the customers will just put them up anyway. My thought was take them away until you can secure them without potential liability. I really feel like the manager should have comped a drink or dessert for some of the diners in apology. Disappointing at best. I won't be going back.
(2)
Susie J.
Their setting is spectacular! For the sunset view alone, its worth stopping by if your a tourist or have guests :) k- now back to the food. Eh- it's alright; not the best, but still not totally blah. Crab cake sandwiches are kind of bland but well proportioned (no filler). T'was accompanied by sweet potato fries- the skinny kind you can buy frozen, but still a nice option. Had their oysters on a half shell- yum! Ordered another dozen to follow b/c they were so fresh. We've been here a few times now, but even as I type I can't recall what we ate other than the above. Really, it was nothing memorable food wise; but again, it's a nice pit stop for ambiance.
(3)
John S.
We were seated at a window just as the sun was setting across the Chesapeake. Suzy quickly joined us to take our drink orders. I had the Parmesan Dusted Scallops which were well presented and tasty, although I didn't care too much for the taste of the orchid. My spouse had the grilled salmon which was also excellent. Suzy provided excellent service
(5)
Amy K.
After driving by multiple times, we stopped at Hemingway's this weekend on the way to the beach. We were hoping for Sunday brunch to go with the great view and were surprised/disappointed to find out that Hemingway's doesn't serve brunch. It was a nice day and the view was great so we made the bad decision to stay. My meal was served cold and my husband's sandwich wasn't even worth attempting to eat - even the fries were soggy. Despite the lovely server and the great view, we definitely won't be back.
This is all about location for which I would give 5 stars. The food was bland, unexciting and outrageously priced. Change the chef and this beautifully positioned waterfront restaurant would soar. My wife and I practiced forgiveness with every course - 'beautiful view', 'stunning sunset' ... Service was excellent, the martinis were spectacular, the sun warm, the boats and planes arrivals and departures from the adjacent marina and light aircraft airport were absorbing. The food was awful! Go there for ambiance, great drinks and the sunsets and eat first elsewhere.
(2)
Dawn D.
Terrible, awful service. So so food. Never got bread, never got the soup and salads we ordered, waited forever and then entrees came. NO apology, they did comp one of the meals but the waitress blamed the kitchen. Last time, too many other great places to choose from.
(2)
Mark S.
Two groups of us arrived by boat and were greeted promptly at the brand new docks by Robert, the GM of the marina. The deckhands seemed a little green, but that must be why Robert was there...to help them become more skilled. We sat at the bar and had drinks and apps, all served efficiently and with very friendly service. Everyone in our party commented on how great the food was from the mussels to the calamari to the tuna appetizer. My wife loved the tuna sandwich but I found it mediocre. There was even a one-man band that added to the beautiful view. We considered staying overnight on our boat at their dock so I called Robert and he was happy to help find me electrical cords to make the stay as pleasant as possible. Back at the bar the GM of the restaurant, Dwayne, was asking our opinion of the food and service...as a good GM should. It was a great experience and we will definitely be back...they seem to have the right attitude with reasonable prices and good food.
(4)
Kathie P.
I would have given Hemingway's two stars, but it gets an additional star for the view. Came for dinner and experienced a wonderful sunset. The restaurant offers a great view of the Chesapeake Bay. Just ok, to my food - average at best. I had crab cakes which were on the dry side. They were made with lump crab, and had little filler, but that didn't help the taste - they were very bland. The vegetable served with the meal was overcooked, not too fresh asparagus. The restaurant seems to cater to locals, but I feel that they could go out of their way and buy local product (just a funny quirk I have). It is way too pricey for what you get. There are many other places that offer much better food for the prices. There is an outdoor bar, and that looked like fun, and there is also plenty of outdoor seating. I don't think I'll go back..
(3)
Marcie T.
Food was average. I would NOT order the spinach artichoke crab dip. It tasted like warm spinach with no creaminess or any other flavor to make it palatable. How they charge $12.95 for it and don't get more complaints is a mystery. The fish tacos and chicken tenders were fine. Our server was delightful which saved this place!
(4)
Brad Z.
Lovely view, nice decor, decent service, so-so food, with prices geared more towards the view than the food.
(3)
Alex A.
we ate outside on the patio because we had our dog with us, we were very grateful they let her sit with us (we went to the dog beach that day) the food was overpriced and the menu was limited outside, but the view was spectacular and what we ordered tasted good. my pina colada was 8, kinda steep.
(3)
H.A. T.
The makeover is a vast improvement as well as having a great outdoor area. The owners being from FL have tried to capture an on the water experience. That much they have succeeding in doing. As for the food, it is a disappointment. Why can't there be great food to go with the views? Great place for a sunset cocktail though...
(2)
Rita F.
First time at Hemingway's. Great location and wonderful view. Outdoor dining and bar are an asset...the service was ok...but the food? Well, it left a lot to be desired. I had the grilled red snapper. It was topped w a sauce...no idea what it was but tasted ok. It was accompanied by boiled asparagus and 2 red boiled potatoes...bland. No seasoning at all... My husband ordered the the open face prime rib sandwich w swiss and portobello mushrooms, also accompanied with the asparagus and red potatoes. The prime rib was well done, more like a pot roast and had no flavor. Note - both plates were part of the "daily specials". I would go back to sit outside at the bar and look at the view...perhaps their burgers are better!
(3)
Richard N.
Went for lunch with the mother-in-law and our daughters. It was ok the views were nice. I was really looking forward to some steamed Maryland blue crabs, but they only serve crab cakes but had a lot of lump crab dishes. We had the gazpacho soup, I had the kobe beef burger nice but I really like seafood and nothing tantalized me to pull the trigger. I was just a little under impressed with lunch. I think it must be more of a dinner place. Service was good though.
(3)
Kyle A.
After deciding to sit on the fancy upstairs balcony, my boyfriend and I were happy to be serenaded by the sweet sound of Pink Floyd coming through the surround sound speakers. After perusing previous photos on Yelp, we were not expecting the oversized large mouth bass and cool new blue motif that awaited us. Much has been said about the "ambiance" of this establishment, and it did not disappoint. Much like every other tourist trap in the world, the hook was good. In this case, the view of Chesapeake Bay and Bay Bridge was incredible. The food, however, left something to be desired. Our oysters were fabulous; the calamari, dried out and lacking a certain ingredient, mainly squid, left something to be desired. Our entrees, the mahi mahi and petit filet crab cake combo came out in short order. The mahi mahi may never had spent a day in the water considering how dry the meat was, and the petit filet looked awfully like a NY Strip Steak. Surely, in the land of crabcakes and football, this dish would come through. Unfortunately, it fell flat. The crabcake, while full of crab, had spent quite some time under the heat lamp and dried out. The vegetable accompaniment was left, and while the potatoes were saturated in olive oil and salt, the carrots were a specialty of their own. The chef's brilliance left this delicate root both devoid of taste and texture. One and a half pinot grigios left me just loose enough to laugh at the awfulness of the food. Our waitress was lovely; the companions on the deck were not. The white chocolate crème brulee was called in to salvage what was turning out to be the worst white trash date night in the world. Unfortunately, under the caramelized sugar lay no more than a quarter inch of "crème." Should you remember your mini-golf putter, you'll feel right at home as the walk out felt like the 9th hole of a putt putt, complete with derelict row boat, and flashing navigational buoy to aid your hasty departure from this place. Maybe you want to avoid Hemingway's on a Monday night if you are looking for a culinary masterpiece, however, if you are looking for a good view and a chance to laugh, this is the place for you.
(3)
Keith L.
Complete and utter crap! As one reviewer stated "F this place!". I went here for Mothers Day Brunch. They charged 30.00 and didnt include coffee in that price (that was an additional 2.75). Now this might have been acceptable because of the "view", but there was NOT ANY BACON, scrambled eggs, sausage, pancakes, french toast or waffles at a Mothers Day Brunch? There was a total of 8 items and thats it! I saw the look on peoples faces (and the dismay on their kids) as they approached the buffet line. The carving station had on slab of crappy beef that an 18 year old was cutting..and he stated "I dont have a carving knife" while he attempted to hack away at the vein infested chunk or garbage. This place sucks. Dont waste your money. Kick yourself in the head or go to Cracker Barell instead...both will feel much better. Oh..forgot to mention that an umbrella almost killed me twice on the deck. So they used some old ladies chair leg with her weight to keep it stable.....what an F-ing joke of a place. NOT ONLY THAT...but their website states that they "care about the customers so please contact them with any issues" I contacted them before I posted this and they never replied. The dont care about anything but taking your money for horrible food.
(1)
Shieva R.
A couple friends and I stopped by in an unexpected detour (we got lost) and decided to stop in and grab an early dinner. I was there right before sunset as well and it was such a beautiful sight!! You're right on the bay with a great view and great food! I had the fried oysters with rice and veggies and they were delicious! The service was amazing also. Perfect meal, I'd make the drive out to the bay for this restaurant anytime!!
(5)
Mark M.
The food is overpriced, bland, and cooked poorly. The drinks are overpriced and weak. There's no reason to come here, other than, as others have mentioned, the view...which is quite nice, especially at dusk. But then, I could go and park in a field half a mile down the road and enjoy the same view, for free, without having to order the crappy food & beverages.
(2)
Pete G.
Unbelievable views, boats and planes coming and going. We had wings, the crab nachos and the Hemingway seafood platter. All were great, although a bit pricey. Would definitely recommend this place!
(4)
Brian M.
Came here as part of "Marriott International Managers Outing" with other supervisors and managers. They had pretty nice selection of seafood and we ate unlimited amount of crab here. It's pretty relaxing and chill environment. Almost everyone got pretty hammered since there was an open bar and Marriott was taking care of the bills. Not bad, you get a nice view of the Bay Bridge too from the restaurant too
(4)
Celtic R.
This is a great place for date night! My husband & I stopped in for a visit on our way back from a long day visiting the Smithsonian in D.C. We had the privilege of arriving at Hemingway's just a little bit before sunset. The restaurant is located directly on the Chesapeake Bay. We asked for a seat near the window and just sat back sipping our wine enjoying the tasty crab claws taking in the most magnificent sunset I have ever seen. There is a little airport near by and the sight of the little planes landing with the sunset back drop is a must see. The Chesapeake Bay Bridge all lit up at night is pretty sight as well. What ambiance! It is a night I will never forget. The food was fabulous...the view fabulous. I'm telling you this is one of those must visit places. I swear the sunset over the Chesapeake makes the food and wine taste even better. Go visit Hemingway's and see for yourself! You won't be sorry you did!
(5)
Tom L.
Oh Hemingway's, I used to love you so. Your crab cakes were wonderful, and your frozen drinks and cocktails delicious. But there was no excuse for our last visit. Absolutely none. The visit started well enough, with the drinks served up within 5 minutes. But with the restaurant at less than 50% capacity, it took you forty (yes, that's 40) minutes to both forget our calamari and to serve us burgers that were well done when we ordered them medium? With such tiny portions of fries that would look skimpy even next to a MickeyD kid's happy meal? Also, what's with the sad-looking grape tomato halves on the burgers? Look, I understand that there was a big group on the other side of the patio, and that kitchens get slammed. But waiting over half an hour before even telling us about the situation is completely unacceptable. And seriously, did we even have to mention that we wanted the appetizer BEFORE the burgers were served? And that we'd rather have our entrees (after waiting over half an hour) instead of having them sit under the heat lamp while they stick frozen squid in the fryer? Speaking of the calamari, it was pure nerve on the part of the waitress to not even own up to forgetting about the order, which was rather obvious when the two tables next to us were done with their meals before we got our burders! And they got there after we had put our orders in! Waitress, manager, kitchen... It was a big fail on all fronts on that visit that's completely ruined the place for me.
(1)
James K.
Had dinner on the upper deck. I was told it was non-smoking. Ten minutes later a group of a dozen or so cigar smokers showed up and smoked right next to me. I asked for the check which was comp'ed but Hemingways declined to ask them not to smoke.
(1)
mike r.
Great experience glad they decidedto not open the hotel and brought back Hemingways for a second run. Blows away thefirst one and the only thing better than the food and the service was the best view of the Bay. You wont be disappointed a first class experience.
2 stars for the nice view of the bay bridge! Figure there's a huge fish on the side of the buiding, so I ordered the fish and chips. The french fries were warm and limp, the fish was bland and mushy. I got a piece and a 1/2. Figure for 18.95 I would get some descent fish, after all there is a huge bay outside of the restaurant.
(2)
Steph H.
View at sunset and of the bridge is spectacular. I realize we dined on a Saturday night, perfect weather, I the summer but that does not excuse the length of time it took for our meals to arrive...and not all at the same time. I will say the food was very good (crab cakes.). I will absolutely give this establishment a second chance - just not durning peak season.
(2)
Dave S.
Quite expensive for what you get. See picture of unclean flatware. In what world does a burger with Swiss cheese and cole slaw become one with cheddar and fries. Oh Heinz yellow mustard on a $12 burger is not mustard. Fail.
(2)
Robin F.
One star is for the view and the decor, both of which are beautiful. The food and service are just not good. We tried this place several times, but no more. We live about 2 miles away, but won't be giving this place another chance. Food is overpriced, small entree portions. On our last visit we ordered happy hour apps, waiting over 30 minutes, calamari was cold, crab dip looks good with chunks of crab on top, but beneath was this tasteless, gluey, kind of cream cheese (it's $17 on the reg menu!). Waitress didn't know when happy was or how much the food was. Service was so slow, not completely her fault i guess, there were 2 waitress for the whole patio.
(1)
Jeffrey H.
The food is nothing special - nothing disappointing, but nothing that stands out from hundreds of other casual American-style restaurants in the region. And the prices are a little bit higher than average. But the view is amazing, especially off of the upper deck patio; and there's ample, easy docking for one's boat. I guess the best way to put it, is that Hemmingway's is a wonderful place to spend a few lazy hours with friends enjoying a fine outdoor day, especially as a lunch break from cruising the bay, and the food is decent enough that it doesn't detract from the enjoyment.
(3)
Mike G.
I used to stop here en route to OCMD every summer for years. It had been a couple years since I had been back, and, unfortunately, I will not be going back. The food was nothing like it used to be. The service was awful, however I completely discounted the quality of service in order to objectively judge the food. I brought a friend to this restaurant on a Friday evening at 7 PM, and I should have taken the emptiness of the restaurant as a hint as to what product & service I'd be receiving. I raved about the cream of crab soup, because it had previously been the best I'd ever come across. The cream of crab soup was absolutely terrible. No lump crab or old bay added on top. We ordered calamari which was served with an aioli chipotle sauce... this WAS a seafood restaurant, apparently not anymore. The crab cakes were okay, however they were formed as saucers, not the Maryland "cake". I don't know if ownership has changed, or it is just terribly managed. The only thing good about Hemingway's is the view. Go for the bar on the bay. Don't go to eat.
(2)
Larry H.
This is the one dock bar on the bay that everyone desperately "wants" to love but just can't... Amazing location (right in the shadow of the bay bridge) - CHECK. Amazing two tier deck with Spec-tac-ular sunsets - CHECK. Annnnnnd after that, everything just goes down hill... Overpriced - CHECK. Poorly prepared food - CHECK. Lack of live music - CHECK. Zero party atmosphere - CHECK. Run like a stuffy old yacht club that doesn't really want your business if you're under the age of 70 - CHECK. Hopefully someday ownership of this location will be transferred to someone who can take advantage of the location and turn it into a wildly popular destination. Until then... 1. Dirty Dave's Tiki Bar at Kentmorr Restaurant & Crab House 2. The Jetty Dock Bar 3. Red Eyes Dock Bar 4. Big Owl Dock Bar
(2)
David L.
Really wanted to like this. Our hosts were very keen on it. And the view is amazing at sunset. But it went downhill. They couldn't get drinks right. They were out of Yuengling Beer which is supposed to be on draft. If took more than 30 minutes for them to bring us Martinis and margaritas.....hardly rocket science for a bartender. Finally got a draft beer made for them by Samuel Adamd It took 45 minutes for us to get napkins and silverware....after the appetizers were delivered. The server was pleasant....just dazed and confused. Mandatory 20% tip for a party of 6!! Food.... Oh yes this is a restaurant. Most everyone had the crab cake and liked it. I had ahi tuna and it was good. Potatoes and veggies good too... Not special but good The calamari appetizer was good fish prepared not so well. Undercooked and coating didn't adhere to the fish. Crab was fried and soggy. Such a great location deserves great food and great service. To put it kindly, not quite.
(2)
Bill D.
We had strong recommendations from a friend who stops here frequently on his way back from the beach. The setting on the waterfront is lovely. As we walked around to the patio, I was nearly paralyzed by the overamplified truly awful calypso. Look, I love calypso and reggae. But don't shriek it over recorded tracks at 80 dB. This wasn't Jamaica. The closest this came to The Islands was a bar mitzvah in The Hamptons where no person darker than a tennis tan would be let in. Wandering around the maze up the restaurant, we were greeted by a nearly empty restaurant. Our server, Nick, did a surprisingly good job despite it being only his third day. I asked for gluten-free options, and both Nick and his co-worker made good suggestions. I'd recommend they steer carefully around the salads, though. The dressings can be a minefield depending on the source of the vinegar, bleu cheese and whether soy sauce is an ingredient. The Ahi Tuna appetizer was a recommendation, but it shouldn't have been because of the soy sauce. We ordered two burgers, mine medium with no bun and slaw. His medium rare and slaw. Our orders were reversed and both came with fries. While the restaurant was empty, the patio was jumping so confusion in the orders occurred in the kitchen. Based on other reviews, this is a common theme. Your kitchen is out of control. I'd request you switch to a more upscale condiment brand like Boar's Head (which is also gluten free) and tastes way better than the horrible Heinz crap presented like this was a cheap diner. Nick and his co-workers played the best they could with the hand they were dealt. Our drinks were refilled without asking and their manners were excellent. Whoever's hiring and training the staff knows their business. I apologize to anyone may have seen us rinsing out with Listerine in the parking lot: new braces & they get really icky. That's no reflection on the food, but it was gauche.
(3)
Alyssa M.
Food was horrible. Horrible. Horrible. Tasteless. Horrible. Horrible. Horrible. Crab cake was $16 and super super small. Crab wasn't even fresh. Wings... not good. Crab bisque.... horrible and not fresh. I was sooooo disappointed. I wanted to try this place out for years... and finally came here... so disappointed!!!
(1)
Andrew G.
I had the most bizarre "dining" experience at Hemingway's this Saturday. I got there a little bit ahead of my friends so I asked the hostess what was good on the menu. The ribs, the burger, the pretzels...I thought that was a bit strange since it is billed as a seafood place on the water...but I didn't think anything of it. We were seated and our waitress said that their kitchen was a little backlogged so we immediately put in an order for crab dip and drinks. We got those in a decent amount of time, but our server came back and told us that the kitchen wouldn't be able to accept our food order! Huh?! We said we would eat our dip and then check in again about getting a food order placed. No dice. It wasn't even like they were crowded. So bizarre!
(1)
Valerie E.
Arrived to find a nearly empty restaurant, and seated at a nice window seat. We were excited for a nice lunch with such a lovely view. The view is all they have that will satisfy you. We sat for 20 min with not a single server to check on us. I had to ask the hostess if anyone was going to wait on us. Servers seemed to be standing around doing nothing. Unreal. Then we still waited another 5 min for a server. She was pleasant, but seemed distracted or upset. She was prompt with our drinks, then our food arrived not too long after ordering. My Anjou Pear Gorgonzola Salad had no pears nor gorgonzola...not kidding...just spinach, drowned in dressing and candied walnuts. $14.00 for spinach, dressing and walnuts? Okaaayyy...server asked if everything was okay, but I was in no mood to send my food back. I just ate so we could leave. Then my boyfriend's fish tacos....some of the fish apeared to not be cooked through. We separated the uncooked fish and then he ate the rest...thankfully he was not sick from it. Go here if you're in the mood for a view with slow service and overpriced, incorrect menu items.
(1)
Sarah W.
Stopped in to eat on a Sunday and it was not very busy. The first star is for the view and the second star is for the decor inside the restaurant and the fresh orange crushes. Our server was extremely snobby and condescending. She recommended the wings, which were not good at all (it's hard to screw up wings, too). The food is overly priced and they do not serve crabs. I ordered the fish tacos which turned out to be ok - nothing spectacular. The cole slaw is soupy and the french fries were cold. Had it not of been for the awful service, we might have decided to dine here again, but are so turned off by the waitress and will not be returning.
(2)
James W.
The absolute worst. The view is amazing, I'll give them that. But any part of your dining experience that may rely on some sort of customer service will disappoint you in ways you didn't know existed. 90 minutes to get food? On a slow night? One refill for the entire dinner, cold food, and NO apology at any point! A member in our group actually sat in a chair that broke and sent him to the floor, I simply cannot make this up! The waitress was the cherry on top. Cursing, audibly in front of customers, and never taking responsibility for any of the mishaps throughout the evening. You will overpay, and you will feel cheated out of your money and your time. If you're looking to waste an evening out, this is your spot. Better yet, find a garbage can and eat from it, you'll actually be less disappointed than this p.o.s. restaurant.
(1)
Nilanjana M.
We have been to Hemingway's for their Sunday Brunch before and that is the only reason I'll not give it a 1 Star ! The experience today was awful ! The bright Sunday morning was all but ruined because of a terribly backed-up kitchen. We waited, waited and waited - 45 mins for the Crispy Oysters we had ordered as appetizers. The entrees took another hour to arrive ! And when they did, the burger was overcooked, the bread soggy and the crab cakes miniscule - I have never seen such over-priced low quality food on the shore before ! The hostess and servers were apologetic and did their best to save the ruined brunch but SORRY , I am not going back to this restaurant again !
(2)
Christopher S.
Best fish and chips I have ever had. Great service. Nice decor. Great view of the bay. We had four kids with us. They all are fine. Chicken, grilled cheese, buttered noodles. Seven people in total with a bill at eighty dollars. A little pricey for lunch... So only four stars.
