Koco's Pub image

Koco's Pub

Restaurant Bar Family restaurant American restaurant Pub Seafood restaurant

One of the Top rated Family restaurants in Baltimore


Address

4301 Harford Rd, Baltimore, MD 21214

Website

www.kocospub.com

Contact

(410) 426-3519

Price rating

$$ $$

Rating on Google Maps

4.70 (2.5K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: crab (70) cakes (30) cake (20) good (14) delicious (10) Baltimore (9) meat (9) Maryland (9) worth (7) great (7)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Andrea F. 6 months ago on Google • 137 reviews
    The crab cakes are market price, which most people consider kinda pricey. But keep in mind, they're softball sized LUMP crab cakes and worth every penny. The fries were better than expected. The orange crush drink is highly recommended as well. It was delicious and potent. Service was great, and they're the best crab cakes I've ever had. (Keep in mind, I've lived in Baltimore and its suburbs 33 years, so it's high praise indeed.)
    20 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Alona G. 2 years ago on Google
    Finally had a chance to go here after all the hype over the crab cakes! I also ordered the Crab Dip and both were amazing! The crab dip comes with two warm baguettes topped with cheese. It was very good and fulfilling. I ordered the double crab cake platter and split it and it was more than enough for two people. We got the 11 Oz crab cakes and the jumbo lumps were plentiful! Keep in mind that crab prices are inflated right now, so it was a little expensive. But the food was good so it was justified. I'd definitely come here again!
    23 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 conwayhouse 1 year ago on Google
    Been craving crab cakes and heard all the hype about Koco’s. It is well deserved. The crab cake is very, very good. Lots of meat, very little filler and just the right amount of mayo and spice. Everyone has their own taste, but this crab cake is one of the best for sure. Make a reservation! Don’t let the Pub name steer you wrong, it is a restaurant where the space was well lit and relaxing and everyone is seated and not milling about.
    13 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Dennis W. 2 months ago on Google • 259 reviews New
    I was told that Koko's served one of the best crab cakes in Maryland, and those words were absolutely true. I ordered only the single crab cake ($36) served with crackers. Excellent lump crab meat throughout, delicious flavor. It's really all you need. Well, that and a good glass of beer. Parking was an issue as you have to find a spot on the neighborhood street, but definitely worth the walk.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tony F. 9 months ago on Google
    Koco’s Pub is a must-visit and should not be missed. Koco’s is about as underrated as you can get when it comes to crab cakes - until you’ve had them of course. Their crab cakes are truly a standout. When I say there’s no filler, there’s no filler. I’m genuinely amazed at how they manage to hold together that much jumbo lump crab meat. In my experience here in Maryland, they rank among the best crab cakes I’ve ever had. Although I haven’t tried them all, I’ve certainly had my fair share, and I don’t make such claims lightly. But wait, there’s more! I was also blown away by their onion rings. Crispy, golden-brown, and perfectly battered, these rings were an addictive indulgence. The sweet onions nestled inside were soft and flavorful, complementing the crunch of the outer coating. With their crab cakes and onion rings, this highly-underrated Baltimore establishment will leave you craving more. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, make sure to visit Koco’s Pub. Trust me your taste buds will thank you!
    12 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Grant S. 3 months ago on Google • 122 reviews New
    Stopped in for the first time in years and things are pretty much the same. Definitely one of the best crab cakes in Baltimore. A bit pricey($38 for just a crab cake) compared to other spots but the portion makes up for that, and there is no skimping on crab meat. Also tried half/half soup and jalapeno poppers, both delicious. The $5 margaritas were also on point. Definitely recommend stopping in for a drink and crab cake!
    7 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Christopher L. 1 year ago on Google
    Best crab cakes on the planet. Crab soup and shrimp were fabulous as well. Good drinks and service, too!
    11 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Nelly N. 6 months ago on Google • 25 reviews
    I live in NC. I heard about Koco's from a friend who is originally from Baltimore. I used their online ordering service and had the crab cakes shipped to my location. Everything was superb. The shipping was fast, the packaging was top notch and the crab cakes themselves were amazing. They were the best crab cakes I've ever had. I will definitely be ordering again in the future.
    11 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 TubbsWHAT IT D. 1 year ago on Google
    *MUST MAKE RESERVATIONS FOR CRAB CAKE* If you love crab cakes like I do then this place is the end all be all. You’ll never have another like this one I can promise you that. The size of the crab cake puts a twinkle in your eye and the flavor makes devouring it a easy task. Every time I’m in the Maryland/DC area I have to make pass through Koco’s. Thanks for the experience every time. Because of you guys I can never eat a crab cake from anywhere else, and I’m alright with that.
    10 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 James M. 1 year ago on Google
