San Antonio's Best Crab [Updated 2024]

From juicy clusters of snow crab legs to the spicy goodness of king crab, I’ve sampled a variety of dishes across our vibrant culinary scene.

After reviewing 15 establishments, I can confidently say that San Antonio has a hidden gem for everyone craving crab.

Whether you're looking for a casual eatery or a fine dining experience, this city has an array of options that showcase the rich flavors and textures of crab.

Join me as I dive into the top spots where you can indulge in this delectable seafood, and discover the perfect place to satisfy your cravings!

Smashin Crab

Highlights
Best seafood boil experience
Spicy margaritas must-try
Fantastic happy hour deals
Friendly and fast bartenders
Cute patio seating available

Smashin Crab in San Antonio is like stepping into a treasure trove of flavor and fun! From the moment I walked in, I was enveloped by the tantalizing aroma of seafood—a prelude to what was about to blow my taste buds away. The seafood boil experience here is not just a meal; it's an adventure! The variety of crabs they offer is impressive, and you can customize your spice level to make sure it’s just right.

Now, let’s talk about those spicy margaritas. Oh my goodness! They’re a must-try and complement the feast perfectly. During happy hour, which boasts fantastic deals, I found myself sipping on these vibrant concoctions while eagerly anticipating my crab feast.

The friendly bartenders were quick and attentive, making the entire experience enjoyable. Don't forget to check out the cute patio seating, perfect for enjoying your meal under the Texas sky. Overall, Smashin Crab is a delightful destination for anyone craving the freshest crab and a lively atmosphere. I left with a satisfied palate and a joyful heart, eagerly planning my next visit to indulge in more of their succulent offerings!

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Surfing Crab (Cajun Seafood Boiled)

Highlights
Kid-friendly dining
Excellent fried oyster po' boys
Affordable drink specials
Friendly and attentive staff
Great seafood selection

Surfing Crab captivates with its vibrant ambiance and enticing aroma, immediately making you feel at home. As I walked in, the kid-friendly dining area was buzzing with laughter, setting the perfect tone for a family outing. I kicked off my feast with their excellent fried oyster po' boys, which were crispy, fresh, and piled high with flavor. Each bite was a delightful reminder of why Cajun cuisine enchants.

Now, let’s talk crab! I opted for their main attraction: the boiled crab, a symphony of spices that danced on my palate. The friendly and attentive staff ensured my experience was seamless, always ready with recommendations and clever anecdotes about the menu. The blend of Cajun flavors was nothing short of spectacular, with just the right amount of heat to complement the sweetness of the crab.

For a casual night out, their affordable drink specials sweeten the deal, making it easy to indulge in a feast without breaking the bank. Overall, Surfing Crab is a seafood haven in San Antonio, where your love for crab can flourish amidst a lively atmosphere. It’s a place that’s sure to keep you coming back for more!

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Dry Dock Oyster Bar

Highlights
Old school beach bar vibes
Phenomenal food and great service
Affordable prices
Freshly made sauces
Shucking oysters at the bar

Walking into Dry Dock Oyster Bar, I couldn't help but feel transported to an old school beach bar. The walls were adorned with nautical memorabilia and the cozy atmosphere gave off a laid-back vibe that instantly put me at ease.

Now, let's talk about the food. Oh boy, did it live up to my expectations! The crab here is simply phenomenal, cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. Each bite was a delightful explosion of sea goodness that left me craving for more. And the best part? The incredible crab was served at affordable prices that didn't break the bank.

In addition to the crab, the service was outstanding. The staff was not only attentive, but they also knew their stuff when it came to recommending the best options on the menu. They were more than willing to offer their expertise and guide me through the selection process.

Now, let's not forget about those freshly made sauces! These delectable creations elevated the crab to a whole new level. From tangy cocktail sauce to buttery garlic sauce, they had a sauce for every taste bud. I couldn't get enough of them!

And for those who like to get hands-on, you can even try your hand at shucking oysters at the bar. It's an interactive experience that adds an extra element of fun to your meal.

All in all, Dry Dock Oyster Bar is a true gem when it comes to finding the best crab in San Antonio. The combination of old school beach bar vibes, phenomenal food, great service, and affordable prices make it a must-visit for any seafood lover. So, grab your bib and head on over for a flavorful crab experience you won't soon forget!