(4)
Chad C.
Great view. Terrible food. Overpriced. The fried oysters were frozen and bland. Crab mac and cheese looked like cat food had been added to Kraft. My wife's review of the fish tacos, "the worst fish tacos I have eaten in my life."
(1)
Mojdeh S.
How I heard of this place: Our good friends and travel companions recommended a lunchtime pit-stop at Hemingway's on our drive to St. Michaels. We came to enjoy the renovations and partake of the esteemed clam chowder. Type of cuisine: A cornucopia of seafood eats, including a raw bar for fresh Chesapeake Bay oysters, calamari, crabs, fresh and farm-raised fish, not to mention burgers, steak and baby back ribs. Ambiance: Fresh and vibrant, the openness of the exposed, high, A-frame ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows looking out onto the Chesapeake Bay create a lively yet calming, serene escape from the world outside. A variety of kitsch, yet delicately placed paraphernalia give a warm, homey feel to this hardwood floor setting. What I ordered: I was saving my appetite for dinner and opted out of appetizers, yet my dining companions were adequately tempted by the scrumptious menu. To start, Creamy Crab Bisque ($8.95) mixed with the soup of the day ($7.95) to create a vegetable-rich, creamy delicacy, and Fried Oysters ($11.95) - a half-dozen Select Oysters, hand breaded, flash fried and served on horseradish cream with chopped salsa. Of course, my temptation was easily swayed when one dining companion asked if I would share the Seafood Skins ($11.95): potato skins loaded with shrimp, jumbo crab meat, topped with cheese and broiled to order. For our main entrees, my husband gratuitously jumped at the Farm Raised Atlantic Salmon ($25.95), roasted on white cedar with brown sugar BBQ sauce and served with a pickled cucumber salad and roasted red potatoes. I shared the Salmon B.L.T. ($12.95) with the other of our dining companions, enjoying the thick layer of Atlantic salmon, bacon, arugula, and roasted tomatoes with an herb mayo served on multi-grain toast with fries. What I loved: The flaky, tender salmon of my B.L.T. accompanied by the lemon-peppery fresh arugula. Why I loved it: A warm, inviting establishment shared with close friends over a fresh and hearty meal. Cost: Average to high ($10.95 to $29.95 per sandwich and entree)
(3)
W H.
Pretty sure my credit card was stolen/swiped when my CC disappeared for 25 minutes when I paid my bill. Service and food were no better than average.
(1)
Brittany S.
For a regular restaurant i'd probably take off 1 star for the hostess who was only seating reservations even though there were plenty of tables open. Luckily the manager was there to seat us right away. The reason this place is a perfect score well... The view is 10 stars alone and the service is just as good. The food is just the cherry on top. Our server was very friendly and bless her for working on Father's Day, she was attentive and very nice. We ordered the crab fondue and calamari as an appetizer which were gone in a few minutes 1. They were damn good and 2. We were starving. The fondue was my favorite of the two, it was nice to have something different than just the regular ol' crab dip and the bread was to die for. I then ordered the grilled chicken breast, Hemingway's style which was really good, perfect light and healthy meal, didn't leave too overly full after. The spinach and asparagus was perfect cooked not too soggy. The tomatoes were amazing just a little sweet but added the perfect contrast to the dish. The big chunks of crab meat were sprinkled on top. Yum! And because I was being so healthy, we decided to go with 2 desserts to share. We shared the chocolate molten cake which was melt in your mouth chocolate goodness and the Smith Island cake which was one of the best cakes I've ever had. Everybody had a good time, the live music was the perfect setting and everyone enjoyed their dish. No problems docking our boat, just drive right up and enjoy :) For boaters - skip Annapolis for sure!!! There is nowhere to dock your boat and there are sooo many people which means a long wait for food. Definitely skip the crowds of people and come here! You will not regret it!
(5)
Judy M.
This was hands-down the worst service I have ever experienced. We apparently arrived on amateur night. Things went wrong instantly when the hostess told us that she was sorry, but despite our reservation, there would be a 20 minute wait before being seated. Once seated at a wonderful outdoor table with a view of the sun setting behind the bay bridge, things went into slow motion. It took forever for anyone to take our order, and during the long, long wait for our food, our waiter returned to the table to find out which of our orders he had forgotten. When our food finally arrived (2 hours after our initial arrival!), several members of our party were informed that part of their order was no longer available. They had to substitute orders. Several others in our party had to remind the waiter of parts of their order that had not arrived. The food for the member of our whose order had been forgotten arrived when almost everyone at the table had finished their food. The waiter brought us two complimentary ice cream sundaes, explaining that the kitchen was "slammed tonight." It's hard to comment objectively on the quality of the food given the frustration of the evening. I'll be happy to return and enjoy the beautiful porch view when this place is under new management.
(1)
F P.
We've lived in the area for over 20 years and have always wanted this restaurant to improve - but every time we try it, the food is terrible and very expensive. The crab bisque was the worst I've ever had, almost a gelatinous goo with little if any crab meat. The crab dip was on par with something from the nearby Food Lion; not that it was horrible, but it just wasn't any better than what you could buy in a tub for half the price. And the mahi-mahi fish tacos had to come from Taco Bell. Dried out, over fried, could be chicken, mess in a taco shell. If I didn't like you, I would recommend Hemingway's. We've tried to like this place every couple of years, but I can only imagine that it stays in business because of the people driving to the beach or coming into the marina.
(1)
Connie C.
The location is near the Bay Bridge but the food is not tasty! If you want real seafood go to the Crab Shack at the corner on your way in. The view from Sandy Point Park is more beautiful.
(1)
John C.
Run don't walk! We went to this restaurant during happy hour. We ordered a wrap and a appetizer and three drinks. We ordered another round of two drinks. When the bill arrived it was $75.00 +. I called the server's attention that I was charged $27.00 for two "Rob Roys" and she told me the computer was programmed to charge this amount. The food was terrible ie: the crab fondue was dry and the sauce looked and tasted like library paste, The wrap had big chunks chicken instead of sliced and was tasteless. Be ware, none of the locals eat hear, There a lot of great restaurants on Kent Island but this not one on them .
(1)
Whitney R.
Just tried to go to Hemingways for a late lunch. The hostess said it was a 30 minute wait. There were tables available inside and outside. When I questioned her further she said, "it's a kitchen thing, not a service thing". So I asked if we could sit outside (beautiful water views) and have a drink while we wait. The hostess replied, "my manager won't let me seat anyone for any reason. I don't want to get in trouble." I said, "ok we'll leave", to which she said "have a great day!" ??? I'm a hospitality consultant. Thank you for the good story to use in training staff of what not to do. Not surprising when I went to write this review the place has few stars. Perhaps it's a service culture problem and someone should take a look at the top. Luckily the crab shack nearby was delightful! Go there!!
(1)
Dustin S.
Great sunset views but if your looking for good food keep driving the the narrows exit 43. Is super expensive and the food is blaaa.....although if you like flower balls in your 10 dollar cream of crab soup than this is the place for you. I live on kent island and no locals come here for reasons above. It's owned by a corporation, no shore ties here.
(1)
Phanna P.
We were here to see a friend sing. Great entertainment but I have less to say about the menu. We sat outside with a great view, but the menu was limited to a lite fare. I'm not sure why such a limited menu, but if you were seated inside you'll have the full menu. The crab cake sandwich was a good sized portion, orange crush was delicious. I didn't like the tipsy raspberry. Get rid of the darn flies. It was not fun trying to eat and use a free hand to shoo the flies away.
(3)
Ron R.
I would like to write a review about how delicious the crab bisque I ordered tasted. I would also like to tell you about the wonderful Mahi Mahi tacos my wife ordered. But I can't. We were never served. We arrived and were told there would be a 30 minute wait, but she was clearing her wait list and it might be sooner. Forty minutes later my wife asked the hostess if she forgot about us. She asked what we meant - her wait list was cleared and everyone had been seated. She was actually rather defensive about it, but proceeded to sit us inside as we asked - just to get away from the mediocre music being played outside, It didn't help. We were right over the band and our table rocked with the beat. Our waitress took our order for lemonade, the aforementioned crab bisque and the tacos. The lemonade came quickly, along with some very hot bread, but 45 minutes later we still hadn't been served our meals. I threw five bucks on the table to cover the drinks, and walked out. I doubt I'll ever be walking in again. What a shame. Hemmingway's used to be one of our favorite places.
(1)
Pam H.
Service was a tad slow but the view made up for it. Crab Fondue appetizer was yummy! It was hot and cheesy!
(3)
Corey W.
Stopped in Hemingways on the way to the beach; had to make a pit stop to watch the USA/Belgium World Cup soccer match. Sat at the bar on the upper level (apparently there is a bigger bar down stairs); they had good HH specials for both food and alcohol. Calamari was really good; seasoned with Old Bay and a nice thick marinara sauce - good stuff. Fried pickles were good as well; a little greasy but still really good. Staff was very attentive and it's nice to stare out the windows and watch traffic pass by as you sip on a cold beverage.
(4)
Nora T.
This review is solely for the service . Our server Melissa was the absolute worst. Rushed us through the meal. Total bitch. Rudely sarcastic when we tried to help her. We asked for bread and she said "I don't know if we have any- I'll check" when every other table had it. Made me want to run away from this place.
(2)
Jessica M.
Crab fondue was just weird. Very little crab meat. Same with the crab bisque. It was basically a crab base with one piece of meat in it. The calamari was acceptable as was the crab cake. Crab cake was minimally seasoned but mostly meat. Would not recommend.
(2)
Lorrie L.
Stella on tap! Need I say more :) shared a crab cake app and it was probably the best one I have ever had , and I order them everywhere! I ordered grilled rock fish and he ordered scallops... Both were cooked perfectly and wonderful! Service was pleasant and not bothersome. Reservations get you by the window (usually).
(5)
Isaac T.
This Resturant is a little pricey but has a great ambience and view. We sat outside and had a great view of the water and boats. The food was great. I ordered the Caesar salad, really good dressing. This is a great place to stop on the way to Ocean City.
(5)
Andria O.
I had been wanting to check out Hemingways for awhile, as I pass by it when going to Fisherman's Inn. It was a beautiful day, so we decided to check it out.... We should've gone to Fisherman's Inn. The crab bisque HORRIBLE, had no flavor and no CRAB! I had to send mine back, but my 3-year old loved it. Since we couldn't decide on what we wanted we ordered several appetizers. The sweet chili shrimp were okay, really small and nothing exciting about them, they were just fried shrimp covered in sauce. The crab cake was meaty but had a weird tasting filler but again it was just okay. The calamari was about as average as everything else we ordered. We also tried the blackened tuna per our waitresses suggestion and it was okay but probably better than anything else we had. All in all we ordered: the sweet chili shrimp, the crab cake appetizer, calamari, blackened tuna appetizer, a kids grilled cheese, 4 orange crushes and an apple juice. The service was HELLA slow! And it's expensive (our meal came to $120)! The only thing we did enjoy was the AMAZING view and the orange crushes. If you go to Hemingway's you're not paying for good food, you're paying for the AWESOME view. Although, the grilled cheese my toddler had was pretty tasty. I won't come back unless they change the menu and the chef. My suggestion keep driving....
(1)
J J.
The service was terrible. I ordered crab soup as an appetizer. I waited 20 minutes for it which I had to remind our server, Tyler to bring. Then after waiting another 35 minutes for food that was not brought to our table; we ended up leaving. I attempted to pay for the soup but was comp'd by the manager. She apologized & stated the menu had recently been changed which caused the delay in receiving our food. I advised I had no problem waiting for the food, it was having to ask other servers for service.
(1)
Arthur C.
Hemingway's was one of our favorite stops on trips to the Eastern Shore but had fallen on hard times. Now under new management it's redone and very attractive. Tables have a view of the Bay Bridge through large windows. We watched private planes take off and land at the neighboring air field while waiting for lunch. We shared what Hemingway's calls 50/50 soup; a blend of cream of crab soup with Maryland crab soup which is tomato based and more like a crab vegetable soup. The blend won raves. It cut down on the heaviness of traditional cream of crab while retaining its richness. Then one of us had the Hemingway's burger which was fabulous and the other two shared a crab cake appetizer which won raves for it's lack of filler. Welcome back
(4)
Steve K.
One of my regular spots when sailing the bay. Short channel and close docking. Nice views and covered outdoor seating. Food and service ok for this type of place. It's just a seaside restaurant/bar. Not really for foodies or picky eaters.
My girlfriend and I took a day trip across the bay for lunch and decided to do in because of the view. The food was very good and our was attentive and friendly. We were both very pleased with the crab cake and the clams abs sausage appetizer.
(4)
Josh L.
A great place to visit by boat. Ample dock space and someone helped us dock. I had a seafood salad that was pretty good. Pretzel rolls were tasty. My girlfriend had chilled seafood platter that was very good. Would go back.
(3)
Michelle G.
We stopped in at the height of dinner hour on a Friday night in January, and the place had lots of empty tables, but the servers were rushing about like they were utterly slammed. Still, we got great service and the food arrived reasonably quickly. The crab cake sandwich was the highlight. One of the best in my life, with very little filler. The spinach, crab and artichoke dip, on the other hand, was soupy and too heavy. Did they put mayonnaise in it? Kind of tasted like it... eww... The fish fingers on the kids menu were surprisingly excellent and almost reminded me of the authentic fish and chips from my husband's hometown on the Scottish seaside. Even though we brought our two year old, I wouldn't say this place is exactly kid-friendly. I think it has aspirations of fanciness, even if 90% of the actual clientele are hungry, road-weary drivers whose legs are still jelly and nerves are a little wracked from crossing the bay bridge.
(4)
Ric M.
There should be a law that reverts 5% of the revenue from any restaurant named after "Papa", on the water, to a school of restaurant management. Saturday night, 5/31/2014, the day was beautiful, the sunset spectacular and they run out of food at 8:15? The parking lot was full of angry patrons who had spent hours waiting for food that never came. A riot was barely averted. We hitched a ride into town to eat (we were there on our boat because there was a restaurant at the marina) and the stories of incompetence were rampant. Go, have a drink, see the sunset, and eat elsewhere. New Rules, never eat at any place called Hemingways that Earnest didn't eat at. This was the worst.
(1)
Holly R.
The views are amazing, the staff was a little slow to get us started. Food was so so, but came out fast. Great place to have a drink on the water though....
(3)
Rocky T.
I've only visited this place once (the view) & it will probably be my last (the view) unless I want to enjoy the beautiful view. I ordered the (the view) crabcake sandwich & it wasnt (the view) tasty at all especially (the view) considering the price. Did I mention "the view"? Lol The beautiful sunset view from the outside rear of this restaurant is the only thing going for this place IMHO.
(1)
Mark T.
WNt here based on yelp search. Was NOT disappointed. Place was amazing. Sat immediately on a sat night, perfect night on patio with a beautiful sunset, great waitress (Megan) who was very attentive, and the food was great. Made for a really great evening. Had a great solo artist playing beach music which set the perfect atmosphere. Only downside was the filet which seemed to have some sweet seasoning which wasn't popular with my 8 year old. Tasted good to me but not my kid. Just needed to know would have helped. Amazing place and will definitely go back.
(4)
Barbra I.
Views, sunset and decent food. In that order. Don't expect an excellent meal, but if you go for happy hour it's definitely worth it as they have small plates at cheap rates. Oysters were yum!
(4)
Mike D.
The facility itself is excellent. Fun nautical decor. Great view of the Bay. Staff friendly and competent. Wait times on the longer side. Fish & chip (flounder) super breaded and greasy. Tartar sauce more mayo than is right. Desserts taste out of the box.
(3)
Mary F.
The Easter Brunch was a rip off! $32.50 per person which all of the food was cold, over cooked or the tray of food was just empty. Stay home and save your money!
(1)
sherri s.
We split a crabcake for an appetizer. We had the rockfish imperial and the crab mac n cheese. I think we got 2 of the best dishes on the menu. We raved about them, as did our server when we placed our order. The service was lacking at first. We waited about 15 minutes before anyone took our drink orders and we had to ask someone to find out who our server was and to bring us some water. But once that was settled, our service was great. After finishing our dinner (that we enjoyed while listening to live music from below), we walked downstairs to the grass and the water's edge to watch a perfect sunset over the Bay Bridge. We'll defintely be back!
(4)
Karen D.
We went to Hemingway's for our 10th wedding anniversary. I told them ahead of time that it was our celebration. We got there a little early on 5/10/14 (a Saturday) and said we'd sit at the bar and have a drink until our table was ready. We ended up having 2 drinks each because Kimberly, the hostess wanted to make sure we got a good seat with a good view of the sun going down over the Chesapeake Bay. So it took 45 minutes to get seated. But the drinks were good and the seats were pretty good once we got them. I ended up getting tuna and my husband got mahi-mahi. Everything was good. Kimberly ended up comping us a free dessert for having to wait. I got the apple pie, which was great! It was a good experience!
(4)
Alex M.
Great crab cakes (all that meat and no potatoes!) and rockfish. Definitely a place to come back to. Fantastic dining space and view of the Bay Bridge.
(4)
Amir P.
Food was OK++ but the location, location, location is a sight that you must see to believe. Especially from the outdoor bar while the sun sets. You are looking at the bay bridge right in front of you.
(4)
Lisa G.
Yes it was pricey (only reason I didn't give 5 stars) but the open face cram melt was DELICIOUS! Can't wait for another! View was delightful and service was great! Recently visited again... Crab cake was so so (prefer faidley's!) but calamari was great! Cheeseburger not cooked well.
(4)
George J.
I came here on a Sunday afternoon after a hunting trip with my father and his coworker. We showed up 30 minutes before the kitchen opened and were able to sit at the bar. The staff was very accommodating and were more than happy to tend to us despite our early arrival and our morning drink orders; mimosas for me! For those who don't know Hemingway's has undergone renovation a few years ago and looks completely different inside. The decor still retains the seafaring theme but with less nets and and crab crates. The main dinning area is very open and well lit through natural light. I ordered the Atlantic Salmon BLT and it was delicious. I would definitely recommend Hemingway's to anyone crossing the bay bridge.
(4)
Jordan C.
Kuddos: for the convenient location adjacent to Route 50, water view, outdoor seating when it's warm, and renovated, well designed interior Misses: next to Route 50, uncreative menu with the typical seafood selections you would expect at a chain restaurant, very bad wine list - made up of wines you could buy at most drug stores.
(2)
Jeff R.
2 stars only because of the view! Stuffed shrimp was cold. They heavily prep menu items and just reheat very sad for what you pay! Mixed drinks are resort prices and average. Servers apologize for the kitchen all night long to the other tables around us! The place needs a real manager who can run both front of house as well as the back! Go to Fisherman's Crab Deck or Kentmoor! Better ingredients better food better pricing!
(2)
John S.
We were seated at a window just as the sun was setting across the Chesapeake. Suzy quickly joined us to take our drink orders. I had the Parmesan Dusted Scallops which were well presented and tasty, although I didn't care too much for the taste of the orchid. My spouse had the grilled salmon which was also excellent. Suzy provided excellent service
(5)
Drew W.
My parents and I stopped for dinner at Hemingway's on our way home from a Navy Football game. Eating crab cakes on the water in Maryland, what could be better? Apparently, just about anything. It started off with me telling the hostess that someone had left their car lights on in the parking lot. After telling her the model, make and color of the car, she replied that she didn't know how to inform guests about this bit of information. Our waitress was nice, a bit eager to get us moving on ordering but I understand the place gets packed. My Mom had said she wanted to order the crab cakes but was afraid to since few things are more disappointing than a bad crab cake, which is true. Instead she ordered the crab bisque and a caesar salad. The bisque was good, saving this meal from 1 star. As she began to eat her salad, she looked up and and said that she had never tasted a less inspired salad before. She didn't finish it. My father had the short ribs and grimaced through part of it until he gave up. It was tough with bland side vegetables. He didn't finish it. Being that I grew up eating Maryland crabs and crab cakes but now live in Brooklyn, I decided to throw caution to the wind and order the crab cakes. What a huge mistake. I ordered it fried and yet the small cake was soggy. It was dwarfed by the brioche roll. The crab cake was the same consistency and flavor as the bun. Blech. So sad. Add to all this that Hemingway's charges premium prices and we left more disappointed in Hemingway's than nearly any restaurant any of us had been to. It's not that the food was inedible but it was so blatantly mediocre that it was almost worse. No view can make up for that.
(2)
Massiel G.
Me and my hubby stop by here after checking the silver swan for our ceremony an decide to look at Hemingway for reception and try there food out. We were seated quickly, and the waiter very nice. We first had the crab spinach dip which was very delicious. Then I had chicken sandwich and my hubby crab cake. There fries were really good I wanted to Oder more!!! My sandwich was amazing I really enjoy it and my hubby enjoy his crab cake as well!!! We met the manager Jerry who we though was very wonderful and professional about our reception and information. I recommend this place very nice view nice staff an good food!!!
(4)
Samantha W.
We stopped by here for dinner on the way home from the beach last weekend and had a nice time. We had our dog with us and called ahead to make sure we could bring her. The back patio is dog-friendly so we grabbed a table with umbrella upon arrival. Our waitress immediately brought some water out for the dog which I thought was really nice of her. We ordered a couple beers and Jumbo Crab Cake Sandwiches. I thought it was great. Large crab cake, tasty remoulade and a heaping of chips on the side, with pickle spears. I was famished but it was delicious. A little pricey ($17/each) but I don't get crab cakes often so it was worth the splurge. The patio and outside bar were really nice, and had spectacular views of the bay. We arrived before 5 pm and it wasn't crowded at all.
(4)
Janet C.
