Griff's Landing, Frederick

The chefs at Griff's Landing scour docks for freshly caught seafood to stuff plump crab cakes into massive, thick sandwiches and fry shrimp, clams, and scallops in flaky batter. Servers bear platters through the dining room's lime-green walls and tropical murals to tabletops covered with white cloths. Ornamental lights beam down from the tiki bar, where bartenders dole out beer, wine, and specialty cocktails. Outside, a wooden deck stretches out over a cheerful front patio to protect diners from sun, rain, and clouds that aren't fully nailed to the sky. Throughout the week, the restaurant hosts special events ranging from Wednesday-night trivia contests to Friday-night dance parties.