The holiday season in Ocean City, Maryland, is about more than just sandy beaches and boardwalk strolls — it’s a magical time where the town transforms into a festive haven, perfect for celebrating Christmas and the week surrounding it. Whether you’re a local looking to make new traditions, a family visiting for a winter getaway, or a couple craving a cozy holiday meal with an ocean view, OCMD offers a delicious array of dining experiences to make your Christmas celebration truly special. From classic sit-down feasts with all the trimmings to creative, seasonal menus crafted by local chefs, there’s a spot to satisfy every taste and occasion. Join us as we explore the best places to enjoy Christmas dinner (and festive meals throughout the week) in Ocean City — where good food, warm ambiance, and holiday cheer come together by the shore.
Captain’s Table
Captain’s Table brings elevated holiday dining with a festive menu that feels both cozy and indulgent. Start the celebration with seasonal cocktails like a rich Chocolate Peppermint Martini or refreshing Sparkling Winter Sangria, then enjoy appetizers such as Jumbo Lump Crab Ravioli or savory Lamb Lollipop Chops. For the main event, holiday favorites shine with refined flair — including classic Surf & Turf, tender Veal Loin Chop, and a beautifully prepared Salmon Wellington. It’s a perfect choice for a Christmas dinner that feels special and celebratory.
Call the restaurant for reservations 443-289-7192, or visit them on OpenTable! Don’t forget to follow along on Facebook & Instagram for all of their latest specials and events.
Marlin Moon
Marlin Moon offers a festive dining experience with bold flavors and elevated comfort dishes perfect for the holiday season. Start with warming starters like clams and andouille in a Cajun beer broth or a shareable flatbread topped with whipped goat cheese, prosciutto, caramelized onions, arugula, and a balsamic drizzle. For the main course, choose from a perfectly seared pork chop with bourbon mushroom cream sauce, baby carrots, and smashed potatoes, a roasted lamb chop with mint chimichurri, polenta, and sautéed spinach, or indulge in lemon butter–poached lobster tails served over mushroom risotto. It’s a standout choice for a Christmas dinner that feels both festive and refined.
You can make your reservations today by calling the restaurant 410-289-1201, or visiting their Open Table.
Also check out their seasonal drinks in this blog post here. Sure to be tasty + photogenic for all those ‘grams!
32 Palm
32 Palm serves up a festive holiday menu that’s both playful and indulgent, perfect for celebrating Christmas in style. Start with shareable appetizers like crab dip or delicate tuna carpaccio, then move on to hearty mains such as a grilled boneless pork chop or rich duck cassoulet. End the meal on a sweet note with seasonal desserts like eggnog cake or Santa’s Naughty List — a fun twist on homemade Christmas cookies served with an eggnog milkshake and hot chocolate dipping sauce. It’s a holiday dining experience that’s sure to delight every palate.
Make your reservations today by calling the restaurant 410-289-2525, or visiting their OpenTable online.
Coral Reef
Coral Reef is celebrating the season with a special holiday menu, available December 24th through January 1st, perfect for a festive getaway. Kick off your meal with flavorful appetizers like garlic shrimp, Oysters Rockefeller, or BBQ chicken flatbread. For the main course, indulge in twin filet medallions, blackened mahi, twin lobster tails, or classic crab imperial. It’s a holiday dining experience designed to make your Christmas week in Ocean City truly memorable.
