The Boiling Crab menu with prices varies by location, but the seafood boils are the main draw. If you are planning a visit, knowing what to order and what it costs can save you time and money. This guide breaks down the full menu, typical price ranges, and tips for getting the best value at The Boiling Crab.
Whether you are a first-timer or a regular, the menu can feel overwhelming. There are dozens of combinations of seafood, sauces, and spice levels. Let us simplify it for you.
Boiling Crab Menu With Prices
The core of the menu is the seafood boil. You pick your seafood, your sauce, and your spice level. Then, everything is cooked together and served in a plastic bag. It is messy, fun, and delicious.
Prices are not fixed nationwide. They change based on your location and market rates for seafood. However, the structure is the same everywhere. Below is a typical breakdown.
Seafood By The Pound
This is where you start. You choose one or more types of seafood. Each is sold by the pound. The most popular options are:
- Shrimp (Head-On): Usually $12.99 – $15.99 per pound. These are large, juicy shrimp with the heads still on. Some people love the extra flavor; others find it messy.
- Shrimp (Head-Off): Slightly more expensive, around $14.99 – $17.99 per pound. Easier to eat but less flavorful.
- Crawfish: Seasonal and pricey. Expect $16.99 – $22.99 per pound when in season. Off-season, they may not be available.
- Snow Crab Legs: A fan favorite. Prices range from $24.99 – $29.99 per pound. The meat is sweet and easy to pull out.
- Dungeness Crab: Larger and meatier. Usually $26.99 – $32.99 per pound.
- King Crab Legs: The premium option. Expect $34.99 – $44.99 per pound. Worth it for special occasions.
- Mussels: Budget-friendly. Around $10.99 – $13.99 per pound.
- Clams: Similar to mussels. $10.99 – $14.99 per pound.
- Lobster Tail: Usually market price, but often $18.99 – $24.99 each.
Combination Platters
If you want a mix, combos are a good deal. They include two or more seafood items plus corn and potatoes. Popular combos include:
- The Whole Shebang: Shrimp, crawfish, and snow crab. Prices vary but typically $35.99 – $45.99 per combo.
- Shrimp & Snow Crab Combo: About $28.99 – $36.99.
- Crawfish & Shrimp Combo: Around $26.99 – $32.99.
Combos are meant for one person, but they are generous. You can share if you add extra sides.
Sauces And Spice Levels
You choose a sauce for your boil. The most famous is The Whole Sha-Bang—a mix of garlic butter, lemon pepper, and their signature seasoning. Other options include:
- Garlic Butter: Rich and savory.
- Lemon Pepper: Tangy and zesty.
- Shabang: Spicy and bold.
- Ragin’ Cajun: For heat lovers.
Spice levels range from Mild to XXX (Extra Hot). Be careful with XXX—it is seriously hot. Most people stick with Medium or Hot.
Sides And Add-Ons
No boil is complete without extras. Sides are priced per item:
- Corn on the Cob: $2.50 – $3.50 per piece.
- Potatoes: $2.00 – $3.00 per piece.
- Sausage: $3.50 – $5.00 per link.
- Rice: $2.00 – $3.00.
- Garlic Noodles: $6.99 – $8.99. A popular side that soaks up sauce.
Appetizers
Before the boil, you might want a starter. Appetizers are shareable and reasonably priced:
- Fried Calamari: $9.99 – $12.99.
- Popcorn Shrimp: $8.99 – $11.99.
- Fried Okra: $6.99 – $8.99.
- Hush Puppies: $5.99 – $7.99.
- French Fries: $4.99 – $6.99.
Drinks
Drink prices are standard. Soft drinks are $2.50 – $3.50. Iced tea and lemonade are similar. Beer and cocktails are available at most locations, with beers starting around $5.00.
How To Order Like A Pro
Ordering at The Boiling Crab is simple once you know the steps. Follow this process:
- Pick Your Seafood: Decide how many pounds you want. A good rule is 1 pound per person if you have sides, or 1.5 pounds if seafood is the main event.
- Choose Your Sauce: The Whole Sha-Bang is the most popular. If you are indecisive, go with that.
- Select Spice Level: Start with Medium if you are unsure. You can always add hot sauce later.
- Add Sides: Corn and potatoes are included in combos but not in single-pound orders. Add them separately if needed.
- Decide On Appetizers: If you are hungry, share an appetizer. The garlic noodles are a crowd-pleaser.
- Order Drinks: Water is fine, but a cold beer pairs perfectly with spicy seafood.
Your order will arrive in a plastic bag. Open it carefully—steam will escape. Use your hands. Napkins are provided, but you will get messy. That is part of the experience.