    Great crab cakes. Biggest I've ever seen. Very eclectic place with unique decor. Lots of folks doing takeout, so food took awhile to get served. But servers were attentive
    10 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Taylor F. 2 years ago on Google
    I was on a hunt to find some great crab cakes in Maryland and I was willing to make a drive to get them. This place popped up as one of the best in the state so I made the drive from Rockville, md. It’s in an odd area, northeast of downtown Baltimore. You wouldn’t expect to find a great restaurant in this area. My first impression before even entering the building was the exterior. It was painted bright yellow and blue. It looked like it belonged at the beach or the tropics. The interior matched with kind of a beach or tropical vibe going on. I dug it. I of course came for the crab cakes. And I knew going in that they were going to be expensive as the price of crab is way up. I started with a cup of crab soup. It had a good amount of lump crab and was a little spicy. I went with the single crab cake platter which came with French fries, cole slaw, and a tomato. That set me back about $37, but honestly was worth it. One was plenty for me because it was 11oz. If you wanted 2, that would set you back almost $70. Let me tell you, these were some of the best I’ve ever had. Lump crab aplenty with little filler. Very moist. Even the tomato was good lol. I’d definitely make the trip back and would recommend to anyone looking for a great crab cake!
    10 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jonah D. 9 months ago on Google
    Not sure if this is a crab cake place with awesome burgers, or a burger place with amazing crab cakes. Either way it's 100% the place you want to visit for a taste of Baltimore. The staff was so friendly and the drinks went down smoothly. Call and get a seat, stop looking for a new place to try. This is it.
    8 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Vee B. 1 year ago on Google
    So far, the best crab cakes that I've had in Maryland. Very friendly staff. The burgers are good too. The bathrooms are clean. The coleslaw is good and so is the tater sauce. If there's a better crab cake in the area, let me know because I've tried all "the best" places, and Kocos is better.
    7 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 I SLAY ALL DAY TRAVEL The Solo T. 1 year ago on Google
    The crab cakes here delicious. The best I’ve ever had. More tastier than other places. Bmore has some of the best seafood. Wow. Just amazing
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Anthony J. 2 years ago on Google
    Koco’s crab cakes are amazing! We were pleasantly surprised to discover the drinks were great too. The server was helpful and very attentive. The dinning room isn’t big so I’d be prepared to wait for a table depending on the day of the way.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 diamonique f. 5 months ago on Google • 59 reviews
    Let me tell you, I have a soft spot for a good crab cake, and this place absolutely nailed it – hands down! The flavors were impeccable, and I couldn't get enough. Beyond the fantastic food, the overall atmosphere was delightful. The waitress and bartender created an environment that felt like family. It's not just about the delicious dishes; it's the warm and welcoming vibe that makes this place special. Speaking of the bartender, they went above and beyond. When I inquired about a special drink, I got more than just a recommendation. To my surprise, the bartender personally came over and shared the entire recipe with me, ingredient by ingredient. Now, that's some next-level service! This experience has left a lasting impression, and I can say with certainty that I'll be back for more. When you find a spot that masters both incredible food and a genuine family feel, it's a gem worth revisiting. Cheers to great crabcakes and even better hospitality! 🦀🍹💯
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 gina h. 2 years ago on Google
    My first time visiting Koko’s. I was very surprised to see how large the crab cakes are, we ordered the crab dip and crab cake platter. It was absolutely amazing! Very fresh, not loaded with salt (which I appreciate as I have dietary restrictions due to health issues) so tasty, I asked to sample the two crab soups and they happily brought two nice sized samples. Both were delicious and again, not loaded with salt or old bay. The only downfall for me was the crab cakes had a lot of shells. They were tiny but definitely in there. Wonderful experience, I got a crab cake and soup to go for my dad in Nj as well. The hype is well deserved. Good job Koko’s!!
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Delphine P. 1 year ago on Google
    Great little pub/dive here in MD consistently doing some of THE Best, Biggest, & most Flavorful crabcakes in the region. Cool, laid back vibe. Friendly professional attentive service without being intrusive or bothersome. They stay Busy for a reason. Their Crabcake Dinner is always worth it! Yum! And drinks are a 10/10 Never Weak & Watery. DO Go, and: ENJOY!👍
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Tangiela 1 month ago on Google • 84 reviews New
    The food was ok with good sized portions. The salmon for my Greek salad was a bit greasy for my liking. The crab dip was ok, but I like my bread toasty not soft like I was making a sandwich. Steve the server was a bit short with his demeanor and we had to consistently ask for refills as well as small plates for our appetizers which should have been a given. Would I go back ... I am not sure just yet.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 ANNE 2 months ago on Google • 34 reviews New
