Recently named Maryland’s official state cocktail, the Orange Crush has been a staple for years. The iconic drink originated in Ocean City, where bartenders experimented with different combinations before landing on a mix of orange vodka, orange juice, triple sec and lemon-lime soda. The drink quickly became known as the Orange Crush, with Harborside Bar & Grill credited as its birthplace.
But one question remains: Who has the best Orange Crush in the Annapolis area? We’ve rounded up some top spots to try.
Beacon Waterfront Galley & Bar
Located in Eastport, Beacon offers several crush flavors to choose from. The real draw, though, is the discounts. On Thursdays, guests can enjoy $3 off crushes and signature cocktails. On Fridays, everything except prime rib is 15% off from 3 to 5 PM. On Sundays, crushes are discounted to $7 each.
Boatyard Bar & Grill
This Annapolis staple is known for its laid-back, casual atmosphere and elevated cuisine. On the drink menu, Boatyard offers a selection of fresh fruit crushes, with flavors rotating regularly. Each crush is made with fresh fruit juice, triple sec, lemon soda and your choice of orange, lemon or grapefruit vodka. Crushes are $11.50.
Choptank
Situated on Ego Alley, this popular spot has earned high marks for its drinks. Its “classic” crushes come in three options: orange, grapefruit and lemon. The “contemporary” crushes also offer three choices: rum runner, with pineapple, orange and banana flavors; paloma, with lime and grapefruit flavors; and whiskey smash, with peach, blueberry and lemon flavors. Both styles are $12 per drink.
Federal House Bar & Grille
Located in the heart of downtown Annapolis, Federal House Bar & Grille offers one of the most extensive crush menus in the area. Guests can choose from a wide variety of flavors, including Sagamore orange, blueberry, caliente, cherry limeade, grapefruit, key lime pie, mixed berry, orangeberry, orange creamsicle, piña colada, pineapple, strawberry, strawberry creamsicle, strawberry lemonade and sublime. The menu also features Rock’s Mana Paloma for those looking to try something a little different.
Julep Kitchen & Bar
This Southern-style restaurant keeps the Maryland tradition alive with a menu that pays homage to the crush. In addition to the classic orange crush, guests can try grapefruit, strawberry-lemonade or blueberry lemonade crushes for $10 each.
Libbey’s Coastal Kitchen
Perched on the water just over the Bay Bridge, Libbey’s is a fan favorite. With an extensive list of drinks and cocktails, the restaurant offers $11 crushes in orange, grapefruit, pineapple, key lime, lemon and blueberry.
McGarvey’s
Open since 1975, McGarvey’s has been serving Annapolis for nearly 50 years. With an extensive menu of food, cocktails and nonalcoholic drinks, the restaurant also offers orange and grapefruit crushes. Both are $12 and have earned strong reviews from patrons.
Severn Inn
Located on the water just below the Naval Academy Bridge, Severn Inn offers waterfront dining and three crush options, all priced at $12. Along with the classics, orange and grapefruit, guests can try a more unexpected option: the cucumber crush.
Taking time to relax and cool off is on almost everyone’s summer checklist. Whether you’re sipping a cold drink by the water or spending time with friends and family, there are plenty of chances to decide for yourself who has the best crush around.
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