Our experience today as a party of 10 at the restaurant was very disappointing. - My vegetable crab soup tasted just like a can of Campbell's vegetable soup with some crab meat in it. I didn't expect the Campbell's taste for a small bowl for $9.00. - The service was very poor. My one friend waited for almost 15 minutes after everyone else got their drinks for his beer. The same friend didn't get his entree until 15 minutes after the whole table got entrees, and then the crab cake was still frozen. He had to wait another 15 minutes for a new crab cake. The waiter didn't handle the situation with genuine care although he didn't charge him for his crab cake. - Since we had a large party - they automatically charged us a 20% tip. It's common to have gratuity added to the check but usually it's 18%. The 20% seemed a bit excessive especially because the service was so poor. - The food was mediocre overall yet the restaurant charges twice as much as other restaurants of the same caliber.
(2)
Ryan S.
We recently went for dinner as we were passing through the area. The atmosphere was amazing, as the restaurant overlooks the water and bay bridge. It has a great setup and beautiful views as the sun begins to set. The food however was a different story. Bland, bland, bland, not to mention fairly pricey. We ordered the crab soup, which had no flavor and very little crab. I ordered the jumbo lump crab cake sandwich, which seemed to be lacking lump crab meat and again had ZERO flavor. The best thing we had was the coconut shrimp which had a great sauce. We left feeling unsatisfied and very dissappointed. Its a shame that a restaurant with such great presence has such lack luster food. A must see of the view, but go eat somewhere else.
(1)
Bryan J.
Terrible food. Seriously. Overpriced, and everybody working there is miserable and unfriendly. Only thing saving it is the view.
(2)
Merri M.
Went for our first time it was Sun of Memorial Day weekend absolutely perfect night and sat at the bar outside. Service was terrible no drink menus we were told to look up at the drinks listed on the ceiling that you can't see and there was zero food. The bartender said he was just as confused because they served food at the bar the day before until 7pm and stopped during a big rush. All they had to offer was bag chips and pretzels clearly purchased from a gas station. Other than a great view never will go back.
(1)
Christie B.
In my opinion I think this place is over priced. Not enough to choose from and our food was not that hot. Not sure I would come back.
(2)
Jennifer E.
Don't bother... really. This restaurant has everything in the world going for it, and manages to fail at each one. It is a lovely buidling, artfullly decorated, with a dynamite view... But what it manages to serve up is totally uninspired (and overpriced) food, lukewarm beer, poor service (staff are nice, just not attentive), and forced indoor seating with limited views. Recently, on a gorgeous 82 degree day when we specifically went there to dine al fresco, we were told the outdoor decks were closed. I pressed the issue, and was firmly told no. Never mind that they subsequently seated a party outdoors... The server, and later the manager to whom I complained, told me I should have "pressed my issue further." Really? You expect your patrons to vigorously press to enjoy the only positive your restaurant has??? I've given this place plenty of opportunities to get it right, and they are consistent at getting it wrong. I'm done with them.
(1)
Tyler K.
Worst service I have ever had, took our mom here for Mother's day and couldn't get anyone to do anything. We couldn't get the bartenders out back to even acknowledge us so we went upstairs to get beer. The bartender inside was very nice and quick, but our actual waiter forgot EVERYTHING and didn't seem to care when we pointed out that we still didn't have water that we asked for as soon as we sat down. The food was mediocre at best, but we were so livid by the time we got it that it didn't matter. DO NOT WASTE YOUR MONEY OR TIME HERE
(1)
JoAnn H.
view and location awesome. Food good. Service not so much. Bartender not personable and overheard him give a snarky remark to another patron who had to wait for a drink. Just because the location is perfect does not mean the service should be lacking!
(3)
Michael R.
Great atmosphere, menu has enough (not a lot but enough). Great wings, large beer/alcohol selection, great service, perfect view. Also - kid friendly as our little ones loved the grass area they have that they were running around at with other kids. This place can be romantic enough to have a date / fun enough for a night out with the guys/girls or easy enough for family night.
(4)
Matthew L.
Great bay location with amazing view of the Bay Bridge. The food is okay. The restaurant is a bit pricey and specializes in seafood and crab cakes. I prefer the outside bar. Great specials and bay side seating. In the summer people play horse shoes and corn hole. People also bring their boats up to the dock and stop for lunch. A fun place to sit out with friends.
(3)
Brian G.
Great place right off the bay with amazing views at sunset. We were visiting the nearby beach with our 4 legged child and were happy that their outdoor deck was dog friendly. It was a nice warm summer day and was an amazing end to hot day having a couple beers and watching the sun go down.
(4)
Nicole M.
Awful... definite tourist trap. The only thing this place has going for it is the view. And you would have to be seated by the pretentious hostess in order to enjoy it. Making up wait times to create some sort of false demand is not appealing. Food is subpar at best...
(1)
Anderson L.
I went in to look at this place for an upcoming wedding rehearsal dinner and got the cold shoulder. The rude, lazy, and seemingly uninterested in making money, banquet manager wouldn't even get off her seat to introduce herself and answer a question or two. Instead she sent a poor little soul who looked like she was just fresh out of high school, to cover for her and say that she was busy. Busy......too busy to book a party of 30+ people in the future and earn revenue for your restaurant. Busy.....too busy to talk to a couple that you are standing 20 feet from as you check your facebook account while you are at the bar? If this is the way folks get treated before they even have a meal at your restaurant I can only imagine how the rest of the experience would go. I was completely turned off and will never set foot in there again.
(1)
Fred B.
We read the reviews from others and they mostly over stated the experience. The place was empty and the kitchen was extremely slow. The crab cakes are just a little bit bigger than a meatball. Don't come hungry or you will be stopping for another meal. Stick to Timbuck Too or G & M near BWI. Either of those places you get a crab cake you will love.
(1)
Kay J.
The restaurant itself is very tastefully decorated. We sat on the patio, great view of the bridge. I wasn't shocked by the prices, but for the prices I would expect much much better service. We were helped by one server that only took my drink order (not the 2 others with me) then randomly walked away. Another server came back and my husband ordered a diet coke. We had to eventually flag her down since she didn't bring it or lemons I originally asked for. The food was OK. I would say that you should proactively bring tarter and ketchup with sandwiches and fish dishes that have fries, etc. During all of this I noticed customers not getting silverware and being re-asked did I tell you the specials? All this forgetfulness with only 4 tables on the patio and 3 servers. In addition to all of this it was breezy and they had very large sunbrellas. We witnessed one knock over with quite a bit of force (heavy and wide) that nearly took out 2 tables. The customer (not the wait staff or manager) had to pick up the umbrella and make sure people were OK. The next umbrella fell between our table and another (again customers took action to make sure people were OK). I spoke to the manager and said they need to secure the bases to the deck or put down the umbrellas. She said, the customers will just put them up anyway. My thought was take them away until you can secure them without potential liability. I really feel like the manager should have comped a drink or dessert for some of the diners in apology. Disappointing at best. I won't be going back.
(2)
Susie J.
Their setting is spectacular! For the sunset view alone, its worth stopping by if your a tourist or have guests :) k- now back to the food. Eh- it's alright; not the best, but still not totally blah. Crab cake sandwiches are kind of bland but well proportioned (no filler). T'was accompanied by sweet potato fries- the skinny kind you can buy frozen, but still a nice option. Had their oysters on a half shell- yum! Ordered another dozen to follow b/c they were so fresh. We've been here a few times now, but even as I type I can't recall what we ate other than the above. Really, it was nothing memorable food wise; but again, it's a nice pit stop for ambiance.
(3)
Susie K.
Went here for lunch today and the food was so-so, nothing special. I got the panzanella salad with blackened tuna on top, others got the hemingway salad with tuna (she said it was awesome) it's a mix of mesclun greens with strawberries, blue cheese, balsamic; caesar salad with blackened tuna (very good), order of steamed clams (expensive for a dozen but fresh & delicious), crab cocktail (tasty but expensive- a few cucumber slices topped off with a lump of crabmeat). The panzanella salad came out on a plate too big for the salad, the veggies were fresh but the bread was very stale and chewy (I guess it's supposed to be like that), and the dressing was a bit lacking. Panzanella consisted of mesclun greens, bits of mozzarella cheese, tomatoes, cucumbers, bread, red onions. We asked for bread in the beginning and it was GREAT. Fresh, soft, hot with bits of cranberries in it. Make sure you ask for some! The view was beautiful so make sure you get a seat near the windows I'm giving this place a 3/5 because the service was terrible. We waited at least 25 minutes for our main entrees to show up (which were salads!!), while all the other tables who came in after us were served their hot foods first.... huh? o.o I might be back- the view was killer and their happy hour specials sound do-able.
(3)
Kate P.
I enjoy a lot of places and will often give four stars, but rarely does a restaurant experience go over the top to create a five-star experience. I do not think it gets much better than Hemingways, though. My mother and I stopped here for dinner after a day at the Delaware Beaches for her birthday on a Sunday night. There was a short wait for an outside deck table, but we were happy to wait so that we could explore the beautiful area. It is right next to the Bay Bridge and a marina. It has a lamp-lit dock with abundant lounge chairs to enjoy the view. We were seated on a roof-deck area with, once again, great views of the bay, bridge, and boats. There was a bar below that with no wait and still great views, but the menu is slightly smaller. The service was fantastic everywhere. Everyone was extremely friendly and attentive to any needs or requests. My mom got the cream of crab soup, which she seem to thoroughly enjoy. Although it is a seafood place, I was really feeling a steak, so I ordered the NY strip. It was absolutely amazing. Cooked perfectly, juicy on the inside with a flavorful, but slightly crispy exterior. They put a candle in a creme brulee for my mom's birthday, too. Overall great experience! The only improvements could have been better signs directing people to the restaurant from the main road (although the elusiveness of it gave it a unique mystique) and they mentioned being backed up in the kitchen. We had no problem with time waiting for a table or food, but if they expect large crowds, they might want to work on the kitchen situation.
This is all about location for which I would give 5 stars. The food was bland, unexciting and outrageously priced. Change the chef and this beautifully positioned waterfront restaurant would soar. My wife and I practiced forgiveness with every course - 'beautiful view', 'stunning sunset' ... Service was excellent, the martinis were spectacular, the sun warm, the boats and planes arrivals and departures from the adjacent marina and light aircraft airport were absorbing. The food was awful! Go there for ambiance, great drinks and the sunsets and eat first elsewhere.
(2)
Dawn D.
Terrible, awful service. So so food. Never got bread, never got the soup and salads we ordered, waited forever and then entrees came. NO apology, they did comp one of the meals but the waitress blamed the kitchen. Last time, too many other great places to choose from.
(2)
Mark S.
Two groups of us arrived by boat and were greeted promptly at the brand new docks by Robert, the GM of the marina. The deckhands seemed a little green, but that must be why Robert was there...to help them become more skilled. We sat at the bar and had drinks and apps, all served efficiently and with very friendly service. Everyone in our party commented on how great the food was from the mussels to the calamari to the tuna appetizer. My wife loved the tuna sandwich but I found it mediocre. There was even a one-man band that added to the beautiful view. We considered staying overnight on our boat at their dock so I called Robert and he was happy to help find me electrical cords to make the stay as pleasant as possible. Back at the bar the GM of the restaurant, Dwayne, was asking our opinion of the food and service...as a good GM should. It was a great experience and we will definitely be back...they seem to have the right attitude with reasonable prices and good food.
(4)
Kathie P.
I would have given Hemingway's two stars, but it gets an additional star for the view. Came for dinner and experienced a wonderful sunset. The restaurant offers a great view of the Chesapeake Bay. Just ok, to my food - average at best. I had crab cakes which were on the dry side. They were made with lump crab, and had little filler, but that didn't help the taste - they were very bland. The vegetable served with the meal was overcooked, not too fresh asparagus. The restaurant seems to cater to locals, but I feel that they could go out of their way and buy local product (just a funny quirk I have). It is way too pricey for what you get. There are many other places that offer much better food for the prices. There is an outdoor bar, and that looked like fun, and there is also plenty of outdoor seating. I don't think I'll go back..
(3)
Marcie T.
Food was average. I would NOT order the spinach artichoke crab dip. It tasted like warm spinach with no creaminess or any other flavor to make it palatable. How they charge $12.95 for it and don't get more complaints is a mystery. The fish tacos and chicken tenders were fine. Our server was delightful which saved this place!
(4)
Brad Z.
Lovely view, nice decor, decent service, so-so food, with prices geared more towards the view than the food.
(3)
Alex A.
we ate outside on the patio because we had our dog with us, we were very grateful they let her sit with us (we went to the dog beach that day) the food was overpriced and the menu was limited outside, but the view was spectacular and what we ordered tasted good. my pina colada was 8, kinda steep.
(3)
H.A. T.
The makeover is a vast improvement as well as having a great outdoor area. The owners being from FL have tried to capture an on the water experience. That much they have succeeding in doing. As for the food, it is a disappointment. Why can't there be great food to go with the views? Great place for a sunset cocktail though...
(2)
Rita F.
First time at Hemingway's. Great location and wonderful view. Outdoor dining and bar are an asset...the service was ok...but the food? Well, it left a lot to be desired. I had the grilled red snapper. It was topped w a sauce...no idea what it was but tasted ok. It was accompanied by boiled asparagus and 2 red boiled potatoes...bland. No seasoning at all... My husband ordered the the open face prime rib sandwich w swiss and portobello mushrooms, also accompanied with the asparagus and red potatoes. The prime rib was well done, more like a pot roast and had no flavor. Note - both plates were part of the "daily specials". I would go back to sit outside at the bar and look at the view...perhaps their burgers are better!
(3)
Richard N.
Went for lunch with the mother-in-law and our daughters. It was ok the views were nice. I was really looking forward to some steamed Maryland blue crabs, but they only serve crab cakes but had a lot of lump crab dishes. We had the gazpacho soup, I had the kobe beef burger nice but I really like seafood and nothing tantalized me to pull the trigger. I was just a little under impressed with lunch. I think it must be more of a dinner place. Service was good though.
(3)
Kyle A.
After deciding to sit on the fancy upstairs balcony, my boyfriend and I were happy to be serenaded by the sweet sound of Pink Floyd coming through the surround sound speakers. After perusing previous photos on Yelp, we were not expecting the oversized large mouth bass and cool new blue motif that awaited us. Much has been said about the "ambiance" of this establishment, and it did not disappoint. Much like every other tourist trap in the world, the hook was good. In this case, the view of Chesapeake Bay and Bay Bridge was incredible. The food, however, left something to be desired. Our oysters were fabulous; the calamari, dried out and lacking a certain ingredient, mainly squid, left something to be desired. Our entrees, the mahi mahi and petit filet crab cake combo came out in short order. The mahi mahi may never had spent a day in the water considering how dry the meat was, and the petit filet looked awfully like a NY Strip Steak. Surely, in the land of crabcakes and football, this dish would come through. Unfortunately, it fell flat. The crabcake, while full of crab, had spent quite some time under the heat lamp and dried out. The vegetable accompaniment was left, and while the potatoes were saturated in olive oil and salt, the carrots were a specialty of their own. The chef's brilliance left this delicate root both devoid of taste and texture. One and a half pinot grigios left me just loose enough to laugh at the awfulness of the food. Our waitress was lovely; the companions on the deck were not. The white chocolate crème brulee was called in to salvage what was turning out to be the worst white trash date night in the world. Unfortunately, under the caramelized sugar lay no more than a quarter inch of "crème." Should you remember your mini-golf putter, you'll feel right at home as the walk out felt like the 9th hole of a putt putt, complete with derelict row boat, and flashing navigational buoy to aid your hasty departure from this place. Maybe you want to avoid Hemingway's on a Monday night if you are looking for a culinary masterpiece, however, if you are looking for a good view and a chance to laugh, this is the place for you.
(3)
David T.
The view from this seaside restaurant is great, the food is disapointing. I think they are hoping the sunset will keep your mind off the bland over-priced food. I've tried it twice, both after a full day of boating on the bay. Unless seeking safe harbor from a storm, I'm going to cruise on by this place in the future.
(2)
Keith L.
Complete and utter crap! As one reviewer stated "F this place!". I went here for Mothers Day Brunch. They charged 30.00 and didnt include coffee in that price (that was an additional 2.75). Now this might have been acceptable because of the "view", but there was NOT ANY BACON, scrambled eggs, sausage, pancakes, french toast or waffles at a Mothers Day Brunch? There was a total of 8 items and thats it! I saw the look on peoples faces (and the dismay on their kids) as they approached the buffet line. The carving station had on slab of crappy beef that an 18 year old was cutting..and he stated "I dont have a carving knife" while he attempted to hack away at the vein infested chunk or garbage. This place sucks. Dont waste your money. Kick yourself in the head or go to Cracker Barell instead...both will feel much better. Oh..forgot to mention that an umbrella almost killed me twice on the deck. So they used some old ladies chair leg with her weight to keep it stable.....what an F-ing joke of a place. NOT ONLY THAT...but their website states that they "care about the customers so please contact them with any issues" I contacted them before I posted this and they never replied. The dont care about anything but taking your money for horrible food.
(1)
Shieva R.
A couple friends and I stopped by in an unexpected detour (we got lost) and decided to stop in and grab an early dinner. I was there right before sunset as well and it was such a beautiful sight!! You're right on the bay with a great view and great food! I had the fried oysters with rice and veggies and they were delicious! The service was amazing also. Perfect meal, I'd make the drive out to the bay for this restaurant anytime!!
(5)
Mark M.
The food is overpriced, bland, and cooked poorly. The drinks are overpriced and weak. There's no reason to come here, other than, as others have mentioned, the view...which is quite nice, especially at dusk. But then, I could go and park in a field half a mile down the road and enjoy the same view, for free, without having to order the crappy food & beverages.
(2)
Brian M.
Came here as part of "Marriott International Managers Outing" with other supervisors and managers. They had pretty nice selection of seafood and we ate unlimited amount of crab here. It's pretty relaxing and chill environment. Almost everyone got pretty hammered since there was an open bar and Marriott was taking care of the bills. Not bad, you get a nice view of the Bay Bridge too from the restaurant too
(4)
Pete G.
Unbelievable views, boats and planes coming and going. We had wings, the crab nachos and the Hemingway seafood platter. All were great, although a bit pricey. Would definitely recommend this place!
(4)
Celtic R.
This is a great place for date night! My husband & I stopped in for a visit on our way back from a long day visiting the Smithsonian in D.C. We had the privilege of arriving at Hemingway's just a little bit before sunset. The restaurant is located directly on the Chesapeake Bay. We asked for a seat near the window and just sat back sipping our wine enjoying the tasty crab claws taking in the most magnificent sunset I have ever seen. There is a little airport near by and the sight of the little planes landing with the sunset back drop is a must see. The Chesapeake Bay Bridge all lit up at night is pretty sight as well. What ambiance! It is a night I will never forget. The food was fabulous...the view fabulous. I'm telling you this is one of those must visit places. I swear the sunset over the Chesapeake makes the food and wine taste even better. Go visit Hemingway's and see for yourself! You won't be sorry you did!
(5)
Tom L.
Oh Hemingway's, I used to love you so. Your crab cakes were wonderful, and your frozen drinks and cocktails delicious. But there was no excuse for our last visit. Absolutely none. The visit started well enough, with the drinks served up within 5 minutes. But with the restaurant at less than 50% capacity, it took you forty (yes, that's 40) minutes to both forget our calamari and to serve us burgers that were well done when we ordered them medium? With such tiny portions of fries that would look skimpy even next to a MickeyD kid's happy meal? Also, what's with the sad-looking grape tomato halves on the burgers? Look, I understand that there was a big group on the other side of the patio, and that kitchens get slammed. But waiting over half an hour before even telling us about the situation is completely unacceptable. And seriously, did we even have to mention that we wanted the appetizer BEFORE the burgers were served? And that we'd rather have our entrees (after waiting over half an hour) instead of having them sit under the heat lamp while they stick frozen squid in the fryer? Speaking of the calamari, it was pure nerve on the part of the waitress to not even own up to forgetting about the order, which was rather obvious when the two tables next to us were done with their meals before we got our burders! And they got there after we had put our orders in! Waitress, manager, kitchen... It was a big fail on all fronts on that visit that's completely ruined the place for me.
(1)
mike r.
Great experience glad they decidedto not open the hotel and brought back Hemingways for a second run. Blows away thefirst one and the only thing better than the food and the service was the best view of the Bay. You wont be disappointed a first class experience.
(4)
Amy K.
After driving by multiple times, we stopped at Hemingway's this weekend on the way to the beach. We were hoping for Sunday brunch to go with the great view and were surprised/disappointed to find out that Hemingway's doesn't serve brunch. It was a nice day and the view was great so we made the bad decision to stay. My meal was served cold and my husband's sandwich wasn't even worth attempting to eat - even the fries were soggy. Despite the lovely server and the great view, we definitely won't be back.
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Dinner Parking : Private Lot Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Alcohol : Full Bar Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : Free Has TV : Yes Dogs Allowed : No Waiter Service : Yes Caters : Yes
Jeffrey H.
The food is nothing special - nothing disappointing, but nothing that stands out from hundreds of other casual American-style restaurants in the region. And the prices are a little bit higher than average. But the view is amazing, especially off of the upper deck patio; and there's ample, easy docking for one's boat. I guess the best way to put it, is that Hemmingway's is a wonderful place to spend a few lazy hours with friends enjoying a fine outdoor day, especially as a lunch break from cruising the bay, and the food is decent enough that it doesn't detract from the enjoyment.
(3)Mike G.
I used to stop here en route to OCMD every summer for years. It had been a couple years since I had been back, and, unfortunately, I will not be going back. The food was nothing like it used to be. The service was awful, however I completely discounted the quality of service in order to objectively judge the food. I brought a friend to this restaurant on a Friday evening at 7 PM, and I should have taken the emptiness of the restaurant as a hint as to what product & service I'd be receiving. I raved about the cream of crab soup, because it had previously been the best I'd ever come across. The cream of crab soup was absolutely terrible. No lump crab or old bay added on top. We ordered calamari which was served with an aioli chipotle sauce... this WAS a seafood restaurant, apparently not anymore. The crab cakes were okay, however they were formed as saucers, not the Maryland "cake". I don't know if ownership has changed, or it is just terribly managed. The only thing good about Hemingway's is the view. Go for the bar on the bay. Don't go to eat.
