10 Best Boiling Crab Restaurants Near Me – A Seafood Lover’s Guide

by Oleg Nikitenko September 20, 2024

10 Best Boiling Crab Restaurants Near Me

Boiling crab restaurants are beloved by seafood enthusiasts who enjoy fresh, flavorful shellfish served in a casual, communal dining experience. These restaurants typically serve large pots of seasoned crab, shrimp, clams, and other shellfish boiled to perfection in a variety of spicy sauces. If you’ve ever found yourself craving a feast of boiled crab legs, spicy shrimp, or flavorful lobster, you’re not alone.

In this guide, we’ll explore the 10 best boiling crab restaurants near you, offering a delicious range of seafood prepared in bold, flavorful styles. Whether you’re a crab connoisseur or just love fresh seafood, these restaurants are guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. We’ll also share expert tips on what to order and how to get the most out of your seafood dining experience.

For more insights into seafood recipes and preparation, check out the Global Seafoods YouTube channel, where you can find expert tips and cooking tutorials.

What is a Boiling Crab Restaurant?

Before diving into the best boiling crab restaurants, it’s important to understand what sets these spots apart from traditional seafood eateries. A boiling crab restaurant specializes in boiled seafood, often served in a bag, tossed in a blend of spices and butter. Customers choose their preferred seafood—such as snow crab, king crab, shrimp, or lobster—and select a sauce that ranges in spiciness from mild to extremely hot.

Dining Style: Communal dining experience, often served directly on the table over newspaper.
Popular Dishes: Boiled crab legs, shrimp, mussels, clams, lobster, and sides like corn, sausage, and potatoes.
Sauce Options: Common choices include garlic butter, Cajun spices, lemon pepper, and house blends.

1. The Boiling Crab – A Seafood Feast to Remember

One of the most popular boiling crab chains in the U.S., The Boiling Crab has gained a massive following for its generous portions, fresh seafood, and bold flavors. With multiple locations across the country, this spot is a go-to for anyone looking for a classic seafood boil experience. Their famous "Whole Sha-Bang" sauce is a fan favorite, combining garlic butter, lemon pepper, and Cajun seasoning.

What to Order: Snow crab legs, shrimp, and sausage, tossed in "The Whole Sha-Bang" sauce.
Location Tip: Check their website for a list of locations nationwide.

2. Hot N Juicy Crawfish – For Spicy Seafood Lovers

Hot N Juicy Crawfish has built a reputation for serving up some of the spiciest and tastiest seafood boils in the country. With a wide range of seafood options, including crab legs, crawfish, and shrimp, this restaurant is perfect for those who love their seafood with a serious kick. They offer customizable spice levels, so you can choose how much heat you want.

What to Order: Crawfish, snow crab legs, and the seafood combo platter.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to order extra sides of garlic bread or Cajun fries for dipping in the flavorful sauce.

3. The Crab Shack – Casual Dining with Fresh Seafood

For a more laid-back, beachy atmosphere, The Crab Shack is a fantastic choice. Located in coastal areas, this restaurant prides itself on serving fresh seafood sourced locally. Their famous Dungeness crab and snow crab legs are served with their signature garlic butter sauce, making it a must-try for crab lovers.

What to Order: Dungeness crab, snow crab legs, and lobster tail.
Location Tip: Ideal for a casual, seafood-on-the-coast experience.

If you love Dungeness crab, check out Global Seafoods' Dungeness Crab Whole for premium seafood delivered to your door.

4. Hook & Reel Cajun Seafood – A Cajun Twist on Classic Seafood

Known for its Cajun-inspired seafood boils, Hook & Reel offers a flavorful and spicy take on the classic seafood boil experience. With options like king crab legs, lobster, and shrimp served with corn, potatoes, and sausage, this restaurant is perfect for those who enjoy a hearty, spicy meal. Their "Garlic Butter Sauce" is a crowd favorite, offering a rich and savory flavor that complements the seafood perfectly.

What to Order: King crab legs, shrimp boil, and their famous garlic butter sauce.
Pro Tip: Try their house-made Cajun fries as a side dish to complete your meal.

For more king crab inspiration, explore Global Seafoods’ Golden King Crab , perfect for making your own seafood boil at home.

5. The Angry Crab Shack – Bold Flavors and Big Portions

If you’re looking for big portions and bold flavors, The Angry Crab Shack delivers in spades. This restaurant offers a wide range of seafood, including snow crab, shrimp, clams, and mussels, all boiled and seasoned with their signature sauces. Customers rave about the “Angry Sauce,” which is a fiery blend of spices that will satisfy anyone craving heat.

What to Order: Snow crab legs, mussels, and shrimp boil with Angry Sauce.
Pro Tip: Customize your boil by mixing different seafood options for a personalized feast.

For snow crab lovers, Global Seafoods’ Snow Crab Legs Clusters are a perfect choice for enjoying a seafood boil at home.

