Finding a place that actually serves a decent crab cake in Western Maryland is harder than it looks. You'd think being this close to the bay would make it a given, but honestly, a lot of spots just lean on heavy filler and hope you don't notice. That is usually where the conversation about Zach Greenlee's Fireside Restaurant & Lounge starts. Located inside the Ramada Plaza on Underpass Way in Hagerstown, it’s one of those "hotel restaurants" that locals actually go to.
That’s a rare breed.
Most hotel joints feel like an afterthought, but Zach Greenlee—who also runs Trackside Steak & Seafood nearby—has carved out a specific niche here. It’s a mix of a blue-collar steakhouse, a Maryland seafood shack, and a classic American lounge. If you’re expecting white tablecloths and tiny portions of foam, you’re in the wrong building. This is where you go when you want a plate that weighs three pounds.
The Reality of the Menu: Seafood and Steak
People talk about the crab pretzel. It’s basically a local law that if a restaurant in Hagerstown has "Maryland" in its identity, it must serve a massive soft pretzel buried in crab dip. At Fireside, it's a monster. They don't skimp on the cheese, and the dip has that distinct Old Bay kick that hits the back of your throat just right.
Then there is the Award-Winning Crab Cake.
Labels like "award-winning" are thrown around a lot in the food world, often referring to a local poll from 1994. However, the crab cakes here—usually around 6 ounces—are legit. They are broiled, not fried into a hockey puck, which preserves the actual flavor of the lump meat. You’ve probably had the kind where you’re basically eating a ball of breadcrumbs. This isn't that.
The steak side of things is handled with a "no-frills" philosophy. You can get a 12-ounce ribeye or a NY strip, often paired as a surf and turf with that crab cake. Is it the finest USDA Prime you’ll find in a metropolitan skyscraper? Probably not. But for the price point—usually hovering in the mid-$30 range for a massive combo—it’s a solid, honest piece of meat.
What’s Up With the Buffet?
The All-You-Can-Eat (AYCE) aspect is where things get interesting and, occasionally, where the reviews get polarized. On certain nights, they do crab legs and steamed shrimp.
Here is the truth: AYCE seafood is a logistical nightmare for any kitchen.
When it’s busy, you might wait a few minutes for the next tray of legs to come out. That’s just the nature of the beast. But if you’re someone who can do serious damage to a pile of snow crab, the $59.99 price point (or whatever the current market special is) pays for itself in about twenty minutes.
- The Salad Bar: It’s a throwback. In an era where salad bars are disappearing, Fireside keeps theirs stocked. It’s a big hit for the lunch crowd.
- The Pizza: Surprisingly, the flatbreads are a sleeper hit. The bottom is actually crisp.
- The "Chesapeake" Everything: They put crab on burgers, fries, and steak. It’s the Maryland way.
The Atmosphere: It’s Kinda Like a Time Capsule
Walking into Fireside feels a bit like stepping back into the early 2000s, but in a comfortable, "I can wear jeans here" kind of way. It’s cozy. There’s a fireplace (obviously), and the lighting is low.
It isn't trendy. It’s not trying to be an Instagram-worthy "concept" restaurant.
That is exactly why it works for the Hagerstown demographic. You’ll see families celebrating a 70th birthday at a long table next to a couple on a casual Tuesday night date. The lounge area has its own vibe, usually populated by people looking for a stiff drink and a heavy appetizer after a long shift.
Service is usually described as "hometown." The waitstaff isn't performing a scripted corporate monologue; they’re usually just nice people trying to keep your water refilled while the kitchen hammers out orders. Sometimes there’s a wait. Sometimes the service slows down when a bus tour pulls into the hotel. That’s the trade-off for this kind of establishment.
Why Zach Greenlee Still Matters in Hagerstown
The restaurant business is brutal. Most places don't last three years, let alone long enough to become a local staple. Greenlee has managed to keep the Fireside brand relevant by leaning into what people actually want: value and volume.
The "Trackside" location near the National Pike gets a lot of the newer buzz, but the Fireside is the reliable anchor. It’s where the locals go when they want the Friday night seafood fix without the pretense.
Actionable Insights for Your Visit
If you're planning to head over to 1716 Underpass Way, here is how you actually get the best experience:
- Check the Buffet Schedule: Don't just show up expecting crab legs on a Monday. Their AYCE specials are usually specific to days like Thursday or Sunday brunch. Call ahead to confirm the current rotation.
- Order the "Sammy" Sandwiches: If you aren't hungry enough for a full steak, the Prime Rib Sammy or the Chicken Chesapeake are massive and come with hand-cut fries.
- Reservations are Real: On Friday and Saturday nights, this place fills up with locals. Don't assume you can just walk in and get a booth immediately.
- The Crab Pretzel is a Meal: Seriously, don't order that as an appetizer for two people and expect to finish your entrees. It’s a commitment.
Next Steps for Your Trip: Check their social media or official website for the "Daily Specials" before you go. They often run lunch deals that are significantly cheaper than the dinner menu, especially for the soup and salad bar. If you’re staying at the Ramada, ask about guest discounts—they occasionally have perks for people staying in the building.