    Ordered crab cake platter and it did not disappoint. Pure lump crab that my taste buds really enjoyed and very satisfying. We also ordered parrothea chicken, very saucy and tasty served with pita bread, and burger served with a side of fries. Their drinks are also really good. 😊
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Nicholas K. 8 months ago on Google
    As a born and bred Marylander (yes, we are a cult), I have eaten crabcakes all over Maryland and all over the country. Believe me when I say this is one of the places that sets the bar for the Maryland crab cake. This one really is a place for foodies to travel for. It's got a lot of character (big yellow corner pub) and embodies the charm of Charm City. Some notes: first, it does not have its own parking lot and they ask you to be kind to their residential neighbors who only have street parking. There is plenty of parking at the Safeway a block away. Secondly, it's a small place with limited seating. Make sure to reserve your table. If you want a table on Friday or Saturday, call several days in advance. Thirdly, they do not sell dessert. You can bring your own if you want (but I'd be surprised if you have any room). Lastly, crabcakes are market rates and, at these sizes, it's expensive. Don't be surprised to pay over $30 for them. (They are worth it) Now back to the good stuff: the crabcakes are enormous with minimal filler (major pet peave for Marylanders) and perfectly cooked and spiced. The crab's texture is so light and airy that it's hard to see how it sticks together. They really know what they're doing. For a crabcake, there's not a lot to say. You'll have to try for yourself. My gf and I shared a cream of crab soup that had real pieces of jumbo lump (the big lollipops of body meat from the base of the hind legs). Usually crab soups have the tiny lumps or long strings of claw meat. This was the opposite with crab in every bite. The flavoring was subtle but just right. It didn't overwhelm you with sherry or Old Bay like many out there. We also enjoyed their old bay wings. These were also fried perfectly for the table to share. Even the coleslaw was excellent. This is a Maryland institution and a destination for any crab lover or foodie. There are few other places I would visit for a taste unique to Maryland.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kara H. 3 months ago on Google • 58 reviews New
    I love crab cakes so I am on a mission to try all of the best in the Baltimore, MD. Everyone was friendly the crab cakes were delicious. I paid $50.00 for the platter. I definitely recommend this place.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 B G. 1 year ago on Google
    Absolutely delicious!!! Been hearing about them forever and I'll be back! If you want delicious the market price should be of no concern lol Lumpy lumps "Filler???" They don't know her!!! Wings were good Honey Sriracha was low on a kick the flavor overall was good I like spice so thar was a factor for me. The slaw was meh a little bland but I'm also a big fan of slaw some(ppl I know) say they love it over a like. Fries were delicious and the To-go package did not have the food "sweaty" Definitely recommend!!!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Clair S. 8 months ago on Google
    Best crab cakes in the city and absolutely the best I’ve ever had. I didn’t know anywhere prepared them with so much pure crab meat. Excited to regularly return
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Smitty B. 1 year ago on Google
    Only because because my friend swore this was the best crab cake in Baltimore ….to me it was just OKAY. The service was great . Our bartender was a sweetheart. The place itself is small and cute , a lot of steer parking available . The crab cake was perfect size and was freshly made however it lack seasoning . . I’m sure with the right amount of seasoning I would have 4 stars .
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Lanre B. 1 year ago on Google
    Crabcake was ok, though I couldn't taste any seasoning & perhaps it lacks seasoning. The meal that I ordered was served with too much greens on the side for my liking. I was not really wowed based on the ratings I reviewed. Soup was ok - I tried both the tomato soup & cream soup but... Customer service was below par but the guy at the bar tried his best. I believe if they can focus more on quality than quantity, some potentials but it's my opinion and some may prefer the quantity.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 MBJ 4 months ago on Google
    The best crab cakes in Baltimore. Extremely flavorful. The prices used to be around $25 for a crab cake platter before Covid. Now it’s a whopping $40. But it was worth it because they haven’t changed the recipe or decreased the amount of crab meat you get like most other restaurants have increased their prices and give you smaller portions with more filling. I deducted one star from service because I didn’t receive the pickle that I paid extra for. You can see the crab meat throughout in my photo included.


Call (410) 426-3519 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Parking
    • ✓️ Free street parking
    • ✓️ Somewhat difficult to find a space
  • Payments
    • ✓️ Debit cards
    • ✓️ Credit cards
    • ✓️ NFC mobile payments
  • Offerings
    • ✓️ Beer
    • ✓️ Food
    • ✓️ Wine
    • ✓️ Alcohol
    • ✓️ Cocktails
    • ✓️ Food at bar
    • ✓️ Hard liquor
    • ✓️ Happy hour food
    • ✓️ Happy hour drinks
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible seating
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible restroom
  • Dining options
    • ✓️ Seating
  • Service options
    • ✓️ Dine-in
    • ✓️ Takeout
    • ✗ Delivery
  • From the business
    • ✓️ Identifies as women-owned

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