Nestled bayside and humming year-round with relaxed energy, Sunset Island in Ocean City, MD, is an inviting neighborhood that captures the easygoing spirit of coastal living — and nowhere is this more obvious than in its diverse, delicious food scene. Whether you’re a vacationer staying in a pastel-hued condo or a local who knows the best corner to catch the sunset, this small community offers big culinary surprises. From bustling breakfasts on 67th Street to sunset bites along the water, here’s how to eat your way through Sunset Island’s best restaurants, cafés, bakeries, food trucks, and local flavors.
Where the Locals Gather: Sunset Island’s Standout Restaurants
One of Sunset Island’s charms is its culinary variety packed into a walkable radius. While the neighborhood itself is just off 67th Street, it’s surrounded by a cluster of noteworthy eateries perfect for all tastes and budgets.
- The Landing at Sunset Island
Located right at 67th Street within the heart of Sunset Island, The Landing is a favorite for its fresh takes on coastal classics and its unbeatable views over the bay. Expect a menu full of Chesapeake-inspired flavors — from jumbo lump crab cakes and Old Bay fries to rotating seasonal seafood specials. Prices range from $12 sandwiches to $30 entrées, making it a go-to for families celebrating or friends sharing sunset cocktails. Don’t miss the outdoor seating for the golden hour, and try their locally famous orange crush.
- Longboard Café (6701 Coastal Hwy)
Just outside the entrance to Sunset Island, Longboard Café blends surf shack vibes with a gourmet twist, serving up inventive burgers, fish tacos, and creative daily specials. The atmosphere is casual but the food quality (and cocktail list) is top-notch. Their poke bowls and Baja fish tacos are must-trys, and happy hour here is a neighborhood tradition. Most dishes are $9-$25, making it a go-to for an after-beach bite or laid-back dinner.
- Sweet Shack (on 67th Street)
While small and unassuming, Sweet Shack serves Sunfest-worthy treats: hand-dipped ice cream, milkshakes, and homemade fudge in dozens of rotating flavors. It’s the perfect post-dinner indulgence or mid-afternoon pick-me-up, especially for families strolling the neighborhood.
Bakery Bliss and Coffee Culture
A walk or quick pedal outside the Sunset Island gates delivers you to several beloved bakeries and coffee spots where you can greet the day or take a break from the sun.
- The Little House of Pancakes, Ribs & Pizza (74th Street & Coastal Hwy)
Locals will direct you to this classic diner for stuffed French toast, heaping breakfast platters, and cinnamon rolls that practically float off the plate. Their pancakes are legendary and the vibe is welcoming. Everything here feels like a slice of old-school Ocean City, and most breakfast plates run $8-$15.
- Bad Monkey OC (on 67th Street and Coastal Hwy)
Known for their outrageous sticky buns and nutty banana bread, Bad Monkey also offers strong locally-roasted coffee and casual breakfast sandwiches perfect for a beach picnic. It’s a convenient stop for caffeine and sweet treats before venturing to the boardwalk or catching the sunrise over the Atlantic.
Food Trucks: The Hidden Gems of Sunset Island
For quick, creative bites, the area around Sunset Island is seeing a boom in food trucks, especially in summer months. Some of the most-spotted include:
- OC Bay Hopper Food Truck (varies, often parked at 67th Street coastal area)
This floating food service is a local legend, ferrying iced coffees, baked goods, and even tacos to hungry boaters and beachgoers. Check their social media for daily docking spots — snag Mexican street corn or a pulled pork sandwich and enjoy it by the water.
- The Wrap Shack (seasonal, 67th Street near the beach access)
Specializing in creative wraps — from Mediterranean falafel to spicy shrimp Caesar — Wrap Shack is perfect for those seeking fast, fresh, and healthy options on the go. Most wraps are under $10, making it a reliable choice for a picnic or beach lunch.
Traditions and Signature Flavors
One of Sunset Island’s foodie joys comes from its connection to classic Ocean City traditions:
- Creamy, local soft serve is a must after dinner, with stands like Dumser’s Dairyland (midtown) within walking or biking distance.
- Maryland blue crab reigns supreme at family dinner tables and local parties — try picking up a steamed dozen from Crab Alley Express (around 60th St) for an authentic DIY feast, seasoned with plenty of Old Bay.
- Sunday Brunches on private porches or outdoor patios are a Sunset Island ritual, with local markets like Southside Deli (on 67th St) supplying fresh bagels, artisan cheeses, and breakfast fixings.
International Eats: Global Goodness in a Beachside Setting
Looking for more worldly plates? The neighborhood fringe around 67th Street is also home to several international stops:
- Touch of Italy (67th St & Coastal Hwy)
This charming Italian market and eatery pairs brick oven pizzas with artisan gelato, and you can dine in or grab house-made pastries for a breakfast treat back at your rental.
- Ocean City Brewing Company (56th St & Coastal Hwy)
With both pub and brewery, they offer a global comfort food menu — think Bavarian-style pretzels, Nashville hot chicken, and Maryland crab dip — all paired with local craft brews.
Sunset Island’s Food Scene: A Local’s Tips
- For the best sunset view with a meal, request outside seating at The Landing or grab takeout and head to one of Sunset Island’s private docks.
- Don’t skip the morning pastry run — Bad Monkey’s sticky buns sell out by mid-morning on weekends!
- Many restaurants and trucks rotate their menus based on the catch of the day or seasonal produce, so always ask about specials.
- If you’re staying in a vacation rental, take advantage of local seafood markets to host your own classic Maryland crab night.
- For families, Sweet Shack and Dumser’s Dairyland are guaranteed crowd-pleasers, while grownups will love Longboard Café’s happy hour mojitos.
Whether you’re plotting a food-focused vacation or just hungry for the best eats near the sand, Sunset Island’s restaurant and food scene offers every kind of craveable, camera-worthy bite. With inventive chefs, cherished classics, and a spirit of local flavor, this bayside neighborhood is a true (and delicious) Ocean City treasure.