Costas Inn menu crab tower prices vary based on market rates for fresh blue crabs and seasonal availability. This iconic Maryland seafood spot has been serving up crab dishes for decades, and their crab tower remains a fan favorite. If you are planning a visit or just curious about the cost, you have come to the right place.
In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about the Costas Inn crab tower. We cover current pricing, what you get for your money, and how to get the best value. Let’s dig in.
Costas Inn Menu Crab Tower Prices
The crab tower at Costas Inn is a showstopper. It is a multi-tiered platter packed with fresh jumbo lump crab meat, shrimp, oysters, and other seafood delights. The price is not fixed because it depends on the market rate for blue crabs. Generally, you can expect to pay between $89 and $129 for a full tower, depending on the season and crab supply.
During peak summer months, when crabs are abundant, prices tend to be lower. In winter or during shortages, the price can climb. Always call ahead or check their website for the current day’s price. The tower is designed for sharing, usually serving two to four people.
What Is Included In The Crab Tower
The crab tower is not just crab. It is a full seafood experience. Here is what typically comes with it:
- Jumbo lump crab meat (the star of the show)
- Steamed shrimp, usually large or jumbo size
- Oysters on the half shell
- Clams on the half shell
- Coleslaw and cocktail sauce
- Lemon wedges and drawn butter
- Sometimes a small salad or bread on the side
The exact components can change based on availability. Some versions include mussels or scallops. The tower is served cold, so it is perfect for a hot summer day.
How The Price Is Determined
Costas Inn sources their crabs daily from local waters. The price you pay reflects the cost they paid that morning. Here are the main factors:
- Market rate for blue crabs: This fluctuates weekly.
- Season: Summer is cheaper, winter is more expensive.
- Size of crabs: Jumbo lump meat costs more than backfin.
- Demand: Weekends and holidays can drive prices up.
Because of these variables, the menu at Costas Inn often lists the crab tower as “market price.” This means you will not see a fixed number on the menu. You have to ask your server or check the daily specials board.
How To Order The Crab Tower For Best Value
Getting the most for your money is smart. Here are some tips for ordering the crab tower at Costas Inn:
Go During Off-Peak Times
If you can, visit on a weekday afternoon. Lunch service is usually cheaper than dinner. Also, Tuesdays and Wednesdays tend to have lower demand, which can mean better prices. Avoid holidays like July 4th or Labor Day weekend if you want to save.
Share With A Group
The tower is meant for sharing. If you are dining alone, it is too much food and too expensive. Bring two or three friends. Splitting the cost makes it more affordable. Each person pays around $30 to $40, which is reasonable for high-quality seafood.
Check For Specials
Costas Inn sometimes runs promotions. They might offer a smaller crab tower at a lower price. Follow them on social media or sign up for their email list. You might catch a deal. Also, ask your server if there are any current specials before ordering.
Consider The Half Tower Option
If the full tower is too much, ask if they have a half tower. Not all locations offer this, but it is worth asking. A half tower costs about half the price and serves one to two people. It includes a smaller portion of the same items.
Comparing The Crab Tower To Other Menu Items
Costas Inn has a full menu beyond the crab tower. If the tower is out of your budget, there are other options. Here is how they compare in price and value:
Crab Cakes
A single jumbo lump crab cake platter costs around $28 to $35. You get two cakes, fries, and coleslaw. This is a good alternative if you want crab but not the full tower. The crab cakes are made with the same high-quality meat.
Steamed Crabs By The Dozen
During crab season, you can order steamed crabs by the dozen. Prices range from $60 to $100 per dozen, depending on size. This is a more traditional Maryland experience. You get to pick your own crabs, which some people prefer over the tower.
Seafood Platter
The fried seafood platter includes shrimp, fish, oysters, and clams. It costs around $25 to $30. This is a budget-friendly option if you want variety without the high price tag. It is not as fancy as the tower, but it is filling.
Lobster And Crab Combo
Some locations offer a lobster and crab combo. This includes a whole lobster and a pile of crab meat. Prices vary but are usually around $45 to $55. This is a good middle ground between the tower and individual items.
What Customers Say About The Crab Tower
Reviews for the Costas Inn crab tower are generally positive. People love the freshness and presentation. Here are some common comments:
- “The crab meat was sweet and fresh. No shell pieces at all.”
- “The tower is huge. We could not finish it between three people.”
- “A bit pricey, but worth it for a special occasion.”
- “The shrimp were perfectly cooked. Not overdone.”
- “Service was slow, but the food made up for it.”
Some customers complain about the price. They feel it is too expensive for what you get. But most agree that the quality justifies the cost. If you are a seafood lover, it is a memorable experience.