(2)Larry H.
This is the one dock bar on the bay that everyone desperately "wants" to love but just can't... Amazing location (right in the shadow of the bay bridge) - CHECK. Amazing two tier deck with Spec-tac-ular sunsets - CHECK. Annnnnnd after that, everything just goes down hill... Overpriced - CHECK. Poorly prepared food - CHECK. Lack of live music - CHECK. Zero party atmosphere - CHECK. Run like a stuffy old yacht club that doesn't really want your business if you're under the age of 70 - CHECK. Hopefully someday ownership of this location will be transferred to someone who can take advantage of the location and turn it into a wildly popular destination. Until then... 1. Dirty Dave's Tiki Bar at Kentmorr Restaurant & Crab House 2. The Jetty Dock Bar 3. Red Eyes Dock Bar 4. Big Owl Dock Bar
(2)David L.
Really wanted to like this. Our hosts were very keen on it. And the view is amazing at sunset. But it went downhill. They couldn't get drinks right. They were out of Yuengling Beer which is supposed to be on draft. If took more than 30 minutes for them to bring us Martinis and margaritas.....hardly rocket science for a bartender. Finally got a draft beer made for them by Samuel Adamd It took 45 minutes for us to get napkins and silverware....after the appetizers were delivered. The server was pleasant....just dazed and confused. Mandatory 20% tip for a party of 6!! Food.... Oh yes this is a restaurant. Most everyone had the crab cake and liked it. I had ahi tuna and it was good. Potatoes and veggies good too... Not special but good The calamari appetizer was good fish prepared not so well. Undercooked and coating didn't adhere to the fish. Crab was fried and soggy. Such a great location deserves great food and great service. To put it kindly, not quite.
(2)Robin F.
One star is for the view and the decor, both of which are beautiful. The food and service are just not good. We tried this place several times, but no more. We live about 2 miles away, but won't be giving this place another chance. Food is overpriced, small entree portions. On our last visit we ordered happy hour apps, waiting over 30 minutes, calamari was cold, crab dip looks good with chunks of crab on top, but beneath was this tasteless, gluey, kind of cream cheese (it's $17 on the reg menu!). Waitress didn't know when happy was or how much the food was. Service was so slow, not completely her fault i guess, there were 2 waitress for the whole patio.
(1)Bill D.
We had strong recommendations from a friend who stops here frequently on his way back from the beach. The setting on the waterfront is lovely. As we walked around to the patio, I was nearly paralyzed by the overamplified truly awful calypso. Look, I love calypso and reggae. But don't shriek it over recorded tracks at 80 dB. This wasn't Jamaica. The closest this came to The Islands was a bar mitzvah in The Hamptons where no person darker than a tennis tan would be let in. Wandering around the maze up the restaurant, we were greeted by a nearly empty restaurant. Our server, Nick, did a surprisingly good job despite it being only his third day. I asked for gluten-free options, and both Nick and his co-worker made good suggestions. I'd recommend they steer carefully around the salads, though. The dressings can be a minefield depending on the source of the vinegar, bleu cheese and whether soy sauce is an ingredient. The Ahi Tuna appetizer was a recommendation, but it shouldn't have been because of the soy sauce. We ordered two burgers, mine medium with no bun and slaw. His medium rare and slaw. Our orders were reversed and both came with fries. While the restaurant was empty, the patio was jumping so confusion in the orders occurred in the kitchen. Based on other reviews, this is a common theme. Your kitchen is out of control. I'd request you switch to a more upscale condiment brand like Boar's Head (which is also gluten free) and tastes way better than the horrible Heinz crap presented like this was a cheap diner. Nick and his co-workers played the best they could with the hand they were dealt. Our drinks were refilled without asking and their manners were excellent. Whoever's hiring and training the staff knows their business. I apologize to anyone may have seen us rinsing out with Listerine in the parking lot: new braces & they get really icky. That's no reflection on the food, but it was gauche.
(3)Alyssa M.
Food was horrible. Horrible. Horrible. Tasteless. Horrible. Horrible. Horrible. Crab cake was $16 and super super small. Crab wasn't even fresh. Wings... not good. Crab bisque.... horrible and not fresh. I was sooooo disappointed. I wanted to try this place out for years... and finally came here... so disappointed!!!
(1)Steph H.
View at sunset and of the bridge is spectacular. I realize we dined on a Saturday night, perfect weather, I the summer but that does not excuse the length of time it took for our meals to arrive...and not all at the same time. I will say the food was very good (crab cakes.). I will absolutely give this establishment a second chance - just not durning peak season.
(2)Rich B.
2 stars for the nice view of the bay bridge! Figure there's a huge fish on the side of the buiding, so I ordered the fish and chips. The french fries were warm and limp, the fish was bland and mushy. I got a piece and a 1/2. Figure for 18.95 I would get some descent fish, after all there is a huge bay outside of the restaurant.
(2)Dave S.
Quite expensive for what you get. See picture of unclean flatware. In what world does a burger with Swiss cheese and cole slaw become one with cheddar and fries. Oh Heinz yellow mustard on a $12 burger is not mustard. Fail.
(2)Andrew G.
I had the most bizarre "dining" experience at Hemingway's this Saturday. I got there a little bit ahead of my friends so I asked the hostess what was good on the menu. The ribs, the burger, the pretzels...I thought that was a bit strange since it is billed as a seafood place on the water...but I didn't think anything of it. We were seated and our waitress said that their kitchen was a little backlogged so we immediately put in an order for crab dip and drinks. We got those in a decent amount of time, but our server came back and told us that the kitchen wouldn't be able to accept our food order! Huh?! We said we would eat our dip and then check in again about getting a food order placed. No dice. It wasn't even like they were crowded. So bizarre!
(1)Valerie E.
Arrived to find a nearly empty restaurant, and seated at a nice window seat. We were excited for a nice lunch with such a lovely view. The view is all they have that will satisfy you. We sat for 20 min with not a single server to check on us. I had to ask the hostess if anyone was going to wait on us. Servers seemed to be standing around doing nothing. Unreal. Then we still waited another 5 min for a server. She was pleasant, but seemed distracted or upset. She was prompt with our drinks, then our food arrived not too long after ordering. My Anjou Pear Gorgonzola Salad had no pears nor gorgonzola...not kidding...just spinach, drowned in dressing and candied walnuts. $14.00 for spinach, dressing and walnuts? Okaaayyy...server asked if everything was okay, but I was in no mood to send my food back. I just ate so we could leave. Then my boyfriend's fish tacos....some of the fish apeared to not be cooked through. We separated the uncooked fish and then he ate the rest...thankfully he was not sick from it. Go here if you're in the mood for a view with slow service and overpriced, incorrect menu items.
(1)Sarah W.
Stopped in to eat on a Sunday and it was not very busy. The first star is for the view and the second star is for the decor inside the restaurant and the fresh orange crushes. Our server was extremely snobby and condescending. She recommended the wings, which were not good at all (it's hard to screw up wings, too). The food is overly priced and they do not serve crabs. I ordered the fish tacos which turned out to be ok - nothing spectacular. The cole slaw is soupy and the french fries were cold. Had it not of been for the awful service, we might have decided to dine here again, but are so turned off by the waitress and will not be returning.
(2)James W.
The absolute worst. The view is amazing, I'll give them that. But any part of your dining experience that may rely on some sort of customer service will disappoint you in ways you didn't know existed. 90 minutes to get food? On a slow night? One refill for the entire dinner, cold food, and NO apology at any point! A member in our group actually sat in a chair that broke and sent him to the floor, I simply cannot make this up! The waitress was the cherry on top. Cursing, audibly in front of customers, and never taking responsibility for any of the mishaps throughout the evening. You will overpay, and you will feel cheated out of your money and your time. If you're looking to waste an evening out, this is your spot. Better yet, find a garbage can and eat from it, you'll actually be less disappointed than this p.o.s. restaurant.
(1)Nilanjana M.
We have been to Hemingway's for their Sunday Brunch before and that is the only reason I'll not give it a 1 Star ! The experience today was awful ! The bright Sunday morning was all but ruined because of a terribly backed-up kitchen. We waited, waited and waited - 45 mins for the Crispy Oysters we had ordered as appetizers. The entrees took another hour to arrive ! And when they did, the burger was overcooked, the bread soggy and the crab cakes miniscule - I have never seen such over-priced low quality food on the shore before ! The hostess and servers were apologetic and did their best to save the ruined brunch but SORRY , I am not going back to this restaurant again !
(2)Christopher S.
Best fish and chips I have ever had. Great service. Nice decor. Great view of the bay. We had four kids with us. They all are fine. Chicken, grilled cheese, buttered noodles. Seven people in total with a bill at eighty dollars. A little pricey for lunch... So only four stars.
(4)Chad C.
Great view. Terrible food. Overpriced. The fried oysters were frozen and bland. Crab mac and cheese looked like cat food had been added to Kraft. My wife's review of the fish tacos, "the worst fish tacos I have eaten in my life."
(1)Mojdeh S.
How I heard of this place: Our good friends and travel companions recommended a lunchtime pit-stop at Hemingway's on our drive to St. Michaels. We came to enjoy the renovations and partake of the esteemed clam chowder. Type of cuisine: A cornucopia of seafood eats, including a raw bar for fresh Chesapeake Bay oysters, calamari, crabs, fresh and farm-raised fish, not to mention burgers, steak and baby back ribs. Ambiance: Fresh and vibrant, the openness of the exposed, high, A-frame ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows looking out onto the Chesapeake Bay create a lively yet calming, serene escape from the world outside. A variety of kitsch, yet delicately placed paraphernalia give a warm, homey feel to this hardwood floor setting. What I ordered: I was saving my appetite for dinner and opted out of appetizers, yet my dining companions were adequately tempted by the scrumptious menu. To start, Creamy Crab Bisque ($8.95) mixed with the soup of the day ($7.95) to create a vegetable-rich, creamy delicacy, and Fried Oysters ($11.95) - a half-dozen Select Oysters, hand breaded, flash fried and served on horseradish cream with chopped salsa. Of course, my temptation was easily swayed when one dining companion asked if I would share the Seafood Skins ($11.95): potato skins loaded with shrimp, jumbo crab meat, topped with cheese and broiled to order. For our main entrees, my husband gratuitously jumped at the Farm Raised Atlantic Salmon ($25.95), roasted on white cedar with brown sugar BBQ sauce and served with a pickled cucumber salad and roasted red potatoes. I shared the Salmon B.L.T. ($12.95) with the other of our dining companions, enjoying the thick layer of Atlantic salmon, bacon, arugula, and roasted tomatoes with an herb mayo served on multi-grain toast with fries. What I loved: The flaky, tender salmon of my B.L.T. accompanied by the lemon-peppery fresh arugula. Why I loved it: A warm, inviting establishment shared with close friends over a fresh and hearty meal. Cost: Average to high ($10.95 to $29.95 per sandwich and entree)
(3)W H.
Pretty sure my credit card was stolen/swiped when my CC disappeared for 25 minutes when I paid my bill. Service and food were no better than average.
(1)Brittany S.
For a regular restaurant i'd probably take off 1 star for the hostess who was only seating reservations even though there were plenty of tables open. Luckily the manager was there to seat us right away. The reason this place is a perfect score well... The view is 10 stars alone and the service is just as good. The food is just the cherry on top. Our server was very friendly and bless her for working on Father's Day, she was attentive and very nice. We ordered the crab fondue and calamari as an appetizer which were gone in a few minutes 1. They were damn good and 2. We were starving. The fondue was my favorite of the two, it was nice to have something different than just the regular ol' crab dip and the bread was to die for. I then ordered the grilled chicken breast, Hemingway's style which was really good, perfect light and healthy meal, didn't leave too overly full after. The spinach and asparagus was perfect cooked not too soggy. The tomatoes were amazing just a little sweet but added the perfect contrast to the dish. The big chunks of crab meat were sprinkled on top. Yum! And because I was being so healthy, we decided to go with 2 desserts to share. We shared the chocolate molten cake which was melt in your mouth chocolate goodness and the Smith Island cake which was one of the best cakes I've ever had. Everybody had a good time, the live music was the perfect setting and everyone enjoyed their dish. No problems docking our boat, just drive right up and enjoy :) For boaters - skip Annapolis for sure!!! There is nowhere to dock your boat and there are sooo many people which means a long wait for food. Definitely skip the crowds of people and come here! You will not regret it!
(5)Judy M.
This was hands-down the worst service I have ever experienced. We apparently arrived on amateur night. Things went wrong instantly when the hostess told us that she was sorry, but despite our reservation, there would be a 20 minute wait before being seated. Once seated at a wonderful outdoor table with a view of the sun setting behind the bay bridge, things went into slow motion. It took forever for anyone to take our order, and during the long, long wait for our food, our waiter returned to the table to find out which of our orders he had forgotten. When our food finally arrived (2 hours after our initial arrival!), several members of our party were informed that part of their order was no longer available. They had to substitute orders. Several others in our party had to remind the waiter of parts of their order that had not arrived. The food for the member of our whose order had been forgotten arrived when almost everyone at the table had finished their food. The waiter brought us two complimentary ice cream sundaes, explaining that the kitchen was "slammed tonight." It's hard to comment objectively on the quality of the food given the frustration of the evening. I'll be happy to return and enjoy the beautiful porch view when this place is under new management.
(1)F P.
We've lived in the area for over 20 years and have always wanted this restaurant to improve - but every time we try it, the food is terrible and very expensive. The crab bisque was the worst I've ever had, almost a gelatinous goo with little if any crab meat. The crab dip was on par with something from the nearby Food Lion; not that it was horrible, but it just wasn't any better than what you could buy in a tub for half the price. And the mahi-mahi fish tacos had to come from Taco Bell. Dried out, over fried, could be chicken, mess in a taco shell. If I didn't like you, I would recommend Hemingway's. We've tried to like this place every couple of years, but I can only imagine that it stays in business because of the people driving to the beach or coming into the marina.
(1)Connie C.
The location is near the Bay Bridge but the food is not tasty! If you want real seafood go to the Crab Shack at the corner on your way in. The view from Sandy Point Park is more beautiful.
(1)John C.
Run don't walk! We went to this restaurant during happy hour. We ordered a wrap and a appetizer and three drinks. We ordered another round of two drinks. When the bill arrived it was $75.00 +. I called the server's attention that I was charged $27.00 for two "Rob Roys" and she told me the computer was programmed to charge this amount. The food was terrible ie: the crab fondue was dry and the sauce looked and tasted like library paste, The wrap had big chunks chicken instead of sliced and was tasteless. Be ware, none of the locals eat hear, There a lot of great restaurants on Kent Island but this not one on them .
(1)Whitney R.
Just tried to go to Hemingways for a late lunch. The hostess said it was a 30 minute wait. There were tables available inside and outside. When I questioned her further she said, "it's a kitchen thing, not a service thing". So I asked if we could sit outside (beautiful water views) and have a drink while we wait. The hostess replied, "my manager won't let me seat anyone for any reason. I don't want to get in trouble." I said, "ok we'll leave", to which she said "have a great day!" ??? I'm a hospitality consultant. Thank you for the good story to use in training staff of what not to do. Not surprising when I went to write this review the place has few stars. Perhaps it's a service culture problem and someone should take a look at the top. Luckily the crab shack nearby was delightful! Go there!!
(1)Dustin S.
Great sunset views but if your looking for good food keep driving the the narrows exit 43. Is super expensive and the food is blaaa.....although if you like flower balls in your 10 dollar cream of crab soup than this is the place for you. I live on kent island and no locals come here for reasons above. It's owned by a corporation, no shore ties here.
(1)Phanna P.
We were here to see a friend sing. Great entertainment but I have less to say about the menu. We sat outside with a great view, but the menu was limited to a lite fare. I'm not sure why such a limited menu, but if you were seated inside you'll have the full menu. The crab cake sandwich was a good sized portion, orange crush was delicious. I didn't like the tipsy raspberry. Get rid of the darn flies. It was not fun trying to eat and use a free hand to shoo the flies away.
(3)Ron R.
I would like to write a review about how delicious the crab bisque I ordered tasted. I would also like to tell you about the wonderful Mahi Mahi tacos my wife ordered. But I can't. We were never served. We arrived and were told there would be a 30 minute wait, but she was clearing her wait list and it might be sooner. Forty minutes later my wife asked the hostess if she forgot about us. She asked what we meant - her wait list was cleared and everyone had been seated. She was actually rather defensive about it, but proceeded to sit us inside as we asked - just to get away from the mediocre music being played outside, It didn't help. We were right over the band and our table rocked with the beat. Our waitress took our order for lemonade, the aforementioned crab bisque and the tacos. The lemonade came quickly, along with some very hot bread, but 45 minutes later we still hadn't been served our meals. I threw five bucks on the table to cover the drinks, and walked out. I doubt I'll ever be walking in again. What a shame. Hemmingway's used to be one of our favorite places.
(1)Pam H.
Service was a tad slow but the view made up for it. Crab Fondue appetizer was yummy! It was hot and cheesy!
(3)Corey W.
Stopped in Hemingways on the way to the beach; had to make a pit stop to watch the USA/Belgium World Cup soccer match. Sat at the bar on the upper level (apparently there is a bigger bar down stairs); they had good HH specials for both food and alcohol. Calamari was really good; seasoned with Old Bay and a nice thick marinara sauce - good stuff. Fried pickles were good as well; a little greasy but still really good. Staff was very attentive and it's nice to stare out the windows and watch traffic pass by as you sip on a cold beverage.
(4)Nora T.
This review is solely for the service . Our server Melissa was the absolute worst. Rushed us through the meal. Total bitch. Rudely sarcastic when we tried to help her. We asked for bread and she said "I don't know if we have any- I'll check" when every other table had it. Made me want to run away from this place.
(2)Jessica M.
Crab fondue was just weird. Very little crab meat. Same with the crab bisque. It was basically a crab base with one piece of meat in it. The calamari was acceptable as was the crab cake. Crab cake was minimally seasoned but mostly meat. Would not recommend.
(2)Lorrie L.
Stella on tap! Need I say more :) shared a crab cake app and it was probably the best one I have ever had , and I order them everywhere! I ordered grilled rock fish and he ordered scallops... Both were cooked perfectly and wonderful! Service was pleasant and not bothersome. Reservations get you by the window (usually).
(5)Erin B.
Went here for my birthday dinner with my husband and three kids. Absolutely the worst restaurant on the island. After the TWO DEAD FLIES fell on our table our waitress told us about the fly problem... We waited well over an hour for our food - the seafood pot pie was taking a while. When our food finally arrived the "ice cream scooped" mashed potatoes were cold - my daughter's Streak Frites - at $31.95 was pre-sliced, cold, dry and burnt. My $33 Chilean sea bass was cold, was served with cold mashed potatoes instead of rice and 4 stalks of asparagus. The " seafood pot pie" was a bowl of slop with two triangles of phyllo dough. We walked out without eating anything. The manager was defensive and abrasive and unapologetic. What a huge disappointment. No wonder no one ever comes here.
(1)Isaac T.
This Resturant is a little pricey but has a great ambience and view. We sat outside and had a great view of the water and boats. The food was great. I ordered the Caesar salad, really good dressing. This is a great place to stop on the way to Ocean City.
(5)Andria O.
I had been wanting to check out Hemingways for awhile, as I pass by it when going to Fisherman's Inn. It was a beautiful day, so we decided to check it out.... We should've gone to Fisherman's Inn. The crab bisque HORRIBLE, had no flavor and no CRAB! I had to send mine back, but my 3-year old loved it. Since we couldn't decide on what we wanted we ordered several appetizers. The sweet chili shrimp were okay, really small and nothing exciting about them, they were just fried shrimp covered in sauce. The crab cake was meaty but had a weird tasting filler but again it was just okay. The calamari was about as average as everything else we ordered. We also tried the blackened tuna per our waitresses suggestion and it was okay but probably better than anything else we had. All in all we ordered: the sweet chili shrimp, the crab cake appetizer, calamari, blackened tuna appetizer, a kids grilled cheese, 4 orange crushes and an apple juice. The service was HELLA slow! And it's expensive (our meal came to $120)! The only thing we did enjoy was the AMAZING view and the orange crushes. If you go to Hemingway's you're not paying for good food, you're paying for the AWESOME view. Although, the grilled cheese my toddler had was pretty tasty. I won't come back unless they change the menu and the chef. My suggestion keep driving....
(1)J J.
The service was terrible. I ordered crab soup as an appetizer. I waited 20 minutes for it which I had to remind our server, Tyler to bring. Then after waiting another 35 minutes for food that was not brought to our table; we ended up leaving. I attempted to pay for the soup but was comp'd by the manager. She apologized & stated the menu had recently been changed which caused the delay in receiving our food. I advised I had no problem waiting for the food, it was having to ask other servers for service.
(1)Arthur C.
Hemingway's was one of our favorite stops on trips to the Eastern Shore but had fallen on hard times. Now under new management it's redone and very attractive. Tables have a view of the Bay Bridge through large windows. We watched private planes take off and land at the neighboring air field while waiting for lunch. We shared what Hemingway's calls 50/50 soup; a blend of cream of crab soup with Maryland crab soup which is tomato based and more like a crab vegetable soup. The blend won raves. It cut down on the heaviness of traditional cream of crab while retaining its richness. Then one of us had the Hemingway's burger which was fabulous and the other two shared a crab cake appetizer which won raves for it's lack of filler. Welcome back
(4)Steve K.
One of my regular spots when sailing the bay. Short channel and close docking. Nice views and covered outdoor seating. Food and service ok for this type of place. It's just a seaside restaurant/bar. Not really for foodies or picky eaters.
(3)Steven B.