6. Kickin’ Crab – Fun Atmosphere and Flavorful Boils

For those who want a more interactive and fun dining experience, Kickin’ Crab is the place to go. This restaurant offers a vibrant, casual atmosphere where diners can dig into messy, flavorful seafood boils served directly on the table. Their menu includes Dungeness crab, king crab, crawfish, and lobster, all tossed in their signature sauces, which range from mild to extra spicy.

What to Order: Dungeness crab, king crab legs, and lobster boil.
Pro Tip: The spicier the better—Kickin’ Crab is known for their fiery sauces.

For fresh crab, try Global Seafoods’ Dungeness Crab Clusters , perfect for your own at-home boil.

7. Boil Bay Cajun Seafood – A Taste of the South

If you’re in the mood for a Southern-style seafood boil, Boil Bay Cajun Seafood offers a great menu with Cajun-inspired flavors. Featuring seafood such as snow crab, lobster, and crawfish, this restaurant also allows you to customize the spice level and sauce for your seafood. Their “Cajun Bay Sauce” is a customer favorite for its deep, savory flavor.

What to Order: Lobster tail, snow crab legs, and shrimp boil with Cajun Bay Sauce.
Pro Tip: Add extra corn and potatoes to your boil for a true Southern experience.

8. Crab Du Jour – Fresh Crab in a Casual Setting

Known for its casual, family-friendly atmosphere, Crab Du Jour offers a variety of fresh seafood in customizable boils. With options like king crab legs, Dungeness crab, shrimp, and crawfish, there’s something for every seafood lover. Their “Special Sauce” is a blend of garlic butter, lemon pepper, and Cajun spices that pairs perfectly with their boiled seafood.

What to Order: King crab legs, Dungeness crab, and the seafood boil combo.
Pro Tip: Be sure to try their fried seafood appetizers, like fried calamari or hush puppies.

Looking for fresh crab at home? Explore Global Seafoods’ King Crab Collections to source premium seafood for your own seafood boil.

9. Cajun Boil & Bar – Seafood with a Kick

If you enjoy bold, spicy flavors, Cajun Boil & Bar delivers seafood with a fiery Cajun kick. With an extensive menu that includes Dungeness crab, snow crab, shrimp, and lobster, this restaurant is ideal for seafood lovers who enjoy heat. Their menu allows you to customize your boil with different spice levels and sauces, making it easy to tailor your meal to your preferences.

What to Order: Snow crab legs, Dungeness crab, and shrimp boil with their spicy Cajun sauce.
Pro Tip: Start with a milder spice level and work your way up to their extra spicy options if you can handle the heat.

10. The Crab Station – A Feast of Fresh Shellfish

For seafood lovers who want a feast of fresh shellfish, The Crab Station offers some of the best options around. Their menu includes king crab, snow crab, Dungeness crab, and crawfish, all served with customizable spice levels and sauces. The Crab Station is known for their generous portions and flavorful sauces, making it a favorite among seafood enthusiasts.

What to Order: King crab legs, snow crab legs, and the seafood combo boil.
Pro Tip: Their garlic butter sauce is a must-try for anyone who loves rich, buttery flavors.

For premium-quality seafood, check out Global Seafoods’ Featured Collection , where you’ll find fresh crab, lobster, and more for your own seafood feast.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Boiling Crab Restaurants

Q1: What makes boiling crab restaurants different from other seafood restaurants?
A: Boiling crab restaurants focus on seafood boils, where fresh shellfish like crab, shrimp, and lobster are boiled and tossed in a variety of flavorful sauces. These dishes are often served in a bag, and diners eat directly from the table, making for a fun, communal experience.

Q2: Can I customize the spice level at boiling crab restaurants?
A: Yes, most boiling crab restaurants offer customizable spice levels, ranging from mild to extra spicy, allowing you to tailor the heat to your preference.

Q3: What types of seafood are typically served at boiling crab restaurants?
A: Common offerings include snow crab, king crab, Dungeness crab, shrimp, crawfish, mussels, clams, and lobster.

Q4: Are boiling crab restaurants family-friendly?
A: Yes, many boiling crab restaurants offer a casual, family-friendly environment, making them a great place for group dining.

Q5: Where can I buy fresh crab for a seafood boil at home?
A: You can purchase fresh crab and seafood from Global Seafoods , which offers a variety of options, including snow crab, king crab, and Dungeness crab, perfect for a homemade seafood boil.

Conclusion: Enjoy the Best Boiling Crab Experience Near You

Boiling crab restaurants offer a fun, flavorful dining experience that’s perfect for seafood lovers. Whether you prefer snow crab legs, king crab, or shrimp, these 10 boiling crab spots will satisfy your cravings for fresh, seasoned seafood.

To recreate the experience at home, explore Global Seafoods for premium seafood products, including crab and other delicacies like caviar . For more seafood tips and recipes, visit the Global Seafoods YouTube channel .