The Crab Shack menu and prices are built around fresh seafood served in a casual, waterfront setting. If you are looking for a place where you can eat crabs straight off the paper with your hands, this is it. The menu is simple, focusing on quality over fancy presentation.
You will find everything from steamed crabs to fried shrimp baskets. The prices are fair for the portion sizes, especially considering the freshness of the seafood. Many locations also offer daily specials that can save you a few bucks.
Let’s break down exactly what you can expect to pay and what you should order. This guide covers the most popular items, combos, and sides. We will also look at how prices vary by location and season.
Understanding The Crab Shack Menu And Prices
The exact Crab Shack Menu And Prices can vary a little depending on which state you are in. A shack in Maryland will have different crab options than one in Florida. However, the core structure stays the same.
Most Crab Shacks organize their menu into these main sections:
- Steamed Crabs (by the dozen or half dozen)
- Fried Seafood Platters
- Shrimp and Oyster Options
- Po’ Boys and Sandwiches
- Sides and Appetizers
- Drinks and Desserts
Prices generally range from $8 for a simple side to $60 or more for a large crab feast. The average meal for one person will cost between $18 and $35. This includes a main dish and one or two sides.
Steamed Crabs: The Main Attraction
Steamed crabs are the reason most people visit a Crab Shack. You get a pile of crabs seasoned with Old Bay or a similar spice blend. They are served hot and ready to pick.
Prices for steamed crabs depend on the size of the crab. Larger crabs have more meat and cost more. Here is a typical price breakdown:
- Small Crabs (5–5.5 inches): $25–$35 per dozen
- Medium Crabs (5.5–6 inches): $40–$55 per dozen
- Large Crabs (6–6.5 inches): $60–$80 per dozen
- Jumbo Crabs (6.5+ inches): $85–$110 per dozen
Most shacks let you order a half dozen if you are dining alone. The price for a half dozen is usually just over half the full dozen price. Some places also offer a “mix and match” option where you can get different sizes.
Seasonal Price Changes
Crab prices go up in the summer when demand is highest. They drop in the late fall and winter. If you visit in October or November, you might pay 15–20% less for the same size crab. Always check the daily market price board when you walk in.
Fried Seafood Platters
Not everyone wants to work for their food. Fried seafood platters are perfect if you want something easy to eat. These platters come with french fries, coleslaw, and hushpuppies.
Here are the standard platter options and their typical prices:
- Fried Shrimp Platter: $16–$22 (8–12 shrimp)
- Fried Oyster Platter: $18–$24 (10–14 oysters)
- Fried Fish Platter: $14–$19 (two fillets)
- Fried Clam Platter: $15–$20 (half pint of clams)
- Combination Platter: $22–$30 (mix of shrimp, oysters, and fish)
The combination platter is the best value if you want variety. You get a little bit of everything. Most shacks also offer a “Captain’s Platter” which includes crab cake, shrimp, and fish for around $28–$35.
Shrimp Options: Peel And Eat Or Fried
Shrimp is a staple on every Crab Shack menu. You have two main choices: peel-and-eat or fried. Peel-and-eat shrimp are boiled with spices and served cold or warm. Fried shrimp are breaded and crispy.
Prices for shrimp dishes:
- Peel-and-Eat Shrimp (by the pound): $12–$18
- Fried Shrimp Basket: $14–$18
- Shrimp Po’ Boy: $12–$16
- Garlic Butter Shrimp: $16–$20
Peel-and-eat shrimp are usually sold by the half pound or full pound. A half pound is plenty as an appetizer for one person. A full pound works as a main course if you add a side.
Oysters And Clams
Oysters are popular at Crab Shacks, especially in coastal areas. You can get them raw on the half shell, steamed, or fried. Clams are usually steamed or fried.
Typical oyster and clam prices:
- Raw Oysters (half dozen): $10–$15
- Raw Oysters (dozen): $18–$28
- Steamed Oysters (by the dozen): $15–$22
- Fried Oyster Basket: $16–$20
- Steamed Clams (by the pound): $12–$16
- Fried Clam Basket: $14–$18
Raw oyster prices fluctuate with the season. They are cheapest in months with an “R” (September to April). Summer oysters are more expensive and less plump.
Crab Cakes: A Classic Choice
Crab cakes are a must-try if you want crab meat without the work. A good crab cake is mostly lump crab meat with minimal filler. You can order it as a sandwich or as a platter.
Prices for crab cakes:
- Single Crab Cake Sandwich: $14–$18
- Crab Cake Platter (two cakes): $22–$30
- Jumbo Lump Crab Cake (single): $18–$24
Jumbo lump crab cakes are the premium option. They use only the largest pieces of meat. They cost more but the texture is much better than standard crab cakes.
Po’ Boys And Sandwiches
If you want something handheld, the Po’ Boy is the way to go. These are French bread sandwiches filled with fried seafood. They come dressed with lettuce, tomato, and remoulade sauce.
Common Po’ Boy options and prices:
- Shrimp Po’ Boy: $12–$16
- Oyster Po’ Boy: $14–$18
- Fish Po’ Boy: $11–$15
- Soft Shell Crab Po’ Boy: $16–$20
Most Po’ Boys are served with a side of fries or chips. You can upgrade to onion rings for an extra $2–$3. The soft shell crab Po’ Boy is seasonal and only available when crabs are shedding their shells.
Sides And Appetizers
Sides are an important part of the Crab Shack experience. They complement the main dishes and help fill you up. Most sides cost between $3 and $8.
