Rusty Rudder Restaurant | Dewey Beach
An expansive deck, a bayside location and a relaxed vibe—it’s all part of al-fresco dining, Rudder style. The casual restaurant with the million-dollar scenery (especially at sunset) takes a traditional approach to its 4-ounce broiled crab cake sandwich ($13). It’s served on a potato roll with a lemon-wedge garnish and a container of Old Bay mayo. Lettuce, tomato and a pickle spear are on the side. You even get a bag of chips. Our patty didn’t fill up the bun, but it was still a chubby cake with a crisped brown top. The dinner entrée ($27) comes with a choice of two sides. The crab cake is also part of the broiled ($28) or fried ($27) seafood platter. (The restaurant uses Maryland jumbo lump when available and priced affordably.) 113 Dickinson St., Dewey Beach, 227-3888, rustyrudderdewey.com.
Two Seas | Dewey Beach
Drive too fast and you might miss Two Seas. The three-level building resembles an upscale beach home. In many respects, it is a home. The Carr family has owned it since 1987, and the family dog often greets diners at the door. The iconic restaurant is famous for its third-floor views—the Atlantic on one side and Rehoboth Bay on the other—and its crab cakes ($38), made with Maryland lump crabmeat. There’s not a single breadcrumb in the mix. The twin beauties are baked and finished under the broiler until the tops are golden. A view of the sunset makes the price well worth it. Van Dyke Avenue and Coastal Highway, Dewey Beach, 227-2610.
