by Rockville, MD – 2025 — For more than 100 years, O’Donnell’s Market has been a staple in Maryland’s seafood scene, known especially for its award-winning crabcakes. Originally founded in Washington, D.C., in 1922, the family-owned business now operates in Potomac, MD, continuing a culinary tradition that spans four generations.
Today, O’Donnell’s Market is considered one of the top seafood destinations in Montgomery County — even ranking in the top five for best crabcakes in the entire state of Maryland.
What Happened
O’Donnell’s began its journey in 1922 with Tom O’Donnell opening the Sea Grill in downtown Washington, D.C.
Despite the economic turmoil of the Great Depression, the restaurant grew. Over the years, new locations were opened in the D.C. Metro area and Maryland, becoming a multi-generational family business.
Key Details
- 1922: The first Sea Grill opened at 1207 E Street NW in Washington, D.C.
- 1941: Second D.C. location opened at 1221 E Street.
- 1956: Expansion to Bethesda, MD at the Edgemoor Motor Building.
- 1997: New location opened in Kentlands (Gaithersburg, MD), operating until 2013.
- 2015: O’Donnell’s Market opened at 1073 Seven Locks Rd. in Potomac, MD.
Today, O’Donnell’s Market offers:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 1073 Seven Locks Rd., Potomac, MD |
| Specialties | Fresh crabcakes, seafood, raw bar, prepared meals |
| Services | On-site market, grill, catering (including Norfolk Table) |
| Ownership | Fourth-generation family-run business |
Reactions or Statements
Mr. MoCo, a prominent local reviewer, recently named O’Donnell’s Market as his top crabcake pick in Montgomery County, and among the top five in Maryland.
Customers frequently praise the restaurant for its authentic recipes, Norfolk-style seafood, and welcoming family-run atmosphere.
What’s Next
O’Donnell’s Market continues to thrive under the leadership of Bill Edelblut and his daughter Ashlee, the fourth generation in the family line.
The business remains focused on quality, offering daily house-made dishes, fresh meats, seafood, and baked goods while providing both dine-in and catering options.
FAQs
Where is O’Donnell’s Market located?
1073 Seven Locks Rd., Potomac, MD, in the Potomac Woods Plaza.
What are they known for?
Their award-winning crabcakes, fresh seafood, Norfolk-style cooking, and family tradition.
Can I dine in or order catering?
Yes, O’Donnell’s offers a grill and raw bar on-site, as well as catering services including the Norfolk Table.
Who runs O’Donnell’s now?
The fourth generation of the O’Donnell family: Bill Edelblut and his daughter Ashlee.
Is the food made in-house?
Yes, all dishes are freshly prepared daily, including baked goods and prepared meals.
Summary / Final Takeaway
O’Donnell’s Market is more than just a seafood stop — it’s a century-old culinary legacy that continues to evolve while honoring its roots. From downtown D.C. to Potomac, MD, the O’Donnell family’s dedication to quality seafood, crabcakes, and community service remains stronger than ever.