Terrible service and mediocre food combine for a not so lovely dinner date with my fiancée. Our waitress Shari was almost non existent, only showing up to bring us our food. Never to ask how anything was, refill our drinks or ask if we needed anything else. As an appetizer we wanted crab dip, but was told they have crab fondue not crab dip. So we ordered it, again mediocre at best. It came with bread for dipping which was only enough for about half of the fondue and had our waitress ever come back out I would have asked for more. Instead it just sat there until our entrees were ready and she took it away, still half full, without asking if we were done. Not worth the visit.
(1)Susie K.
Went here for lunch today and the food was so-so, nothing special. I got the panzanella salad with blackened tuna on top, others got the hemingway salad with tuna (she said it was awesome) it's a mix of mesclun greens with strawberries, blue cheese, balsamic; caesar salad with blackened tuna (very good), order of steamed clams (expensive for a dozen but fresh & delicious), crab cocktail (tasty but expensive- a few cucumber slices topped off with a lump of crabmeat). The panzanella salad came out on a plate too big for the salad, the veggies were fresh but the bread was very stale and chewy (I guess it's supposed to be like that), and the dressing was a bit lacking. Panzanella consisted of mesclun greens, bits of mozzarella cheese, tomatoes, cucumbers, bread, red onions. We asked for bread in the beginning and it was GREAT. Fresh, soft, hot with bits of cranberries in it. Make sure you ask for some! The view was beautiful so make sure you get a seat near the windows I'm giving this place a 3/5 because the service was terrible. We waited at least 25 minutes for our main entrees to show up (which were salads!!), while all the other tables who came in after us were served their hot foods first.... huh? o.o I might be back- the view was killer and their happy hour specials sound do-able.
(3)Kate P.
I enjoy a lot of places and will often give four stars, but rarely does a restaurant experience go over the top to create a five-star experience. I do not think it gets much better than Hemingways, though. My mother and I stopped here for dinner after a day at the Delaware Beaches for her birthday on a Sunday night. There was a short wait for an outside deck table, but we were happy to wait so that we could explore the beautiful area. It is right next to the Bay Bridge and a marina. It has a lamp-lit dock with abundant lounge chairs to enjoy the view. We were seated on a roof-deck area with, once again, great views of the bay, bridge, and boats. There was a bar below that with no wait and still great views, but the menu is slightly smaller. The service was fantastic everywhere. Everyone was extremely friendly and attentive to any needs or requests. My mom got the cream of crab soup, which she seem to thoroughly enjoy. Although it is a seafood place, I was really feeling a steak, so I ordered the NY strip. It was absolutely amazing. Cooked perfectly, juicy on the inside with a flavorful, but slightly crispy exterior. They put a candle in a creme brulee for my mom's birthday, too. Overall great experience! The only improvements could have been better signs directing people to the restaurant from the main road (although the elusiveness of it gave it a unique mystique) and they mentioned being backed up in the kitchen. We had no problem with time waiting for a table or food, but if they expect large crowds, they might want to work on the kitchen situation.
(5)David T.
The view from this seaside restaurant is great, the food is disapointing. I think they are hoping the sunset will keep your mind off the bland over-priced food. I've tried it twice, both after a full day of boating on the bay. Unless seeking safe harbor from a storm, I'm going to cruise on by this place in the future.
(2)Kenneth C.
My girlfriend and I took a day trip across the bay for lunch and decided to do in because of the view. The food was very good and our was attentive and friendly. We were both very pleased with the crab cake and the clams abs sausage appetizer.
(4)Josh L.
A great place to visit by boat. Ample dock space and someone helped us dock. I had a seafood salad that was pretty good. Pretzel rolls were tasty. My girlfriend had chilled seafood platter that was very good. Would go back.
(3)Michelle G.
We stopped in at the height of dinner hour on a Friday night in January, and the place had lots of empty tables, but the servers were rushing about like they were utterly slammed. Still, we got great service and the food arrived reasonably quickly. The crab cake sandwich was the highlight. One of the best in my life, with very little filler. The spinach, crab and artichoke dip, on the other hand, was soupy and too heavy. Did they put mayonnaise in it? Kind of tasted like it... eww... The fish fingers on the kids menu were surprisingly excellent and almost reminded me of the authentic fish and chips from my husband's hometown on the Scottish seaside. Even though we brought our two year old, I wouldn't say this place is exactly kid-friendly. I think it has aspirations of fanciness, even if 90% of the actual clientele are hungry, road-weary drivers whose legs are still jelly and nerves are a little wracked from crossing the bay bridge.
(4)Ric M.
There should be a law that reverts 5% of the revenue from any restaurant named after "Papa", on the water, to a school of restaurant management. Saturday night, 5/31/2014, the day was beautiful, the sunset spectacular and they run out of food at 8:15? The parking lot was full of angry patrons who had spent hours waiting for food that never came. A riot was barely averted. We hitched a ride into town to eat (we were there on our boat because there was a restaurant at the marina) and the stories of incompetence were rampant. Go, have a drink, see the sunset, and eat elsewhere. New Rules, never eat at any place called Hemingways that Earnest didn't eat at. This was the worst.
(1)Holly R.
The views are amazing, the staff was a little slow to get us started. Food was so so, but came out fast. Great place to have a drink on the water though....
(3)Rocky T.
I've only visited this place once (the view) & it will probably be my last (the view) unless I want to enjoy the beautiful view. I ordered the (the view) crabcake sandwich & it wasnt (the view) tasty at all especially (the view) considering the price. Did I mention "the view"? Lol The beautiful sunset view from the outside rear of this restaurant is the only thing going for this place IMHO.
(1)Mark T.
WNt here based on yelp search. Was NOT disappointed. Place was amazing. Sat immediately on a sat night, perfect night on patio with a beautiful sunset, great waitress (Megan) who was very attentive, and the food was great. Made for a really great evening. Had a great solo artist playing beach music which set the perfect atmosphere. Only downside was the filet which seemed to have some sweet seasoning which wasn't popular with my 8 year old. Tasted good to me but not my kid. Just needed to know would have helped. Amazing place and will definitely go back.
(4)Barbra I.
Views, sunset and decent food. In that order. Don't expect an excellent meal, but if you go for happy hour it's definitely worth it as they have small plates at cheap rates. Oysters were yum!
(4)Mike D.
The facility itself is excellent. Fun nautical decor. Great view of the Bay. Staff friendly and competent. Wait times on the longer side. Fish & chip (flounder) super breaded and greasy. Tartar sauce more mayo than is right. Desserts taste out of the box.
(3)Mary F.
The Easter Brunch was a rip off! $32.50 per person which all of the food was cold, over cooked or the tray of food was just empty. Stay home and save your money!
(1)sherri s.
We split a crabcake for an appetizer. We had the rockfish imperial and the crab mac n cheese. I think we got 2 of the best dishes on the menu. We raved about them, as did our server when we placed our order. The service was lacking at first. We waited about 15 minutes before anyone took our drink orders and we had to ask someone to find out who our server was and to bring us some water. But once that was settled, our service was great. After finishing our dinner (that we enjoyed while listening to live music from below), we walked downstairs to the grass and the water's edge to watch a perfect sunset over the Bay Bridge. We'll defintely be back!
(4)Karen D.
We went to Hemingway's for our 10th wedding anniversary. I told them ahead of time that it was our celebration. We got there a little early on 5/10/14 (a Saturday) and said we'd sit at the bar and have a drink until our table was ready. We ended up having 2 drinks each because Kimberly, the hostess wanted to make sure we got a good seat with a good view of the sun going down over the Chesapeake Bay. So it took 45 minutes to get seated. But the drinks were good and the seats were pretty good once we got them. I ended up getting tuna and my husband got mahi-mahi. Everything was good. Kimberly ended up comping us a free dessert for having to wait. I got the apple pie, which was great! It was a good experience!
(4)Alex M.
Great crab cakes (all that meat and no potatoes!) and rockfish. Definitely a place to come back to. Fantastic dining space and view of the Bay Bridge.
(4)Amir P.
Food was OK++ but the location, location, location is a sight that you must see to believe. Especially from the outdoor bar while the sun sets. You are looking at the bay bridge right in front of you.
(4)Lisa G.
Yes it was pricey (only reason I didn't give 5 stars) but the open face cram melt was DELICIOUS! Can't wait for another! View was delightful and service was great! Recently visited again... Crab cake was so so (prefer faidley's!) but calamari was great! Cheeseburger not cooked well.
(4)George J.
I came here on a Sunday afternoon after a hunting trip with my father and his coworker. We showed up 30 minutes before the kitchen opened and were able to sit at the bar. The staff was very accommodating and were more than happy to tend to us despite our early arrival and our morning drink orders; mimosas for me! For those who don't know Hemingway's has undergone renovation a few years ago and looks completely different inside. The decor still retains the seafaring theme but with less nets and and crab crates. The main dinning area is very open and well lit through natural light. I ordered the Atlantic Salmon BLT and it was delicious. I would definitely recommend Hemingway's to anyone crossing the bay bridge.
(4)Jordan C.
Kuddos: for the convenient location adjacent to Route 50, water view, outdoor seating when it's warm, and renovated, well designed interior Misses: next to Route 50, uncreative menu with the typical seafood selections you would expect at a chain restaurant, very bad wine list - made up of wines you could buy at most drug stores.
(2)Jeff R.
2 stars only because of the view! Stuffed shrimp was cold. They heavily prep menu items and just reheat very sad for what you pay! Mixed drinks are resort prices and average. Servers apologize for the kitchen all night long to the other tables around us! The place needs a real manager who can run both front of house as well as the back! Go to Fisherman's Crab Deck or Kentmoor! Better ingredients better food better pricing!
(2)Drew W.
My parents and I stopped for dinner at Hemingway's on our way home from a Navy Football game. Eating crab cakes on the water in Maryland, what could be better? Apparently, just about anything. It started off with me telling the hostess that someone had left their car lights on in the parking lot. After telling her the model, make and color of the car, she replied that she didn't know how to inform guests about this bit of information. Our waitress was nice, a bit eager to get us moving on ordering but I understand the place gets packed. My Mom had said she wanted to order the crab cakes but was afraid to since few things are more disappointing than a bad crab cake, which is true. Instead she ordered the crab bisque and a caesar salad. The bisque was good, saving this meal from 1 star. As she began to eat her salad, she looked up and and said that she had never tasted a less inspired salad before. She didn't finish it. My father had the short ribs and grimaced through part of it until he gave up. It was tough with bland side vegetables. He didn't finish it. Being that I grew up eating Maryland crabs and crab cakes but now live in Brooklyn, I decided to throw caution to the wind and order the crab cakes. What a huge mistake. I ordered it fried and yet the small cake was soggy. It was dwarfed by the brioche roll. The crab cake was the same consistency and flavor as the bun. Blech. So sad. Add to all this that Hemingway's charges premium prices and we left more disappointed in Hemingway's than nearly any restaurant any of us had been to. It's not that the food was inedible but it was so blatantly mediocre that it was almost worse. No view can make up for that.
(2)Massiel G.
Me and my hubby stop by here after checking the silver swan for our ceremony an decide to look at Hemingway for reception and try there food out. We were seated quickly, and the waiter very nice. We first had the crab spinach dip which was very delicious. Then I had chicken sandwich and my hubby crab cake. There fries were really good I wanted to Oder more!!! My sandwich was amazing I really enjoy it and my hubby enjoy his crab cake as well!!! We met the manager Jerry who we though was very wonderful and professional about our reception and information. I recommend this place very nice view nice staff an good food!!!
(4)Samantha W.
We stopped by here for dinner on the way home from the beach last weekend and had a nice time. We had our dog with us and called ahead to make sure we could bring her. The back patio is dog-friendly so we grabbed a table with umbrella upon arrival. Our waitress immediately brought some water out for the dog which I thought was really nice of her. We ordered a couple beers and Jumbo Crab Cake Sandwiches. I thought it was great. Large crab cake, tasty remoulade and a heaping of chips on the side, with pickle spears. I was famished but it was delicious. A little pricey ($17/each) but I don't get crab cakes often so it was worth the splurge. The patio and outside bar were really nice, and had spectacular views of the bay. We arrived before 5 pm and it wasn't crowded at all.
(4)Janet C.
Our experience today as a party of 10 at the restaurant was very disappointing. - My vegetable crab soup tasted just like a can of Campbell's vegetable soup with some crab meat in it. I didn't expect the Campbell's taste for a small bowl for $9.00. - The service was very poor. My one friend waited for almost 15 minutes after everyone else got their drinks for his beer. The same friend didn't get his entree until 15 minutes after the whole table got entrees, and then the crab cake was still frozen. He had to wait another 15 minutes for a new crab cake. The waiter didn't handle the situation with genuine care although he didn't charge him for his crab cake. - Since we had a large party - they automatically charged us a 20% tip. It's common to have gratuity added to the check but usually it's 18%. The 20% seemed a bit excessive especially because the service was so poor. - The food was mediocre overall yet the restaurant charges twice as much as other restaurants of the same caliber.
(2)Ryan S.
We recently went for dinner as we were passing through the area. The atmosphere was amazing, as the restaurant overlooks the water and bay bridge. It has a great setup and beautiful views as the sun begins to set. The food however was a different story. Bland, bland, bland, not to mention fairly pricey. We ordered the crab soup, which had no flavor and very little crab. I ordered the jumbo lump crab cake sandwich, which seemed to be lacking lump crab meat and again had ZERO flavor. The best thing we had was the coconut shrimp which had a great sauce. We left feeling unsatisfied and very dissappointed. Its a shame that a restaurant with such great presence has such lack luster food. A must see of the view, but go eat somewhere else.
(1)Bryan J.
Terrible food. Seriously. Overpriced, and everybody working there is miserable and unfriendly. Only thing saving it is the view.
(2)Merri M.
Went for our first time it was Sun of Memorial Day weekend absolutely perfect night and sat at the bar outside. Service was terrible no drink menus we were told to look up at the drinks listed on the ceiling that you can't see and there was zero food. The bartender said he was just as confused because they served food at the bar the day before until 7pm and stopped during a big rush. All they had to offer was bag chips and pretzels clearly purchased from a gas station. Other than a great view never will go back.
(1)Christie B.
In my opinion I think this place is over priced. Not enough to choose from and our food was not that hot. Not sure I would come back.
(2)Jennifer E.
Don't bother... really. This restaurant has everything in the world going for it, and manages to fail at each one. It is a lovely buidling, artfullly decorated, with a dynamite view... But what it manages to serve up is totally uninspired (and overpriced) food, lukewarm beer, poor service (staff are nice, just not attentive), and forced indoor seating with limited views. Recently, on a gorgeous 82 degree day when we specifically went there to dine al fresco, we were told the outdoor decks were closed. I pressed the issue, and was firmly told no. Never mind that they subsequently seated a party outdoors... The server, and later the manager to whom I complained, told me I should have "pressed my issue further." Really? You expect your patrons to vigorously press to enjoy the only positive your restaurant has??? I've given this place plenty of opportunities to get it right, and they are consistent at getting it wrong. I'm done with them.
(1)JoAnn H.
view and location awesome. Food good. Service not so much. Bartender not personable and overheard him give a snarky remark to another patron who had to wait for a drink. Just because the location is perfect does not mean the service should be lacking!
(3)Tyler K.
Worst service I have ever had, took our mom here for Mother's day and couldn't get anyone to do anything. We couldn't get the bartenders out back to even acknowledge us so we went upstairs to get beer. The bartender inside was very nice and quick, but our actual waiter forgot EVERYTHING and didn't seem to care when we pointed out that we still didn't have water that we asked for as soon as we sat down. The food was mediocre at best, but we were so livid by the time we got it that it didn't matter. DO NOT WASTE YOUR MONEY OR TIME HERE
(1)Michael R.
Great atmosphere, menu has enough (not a lot but enough). Great wings, large beer/alcohol selection, great service, perfect view. Also - kid friendly as our little ones loved the grass area they have that they were running around at with other kids. This place can be romantic enough to have a date / fun enough for a night out with the guys/girls or easy enough for family night.
(4)Matthew L.
Great bay location with amazing view of the Bay Bridge. The food is okay. The restaurant is a bit pricey and specializes in seafood and crab cakes. I prefer the outside bar. Great specials and bay side seating. In the summer people play horse shoes and corn hole. People also bring their boats up to the dock and stop for lunch. A fun place to sit out with friends.
(3)Brian G.
Great place right off the bay with amazing views at sunset. We were visiting the nearby beach with our 4 legged child and were happy that their outdoor deck was dog friendly. It was a nice warm summer day and was an amazing end to hot day having a couple beers and watching the sun go down.
(4)Nicole M.
Awful... definite tourist trap. The only thing this place has going for it is the view. And you would have to be seated by the pretentious hostess in order to enjoy it. Making up wait times to create some sort of false demand is not appealing. Food is subpar at best...
(1)Anderson L.
I went in to look at this place for an upcoming wedding rehearsal dinner and got the cold shoulder. The rude, lazy, and seemingly uninterested in making money, banquet manager wouldn't even get off her seat to introduce herself and answer a question or two. Instead she sent a poor little soul who looked like she was just fresh out of high school, to cover for her and say that she was busy. Busy......too busy to book a party of 30+ people in the future and earn revenue for your restaurant. Busy.....too busy to talk to a couple that you are standing 20 feet from as you check your facebook account while you are at the bar? If this is the way folks get treated before they even have a meal at your restaurant I can only imagine how the rest of the experience would go. I was completely turned off and will never set foot in there again.
(1)Fred B.
We read the reviews from others and they mostly over stated the experience. The place was empty and the kitchen was extremely slow. The crab cakes are just a little bit bigger than a meatball. Don't come hungry or you will be stopping for another meal. Stick to Timbuck Too or G & M near BWI. Either of those places you get a crab cake you will love.
(1)Kay J.
The restaurant itself is very tastefully decorated. We sat on the patio, great view of the bridge. I wasn't shocked by the prices, but for the prices I would expect much much better service. We were helped by one server that only took my drink order (not the 2 others with me) then randomly walked away. Another server came back and my husband ordered a diet coke. We had to eventually flag her down since she didn't bring it or lemons I originally asked for. The food was OK. I would say that you should proactively bring tarter and ketchup with sandwiches and fish dishes that have fries, etc. During all of this I noticed customers not getting silverware and being re-asked did I tell you the specials? All this forgetfulness with only 4 tables on the patio and 3 servers. In addition to all of this it was breezy and they had very large sunbrellas. We witnessed one knock over with quite a bit of force (heavy and wide) that nearly took out 2 tables. The customer (not the wait staff or manager) had to pick up the umbrella and make sure people were OK. The next umbrella fell between our table and another (again customers took action to make sure people were OK). I spoke to the manager and said they need to secure the bases to the deck or put down the umbrellas. She said, the customers will just put them up anyway. My thought was take them away until you can secure them without potential liability. I really feel like the manager should have comped a drink or dessert for some of the diners in apology. Disappointing at best. I won't be going back.
(2)Susie J.
Their setting is spectacular! For the sunset view alone, its worth stopping by if your a tourist or have guests :) k- now back to the food. Eh- it's alright; not the best, but still not totally blah. Crab cake sandwiches are kind of bland but well proportioned (no filler). T'was accompanied by sweet potato fries- the skinny kind you can buy frozen, but still a nice option. Had their oysters on a half shell- yum! Ordered another dozen to follow b/c they were so fresh. We've been here a few times now, but even as I type I can't recall what we ate other than the above. Really, it was nothing memorable food wise; but again, it's a nice pit stop for ambiance.
(3)John S.
We were seated at a window just as the sun was setting across the Chesapeake. Suzy quickly joined us to take our drink orders. I had the Parmesan Dusted Scallops which were well presented and tasty, although I didn't care too much for the taste of the orchid. My spouse had the grilled salmon which was also excellent. Suzy provided excellent service
(5)Amy K.
After driving by multiple times, we stopped at Hemingway's this weekend on the way to the beach. We were hoping for Sunday brunch to go with the great view and were surprised/disappointed to find out that Hemingway's doesn't serve brunch. It was a nice day and the view was great so we made the bad decision to stay. My meal was served cold and my husband's sandwich wasn't even worth attempting to eat - even the fries were soggy. Despite the lovely server and the great view, we definitely won't be back.
(2)John K.
Sample take: The menu said rolls available on request, so we requested. They came to the table piping hot and were kind of a mix between ciabatta and sour dough. We could have just eaten the rolls and been happy. **************************************************Â************************** I have an antique car that a mechanic on the Eastern Shore services. Darling wife drove me to pick it up Saturday, and we stopped at Hemingway's for lunch. It was 12:30 and even on a cold February day, the dining room filled rapidly after we arrived. I ordered the crab quesadilla with Old Bay and mozzarella. Wife ordered a Caesar "side" salad, which was huge, we ended up sharing, and the "Three Oyster" appetizer as an entrée. This dish actually has six oysters, 2 Rockefeller, 2 "Hemingway" with bacon and cheddar, and 2 with a sherry sauce. All were broiled to perfection and amazing tasting. The crab quesadilla had a ton of lump backfin meat. It was good, but at another table someone had ordered the crabcake which was the size of softball, and I experienced buyers' remorse. The menu said rolls available on request, so we requested. They came to the table piping hot and were kind of a mix between ciabatta and sour dough. We could have just eaten the rolls and been happy. As other reviewers have noted, it's a spectacular setting with the view of the Bay and little airplanes taking off and landing. I would love to come back for dinner at sunset. There is an outdoor cabana-style bar that opens in warmer weather and looks like it would be a lot of fun.
(4)Tim T.
This is all about location for which I would give 5 stars. The food was bland, unexciting and outrageously priced. Change the chef and this beautifully positioned waterfront restaurant would soar. My wife and I practiced forgiveness with every course - 'beautiful view', 'stunning sunset' ... Service was excellent, the martinis were spectacular, the sun warm, the boats and planes arrivals and departures from the adjacent marina and light aircraft airport were absorbing. The food was awful! Go there for ambiance, great drinks and the sunsets and eat first elsewhere.