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Groomer's Seafood

Highlights
Fantastic variety
Excellent customer service
Fresh and high-quality seafood
Clean and organized facility

Walking into Groomer's Seafood, I was immediately impressed by their fantastic variety of crab options. From Maryland blue crabs to Dungeness crabs, they had it all. The enticing display made it clear that this was a place for true crab aficionados.

What really set Groomer's Seafood apart, though, was their commitment to excellent customer service. The staff members were not only friendly and attentive but also extremely knowledgeable about their products. They were more than happy to answer my questions and provide recommendations based on my preferences.

But what truly matters in a crab review is the quality of the seafood, and Groomer's Seafood did not disappoint. The crabs were undeniably fresh and of the highest quality. Each succulent bite reminded me why I fell in love with crabs in the first place. Whether I was cracking open a Maryland blue crab or savoring the delicate meat of a Dungeness crab, the flavors were outstanding.

Moreover, Groomer's Seafood maintained a clean and organized facility, adding to the overall pleasant experience. In such a well-maintained environment, I felt even more confident in the quality and freshness of the crab I was about to enjoy.

In conclusion, Groomer's Seafood is a true gem in San Antonio when it comes to crab. With its fantastic variety, excellent customer service, fresh and high-quality seafood, and a clean facility, it's a top recommendation for any crab enthusiast. So, make your way to Groomer's Seafood and let your taste buds embark on a crabby adventure like no other.

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Joe's Crab Shack

Highlights
Seafood lovers paradise!
Plentiful menu selection
Pleasant and knowledgeable staff
No wait time for seating
On-theme with merchandise

Upon entering Joe's Crab Shack, I was greeted by a friendly and knowledgeable staff, ready to guide me through my seafood adventure. The atmosphere was lively, with colorful décor and a nautical theme that immediately set the mood. As a seafood lover, I was delighted by the sight of the extensive menu, filled with a wide variety of crab dishes and other ocean delights.

One of the highlights at Joe's Crab Shack is the plentiful menu selection. From steamed crab legs to crab-stuffed shrimp, there was something for every crustacean connoisseur. I decided to try their famous Crab Bucket - a generous assortment of crab legs, shrimp, and smoked sausage, all cooked to perfection.

The wait time for seating was impressively short, allowing me to indulge in my crab cravings almost instantly. With each bite, I couldn't help but savor the succulent meat and the flavors that burst in my mouth. The crab was perfectly seasoned and cooked, highlighting the natural sweetness and tenderness of the meat.

Throughout my meal, the staff continued to impress, providing attentive service and answering any questions I had about the menu. The pleasant and knowledgeable team truly enhanced the dining experience, ensuring that every guest felt like a valued seafood enthusiast.

As I concluded my meal, I couldn't resist browsing the on-theme merchandise section. From t-shirts to crab mallets, Joe's Crab Shack offered a delightful selection of souvenirs to remember the experience.

In conclusion, Joe's Crab Shack is a true seafood lover's paradise. With its plentiful menu selection, pleasant staff, and seamless experience with no wait time for seating, it undoubtedly deserves its place among the best crab destinations in San Antonio.

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Krab Kingz San Antonio

Highlights
Damn good food
Ample amount
Butter and seasoning

Let me start by saying, the crabs at Krab Kingz San Antonio are damn good! From the moment I entered the restaurant, my senses were greeted with the mouthwatering aroma of freshly steamed crabs.

The first thing that caught my attention was the ample amount of crabs on their menu. From Maryland Blue Crabs to Snow Crabs and even King Crabs, they had it all. It felt like a crab lover's paradise!

One of the things that sets Krab Kingz San Antonio apart is their unforgettable butter and seasoning. Each crab was perfectly coated in a glorious blend of spices and melted butter, creating a symphony of flavors that danced in my mouth with every bite. The seasoning was just right - not too overpowering but enough to enhance the natural sweetness of the crab meat.

But it wasn't just the crabs that impressed me. The staff at Krab Kingz San Antonio were friendly and attentive. They took the time to explain the different menu options and even offered helpful tips on the best way to crack open the shells and enjoy the juicy meat inside.

