Backfin Blues Bar & Grill first opened its doors in 2004 under the leadership of Executive Chef Robert “Bob” Steele and quickly became a beloved gathering place in Port Deposit — known for great food, familiar faces, and unforgettable moments shared around the table.

After Chef Bob’s retirement, Backfin Blues closed in August of 2025, leaving a deep void in the community. Today, we are proud and excited to fill that void and bring our beloved gathering place back to life.

The reopening of Backfin Blues is led by longtime Backfin Blues sous chef Chef Adam Heath, who trained under Chef Bob for six years and was named Best Chef in Cecil County in 2022. Since his time at Backfin Blues, Chef Adam has continued to refine his craft across the food service industry, broadening his culinary perspective and honing his creative vision. Now, he returns home — honoring the legacy he helped build while introducing fresh ideas of his own.

Chef Adam’s philosophy blends beloved favorites with thoughtful, modern touches, creating a dining experience that feels both familiar and exciting — intimate, social, and welcoming to longtime guests and new visitors alike.

We are also thrilled to welcome back many familiar staff members you’ve come to know and love, alongside new faces who share the same passion for hospitality and excellence. Chef Adam is joined by General Manager Felecia Rutledge, and together they have worked tirelessly to restore one of Port Deposit’s most cherished establishments.

As Felecia shares:

“This reopening is driven by heart. We love this place, and our goal is to elevate it and help it reach its full potential. Chef Adam and I are so excited to serve this community again — to welcome back familiar faces and meet new ones. I’ve always loved Backfin Blues and its historic location, and I’m beyond excited to build on its legacy.”

Backfin Blues is more than a restaurant — it’s part of Port Deposit’s story. And we’re honored to continue that story with you.