New York City, a veritable melting pot of culinary delights, has seen a gastronomical surge in the popularity of Cajun and Creole cuisine, notably characterized by the delectable crawfish. As spring rolls around, seafood lovers and adventurous eaters alike crave the succulent texture and rich flavors of crawfish tails. This listicle highlights ten exceptional spots throughout the city where one can indulge in this southern staple, ensuring a delightful dining experience for every palate.
1. Tchoup Shop
Address: 168 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10012
Contact: (646) 649-4417
Website: tchoup-shop.com
Nestled in Greenwich Village, Tchoup Shop is the acclaimed brainchild of Chef Cory Bahr, a Louisiana native. This eatery specializes in authentic Louisiana cuisine and features a signature crawfish étouffée that is both rich and comforting. The roasted corn & crawfish fritters are a lovely appetizer, exuding a delicate crunch while harboring a burst of flavor.
2. The Boil
Address: 99 1st Ave, New York, NY 10003
Contact: (212) 254-2800
Website: theboilnyc.com
The Boil delivers an immersive experience with its lively ambiance and communal dining style. Known for its Cajun-style seafood boils, this East Village gem offers a selection of crawfish head-on or tail-only options. Indulge in the ‘The Boil’ seafood feast, which offers a tantalizing combination of crawfish, shrimp, and crab, all seasoned with their mouth-watering house spice blend.
3. Tails & Grill
Address: 440 N Kings Hwy, Brooklyn, NY 11223
Contact: (718) 627-6767
Website: tailsgrill.com
This Brooklyn establishment charmingly presents a fusion twist on traditional Cajun cuisine. Tails & Grill excels in crafting unique crawfish dishes, such as their tantalizing crawfish tacos—where buttery crawfish tails mingle harmoniously with zesty slaw. The vibrant atmosphere echoes the flavors they serve, making it a must-visit for enthusiasts.
4. Cajun House
Address: 1445 Nostrand Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11226
Contact: (718) 804-2256
Website: cajunhouse.com
Located in Flatbush, Cajun House offers an authentic taste of Louisiana deep in Brooklyn. Their crawfish gumbo is an enjoyably robust dish, filled with aromatic spices and tender meats. Additionally, the crawfish tails served with their famed remoulade sauce can elevate any meal, ensuring your dining experience is delightful down to the last bite.
5. Dirty French
Address: 21 Prince St, New York, NY 10012
Contact: (212) 274-8989
Website: dirtyfrenchnyc.com
This lively bistro in the Lower East Side presents a unique marriage of French and American cuisines. The crawfish beignets offered as a starter prove irresistible, encased in a crisp exterior, with their tender crawfish inside. Pair it with their delightful drinks selection, and you’ll find a joyous atmosphere that complements the flavorful fare.
6. Creole Kitchen
Address: 1066 Broadway, Brooklyn, NY 11221
Contact: (347) 295-7548
Website: creolekitchenbk.com
Tucked away in Bushwick, Creole Kitchen specializes in dishes that celebrate New Orleans’ culinary traditions. The crawfish tails served with rice enhance the rustic charm of this eatery. The gumbo, laced with generous portions of crawfish, shrimp, and andouille sausage, is a classic dish here, full of character and flavor that stays true to its roots.
7. B Southern
Address: 6519 4th Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11220
Contact: (718) 748-0888
Website: bsouthern.com
Known for its homestyle cooking, B Southern invites food lovers to savor the simplicity of authentically prepared dishes. Their crawfish tails po’ boy, dressed with fresh lettuce and house-made remoulade sauce, presents a sandwich choice that is both filling and flavorful. Pairing it with homemade side dishes amplifies the warmth of southern hospitality.
8. Maison Premiere
Address: 298 Bedford Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Contact: (347) 335-0446
Website: maisonpremiere.com
This oyster bar and cocktail den, evocative of New Orleans’ style, serves crawfish tails with a creative flair. One can enjoy exquisite crawfish ceviche—an innovative dish that melds flavors of the sea with vibrant spices. With a vast selection of oysters and an extensive cocktail menu, affiliations of taste are met with artful presentation in this enchanting venue.
9. The Seafood Shack
Address: 501 W 42nd St, New York, NY 10036
Contact: (646) 846-9494
Website: theseafoodshack.com
Located near the bustling Theater District, The Seafood Shack is the perfect hidden gem for those seeking a quick, yet delicious bite. Their crawfish tail po’boys, brimming with spicy shrimp and savory slaw, are an instant hit among patrons. The casual atmosphere complements the lively energy of the surrounding area, making it an excellent spot for seafood aficionados.
10. NOLA New York
Address: 88 E 4th St, New York, NY 10003
Contact: (212) 476-3640
Website: nolanyc.com
NOLA New York serves a diverse menu inspired by the rich culture and flavors of New Orleans. Their crawfish mac ‘n’ cheese is a luxurious twist on a childhood classic. The blend of cheeses along with freshly cooked crawfish tails makes for an indulgent dish. Make sure to enjoy their creative cocktails, expertly crafted by skilled mixologists to round off your meal perfectly.
As the springtime crawfish season rolls in, food lovers in New York City have ample opportunities to explore this exquisite culinary staple within the vibrant landscape of varying neighborhoods. These ten establishments, each with its unparalleled charm and delicious offerings, serve as a testament to the city’s thriving food scene. So, grab some friends, embark on a culinary adventure, and savor the tantalizing dishes that feature the delightful crawfish tail.