Overall, my experience at Krab Kingz San Antonio was a delight. The combination of damn good food, ample amount of crabs, and the heavenly butter and seasoning made it clear why this place deserves a spot on the list of the best crab spots in San Antonio. If you're a crab enthusiast like me, I highly recommend giving Krab Kingz San Antonio a try - your taste buds will thank you!

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SAT Asian Seafood Restaurant & Bar

Highlights
Impressive Mother's Day experience
Perfectly cooked and flavorful boils
Loved the orange chicken
Great lunch specials
Delicious fried shrimp and sides

Walking into SAT Asian Seafood Restaurant & Bar, it was clear that I was in for an impressive Mother's Day experience. The ambience was warm and inviting, with friendly staff members ready to make our dining experience memorable.

Now, let's talk about the crab. The perfectly cooked and flavorful boils were a true delight for my taste buds. The meat was juicy and tender, with just the right amount of seasoning. It was evident that the chefs at SAT Asian Seafood Restaurant & Bar knew what they were doing when it came to preparing crabs.

But it's not just about the crabs here. One item that stood out to me was the orange chicken. The crispy exterior combined with the tangy, flavorful sauce made it a winning dish. It was a nice break from the shell-cracking action.

The lunch specials were also worth mentioning. The selection was varied and reasonably priced, offering a great value for the quality of food we received. It's definitely a spot worth considering for a satisfying meal without breaking the bank.

Lastly, if you're into fried seafood, don't miss out on the fried shrimp and sides. The batter was light and crispy, providing a delightful crunch with each bite.

Overall, SAT Asian Seafood Restaurant & Bar gets a thumbs up from me. From their impressive Mother's Day experience to the perfectly cooked crabs, this place excels in both flavor and service. So, if you're looking for some crab-tivating options in San Antonio, give this place a try!

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Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen

Highlights
Outstanding Cajun flavors
Exceptional customer service
Lively atmosphere
Reasonable prices
Delicious food

Walking into Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen, I was immediately greeted by a lively atmosphere that made me feel like I had stepped into a Louisiana bayou. The scent of outstanding Cajun flavors filled the air, building up my excitement for the culinary delights that awaited me.

As I settled into my seat, I couldn't help but notice the exceptional customer service. The staff was attentive, knowledgeable, and always ready to answer any questions I had about the menu and their crab offerings. Their friendly demeanor really added to the overall experience.

Now, onto the main event - the crabs! Pappadeaux did not disappoint. The delicious food arrived plated beautifully, allowing me to admire the vibrant colors and fresh seafood on my plate. The flavors exploded in my mouth, with the perfect balance of spices that added just the right amount of heat.

But what really impressed me were the prices. For the quality and quantity of food, the prices were more than reasonable. It's not often that you find a restaurant that offers such a balance between taste, portion sizes, and affordability.

Overall, my visit to Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen was an absolute delight. The combination of outstanding Cajun flavors, exceptional customer service, and a lively atmosphere made for an unforgettable dining experience. If you're looking for the best crab in San Antonio, this is definitely a place worth checking out.

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Landry's Seafood House

Highlights
Tasty Food
Outstanding Service
Fresh Seafood
Knowledgeable Staff
Delicious Desserts

Upon stepping into Landry's Seafood House, I was immediately captivated by the delightful aromas wafting from the kitchen. As I perused the menu, I knew I was in for a treat. The first highlight that stood out to me was the tasty food. From the moment I took my first bite, I knew I was in crab heaven.

But it wasn't just the food that impressed me – it was the outstanding service as well. The staff at Landry's Seafood House went above and beyond to ensure that our dining experience was exceptional. They were attentive, friendly, and incredibly knowledgeable about the menu.

Of course, when it comes to crabs, freshness is key. At Landry's Seafood House, the crabs were as fresh as they come. Each bite was bursting with flavor, and the succulent meat melted in my mouth. It was evident that the restaurant takes pride in sourcing their seafood.

One highlight that cannot be overlooked is the knowledgeable staff. When I had questions about the different crab dishes or wanted recommendations, they were more than happy to assist. Their expertise and passion for seafood shone through, enhancing my dining experience.