(2)Dawn D.
Terrible, awful service. So so food. Never got bread, never got the soup and salads we ordered, waited forever and then entrees came. NO apology, they did comp one of the meals but the waitress blamed the kitchen. Last time, too many other great places to choose from.
(2)Mark S.
Two groups of us arrived by boat and were greeted promptly at the brand new docks by Robert, the GM of the marina. The deckhands seemed a little green, but that must be why Robert was there...to help them become more skilled. We sat at the bar and had drinks and apps, all served efficiently and with very friendly service. Everyone in our party commented on how great the food was from the mussels to the calamari to the tuna appetizer. My wife loved the tuna sandwich but I found it mediocre. There was even a one-man band that added to the beautiful view. We considered staying overnight on our boat at their dock so I called Robert and he was happy to help find me electrical cords to make the stay as pleasant as possible. Back at the bar the GM of the restaurant, Dwayne, was asking our opinion of the food and service...as a good GM should. It was a great experience and we will definitely be back...they seem to have the right attitude with reasonable prices and good food.
(4)Kathie P.
I would have given Hemingway's two stars, but it gets an additional star for the view. Came for dinner and experienced a wonderful sunset. The restaurant offers a great view of the Chesapeake Bay. Just ok, to my food - average at best. I had crab cakes which were on the dry side. They were made with lump crab, and had little filler, but that didn't help the taste - they were very bland. The vegetable served with the meal was overcooked, not too fresh asparagus. The restaurant seems to cater to locals, but I feel that they could go out of their way and buy local product (just a funny quirk I have). It is way too pricey for what you get. There are many other places that offer much better food for the prices. There is an outdoor bar, and that looked like fun, and there is also plenty of outdoor seating. I don't think I'll go back..
(3)Marcie T.
Food was average. I would NOT order the spinach artichoke crab dip. It tasted like warm spinach with no creaminess or any other flavor to make it palatable. How they charge $12.95 for it and don't get more complaints is a mystery. The fish tacos and chicken tenders were fine. Our server was delightful which saved this place!
(4)Brad Z.
Lovely view, nice decor, decent service, so-so food, with prices geared more towards the view than the food.
(3)Alex A.
we ate outside on the patio because we had our dog with us, we were very grateful they let her sit with us (we went to the dog beach that day) the food was overpriced and the menu was limited outside, but the view was spectacular and what we ordered tasted good. my pina colada was 8, kinda steep.
(3)H.A. T.
The makeover is a vast improvement as well as having a great outdoor area. The owners being from FL have tried to capture an on the water experience. That much they have succeeding in doing. As for the food, it is a disappointment. Why can't there be great food to go with the views? Great place for a sunset cocktail though...
(2)Rita F.
First time at Hemingway's. Great location and wonderful view. Outdoor dining and bar are an asset...the service was ok...but the food? Well, it left a lot to be desired. I had the grilled red snapper. It was topped w a sauce...no idea what it was but tasted ok. It was accompanied by boiled asparagus and 2 red boiled potatoes...bland. No seasoning at all... My husband ordered the the open face prime rib sandwich w swiss and portobello mushrooms, also accompanied with the asparagus and red potatoes. The prime rib was well done, more like a pot roast and had no flavor. Note - both plates were part of the "daily specials". I would go back to sit outside at the bar and look at the view...perhaps their burgers are better!
(3)Richard N.
Went for lunch with the mother-in-law and our daughters. It was ok the views were nice. I was really looking forward to some steamed Maryland blue crabs, but they only serve crab cakes but had a lot of lump crab dishes. We had the gazpacho soup, I had the kobe beef burger nice but I really like seafood and nothing tantalized me to pull the trigger. I was just a little under impressed with lunch. I think it must be more of a dinner place. Service was good though.
(3)Kyle A.
After deciding to sit on the fancy upstairs balcony, my boyfriend and I were happy to be serenaded by the sweet sound of Pink Floyd coming through the surround sound speakers. After perusing previous photos on Yelp, we were not expecting the oversized large mouth bass and cool new blue motif that awaited us. Much has been said about the "ambiance" of this establishment, and it did not disappoint. Much like every other tourist trap in the world, the hook was good. In this case, the view of Chesapeake Bay and Bay Bridge was incredible. The food, however, left something to be desired. Our oysters were fabulous; the calamari, dried out and lacking a certain ingredient, mainly squid, left something to be desired. Our entrees, the mahi mahi and petit filet crab cake combo came out in short order. The mahi mahi may never had spent a day in the water considering how dry the meat was, and the petit filet looked awfully like a NY Strip Steak. Surely, in the land of crabcakes and football, this dish would come through. Unfortunately, it fell flat. The crabcake, while full of crab, had spent quite some time under the heat lamp and dried out. The vegetable accompaniment was left, and while the potatoes were saturated in olive oil and salt, the carrots were a specialty of their own. The chef's brilliance left this delicate root both devoid of taste and texture. One and a half pinot grigios left me just loose enough to laugh at the awfulness of the food. Our waitress was lovely; the companions on the deck were not. The white chocolate crème brulee was called in to salvage what was turning out to be the worst white trash date night in the world. Unfortunately, under the caramelized sugar lay no more than a quarter inch of "crème." Should you remember your mini-golf putter, you'll feel right at home as the walk out felt like the 9th hole of a putt putt, complete with derelict row boat, and flashing navigational buoy to aid your hasty departure from this place. Maybe you want to avoid Hemingway's on a Monday night if you are looking for a culinary masterpiece, however, if you are looking for a good view and a chance to laugh, this is the place for you.
(3)Keith L.
Complete and utter crap! As one reviewer stated "F this place!". I went here for Mothers Day Brunch. They charged 30.00 and didnt include coffee in that price (that was an additional 2.75). Now this might have been acceptable because of the "view", but there was NOT ANY BACON, scrambled eggs, sausage, pancakes, french toast or waffles at a Mothers Day Brunch? There was a total of 8 items and thats it! I saw the look on peoples faces (and the dismay on their kids) as they approached the buffet line. The carving station had on slab of crappy beef that an 18 year old was cutting..and he stated "I dont have a carving knife" while he attempted to hack away at the vein infested chunk or garbage. This place sucks. Dont waste your money. Kick yourself in the head or go to Cracker Barell instead...both will feel much better. Oh..forgot to mention that an umbrella almost killed me twice on the deck. So they used some old ladies chair leg with her weight to keep it stable.....what an F-ing joke of a place. NOT ONLY THAT...but their website states that they "care about the customers so please contact them with any issues" I contacted them before I posted this and they never replied. The dont care about anything but taking your money for horrible food.
(1)Shieva R.
A couple friends and I stopped by in an unexpected detour (we got lost) and decided to stop in and grab an early dinner. I was there right before sunset as well and it was such a beautiful sight!! You're right on the bay with a great view and great food! I had the fried oysters with rice and veggies and they were delicious! The service was amazing also. Perfect meal, I'd make the drive out to the bay for this restaurant anytime!!
(5)Mark M.
The food is overpriced, bland, and cooked poorly. The drinks are overpriced and weak. There's no reason to come here, other than, as others have mentioned, the view...which is quite nice, especially at dusk. But then, I could go and park in a field half a mile down the road and enjoy the same view, for free, without having to order the crappy food & beverages.
(2)Pete G.
Unbelievable views, boats and planes coming and going. We had wings, the crab nachos and the Hemingway seafood platter. All were great, although a bit pricey. Would definitely recommend this place!
(4)Brian M.
Came here as part of "Marriott International Managers Outing" with other supervisors and managers. They had pretty nice selection of seafood and we ate unlimited amount of crab here. It's pretty relaxing and chill environment. Almost everyone got pretty hammered since there was an open bar and Marriott was taking care of the bills. Not bad, you get a nice view of the Bay Bridge too from the restaurant too
(4)Celtic R.
This is a great place for date night! My husband & I stopped in for a visit on our way back from a long day visiting the Smithsonian in D.C. We had the privilege of arriving at Hemingway's just a little bit before sunset. The restaurant is located directly on the Chesapeake Bay. We asked for a seat near the window and just sat back sipping our wine enjoying the tasty crab claws taking in the most magnificent sunset I have ever seen. There is a little airport near by and the sight of the little planes landing with the sunset back drop is a must see. The Chesapeake Bay Bridge all lit up at night is pretty sight as well. What ambiance! It is a night I will never forget. The food was fabulous...the view fabulous. I'm telling you this is one of those must visit places. I swear the sunset over the Chesapeake makes the food and wine taste even better. Go visit Hemingway's and see for yourself! You won't be sorry you did!
(5)Tom L.
Oh Hemingway's, I used to love you so. Your crab cakes were wonderful, and your frozen drinks and cocktails delicious. But there was no excuse for our last visit. Absolutely none. The visit started well enough, with the drinks served up within 5 minutes. But with the restaurant at less than 50% capacity, it took you forty (yes, that's 40) minutes to both forget our calamari and to serve us burgers that were well done when we ordered them medium? With such tiny portions of fries that would look skimpy even next to a MickeyD kid's happy meal? Also, what's with the sad-looking grape tomato halves on the burgers? Look, I understand that there was a big group on the other side of the patio, and that kitchens get slammed. But waiting over half an hour before even telling us about the situation is completely unacceptable. And seriously, did we even have to mention that we wanted the appetizer BEFORE the burgers were served? And that we'd rather have our entrees (after waiting over half an hour) instead of having them sit under the heat lamp while they stick frozen squid in the fryer? Speaking of the calamari, it was pure nerve on the part of the waitress to not even own up to forgetting about the order, which was rather obvious when the two tables next to us were done with their meals before we got our burders! And they got there after we had put our orders in! Waitress, manager, kitchen... It was a big fail on all fronts on that visit that's completely ruined the place for me.
(1)James K.
Had dinner on the upper deck. I was told it was non-smoking. Ten minutes later a group of a dozen or so cigar smokers showed up and smoked right next to me. I asked for the check which was comp'ed but Hemingways declined to ask them not to smoke.
(1)mike r.
Great experience glad they decidedto not open the hotel and brought back Hemingways for a second run. Blows away thefirst one and the only thing better than the food and the service was the best view of the Bay. You wont be disappointed a first class experience.
(4)C. J.
Incredible sunset view. I highly recommend for drinks and maybe appetizers. We went there in the fall -- for such an empty restaurant, the service was embarrassingly slow. Entrees were extremely over-priced, especially for the quality of food served. Additionally, my fiancé and I had a dud for a server -- my fiancé ordered a fried fish sandwich and about two bites in, there was a LONG black hair inside the battered fish. I cannot even describe the way this looked -- it was foul. My fiancé and I have both worked in the restaurant industry and we know that sometimes these things happen, but restaurants should still handle situations like this with grace and professionalism. In this case, the server blamed us and said it was not possible that the hair was in the fish before they served it. I don't know whether they batter the fish in house, but either way, we clearly didn't batter it in there! After much argument, we finally got the manager to comp the sandwich.
(2)Rich B.
2 stars for the nice view of the bay bridge! Figure there's a huge fish on the side of the buiding, so I ordered the fish and chips. The french fries were warm and limp, the fish was bland and mushy. I got a piece and a 1/2. Figure for 18.95 I would get some descent fish, after all there is a huge bay outside of the restaurant.
(2)Steph H.
View at sunset and of the bridge is spectacular. I realize we dined on a Saturday night, perfect weather, I the summer but that does not excuse the length of time it took for our meals to arrive...and not all at the same time. I will say the food was very good (crab cakes.). I will absolutely give this establishment a second chance - just not durning peak season.
(2)Dave S.
Quite expensive for what you get. See picture of unclean flatware. In what world does a burger with Swiss cheese and cole slaw become one with cheddar and fries. Oh Heinz yellow mustard on a $12 burger is not mustard. Fail.
(2)Robin F.
One star is for the view and the decor, both of which are beautiful. The food and service are just not good. We tried this place several times, but no more. We live about 2 miles away, but won't be giving this place another chance. Food is overpriced, small entree portions. On our last visit we ordered happy hour apps, waiting over 30 minutes, calamari was cold, crab dip looks good with chunks of crab on top, but beneath was this tasteless, gluey, kind of cream cheese (it's $17 on the reg menu!). Waitress didn't know when happy was or how much the food was. Service was so slow, not completely her fault i guess, there were 2 waitress for the whole patio.
(1)Jeffrey H.
The food is nothing special - nothing disappointing, but nothing that stands out from hundreds of other casual American-style restaurants in the region. And the prices are a little bit higher than average. But the view is amazing, especially off of the upper deck patio; and there's ample, easy docking for one's boat. I guess the best way to put it, is that Hemmingway's is a wonderful place to spend a few lazy hours with friends enjoying a fine outdoor day, especially as a lunch break from cruising the bay, and the food is decent enough that it doesn't detract from the enjoyment.
(3)Mike G.
I used to stop here en route to OCMD every summer for years. It had been a couple years since I had been back, and, unfortunately, I will not be going back. The food was nothing like it used to be. The service was awful, however I completely discounted the quality of service in order to objectively judge the food. I brought a friend to this restaurant on a Friday evening at 7 PM, and I should have taken the emptiness of the restaurant as a hint as to what product & service I'd be receiving. I raved about the cream of crab soup, because it had previously been the best I'd ever come across. The cream of crab soup was absolutely terrible. No lump crab or old bay added on top. We ordered calamari which was served with an aioli chipotle sauce... this WAS a seafood restaurant, apparently not anymore. The crab cakes were okay, however they were formed as saucers, not the Maryland "cake". I don't know if ownership has changed, or it is just terribly managed. The only thing good about Hemingway's is the view. Go for the bar on the bay. Don't go to eat.
(2)Larry H.
This is the one dock bar on the bay that everyone desperately "wants" to love but just can't... Amazing location (right in the shadow of the bay bridge) - CHECK. Amazing two tier deck with Spec-tac-ular sunsets - CHECK. Annnnnnd after that, everything just goes down hill... Overpriced - CHECK. Poorly prepared food - CHECK. Lack of live music - CHECK. Zero party atmosphere - CHECK. Run like a stuffy old yacht club that doesn't really want your business if you're under the age of 70 - CHECK. Hopefully someday ownership of this location will be transferred to someone who can take advantage of the location and turn it into a wildly popular destination. Until then... 1. Dirty Dave's Tiki Bar at Kentmorr Restaurant & Crab House 2. The Jetty Dock Bar 3. Red Eyes Dock Bar 4. Big Owl Dock Bar
(2)David L.
Really wanted to like this. Our hosts were very keen on it. And the view is amazing at sunset. But it went downhill. They couldn't get drinks right. They were out of Yuengling Beer which is supposed to be on draft. If took more than 30 minutes for them to bring us Martinis and margaritas.....hardly rocket science for a bartender. Finally got a draft beer made for them by Samuel Adamd It took 45 minutes for us to get napkins and silverware....after the appetizers were delivered. The server was pleasant....just dazed and confused. Mandatory 20% tip for a party of 6!! Food.... Oh yes this is a restaurant. Most everyone had the crab cake and liked it. I had ahi tuna and it was good. Potatoes and veggies good too... Not special but good The calamari appetizer was good fish prepared not so well. Undercooked and coating didn't adhere to the fish. Crab was fried and soggy. Such a great location deserves great food and great service. To put it kindly, not quite.
(2)Bill D.
We had strong recommendations from a friend who stops here frequently on his way back from the beach. The setting on the waterfront is lovely. As we walked around to the patio, I was nearly paralyzed by the overamplified truly awful calypso. Look, I love calypso and reggae. But don't shriek it over recorded tracks at 80 dB. This wasn't Jamaica. The closest this came to The Islands was a bar mitzvah in The Hamptons where no person darker than a tennis tan would be let in. Wandering around the maze up the restaurant, we were greeted by a nearly empty restaurant. Our server, Nick, did a surprisingly good job despite it being only his third day. I asked for gluten-free options, and both Nick and his co-worker made good suggestions. I'd recommend they steer carefully around the salads, though. The dressings can be a minefield depending on the source of the vinegar, bleu cheese and whether soy sauce is an ingredient. The Ahi Tuna appetizer was a recommendation, but it shouldn't have been because of the soy sauce. We ordered two burgers, mine medium with no bun and slaw. His medium rare and slaw. Our orders were reversed and both came with fries. While the restaurant was empty, the patio was jumping so confusion in the orders occurred in the kitchen. Based on other reviews, this is a common theme. Your kitchen is out of control. I'd request you switch to a more upscale condiment brand like Boar's Head (which is also gluten free) and tastes way better than the horrible Heinz crap presented like this was a cheap diner. Nick and his co-workers played the best they could with the hand they were dealt. Our drinks were refilled without asking and their manners were excellent. Whoever's hiring and training the staff knows their business. I apologize to anyone may have seen us rinsing out with Listerine in the parking lot: new braces & they get really icky. That's no reflection on the food, but it was gauche.
(3)Alyssa M.
Food was horrible. Horrible. Horrible. Tasteless. Horrible. Horrible. Horrible. Crab cake was $16 and super super small. Crab wasn't even fresh. Wings... not good. Crab bisque.... horrible and not fresh. I was sooooo disappointed. I wanted to try this place out for years... and finally came here... so disappointed!!!
(1)Andrew G.
I had the most bizarre "dining" experience at Hemingway's this Saturday. I got there a little bit ahead of my friends so I asked the hostess what was good on the menu. The ribs, the burger, the pretzels...I thought that was a bit strange since it is billed as a seafood place on the water...but I didn't think anything of it. We were seated and our waitress said that their kitchen was a little backlogged so we immediately put in an order for crab dip and drinks. We got those in a decent amount of time, but our server came back and told us that the kitchen wouldn't be able to accept our food order! Huh?! We said we would eat our dip and then check in again about getting a food order placed. No dice. It wasn't even like they were crowded. So bizarre!
(1)Valerie E.
Arrived to find a nearly empty restaurant, and seated at a nice window seat. We were excited for a nice lunch with such a lovely view. The view is all they have that will satisfy you. We sat for 20 min with not a single server to check on us. I had to ask the hostess if anyone was going to wait on us. Servers seemed to be standing around doing nothing. Unreal. Then we still waited another 5 min for a server. She was pleasant, but seemed distracted or upset. She was prompt with our drinks, then our food arrived not too long after ordering. My Anjou Pear Gorgonzola Salad had no pears nor gorgonzola...not kidding...just spinach, drowned in dressing and candied walnuts. $14.00 for spinach, dressing and walnuts? Okaaayyy...server asked if everything was okay, but I was in no mood to send my food back. I just ate so we could leave. Then my boyfriend's fish tacos....some of the fish apeared to not be cooked through. We separated the uncooked fish and then he ate the rest...thankfully he was not sick from it. Go here if you're in the mood for a view with slow service and overpriced, incorrect menu items.
(1)Sarah W.
Stopped in to eat on a Sunday and it was not very busy. The first star is for the view and the second star is for the decor inside the restaurant and the fresh orange crushes. Our server was extremely snobby and condescending. She recommended the wings, which were not good at all (it's hard to screw up wings, too). The food is overly priced and they do not serve crabs. I ordered the fish tacos which turned out to be ok - nothing spectacular. The cole slaw is soupy and the french fries were cold. Had it not of been for the awful service, we might have decided to dine here again, but are so turned off by the waitress and will not be returning.
(2)James W.
The absolute worst. The view is amazing, I'll give them that. But any part of your dining experience that may rely on some sort of customer service will disappoint you in ways you didn't know existed. 90 minutes to get food? On a slow night? One refill for the entire dinner, cold food, and NO apology at any point! A member in our group actually sat in a chair that broke and sent him to the floor, I simply cannot make this up! The waitress was the cherry on top. Cursing, audibly in front of customers, and never taking responsibility for any of the mishaps throughout the evening. You will overpay, and you will feel cheated out of your money and your time. If you're looking to waste an evening out, this is your spot. Better yet, find a garbage can and eat from it, you'll actually be less disappointed than this p.o.s. restaurant.
(1)Nilanjana M.
We have been to Hemingway's for their Sunday Brunch before and that is the only reason I'll not give it a 1 Star ! The experience today was awful ! The bright Sunday morning was all but ruined because of a terribly backed-up kitchen. We waited, waited and waited - 45 mins for the Crispy Oysters we had ordered as appetizers. The entrees took another hour to arrive ! And when they did, the burger was overcooked, the bread soggy and the crab cakes miniscule - I have never seen such over-priced low quality food on the shore before ! The hostess and servers were apologetic and did their best to save the ruined brunch but SORRY , I am not going back to this restaurant again !
(2)Christopher S.
Best fish and chips I have ever had. Great service. Nice decor. Great view of the bay. We had four kids with us. They all are fine. Chicken, grilled cheese, buttered noodles. Seven people in total with a bill at eighty dollars. A little pricey for lunch... So only four stars.
(4)Chad C.
Great view. Terrible food. Overpriced. The fried oysters were frozen and bland. Crab mac and cheese looked like cat food had been added to Kraft. My wife's review of the fish tacos, "the worst fish tacos I have eaten in my life."
(1)Mojdeh S.