Tips For Saving Money
The Boiling Crab is not cheap, but you can keep costs down:
- Go during lunch: Some locations have lunch specials. Check your local store.
- Skip the appetizers: The boil itself is filling. You might not need starters.
- Share a combo: Two people can split a large combo and add a side of rice or noodles.
- Drink water: Soft drinks add up. Water is free.
- Avoid peak season: Crawfish prices are highest in spring. If you want crawfish, go early in the season.
Regional Price Variations
Prices differ by state and even by city. Here is a rough comparison:
- Texas: Generally lower prices. Snow crab might be $24.99 per pound.
- California: Higher. Expect $28.99 – $32.99 for snow crab.
- Louisiana: Crawfish is cheaper here, but other seafood is similar to Texas.
- Nevada: Las Vegas locations are pricier. Add $2 – $5 per pound compared to Texas.
Always check the menu at your specific location. The Boiling Crab website has a locator tool. You can also call ahead to confirm prices.
What About The Kids Menu?
The Boiling Crab does not have a formal kids menu. However, you can order smaller portions. A half-pound of shrimp or a single crab leg works. Some locations offer chicken tenders or fries for children. Ask your server.
Popular Sauces Explained
Each sauce has a distinct flavor. Here is what to expect:
- The Whole Sha-Bang: A blend of garlic, butter, lemon, and spices. It is savory with a hint of heat. Most people love it.
- Garlic Butter: Simple and rich. Good if you want the seafood flavor to shine.
- Lemon Pepper: Bright and citrusy. Pairs well with shrimp and crab.
- Shabang: Spicier than the Sha-Bang. Has a kick.
- Ragin’ Cajun: Heavy on cayenne and paprika. For heat seekers only.
You can also ask for a mix of sauces. Some regulars order half Garlic Butter and half Lemon Pepper. The kitchen will combine them.
Spice Level Guide
Not sure which spice level to pick? Here is a breakdown:
- Mild: No heat. Good for kids or sensitive palates.
- Medium: A gentle warmth. Most people start here.
- Hot: Noticeable heat but not overwhelming.
- X: Spicy. You will sweat a little.
- XX: Very hot. Only if you love heat.
- XXX: Extremely hot. Not for beginners.
If you order XXX, be prepared. Have a drink ready. Some locations require a waiver for XXX. Not kidding.
What To Expect At The Restaurant
The atmosphere is casual and loud. Expect long waits during peak hours. Here is what to know:
- Wait times: 30 minutes to 2 hours on weekends. Go early or late to avoid crowds.
- No reservations: It is first-come, first-served.
- Dress code: Casual. Wear clothes you do not mind getting stained.
- Bib and gloves: Provided. Use them. The sauce stains.
- Payment: Most locations accept credit cards and cash. Some have a minimum for cards.
Service is fast but not fancy. The staff will bring your bag and check on you. Do not expect fine dining. It is a seafood shack vibe.
Takeout And Delivery
You can order takeout. Call ahead or order online. The food travels well if you eat it within 30 minutes. Delivery is available through third-party apps like DoorDash and Uber Eats. Prices on apps are higher due to fees.
For takeout, ask for extra napkins and wet wipes. You will need them at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does The Boiling Crab have a printed menu with prices?
Yes, each location has a printed menu. Prices are listed per pound and per combo. You can also find a digital menu on their website, but prices may not be updated.
Is the boiling crab menu with prices the same for lunch and dinner?
Generally, yes. Some locations offer lunch specials with lower prices on select items. Check with your local store.
Can I get a refund if I do not like my food?
The Boiling Crab does not offer refunds. If there is an issue, talk to the manager. They may offer a replacement or discount on your next visit.
Are there vegetarian options on the menu?
Very limited. You can order sides like corn, potatoes, and fries. There are no plant-based protein options.
How much should I budget for two people?
A typical meal for two, including a combo, sides, and drinks, costs between $60 and $90. If you order King Crab, expect $100 or more.
Final Thoughts On The Boiling Crab Menu
The Boiling Crab menu with prices is straightforward once you understand the system. Pick your seafood, choose your sauce, and decide on spice level. Add sides and drinks. That is it.
Prices vary, but the experience is consistent. You get messy, you eat with your hands, and you leave full and happy. It is not a place for a quiet date. It is a place for good food and good company.
If you are on a budget, stick with shrimp and mussels. If you want to splurge, go for King Crab. Either way, you will get a flavorful meal that is hard to forget.
Remember to check your local menu before you go. Prices change with the market. And always bring a big appetite.