Common Complaints
Not every review is perfect. Here are a few issues people mention:
- Price fluctuations: Some customers were surprised by the final bill. They did not realize the price changed daily.
- Small portions: A few people said the tower looked big but had less crab meat than expected.
- Cold temperature: The tower is served cold, which some diners did not like. They prefered hot crab dishes.
To avoid surprises, always confirm the price before ordering. Ask your server how much it costs that day. Also, check if the tower includes all the items you want.
Tips For First-Time Visitors To Costas Inn
If you have never been to Costas Inn, here is what you need to know. The restaurant is located in Essex, Maryland, near Baltimore. It has a casual, family-friendly atmosphere. The staff are knowledgeable about seafood.
Make A Reservation
Costas Inn gets busy, especially on weekends. Call ahead to reserve a table. Walk-ins are welcome, but you might wait 30 to 60 minutes. Reservations are recommended for large groups.
Bring Cash Or Card
They accept both cash and credit cards. However, some specials are cash-only. Check the menu or ask your server. It is always good to have cash on hand.
Dress Comfortably
The restaurant is casual. You can wear jeans and a t-shirt. Some people dress up for special occasions, but it is not required. The focus is on the food, not the fashion.
Ask About Allergies
If you have shellfish allergies, be careful. The crab tower contains multiple types of shellfish. Inform your server before ordering. They can suggest alternatives or modifications.
Seasonal Variations In Price And Availability
The crab tower is not always available. It depends on the crab season. Here is a breakdown by season:
Spring (March To May)
Crabs start to become available in spring. Prices are moderate. The tower might be offered, but the crab meat may be smaller. This is a good time to try it if you want to avoid peak season crowds.
Summer (June To August)
This is peak crab season. Prices are lowest, and the crabs are largest. The tower is almost always available. This is the best time to order it for value and quality.
Fall (September To November)
Crabs are still available but start to get scarce. Prices rise. The tower might still be on the menu, but expect to pay more. Some restaurants switch to imported crabs during this time.
Winter (December To February)
Crabs are hard to find. The tower may not be available at all. If it is, the price will be high. Many people opt for other menu items during winter.
Always call ahead to confirm availability. The restaurant can tell you if the tower is being served that day and at what price.
How The Crab Tower Compares To Other Restaurants
Costas Inn is not the only place serving crab towers. Other Maryland seafood spots have similar offerings. Here is how they stack up:
Phillips Seafood
Phillips has a crab tower that costs around $75 to $100. It is similar in size but often uses less jumbo lump meat. Some people prefer Costas Inn for the higher quality crab.
Bo Brooks
Bo Brooks in Baltimore offers a crab tower for about $85 to $120. Their version includes more variety, like lobster and scallops. However, the crab meat is not always as fresh.
Local Crab Shacks
Smaller crab shacks often have their own towers. Prices range from $60 to $90. The quality varies widely. Costas Inn is known for consistent quality, which justifies the higher price.
If you want the best crab tower in the area, Costas Inn is a top choice. The price is higher, but the freshness and presentation are hard to beat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the Costas Inn crab tower:
What is the current price of the crab tower at Costas Inn?
The price changes daily based on market rates. As of this writing, it ranges from $89 to $129. Call the restaurant for the exact price today.
Can I order the crab tower for takeout?
Yes, you can order it for takeout. However, it is best enjoyed fresh at the restaurant. The cold items travel well, but the presentation suffers.
Is the crab tower gluten-free?
Most of the items are naturally gluten-free. But the coleslaw and sauces may contain gluten. Ask your server for gluten-free options.
How many people does the crab tower feed?
It typically serves two to four people as an appetizer. As a main course, it serves two to three people.
Do I need to reserve the crab tower in advance?
No, but it is a good idea. The tower requires fresh ingredients, so they may run out on busy nights. Call ahead to ensure availability.
Final Thoughts On The Costas Inn Crab Tower
The Costas Inn menu crab tower prices are not for everyone. They are high, but you pay for quality. If you love fresh seafood and want a memorable meal, it is worth the splurge. Plan your visit during summer for the best prices. Share with friends to make it more affordable. And always confirm the price before ordering.
Whether you are a local or just visiting Baltimore, the crab tower at Costas Inn is an experience. The combination of fresh crab, shrimp, and oysters on a tiered platter is impressive. It is perfect for celebrations or a special night out. Just be prepared for the cost, and you will not be dissapointed.
Remember to check their website or call ahead for the latest pricing. The market changes fast, and you want to avoid surprises. Enjoy your meal at Costas Inn, and savor every bite of that crab tower.