How I heard of this place: Our good friends and travel companions recommended a lunchtime pit-stop at Hemingway's on our drive to St. Michaels. We came to enjoy the renovations and partake of the esteemed clam chowder. Type of cuisine: A cornucopia of seafood eats, including a raw bar for fresh Chesapeake Bay oysters, calamari, crabs, fresh and farm-raised fish, not to mention burgers, steak and baby back ribs. Ambiance: Fresh and vibrant, the openness of the exposed, high, A-frame ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows looking out onto the Chesapeake Bay create a lively yet calming, serene escape from the world outside. A variety of kitsch, yet delicately placed paraphernalia give a warm, homey feel to this hardwood floor setting. What I ordered: I was saving my appetite for dinner and opted out of appetizers, yet my dining companions were adequately tempted by the scrumptious menu. To start, Creamy Crab Bisque ($8.95) mixed with the soup of the day ($7.95) to create a vegetable-rich, creamy delicacy, and Fried Oysters ($11.95) - a half-dozen Select Oysters, hand breaded, flash fried and served on horseradish cream with chopped salsa. Of course, my temptation was easily swayed when one dining companion asked if I would share the Seafood Skins ($11.95): potato skins loaded with shrimp, jumbo crab meat, topped with cheese and broiled to order. For our main entrees, my husband gratuitously jumped at the Farm Raised Atlantic Salmon ($25.95), roasted on white cedar with brown sugar BBQ sauce and served with a pickled cucumber salad and roasted red potatoes. I shared the Salmon B.L.T. ($12.95) with the other of our dining companions, enjoying the thick layer of Atlantic salmon, bacon, arugula, and roasted tomatoes with an herb mayo served on multi-grain toast with fries. What I loved: The flaky, tender salmon of my B.L.T. accompanied by the lemon-peppery fresh arugula. Why I loved it: A warm, inviting establishment shared with close friends over a fresh and hearty meal. Cost: Average to high ($10.95 to $29.95 per sandwich and entree)
(3)W H.
Pretty sure my credit card was stolen/swiped when my CC disappeared for 25 minutes when I paid my bill. Service and food were no better than average.
(1)Brittany S.
For a regular restaurant i'd probably take off 1 star for the hostess who was only seating reservations even though there were plenty of tables open. Luckily the manager was there to seat us right away. The reason this place is a perfect score well... The view is 10 stars alone and the service is just as good. The food is just the cherry on top. Our server was very friendly and bless her for working on Father's Day, she was attentive and very nice. We ordered the crab fondue and calamari as an appetizer which were gone in a few minutes 1. They were damn good and 2. We were starving. The fondue was my favorite of the two, it was nice to have something different than just the regular ol' crab dip and the bread was to die for. I then ordered the grilled chicken breast, Hemingway's style which was really good, perfect light and healthy meal, didn't leave too overly full after. The spinach and asparagus was perfect cooked not too soggy. The tomatoes were amazing just a little sweet but added the perfect contrast to the dish. The big chunks of crab meat were sprinkled on top. Yum! And because I was being so healthy, we decided to go with 2 desserts to share. We shared the chocolate molten cake which was melt in your mouth chocolate goodness and the Smith Island cake which was one of the best cakes I've ever had. Everybody had a good time, the live music was the perfect setting and everyone enjoyed their dish. No problems docking our boat, just drive right up and enjoy :) For boaters - skip Annapolis for sure!!! There is nowhere to dock your boat and there are sooo many people which means a long wait for food. Definitely skip the crowds of people and come here! You will not regret it!
(5)Judy M.
This was hands-down the worst service I have ever experienced. We apparently arrived on amateur night. Things went wrong instantly when the hostess told us that she was sorry, but despite our reservation, there would be a 20 minute wait before being seated. Once seated at a wonderful outdoor table with a view of the sun setting behind the bay bridge, things went into slow motion. It took forever for anyone to take our order, and during the long, long wait for our food, our waiter returned to the table to find out which of our orders he had forgotten. When our food finally arrived (2 hours after our initial arrival!), several members of our party were informed that part of their order was no longer available. They had to substitute orders. Several others in our party had to remind the waiter of parts of their order that had not arrived. The food for the member of our whose order had been forgotten arrived when almost everyone at the table had finished their food. The waiter brought us two complimentary ice cream sundaes, explaining that the kitchen was "slammed tonight." It's hard to comment objectively on the quality of the food given the frustration of the evening. I'll be happy to return and enjoy the beautiful porch view when this place is under new management.
(1)F P.
We've lived in the area for over 20 years and have always wanted this restaurant to improve - but every time we try it, the food is terrible and very expensive. The crab bisque was the worst I've ever had, almost a gelatinous goo with little if any crab meat. The crab dip was on par with something from the nearby Food Lion; not that it was horrible, but it just wasn't any better than what you could buy in a tub for half the price. And the mahi-mahi fish tacos had to come from Taco Bell. Dried out, over fried, could be chicken, mess in a taco shell. If I didn't like you, I would recommend Hemingway's. We've tried to like this place every couple of years, but I can only imagine that it stays in business because of the people driving to the beach or coming into the marina.
(1)Connie C.
The location is near the Bay Bridge but the food is not tasty! If you want real seafood go to the Crab Shack at the corner on your way in. The view from Sandy Point Park is more beautiful.
(1)John C.
Run don't walk! We went to this restaurant during happy hour. We ordered a wrap and a appetizer and three drinks. We ordered another round of two drinks. When the bill arrived it was $75.00 +. I called the server's attention that I was charged $27.00 for two "Rob Roys" and she told me the computer was programmed to charge this amount. The food was terrible ie: the crab fondue was dry and the sauce looked and tasted like library paste, The wrap had big chunks chicken instead of sliced and was tasteless. Be ware, none of the locals eat hear, There a lot of great restaurants on Kent Island but this not one on them .
(1)Whitney R.
Just tried to go to Hemingways for a late lunch. The hostess said it was a 30 minute wait. There were tables available inside and outside. When I questioned her further she said, "it's a kitchen thing, not a service thing". So I asked if we could sit outside (beautiful water views) and have a drink while we wait. The hostess replied, "my manager won't let me seat anyone for any reason. I don't want to get in trouble." I said, "ok we'll leave", to which she said "have a great day!" ??? I'm a hospitality consultant. Thank you for the good story to use in training staff of what not to do. Not surprising when I went to write this review the place has few stars. Perhaps it's a service culture problem and someone should take a look at the top. Luckily the crab shack nearby was delightful! Go there!!
(1)Dustin S.
Great sunset views but if your looking for good food keep driving the the narrows exit 43. Is super expensive and the food is blaaa.....although if you like flower balls in your 10 dollar cream of crab soup than this is the place for you. I live on kent island and no locals come here for reasons above. It's owned by a corporation, no shore ties here.
(1)Phanna P.
We were here to see a friend sing. Great entertainment but I have less to say about the menu. We sat outside with a great view, but the menu was limited to a lite fare. I'm not sure why such a limited menu, but if you were seated inside you'll have the full menu. The crab cake sandwich was a good sized portion, orange crush was delicious. I didn't like the tipsy raspberry. Get rid of the darn flies. It was not fun trying to eat and use a free hand to shoo the flies away.
(3)Ron R.
I would like to write a review about how delicious the crab bisque I ordered tasted. I would also like to tell you about the wonderful Mahi Mahi tacos my wife ordered. But I can't. We were never served. We arrived and were told there would be a 30 minute wait, but she was clearing her wait list and it might be sooner. Forty minutes later my wife asked the hostess if she forgot about us. She asked what we meant - her wait list was cleared and everyone had been seated. She was actually rather defensive about it, but proceeded to sit us inside as we asked - just to get away from the mediocre music being played outside, It didn't help. We were right over the band and our table rocked with the beat. Our waitress took our order for lemonade, the aforementioned crab bisque and the tacos. The lemonade came quickly, along with some very hot bread, but 45 minutes later we still hadn't been served our meals. I threw five bucks on the table to cover the drinks, and walked out. I doubt I'll ever be walking in again. What a shame. Hemmingway's used to be one of our favorite places.
(1)Pam H.
Service was a tad slow but the view made up for it. Crab Fondue appetizer was yummy! It was hot and cheesy!
(3)Corey W.
Stopped in Hemingways on the way to the beach; had to make a pit stop to watch the USA/Belgium World Cup soccer match. Sat at the bar on the upper level (apparently there is a bigger bar down stairs); they had good HH specials for both food and alcohol. Calamari was really good; seasoned with Old Bay and a nice thick marinara sauce - good stuff. Fried pickles were good as well; a little greasy but still really good. Staff was very attentive and it's nice to stare out the windows and watch traffic pass by as you sip on a cold beverage.
(4)Nora T.
This review is solely for the service . Our server Melissa was the absolute worst. Rushed us through the meal. Total bitch. Rudely sarcastic when we tried to help her. We asked for bread and she said "I don't know if we have any- I'll check" when every other table had it. Made me want to run away from this place.
(2)Jessica M.
Crab fondue was just weird. Very little crab meat. Same with the crab bisque. It was basically a crab base with one piece of meat in it. The calamari was acceptable as was the crab cake. Crab cake was minimally seasoned but mostly meat. Would not recommend.
(2)Lorrie L.
Stella on tap! Need I say more :) shared a crab cake app and it was probably the best one I have ever had , and I order them everywhere! I ordered grilled rock fish and he ordered scallops... Both were cooked perfectly and wonderful! Service was pleasant and not bothersome. Reservations get you by the window (usually).
(5)Isaac T.
This Resturant is a little pricey but has a great ambience and view. We sat outside and had a great view of the water and boats. The food was great. I ordered the Caesar salad, really good dressing. This is a great place to stop on the way to Ocean City.
(5)Andria O.
I had been wanting to check out Hemingways for awhile, as I pass by it when going to Fisherman's Inn. It was a beautiful day, so we decided to check it out.... We should've gone to Fisherman's Inn. The crab bisque HORRIBLE, had no flavor and no CRAB! I had to send mine back, but my 3-year old loved it. Since we couldn't decide on what we wanted we ordered several appetizers. The sweet chili shrimp were okay, really small and nothing exciting about them, they were just fried shrimp covered in sauce. The crab cake was meaty but had a weird tasting filler but again it was just okay. The calamari was about as average as everything else we ordered. We also tried the blackened tuna per our waitresses suggestion and it was okay but probably better than anything else we had. All in all we ordered: the sweet chili shrimp, the crab cake appetizer, calamari, blackened tuna appetizer, a kids grilled cheese, 4 orange crushes and an apple juice. The service was HELLA slow! And it's expensive (our meal came to $120)! The only thing we did enjoy was the AMAZING view and the orange crushes. If you go to Hemingway's you're not paying for good food, you're paying for the AWESOME view. Although, the grilled cheese my toddler had was pretty tasty. I won't come back unless they change the menu and the chef. My suggestion keep driving....
(1)J J.
The service was terrible. I ordered crab soup as an appetizer. I waited 20 minutes for it which I had to remind our server, Tyler to bring. Then after waiting another 35 minutes for food that was not brought to our table; we ended up leaving. I attempted to pay for the soup but was comp'd by the manager. She apologized & stated the menu had recently been changed which caused the delay in receiving our food. I advised I had no problem waiting for the food, it was having to ask other servers for service.
(1)Arthur C.
Hemingway's was one of our favorite stops on trips to the Eastern Shore but had fallen on hard times. Now under new management it's redone and very attractive. Tables have a view of the Bay Bridge through large windows. We watched private planes take off and land at the neighboring air field while waiting for lunch. We shared what Hemingway's calls 50/50 soup; a blend of cream of crab soup with Maryland crab soup which is tomato based and more like a crab vegetable soup. The blend won raves. It cut down on the heaviness of traditional cream of crab while retaining its richness. Then one of us had the Hemingway's burger which was fabulous and the other two shared a crab cake appetizer which won raves for it's lack of filler. Welcome back
(4)Steve K.
One of my regular spots when sailing the bay. Short channel and close docking. Nice views and covered outdoor seating. Food and service ok for this type of place. It's just a seaside restaurant/bar. Not really for foodies or picky eaters.
(3)Steven B.
Terrible service and mediocre food combine for a not so lovely dinner date with my fiancée. Our waitress Shari was almost non existent, only showing up to bring us our food. Never to ask how anything was, refill our drinks or ask if we needed anything else. As an appetizer we wanted crab dip, but was told they have crab fondue not crab dip. So we ordered it, again mediocre at best. It came with bread for dipping which was only enough for about half of the fondue and had our waitress ever come back out I would have asked for more. Instead it just sat there until our entrees were ready and she took it away, still half full, without asking if we were done. Not worth the visit.
(1)Kenneth C.
My girlfriend and I took a day trip across the bay for lunch and decided to do in because of the view. The food was very good and our was attentive and friendly. We were both very pleased with the crab cake and the clams abs sausage appetizer.
(4)Josh L.
A great place to visit by boat. Ample dock space and someone helped us dock. I had a seafood salad that was pretty good. Pretzel rolls were tasty. My girlfriend had chilled seafood platter that was very good. Would go back.
(3)Michelle G.
We stopped in at the height of dinner hour on a Friday night in January, and the place had lots of empty tables, but the servers were rushing about like they were utterly slammed. Still, we got great service and the food arrived reasonably quickly. The crab cake sandwich was the highlight. One of the best in my life, with very little filler. The spinach, crab and artichoke dip, on the other hand, was soupy and too heavy. Did they put mayonnaise in it? Kind of tasted like it... eww... The fish fingers on the kids menu were surprisingly excellent and almost reminded me of the authentic fish and chips from my husband's hometown on the Scottish seaside. Even though we brought our two year old, I wouldn't say this place is exactly kid-friendly. I think it has aspirations of fanciness, even if 90% of the actual clientele are hungry, road-weary drivers whose legs are still jelly and nerves are a little wracked from crossing the bay bridge.
(4)Ric M.
There should be a law that reverts 5% of the revenue from any restaurant named after "Papa", on the water, to a school of restaurant management. Saturday night, 5/31/2014, the day was beautiful, the sunset spectacular and they run out of food at 8:15? The parking lot was full of angry patrons who had spent hours waiting for food that never came. A riot was barely averted. We hitched a ride into town to eat (we were there on our boat because there was a restaurant at the marina) and the stories of incompetence were rampant. Go, have a drink, see the sunset, and eat elsewhere. New Rules, never eat at any place called Hemingways that Earnest didn't eat at. This was the worst.
(1)Holly R.
The views are amazing, the staff was a little slow to get us started. Food was so so, but came out fast. Great place to have a drink on the water though....
(3)Rocky T.
I've only visited this place once (the view) & it will probably be my last (the view) unless I want to enjoy the beautiful view. I ordered the (the view) crabcake sandwich & it wasnt (the view) tasty at all especially (the view) considering the price. Did I mention "the view"? Lol The beautiful sunset view from the outside rear of this restaurant is the only thing going for this place IMHO.
(1)Mark T.
WNt here based on yelp search. Was NOT disappointed. Place was amazing. Sat immediately on a sat night, perfect night on patio with a beautiful sunset, great waitress (Megan) who was very attentive, and the food was great. Made for a really great evening. Had a great solo artist playing beach music which set the perfect atmosphere. Only downside was the filet which seemed to have some sweet seasoning which wasn't popular with my 8 year old. Tasted good to me but not my kid. Just needed to know would have helped. Amazing place and will definitely go back.
(4)Barbra I.
Views, sunset and decent food. In that order. Don't expect an excellent meal, but if you go for happy hour it's definitely worth it as they have small plates at cheap rates. Oysters were yum!
(4)Mike D.
The facility itself is excellent. Fun nautical decor. Great view of the Bay. Staff friendly and competent. Wait times on the longer side. Fish & chip (flounder) super breaded and greasy. Tartar sauce more mayo than is right. Desserts taste out of the box.
(3)Mary F.
The Easter Brunch was a rip off! $32.50 per person which all of the food was cold, over cooked or the tray of food was just empty. Stay home and save your money!
(1)sherri s.
We split a crabcake for an appetizer. We had the rockfish imperial and the crab mac n cheese. I think we got 2 of the best dishes on the menu. We raved about them, as did our server when we placed our order. The service was lacking at first. We waited about 15 minutes before anyone took our drink orders and we had to ask someone to find out who our server was and to bring us some water. But once that was settled, our service was great. After finishing our dinner (that we enjoyed while listening to live music from below), we walked downstairs to the grass and the water's edge to watch a perfect sunset over the Bay Bridge. We'll defintely be back!
(4)Karen D.
We went to Hemingway's for our 10th wedding anniversary. I told them ahead of time that it was our celebration. We got there a little early on 5/10/14 (a Saturday) and said we'd sit at the bar and have a drink until our table was ready. We ended up having 2 drinks each because Kimberly, the hostess wanted to make sure we got a good seat with a good view of the sun going down over the Chesapeake Bay. So it took 45 minutes to get seated. But the drinks were good and the seats were pretty good once we got them. I ended up getting tuna and my husband got mahi-mahi. Everything was good. Kimberly ended up comping us a free dessert for having to wait. I got the apple pie, which was great! It was a good experience!
(4)Alex M.
Great crab cakes (all that meat and no potatoes!) and rockfish. Definitely a place to come back to. Fantastic dining space and view of the Bay Bridge.
(4)Amir P.
Food was OK++ but the location, location, location is a sight that you must see to believe. Especially from the outdoor bar while the sun sets. You are looking at the bay bridge right in front of you.
(4)Lisa G.
Yes it was pricey (only reason I didn't give 5 stars) but the open face cram melt was DELICIOUS! Can't wait for another! View was delightful and service was great! Recently visited again... Crab cake was so so (prefer faidley's!) but calamari was great! Cheeseburger not cooked well.
(4)George J.
I came here on a Sunday afternoon after a hunting trip with my father and his coworker. We showed up 30 minutes before the kitchen opened and were able to sit at the bar. The staff was very accommodating and were more than happy to tend to us despite our early arrival and our morning drink orders; mimosas for me! For those who don't know Hemingway's has undergone renovation a few years ago and looks completely different inside. The decor still retains the seafaring theme but with less nets and and crab crates. The main dinning area is very open and well lit through natural light. I ordered the Atlantic Salmon BLT and it was delicious. I would definitely recommend Hemingway's to anyone crossing the bay bridge.
(4)Jordan C.
Kuddos: for the convenient location adjacent to Route 50, water view, outdoor seating when it's warm, and renovated, well designed interior Misses: next to Route 50, uncreative menu with the typical seafood selections you would expect at a chain restaurant, very bad wine list - made up of wines you could buy at most drug stores.
(2)Jeff R.
2 stars only because of the view! Stuffed shrimp was cold. They heavily prep menu items and just reheat very sad for what you pay! Mixed drinks are resort prices and average. Servers apologize for the kitchen all night long to the other tables around us! The place needs a real manager who can run both front of house as well as the back! Go to Fisherman's Crab Deck or Kentmoor! Better ingredients better food better pricing!
(2)John S.
We were seated at a window just as the sun was setting across the Chesapeake. Suzy quickly joined us to take our drink orders. I had the Parmesan Dusted Scallops which were well presented and tasty, although I didn't care too much for the taste of the orchid. My spouse had the grilled salmon which was also excellent. Suzy provided excellent service
(5)Drew W.
My parents and I stopped for dinner at Hemingway's on our way home from a Navy Football game. Eating crab cakes on the water in Maryland, what could be better? Apparently, just about anything. It started off with me telling the hostess that someone had left their car lights on in the parking lot. After telling her the model, make and color of the car, she replied that she didn't know how to inform guests about this bit of information. Our waitress was nice, a bit eager to get us moving on ordering but I understand the place gets packed. My Mom had said she wanted to order the crab cakes but was afraid to since few things are more disappointing than a bad crab cake, which is true. Instead she ordered the crab bisque and a caesar salad. The bisque was good, saving this meal from 1 star. As she began to eat her salad, she looked up and and said that she had never tasted a less inspired salad before. She didn't finish it. My father had the short ribs and grimaced through part of it until he gave up. It was tough with bland side vegetables. He didn't finish it. Being that I grew up eating Maryland crabs and crab cakes but now live in Brooklyn, I decided to throw caution to the wind and order the crab cakes. What a huge mistake. I ordered it fried and yet the small cake was soggy. It was dwarfed by the brioche roll. The crab cake was the same consistency and flavor as the bun. Blech. So sad. Add to all this that Hemingway's charges premium prices and we left more disappointed in Hemingway's than nearly any restaurant any of us had been to. It's not that the food was inedible but it was so blatantly mediocre that it was almost worse. No view can make up for that.
(2)Massiel G.
Me and my hubby stop by here after checking the silver swan for our ceremony an decide to look at Hemingway for reception and try there food out. We were seated quickly, and the waiter very nice. We first had the crab spinach dip which was very delicious. Then I had chicken sandwich and my hubby crab cake. There fries were really good I wanted to Oder more!!! My sandwich was amazing I really enjoy it and my hubby enjoy his crab cake as well!!! We met the manager Jerry who we though was very wonderful and professional about our reception and information. I recommend this place very nice view nice staff an good food!!!
(4)Samantha W.
We stopped by here for dinner on the way home from the beach last weekend and had a nice time. We had our dog with us and called ahead to make sure we could bring her. The back patio is dog-friendly so we grabbed a table with umbrella upon arrival. Our waitress immediately brought some water out for the dog which I thought was really nice of her. We ordered a couple beers and Jumbo Crab Cake Sandwiches. I thought it was great. Large crab cake, tasty remoulade and a heaping of chips on the side, with pickle spears. I was famished but it was delicious. A little pricey ($17/each) but I don't get crab cakes often so it was worth the splurge. The patio and outside bar were really nice, and had spectacular views of the bay. We arrived before 5 pm and it wasn't crowded at all.
(4)Janet C.
Our experience today as a party of 10 at the restaurant was very disappointing. - My vegetable crab soup tasted just like a can of Campbell's vegetable soup with some crab meat in it. I didn't expect the Campbell's taste for a small bowl for $9.00. - The service was very poor. My one friend waited for almost 15 minutes after everyone else got their drinks for his beer. The same friend didn't get his entree until 15 minutes after the whole table got entrees, and then the crab cake was still frozen. He had to wait another 15 minutes for a new crab cake. The waiter didn't handle the situation with genuine care although he didn't charge him for his crab cake. - Since we had a large party - they automatically charged us a 20% tip. It's common to have gratuity added to the check but usually it's 18%. The 20% seemed a bit excessive especially because the service was so poor. - The food was mediocre overall yet the restaurant charges twice as much as other restaurants of the same caliber.
(2)Ryan S.