To top it all off, Landry's Seafood House offered a delectable selection of delicious desserts to satisfy my sweet tooth. After indulging in their famous crab feast, treating myself to one of their decadent desserts was the perfect ending to an unforgettable meal.

In conclusion, Landry's Seafood House proved to be a hidden gem in San Antonio, providing a tantalizingly tasty feast of crabs. From their outstanding service and commitment to freshness, to their knowledgeable staff and delectable desserts, this establishment is definitely a must-visit for any crab enthusiast in the city.

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Texas Crab Boil

Highlights
Tasty crawfish mix
Best shrimp cocktail
Crispy fried baskets
Homemade hush puppies

Upon entering Texas Crab Boil, my senses were immediately overwhelmed by the mouthwatering aroma of spices and seafood. The lively atmosphere was buzzing with laughter and chatter, adding to the excitement of the dining experience.

One highlight of my visit was the tasty crawfish mix, which was bursting with flavors that took me straight to the coastal states. The succulent meat was perfectly seasoned and cooked, leaving me craving for more with every bite. But that wasn't the only standout dish.

The shrimp cocktail at Texas Crab Boil is, without a doubt, the best I've ever had in San Antonio. The plump shrimp were swimming in a tangy and zesty sauce that complemented their natural sweetness exceptionally well. Each bite was a delightful explosion of flavors that left me wanting to order a second serving.

To satisfy my craving for something fried, I opted for one of their crispy fried baskets. The crunchiness of the coated seafood, whether it be shrimp or soft-shell crab, was a textural delight. Accompanied by their homemade tartar sauce, each bite was a symphony of textures and flavors that had my taste buds dancing with joy.

To complete my meal, I couldn't resist ordering their homemade hush puppies. These golden nuggets of fried cornbread were fluffy on the inside and had a satisfying crunch on the outside. Dip them in the accompanying spicy remoulade sauce, and it takes the hush puppies to a whole new level.

Overall, my experience at Texas Crab Boil was a delightful journey through some of the best crab dishes in San Antonio. From the tasty crawfish mix to the perfect shrimp cocktail, and the crispy fried baskets to the heavenly hush puppies, every bite was an explosion of flavors that left me longing for more. If you're looking for a crab feast that will transport you to the coast, Texas Crab Boil is the place to be.

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Hook & Reel Cajun Seafood & Bar

I must say, the crab at Hook & Reel was a delightful surprise! The juicy, succulent meat was bursting with flavor, and the cajun seasoning added a spicy kick that made my taste buds sing. The crab legs were enormous and cooked to perfection, making it a truly memorable dining experience. Whether you're a crab aficionado or just a casual seafood lover, Hook & Reel is a must-visit for crab enthusiasts in San Antonio.

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Red Hook Seafood

I've been on a crab-tasting spree in San Antonio. Recently, I had the pleasure of visiting Red Hook Seafood and OMG, their crab is out of this world! The meat was so succulent and flavorful, it practically melted in my mouth. The Cajun seasoning added a spicy kick that took it to a whole new level. Trust me, you haven't experienced true crab delight until you've tried Red Hook Seafood's crab.

Fish City Grill

Fish City Grill in San Antonio serves up some seriously succulent crab dishes that will make your taste buds dance with delight. With a playful yet professional vibe, the restaurant delivers on flavor with its fresh and flavorful crab preparations. From savory crab cakes to steaming pots of boiled crab, Fish City Grill knows how to satisfy your seafood cravings. Don't miss out on their signature crab chowder - it's a bowl of creamy goodness that will have you coming back for more.

Bourbon Street Seafood Kitchen Downtown

Bourbon Street Seafood Kitchen Downtown in San Antonio is a delightful crab shack that perfectly captures the essence of New Orleans. With their overflowing platters of succulent crab legs and crispy soft-shell crab, every bite is a taste explosion. The friendly staff and charming ambiance make it a top pick for crab enthusiasts.

Sea Island Shrimp House

Hear ye, hear ye! I, the crab connoisseur, have visited the renowned Sea Island Shrimp House in San Antonio. With an eager appetite and discerning taste buds, I embarked on a delightful crab adventure that whisked me away to seafood heaven.