Popular side dishes:
- French Fries: $3–$5
- Coleslaw: $3–$4
- Hushpuppies (6 pieces): $4–$6
- Corn on the Cob: $3–$5
- Mac and Cheese: $5–$8
- Baked Potato: $4–$6
- Green Beans: $4–$5
Appetizers are great for sharing. Common appetizers include:
- Fried Pickles: $6–$9
- Shrimp Cocktail (6 shrimp): $10–$14
- Crab Dip with Chips: $10–$14
- Mussels in Garlic Butter: $12–$16
- Fried Calamari: $10–$14
The crab dip is a fan favorite. It is creamy, cheesy, and full of crab meat. Order it with extra chips because the portion is generous.
Drinks And Desserts
Most Crab Shacks have a full bar. Beer is the most popular drink choice, especially light lagers. Many shacks also offer specialty cocktails like margaritas and rum punches.
Drink prices:
- Domestic Beer (bottle or can): $4–$6
- Imported Beer: $5–$8
- Draft Beer (pint): $5–$7
- House Wine (glass): $6–$9
- Cocktails: $8–$14
- Soda or Iced Tea: $2–$3
Desserts are simple and usually include:
- Key Lime Pie: $5–$7
- Chocolate Cake: $5–$7
- Ice Cream (scoop): $3–$5
Key lime pie is the most common dessert. It is tart and refreshing after a heavy seafood meal.
Daily Specials And Deals
Many Crab Shacks offer daily specials to attract customers. These specials can save you a lot of money. Common deals include:
- Monday: Buck a Shuck (raw oysters for $1 each)
- Tuesday: Taco Tuesday (fish or shrimp tacos for $3–$4 each)
- Wednesday: Wing Wednesday (chicken wings at a discount)
- Thursday: Thirsty Thursday (drink specials)
- Friday: Fried Fish Fry (fish platter for $10–$12)
Happy hour is usually from 4 PM to 7 PM on weekdays. During happy hour, you can get discounted beer, wine, and appetizers. Some shacks also offer early bird specials for dinner before 6 PM.
How To Order: Step By Step
Ordering at a Crab Shack is different from a regular restaurant. Here is how it works:
- Find a seat: Most shacks have communal tables. Grab an empty spot.
- Get a menu: Menus are usually on the table or at the counter.
- Decide on crabs: If you want steamed crabs, choose your size and quantity.
- Order drinks: Beer is usually self-serve from a cooler.
- Place your food order: Tell the server or counter staff what you want.
- Wait for your food: Steamed crabs take 15–20 minutes to cook.
- Eat with your hands: Use the wooden mallet and knife provided.
- Pay at the counter: Most shacks require payment before you leave.
Some shacks have a full service model where a server takes your order. Others are counter service. Always check the sign when you walk in.
Tips For Saving Money
Eating at a Crab Shack can get expensive if you are not careful. Here are some tips to keep your bill low:
- Go during happy hour for discounted drinks and apps
- Order a half dozen crabs instead of a full dozen
- Share a combination platter with a friend
- Skip the fancy cocktails and stick with beer
- Check for online coupons or loyalty programs
- Visit on a weekday when specials are running
- Order water instead of soda
Another good tip is to eat a small snack before you go. This way you will not order as much food. A handful of crackers or a piece of fruit can save you $10–$15.
What To Expect At The Table
When you order steamed crabs, the table gets covered with butcher paper. You get a wooden mallet, a crab knife, and a pile of napkins. There is no silverware for the crabs. You use your hands.
The crabs come out on a tray or dumped directly on the paper. They are steaming hot and covered in spice. You will also get a small cup of vinegar or melted butter for dipping.
Eating crabs is messy. Your fingers will get dirty. The table will be covered in shell pieces. That is part of the fun. Do not wear your best clothes. A bib is usually provided.
Location Variations
Crab Shack menus and prices are not the same everywhere. Here is how they differ by region:
- Maryland / Chesapeake Bay: Focus on blue crabs. Prices are higher in summer. Old Bay seasoning is standard.
- Gulf Coast (Louisiana, Texas): More focus on shrimp and crawfish. Prices are lower. Spices are spicier.
- Florida: Stone crabs are popular in season. Prices are moderate. Key lime pie is always available.
- Pacific Northwest: Dungeness crab is the star. Prices are higher but the crab is meatier.
- New England: Lobster is more common than crab. Prices are high for both.
If you are visiting a Crab Shack in a landlocked state, expect higher prices. The seafood has to be shipped in, which adds cost. Frozen seafood is more common in these locations.
Kids Menu Options
Most Crab Shacks have a kids menu for children under 12. Kids meals are smaller and cheaper. Typical kids options include:
- Chicken Tenders with Fries: $6–$9
- Grilled Cheese with Fries: $5–$7
- Mini Fish Platter: $7–$10
- Hot Dog with Fries: $5–$7
- Mac and Cheese: $5–$7
Kids meals usually come with a drink and a small dessert. Some shacks offer a free kids meal on certain days with a paying adult.
Takeout And Catering
If you do not want to dine in, most Crab Shacks offer takeout. You can order online or by phone. Takeout prices are the same as dine-in prices. Some shacks add a small packaging fee.
Catering is available for parties and events. You can order crab by the bushel (about 6–7 dozen crabs). Bushel prices range from $200 to $600 depending on crab size. Catering orders usually require 24–48 hours notice.
Popular catering options:
- Crab Bushel: $200–$600
- Shrimp by the Pound: $12–$18 per pound
- Fried Fish Platter (serves 10): $80–$120
- Side Dishes (serves 10): $30–$50 each
Ask about delivery fees if you want the food brought to your location. Some shacks deliver within a 10-mile radius for a flat fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average cost of a meal at a Crab Shack?
The average meal costs between $18 and $35 per person. This includes a main dish and one side. Adding drinks and appetizers will increase the total.
Are Crab Shack prices the same for lunch and dinner?
No, lunch prices are usually lower. Lunch menus have smaller portions and fewer options. Dinner prices are higher because portions are larger.