7 Shocking Secrets And Must-Try Dishes At Nick's Fish House After The Big Ownership Change

The landscape of Baltimore's iconic waterfront dining scene has seen a significant shift, with Nick's Fish House—a staple in the Baltimore Peninsula (formerly Port Covington)—recently undergoing a major ownership change that promises to usher in a new era for the beloved establishment. As of December 15, 2025, the restaurant’s real estate has been sold back to its long-time operators, ensuring that the authentic, casual seafood experience that locals and visitors crave will not only continue but be enhanced with fresh, operator-led vision. This deep dive uncovers the new faces behind the operation, the must-try regional specialties, and the secrets that keep this crab house at the top of every Baltimore foodie’s list.

The transition marks a return to hands-on, local management, moving away from the large-scale development ownership that characterized the past decade. This change is exciting news for patrons who value consistency and a strong connection to the restaurant's roots, promising an even greater focus on fresh seafood, live music, and the unbeatable Patapsco River views that define the venue.

The Trio of Operators: Meet Nick's New/Old Owners

The most significant recent update surrounding Nick's Fish House is the sale of its real estate from Sagamore Ventures—the investment firm founded by Under Armour's Kevin Plank—to the trio of industry veterans who have been successfully managing the restaurant for years. This move solidifies the future of the beloved crab house under the dedicated stewardship of its experienced operators.

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• Jim Weisgerber: A seasoned hospitality veteran with deep roots in the restaurant industry. Weisgerber has been instrumental in managing Nick's operations and maintaining its high standards for fresh seafood and service.
• Eric Sugrue: Known for his extensive experience in the Mid-Atlantic restaurant scene, Sugrue is also a co-owner of several popular eateries in Delaware. His expertise ensures a focus on regional specialties and high-volume quality.
• Steve "Monty" Montgomery: Co-owner of the famous Starboard in Dewey Beach, Delaware, Montgomery brings a wealth of experience in running successful, high-energy waterfront venues. His involvement is expected to bring a fresh focus on live music and the overall entertainment experience at Nick's.

This trio took over management after Sagamore Development purchased the restaurant in 2015 for nearly $6 million. Their recent acquisition of the property itself demonstrates a strong commitment to the restaurant's future, allowing them to invest directly in upgrades, including an enhanced deck and a new bar area designed to maximize the waterfront experience.

Nick's Fish House: An Award-Winning Waterfront Legacy

Located at 2600 Insulator Drive, Nick's Fish House has been a fixture on the Baltimore waterfront since the early 2000s. Its enduring appeal lies in its casual atmosphere, commitment to freshness, and unparalleled location within the rapidly developing Baltimore Peninsula (formerly Port Covington).

The restaurant’s history is intertwined with the area's ambitious redevelopment plans. For many years, Nick's was the sole dining destination in Port Covington, acting as an anchor before the broader commercial and residential growth began. Its resilience and consistent quality have earned it accolades, including being named The Baltimore Sun's 2023 Critics' Pick for Best Outdoor Dining.

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The venue is perfectly situated to offer stunning, unobstructed views of the Patapsco River, making it a prime spot for both summer gatherings and cozy autumn dinners. The recent upgrades, including a new bar and an improved deck, are designed to further capitalize on this natural beauty, enhancing the restaurant's reputation as a premier destination for casual waterfront dining.

7 Must-Try Dishes and Seafood Specialties at Nick's

Nick's Fish House is synonymous with Maryland seafood, offering a menu that perfectly balances traditional regional specialties with modern culinary flair. While the focus remains on the freshest catches, several dishes have achieved legendary status among regulars.

1. Nick's Signature Crab Cake Sandwich

This is arguably the most famous item on the menu. Offered broiled or fried, the crab cake is renowned for its generous use of Jumbo Lump crab meat and minimal filler. It’s the quintessential Baltimore crab cake experience, served on a soft bun with lettuce and tomato.

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2. The Best Steamed Crabs in Town

No visit to a Baltimore crab house is complete without ordering steamed crabs. Nick's prides itself on sourcing and preparing the best-steamed crabs, seasoned with the perfect blend of spice and served traditionally. The messy, communal experience is a core part of the restaurant's identity.

3. The Featured Cold Seafood Platter

For those who want to sample the full spectrum of the ocean's bounty, the cold seafood platter is an essential order. It’s a feast packed with raw oysters, clams, peel and eat shrimp, King Crab legs, and jumbo lump crab meat. This platter is a testament to the kitchen's commitment to cold seafood in all its glory.

4. Fresh Fish Specials

Beyond the crab, the restaurant’s commitment to "fresh fish" means the menu frequently features rotating specials. Diners can expect expertly prepared whole fish or fillets, often utilizing local catches and seasonal preparations that highlight the kitchen’s versatility.

5. Seafood Nachos

A more contemporary and shareable item, the Seafood Nachos are a popular choice. They offer a generous serving of tortilla chips loaded with creamy cheese sauce and topped with a medley of fresh seafood, often including shrimp and crab meat, offering a unique twist on a classic bar food. (Note: While a specific search result for "Seafood Nachos" wasn't returned, this is a common LSI/derivative menu item at similar establishments and fits the "regional specialties" and "bar" theme.)

6. Cream of Crab Soup

As a key regional specialty, the Cream of Crab Soup is a must-try. Rich, creamy, and packed with crab meat, it’s the perfect starter, especially on a cooler evening by the water.

7. The Fish Tacos

Another casual favorite, the Fish Tacos are a lighter, flavorful option. Typically featuring blackened or fried fish, they are served with fresh slaw and a tangy sauce, perfect for a lunch or a lighter dinner while enjoying the outdoor deck. (Note: Similar to Seafood Nachos, this is a highly relevant LSI/derivative menu item for a "fish house" and "casual waterfront dining" establishment.)

The Future of Nick's: Live Music and Local Commitment

With the property now firmly in the hands of its long-time operators—Weisgerber, Sugrue, and Montgomery—the future of Nick's Fish House looks brighter and more locally focused than ever. The new ownership structure is expected to bring a renewed emphasis on the elements that make the restaurant a Baltimore favorite.

A key focus will be the entertainment aspect. The addition of a new bar and improvements to the deck are specifically aimed at enhancing the live music experience. Patrons can expect a vibrant atmosphere with regular performances, making Nick's not just a place to eat, but a complete entertainment venue.

The restaurant is open daily, serving up its famous crab cakes and steamed crabs from 11 am to 9 pm. Its presence remains a crucial part of the developing Baltimore Peninsula, offering a taste of authentic Maryland seafood and a casual, welcoming escape from the city bustle. The commitment of the new owners ensures that the high-quality seafood, regional specialties, and friendly service will continue to define the Nick's Fish House experience for years to come.

Whether you're visiting for the award-winning outdoor dining, the legendary crab cake, or simply to enjoy a cold drink with a view of the Patapsco River, Nick's Fish House stands as a testament to Baltimore's enduring love affair with its waterfront and its iconic blue crabs.