We recently went for dinner as we were passing through the area. The atmosphere was amazing, as the restaurant overlooks the water and bay bridge. It has a great setup and beautiful views as the sun begins to set. The food however was a different story. Bland, bland, bland, not to mention fairly pricey. We ordered the crab soup, which had no flavor and very little crab. I ordered the jumbo lump crab cake sandwich, which seemed to be lacking lump crab meat and again had ZERO flavor. The best thing we had was the coconut shrimp which had a great sauce. We left feeling unsatisfied and very dissappointed. Its a shame that a restaurant with such great presence has such lack luster food. A must see of the view, but go eat somewhere else.
(1)Bryan J.
Terrible food. Seriously. Overpriced, and everybody working there is miserable and unfriendly. Only thing saving it is the view.
(2)Merri M.
Went for our first time it was Sun of Memorial Day weekend absolutely perfect night and sat at the bar outside. Service was terrible no drink menus we were told to look up at the drinks listed on the ceiling that you can't see and there was zero food. The bartender said he was just as confused because they served food at the bar the day before until 7pm and stopped during a big rush. All they had to offer was bag chips and pretzels clearly purchased from a gas station. Other than a great view never will go back.
(1)Christie B.
In my opinion I think this place is over priced. Not enough to choose from and our food was not that hot. Not sure I would come back.
(2)Jennifer E.
Don't bother... really. This restaurant has everything in the world going for it, and manages to fail at each one. It is a lovely buidling, artfullly decorated, with a dynamite view... But what it manages to serve up is totally uninspired (and overpriced) food, lukewarm beer, poor service (staff are nice, just not attentive), and forced indoor seating with limited views. Recently, on a gorgeous 82 degree day when we specifically went there to dine al fresco, we were told the outdoor decks were closed. I pressed the issue, and was firmly told no. Never mind that they subsequently seated a party outdoors... The server, and later the manager to whom I complained, told me I should have "pressed my issue further." Really? You expect your patrons to vigorously press to enjoy the only positive your restaurant has??? I've given this place plenty of opportunities to get it right, and they are consistent at getting it wrong. I'm done with them.
(1)Tyler K.
Worst service I have ever had, took our mom here for Mother's day and couldn't get anyone to do anything. We couldn't get the bartenders out back to even acknowledge us so we went upstairs to get beer. The bartender inside was very nice and quick, but our actual waiter forgot EVERYTHING and didn't seem to care when we pointed out that we still didn't have water that we asked for as soon as we sat down. The food was mediocre at best, but we were so livid by the time we got it that it didn't matter. DO NOT WASTE YOUR MONEY OR TIME HERE
(1)JoAnn H.
view and location awesome. Food good. Service not so much. Bartender not personable and overheard him give a snarky remark to another patron who had to wait for a drink. Just because the location is perfect does not mean the service should be lacking!
(3)Michael R.
Great atmosphere, menu has enough (not a lot but enough). Great wings, large beer/alcohol selection, great service, perfect view. Also - kid friendly as our little ones loved the grass area they have that they were running around at with other kids. This place can be romantic enough to have a date / fun enough for a night out with the guys/girls or easy enough for family night.
(4)Matthew L.
Great bay location with amazing view of the Bay Bridge. The food is okay. The restaurant is a bit pricey and specializes in seafood and crab cakes. I prefer the outside bar. Great specials and bay side seating. In the summer people play horse shoes and corn hole. People also bring their boats up to the dock and stop for lunch. A fun place to sit out with friends.
(3)Brian G.
Great place right off the bay with amazing views at sunset. We were visiting the nearby beach with our 4 legged child and were happy that their outdoor deck was dog friendly. It was a nice warm summer day and was an amazing end to hot day having a couple beers and watching the sun go down.
(4)Nicole M.
Awful... definite tourist trap. The only thing this place has going for it is the view. And you would have to be seated by the pretentious hostess in order to enjoy it. Making up wait times to create some sort of false demand is not appealing. Food is subpar at best...
(1)Anderson L.
I went in to look at this place for an upcoming wedding rehearsal dinner and got the cold shoulder. The rude, lazy, and seemingly uninterested in making money, banquet manager wouldn't even get off her seat to introduce herself and answer a question or two. Instead she sent a poor little soul who looked like she was just fresh out of high school, to cover for her and say that she was busy. Busy......too busy to book a party of 30+ people in the future and earn revenue for your restaurant. Busy.....too busy to talk to a couple that you are standing 20 feet from as you check your facebook account while you are at the bar? If this is the way folks get treated before they even have a meal at your restaurant I can only imagine how the rest of the experience would go. I was completely turned off and will never set foot in there again.
(1)Fred B.
We read the reviews from others and they mostly over stated the experience. The place was empty and the kitchen was extremely slow. The crab cakes are just a little bit bigger than a meatball. Don't come hungry or you will be stopping for another meal. Stick to Timbuck Too or G & M near BWI. Either of those places you get a crab cake you will love.
(1)Kay J.
The restaurant itself is very tastefully decorated. We sat on the patio, great view of the bridge. I wasn't shocked by the prices, but for the prices I would expect much much better service. We were helped by one server that only took my drink order (not the 2 others with me) then randomly walked away. Another server came back and my husband ordered a diet coke. We had to eventually flag her down since she didn't bring it or lemons I originally asked for. The food was OK. I would say that you should proactively bring tarter and ketchup with sandwiches and fish dishes that have fries, etc. During all of this I noticed customers not getting silverware and being re-asked did I tell you the specials? All this forgetfulness with only 4 tables on the patio and 3 servers. In addition to all of this it was breezy and they had very large sunbrellas. We witnessed one knock over with quite a bit of force (heavy and wide) that nearly took out 2 tables. The customer (not the wait staff or manager) had to pick up the umbrella and make sure people were OK. The next umbrella fell between our table and another (again customers took action to make sure people were OK). I spoke to the manager and said they need to secure the bases to the deck or put down the umbrellas. She said, the customers will just put them up anyway. My thought was take them away until you can secure them without potential liability. I really feel like the manager should have comped a drink or dessert for some of the diners in apology. Disappointing at best. I won't be going back.
(2)Susie J.
Their setting is spectacular! For the sunset view alone, its worth stopping by if your a tourist or have guests :) k- now back to the food. Eh- it's alright; not the best, but still not totally blah. Crab cake sandwiches are kind of bland but well proportioned (no filler). T'was accompanied by sweet potato fries- the skinny kind you can buy frozen, but still a nice option. Had their oysters on a half shell- yum! Ordered another dozen to follow b/c they were so fresh. We've been here a few times now, but even as I type I can't recall what we ate other than the above. Really, it was nothing memorable food wise; but again, it's a nice pit stop for ambiance.
(3)Susie K.
Went here for lunch today and the food was so-so, nothing special. I got the panzanella salad with blackened tuna on top, others got the hemingway salad with tuna (she said it was awesome) it's a mix of mesclun greens with strawberries, blue cheese, balsamic; caesar salad with blackened tuna (very good), order of steamed clams (expensive for a dozen but fresh & delicious), crab cocktail (tasty but expensive- a few cucumber slices topped off with a lump of crabmeat). The panzanella salad came out on a plate too big for the salad, the veggies were fresh but the bread was very stale and chewy (I guess it's supposed to be like that), and the dressing was a bit lacking. Panzanella consisted of mesclun greens, bits of mozzarella cheese, tomatoes, cucumbers, bread, red onions. We asked for bread in the beginning and it was GREAT. Fresh, soft, hot with bits of cranberries in it. Make sure you ask for some! The view was beautiful so make sure you get a seat near the windows I'm giving this place a 3/5 because the service was terrible. We waited at least 25 minutes for our main entrees to show up (which were salads!!), while all the other tables who came in after us were served their hot foods first.... huh? o.o I might be back- the view was killer and their happy hour specials sound do-able.
(3)Kate P.
I enjoy a lot of places and will often give four stars, but rarely does a restaurant experience go over the top to create a five-star experience. I do not think it gets much better than Hemingways, though. My mother and I stopped here for dinner after a day at the Delaware Beaches for her birthday on a Sunday night. There was a short wait for an outside deck table, but we were happy to wait so that we could explore the beautiful area. It is right next to the Bay Bridge and a marina. It has a lamp-lit dock with abundant lounge chairs to enjoy the view. We were seated on a roof-deck area with, once again, great views of the bay, bridge, and boats. There was a bar below that with no wait and still great views, but the menu is slightly smaller. The service was fantastic everywhere. Everyone was extremely friendly and attentive to any needs or requests. My mom got the cream of crab soup, which she seem to thoroughly enjoy. Although it is a seafood place, I was really feeling a steak, so I ordered the NY strip. It was absolutely amazing. Cooked perfectly, juicy on the inside with a flavorful, but slightly crispy exterior. They put a candle in a creme brulee for my mom's birthday, too. Overall great experience! The only improvements could have been better signs directing people to the restaurant from the main road (although the elusiveness of it gave it a unique mystique) and they mentioned being backed up in the kitchen. We had no problem with time waiting for a table or food, but if they expect large crowds, they might want to work on the kitchen situation.
(5)John K.
Sample take: The menu said rolls available on request, so we requested. They came to the table piping hot and were kind of a mix between ciabatta and sour dough. We could have just eaten the rolls and been happy. **************************************************Â************************** I have an antique car that a mechanic on the Eastern Shore services. Darling wife drove me to pick it up Saturday, and we stopped at Hemingway's for lunch. It was 12:30 and even on a cold February day, the dining room filled rapidly after we arrived. I ordered the crab quesadilla with Old Bay and mozzarella. Wife ordered a Caesar "side" salad, which was huge, we ended up sharing, and the "Three Oyster" appetizer as an entrée. This dish actually has six oysters, 2 Rockefeller, 2 "Hemingway" with bacon and cheddar, and 2 with a sherry sauce. All were broiled to perfection and amazing tasting. The crab quesadilla had a ton of lump backfin meat. It was good, but at another table someone had ordered the crabcake which was the size of softball, and I experienced buyers' remorse. The menu said rolls available on request, so we requested. They came to the table piping hot and were kind of a mix between ciabatta and sour dough. We could have just eaten the rolls and been happy. As other reviewers have noted, it's a spectacular setting with the view of the Bay and little airplanes taking off and landing. I would love to come back for dinner at sunset. There is an outdoor cabana-style bar that opens in warmer weather and looks like it would be a lot of fun.
(4)Tim T.
This is all about location for which I would give 5 stars. The food was bland, unexciting and outrageously priced. Change the chef and this beautifully positioned waterfront restaurant would soar. My wife and I practiced forgiveness with every course - 'beautiful view', 'stunning sunset' ... Service was excellent, the martinis were spectacular, the sun warm, the boats and planes arrivals and departures from the adjacent marina and light aircraft airport were absorbing. The food was awful! Go there for ambiance, great drinks and the sunsets and eat first elsewhere.
(2)Dawn D.
Terrible, awful service. So so food. Never got bread, never got the soup and salads we ordered, waited forever and then entrees came. NO apology, they did comp one of the meals but the waitress blamed the kitchen. Last time, too many other great places to choose from.
(2)Mark S.
Two groups of us arrived by boat and were greeted promptly at the brand new docks by Robert, the GM of the marina. The deckhands seemed a little green, but that must be why Robert was there...to help them become more skilled. We sat at the bar and had drinks and apps, all served efficiently and with very friendly service. Everyone in our party commented on how great the food was from the mussels to the calamari to the tuna appetizer. My wife loved the tuna sandwich but I found it mediocre. There was even a one-man band that added to the beautiful view. We considered staying overnight on our boat at their dock so I called Robert and he was happy to help find me electrical cords to make the stay as pleasant as possible. Back at the bar the GM of the restaurant, Dwayne, was asking our opinion of the food and service...as a good GM should. It was a great experience and we will definitely be back...they seem to have the right attitude with reasonable prices and good food.
(4)Kathie P.
I would have given Hemingway's two stars, but it gets an additional star for the view. Came for dinner and experienced a wonderful sunset. The restaurant offers a great view of the Chesapeake Bay. Just ok, to my food - average at best. I had crab cakes which were on the dry side. They were made with lump crab, and had little filler, but that didn't help the taste - they were very bland. The vegetable served with the meal was overcooked, not too fresh asparagus. The restaurant seems to cater to locals, but I feel that they could go out of their way and buy local product (just a funny quirk I have). It is way too pricey for what you get. There are many other places that offer much better food for the prices. There is an outdoor bar, and that looked like fun, and there is also plenty of outdoor seating. I don't think I'll go back..
(3)Marcie T.
Food was average. I would NOT order the spinach artichoke crab dip. It tasted like warm spinach with no creaminess or any other flavor to make it palatable. How they charge $12.95 for it and don't get more complaints is a mystery. The fish tacos and chicken tenders were fine. Our server was delightful which saved this place!
(4)Brad Z.
Lovely view, nice decor, decent service, so-so food, with prices geared more towards the view than the food.
(3)Alex A.
we ate outside on the patio because we had our dog with us, we were very grateful they let her sit with us (we went to the dog beach that day) the food was overpriced and the menu was limited outside, but the view was spectacular and what we ordered tasted good. my pina colada was 8, kinda steep.
(3)H.A. T.
The makeover is a vast improvement as well as having a great outdoor area. The owners being from FL have tried to capture an on the water experience. That much they have succeeding in doing. As for the food, it is a disappointment. Why can't there be great food to go with the views? Great place for a sunset cocktail though...
(2)Rita F.
First time at Hemingway's. Great location and wonderful view. Outdoor dining and bar are an asset...the service was ok...but the food? Well, it left a lot to be desired. I had the grilled red snapper. It was topped w a sauce...no idea what it was but tasted ok. It was accompanied by boiled asparagus and 2 red boiled potatoes...bland. No seasoning at all... My husband ordered the the open face prime rib sandwich w swiss and portobello mushrooms, also accompanied with the asparagus and red potatoes. The prime rib was well done, more like a pot roast and had no flavor. Note - both plates were part of the "daily specials". I would go back to sit outside at the bar and look at the view...perhaps their burgers are better!
(3)Richard N.
Went for lunch with the mother-in-law and our daughters. It was ok the views were nice. I was really looking forward to some steamed Maryland blue crabs, but they only serve crab cakes but had a lot of lump crab dishes. We had the gazpacho soup, I had the kobe beef burger nice but I really like seafood and nothing tantalized me to pull the trigger. I was just a little under impressed with lunch. I think it must be more of a dinner place. Service was good though.
(3)Kyle A.
After deciding to sit on the fancy upstairs balcony, my boyfriend and I were happy to be serenaded by the sweet sound of Pink Floyd coming through the surround sound speakers. After perusing previous photos on Yelp, we were not expecting the oversized large mouth bass and cool new blue motif that awaited us. Much has been said about the "ambiance" of this establishment, and it did not disappoint. Much like every other tourist trap in the world, the hook was good. In this case, the view of Chesapeake Bay and Bay Bridge was incredible. The food, however, left something to be desired. Our oysters were fabulous; the calamari, dried out and lacking a certain ingredient, mainly squid, left something to be desired. Our entrees, the mahi mahi and petit filet crab cake combo came out in short order. The mahi mahi may never had spent a day in the water considering how dry the meat was, and the petit filet looked awfully like a NY Strip Steak. Surely, in the land of crabcakes and football, this dish would come through. Unfortunately, it fell flat. The crabcake, while full of crab, had spent quite some time under the heat lamp and dried out. The vegetable accompaniment was left, and while the potatoes were saturated in olive oil and salt, the carrots were a specialty of their own. The chef's brilliance left this delicate root both devoid of taste and texture. One and a half pinot grigios left me just loose enough to laugh at the awfulness of the food. Our waitress was lovely; the companions on the deck were not. The white chocolate crème brulee was called in to salvage what was turning out to be the worst white trash date night in the world. Unfortunately, under the caramelized sugar lay no more than a quarter inch of "crème." Should you remember your mini-golf putter, you'll feel right at home as the walk out felt like the 9th hole of a putt putt, complete with derelict row boat, and flashing navigational buoy to aid your hasty departure from this place. Maybe you want to avoid Hemingway's on a Monday night if you are looking for a culinary masterpiece, however, if you are looking for a good view and a chance to laugh, this is the place for you.
(3)David T.
The view from this seaside restaurant is great, the food is disapointing. I think they are hoping the sunset will keep your mind off the bland over-priced food. I've tried it twice, both after a full day of boating on the bay. Unless seeking safe harbor from a storm, I'm going to cruise on by this place in the future.
(2)Keith L.
Complete and utter crap! As one reviewer stated "F this place!". I went here for Mothers Day Brunch. They charged 30.00 and didnt include coffee in that price (that was an additional 2.75). Now this might have been acceptable because of the "view", but there was NOT ANY BACON, scrambled eggs, sausage, pancakes, french toast or waffles at a Mothers Day Brunch? There was a total of 8 items and thats it! I saw the look on peoples faces (and the dismay on their kids) as they approached the buffet line. The carving station had on slab of crappy beef that an 18 year old was cutting..and he stated "I dont have a carving knife" while he attempted to hack away at the vein infested chunk or garbage. This place sucks. Dont waste your money. Kick yourself in the head or go to Cracker Barell instead...both will feel much better. Oh..forgot to mention that an umbrella almost killed me twice on the deck. So they used some old ladies chair leg with her weight to keep it stable.....what an F-ing joke of a place. NOT ONLY THAT...but their website states that they "care about the customers so please contact them with any issues" I contacted them before I posted this and they never replied. The dont care about anything but taking your money for horrible food.
(1)Shieva R.
A couple friends and I stopped by in an unexpected detour (we got lost) and decided to stop in and grab an early dinner. I was there right before sunset as well and it was such a beautiful sight!! You're right on the bay with a great view and great food! I had the fried oysters with rice and veggies and they were delicious! The service was amazing also. Perfect meal, I'd make the drive out to the bay for this restaurant anytime!!
(5)Mark M.
The food is overpriced, bland, and cooked poorly. The drinks are overpriced and weak. There's no reason to come here, other than, as others have mentioned, the view...which is quite nice, especially at dusk. But then, I could go and park in a field half a mile down the road and enjoy the same view, for free, without having to order the crappy food & beverages.
(2)Brian M.
Came here as part of "Marriott International Managers Outing" with other supervisors and managers. They had pretty nice selection of seafood and we ate unlimited amount of crab here. It's pretty relaxing and chill environment. Almost everyone got pretty hammered since there was an open bar and Marriott was taking care of the bills. Not bad, you get a nice view of the Bay Bridge too from the restaurant too
(4)Pete G.
Unbelievable views, boats and planes coming and going. We had wings, the crab nachos and the Hemingway seafood platter. All were great, although a bit pricey. Would definitely recommend this place!
(4)Celtic R.
This is a great place for date night! My husband & I stopped in for a visit on our way back from a long day visiting the Smithsonian in D.C. We had the privilege of arriving at Hemingway's just a little bit before sunset. The restaurant is located directly on the Chesapeake Bay. We asked for a seat near the window and just sat back sipping our wine enjoying the tasty crab claws taking in the most magnificent sunset I have ever seen. There is a little airport near by and the sight of the little planes landing with the sunset back drop is a must see. The Chesapeake Bay Bridge all lit up at night is pretty sight as well. What ambiance! It is a night I will never forget. The food was fabulous...the view fabulous. I'm telling you this is one of those must visit places. I swear the sunset over the Chesapeake makes the food and wine taste even better. Go visit Hemingway's and see for yourself! You won't be sorry you did!
(5)Tom L.
Oh Hemingway's, I used to love you so. Your crab cakes were wonderful, and your frozen drinks and cocktails delicious. But there was no excuse for our last visit. Absolutely none. The visit started well enough, with the drinks served up within 5 minutes. But with the restaurant at less than 50% capacity, it took you forty (yes, that's 40) minutes to both forget our calamari and to serve us burgers that were well done when we ordered them medium? With such tiny portions of fries that would look skimpy even next to a MickeyD kid's happy meal? Also, what's with the sad-looking grape tomato halves on the burgers? Look, I understand that there was a big group on the other side of the patio, and that kitchens get slammed. But waiting over half an hour before even telling us about the situation is completely unacceptable. And seriously, did we even have to mention that we wanted the appetizer BEFORE the burgers were served? And that we'd rather have our entrees (after waiting over half an hour) instead of having them sit under the heat lamp while they stick frozen squid in the fryer? Speaking of the calamari, it was pure nerve on the part of the waitress to not even own up to forgetting about the order, which was rather obvious when the two tables next to us were done with their meals before we got our burders! And they got there after we had put our orders in! Waitress, manager, kitchen... It was a big fail on all fronts on that visit that's completely ruined the place for me.
(1)mike r.
Great experience glad they decidedto not open the hotel and brought back Hemingways for a second run. Blows away thefirst one and the only thing better than the food and the service was the best view of the Bay. You wont be disappointed a first class experience.
(4)Amy K.
After driving by multiple times, we stopped at Hemingway's this weekend on the way to the beach. We were hoping for Sunday brunch to go with the great view and were surprised/disappointed to find out that Hemingway's doesn't serve brunch. It was a nice day and the view was great so we made the bad decision to stay. My meal was served cold and my husband's sandwich wasn't even worth attempting to eat - even the fries were soggy. Despite the lovely server and the great view, we definitely won't be back.
(2)C. J.
Incredible sunset view. I highly recommend for drinks and maybe appetizers. We went there in the fall -- for such an empty restaurant, the service was embarrassingly slow. Entrees were extremely over-priced, especially for the quality of food served. Additionally, my fiancé and I had a dud for a server -- my fiancé ordered a fried fish sandwich and about two bites in, there was a LONG black hair inside the battered fish. I cannot even describe the way this looked -- it was foul. My fiancé and I have both worked in the restaurant industry and we know that sometimes these things happen, but restaurants should still handle situations like this with grace and professionalism. In this case, the server blamed us and said it was not possible that the hair was in the fish before they served it. I don't know whether they batter the fish in house, but either way, we clearly didn't batter it in there! After much argument, we finally got the manager to comp the sandwich.
(2)