Chesapeake Bay

Carrol's Creek Cafe
Over the years, I've eaten stockpots of cream of crab soup at Carrol's Creek Cafe in Annapolis, and I'm apparently not alone in my culinary experience. In the 21 years this restaurant has been in business, this yummy delicacy remains the best-selling appetizer on its fine dining menu.

Just by hearing the name, you may have guessed it already: Heavy cream makes up to 50% of the cafe's recipe. "It's like the difference between Ben & Jerry's and regular ice cream," says general manager Richard McClure. "You just keep adding cream."

Imported sherry and a unique combination of herbs and spices also helps set this soup apart. For example, Richard says the chef infuses the cream base with onion and cloves as he heats it. These and other ingredients, including commercial crab stock and a dash of Old Bay seasoning, create a subtle background to showcase the savory chunks of jumbo lump crabmeat that give the delicious soup its name. You'll enjoy every spoonful. 410 Severn Avenue, Annapolis, MD 21403; (410) 263-8102. Cup of soup: $6.50.