It all started with a love for seafood. Born in Northeast Washington, D.C., Jerry, owner of the popular restaurant "Jerry's Seafood", grew up eating Eastern Shore style seafood. After an injury he sustained on a construction job in 1974, Jerry's uncle said to him, "You need to go to work." He gave Jerry several quart jars of freshly shucked oysters to sell. And so it began.
He first began selling his oysters out of the back of a '68 Chevrolet in the very shopping center Jerry's is located today. From there he graduated to selling from a used pick up truck. In 1976 he purchased a 10-foot long step van complete with a three-burner stove and a large refrigerator. From this crab truck, he sold fresh steamed hard shell crabs, spiced shrimp by the pound, clams and oysters and any other quality seafood he could find.
Jerry did very well to attract attention to his style of food. The Village Pub, which was situated directly across the street from the crab truck, asked Jerry to offer his delicious Maryland crab soup and Cream of Crab soup to their menu. Eventually he was asked to come manage their restaurant / pub. He steadily added his seafood items to the menu, and removed the pizzas and subs. He was interested in losing the "bar crowd" and promoting the restaurant. He soon rid the restaurant of the jukebox, dart boards and rowdy drinkers and established what is now a landmark seafood restaurant in Maryland.
He officially purchased the restaurant in 1983 and he in turn sold the restaurant in July 2003 to his Nephew Philip Gainey and long-term employee Chong (Jason) Lee. Since then, Philip and Jason have been consistent in turning out superior Eastern Shore Style Seafood and warm friendly service.
Jerry's Seafood has been the subject of several favorable articles in the local newspapers and magazines as well as being mentioned on local TV and radio stations. Jerry's tries to focus on outstanding service that goes above and beyond what people would expect. According to Jerry's customers, Jerry's is the place to be if you're a local "mover or shaker", or if you just love great food. You can feel confident that any guest you bring will have a wonderful dining experience.
Known for its crab entrees, Jerry's also offers various fresh fish that arrives daily, beautiful jumbo shrimp, and delicious homemade soups made fresh daily.
Jerry's does not take reservations at it's Lanham location, it has always been first come, first served. You will want to get there early or get there late because most of the time in between you'll have to wait in line. The wait is always worth it and you'll look forward to coming back. However, Jerry's does accept reservations at it's new Annapolis location; All of Jerry's menu items are available for reliable carry out and most are available for online ordering. You can be confident that the quality is identical to what it would be if you were dining in.