Crab legs are a culinary delight, treasured for their sweet, tender meat and often viewed as a luxurious indulgence. In New York City, renowned for its diverse gastronomic scene, crab leg aficionados have an abundance of options scattered across various neighborhoods. Whether you are a locals seeking a new favorite haunt or a visitor eager to sample the local food scene, this curated list of ten establishments that specialize in crab legs is sure to tantalize your taste buds. Below, you will find details regarding each restaurant, including their addresses, contact information, and websites, allowing for effortless planning of your seafood escapade.
1. The Crab House
Address: 201 E 5th St, New York, NY 10003
Contact: (212) 777-3335
Website: thecrabhouse.com
Located in the heart of the East Village, The Crab House offers a vibrant atmosphere paired with a robust menu featuring Alaskan king crab legs. Their signature garlic butter sauce is a must-try, promising to elevate your dining experience to new heights. This bustling eatery often hosts live music events, adding to the lively ambiance.
2. Luke’s Lobster
Address: 2 W 15th St, New York, NY 10011
Contact: (212) 255-INOX (4669)
Website: lukeslobster.com
Known primarily for its lobster rolls, Luke’s Lobster doesn’t skimp on crab legs. Their sustainably sourced crab is both delectable and accompanied by a range of dipping options. The minimalist decor and casual vibe make it an ideal stop for a quick yet satisfying meal.
3. The Sea Fire Grill
Address: 161 E 54th St, New York, NY 10022
Contact: (212) 935-3783
Website: seafiregrill.com
The Sea Fire Grill, a modern seafood restaurant, offers an elegant twist on the crab leg experience. With a chic interior, guests can relish their colossal crab legs while enjoying a fine glass of white wine. Their knowledgeable staff is always on hand to assist with pairings, creating a sumptuous dining experience.
4. Crustacean
Address: 8665 Wilshire Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90211 (Note: While this is a Los Angeles location, they occasionally have pop-ups in NYC.)
Contact: (310) 205-8990
Website: crustacean.com
Although primarily known for its West Coast locations, Crustacean’s ephemeral appearances in New York bring a wealth of flavor to the local seafood scene. Their signature roasted crab and garlic noodles make for an unforgettable combination that has locals raving.
5. Red Rock North
Address: 2747 Atlantic Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11207
Contact: (718) 574-4201
Website: redrocknorth.com
Situated in Brooklyn, Red Rock North serves crab legs with a Southern flair. Their spicy crab boil embodies a casual, community-driven experience perfect for gatherings. Enjoy the fun, relaxed vibe while diving into a bucket filled with succulent crab, potatoes, and corn.
6. Grand Central Oyster Bar
Address: 89 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017
Contact: (212) 490-6650
Website: oysterbarny.com
Located within the iconic Grand Central Terminal, this historic venue is a paradise for seafood lovers. The Grand Central Oyster Bar serves a variety of crab leg preparations, including stone crab served with mustard sauce. The location itself is imbued with New York history, making it a great educational experience alongside culinary indulgence.
7. The Boil
Address: 3 W 14th St, New York, NY 10011
Contact: (212) 229-5555
Website: theboilnyc.com
Known for its Cajun-style seafood boils, The Boil presents a lively atmosphere reminiscent of a festive gathering. Here, you can savor crab legs alongside shrimp and crawfish, all drenched in zesty seasoning. The communal dining experience fosters connection, making it a great spot for families and groups.
8. Joe’s Crab Shack
Address: 485 Larkin St, San Francisco, CA 94102 (Note: While a franchise primarily based in California, it features several locations offering delivery to NYC.)
Contact: (415) 276-3000
Website: joescrabshack.com
This well-known chain offers an expansive crab leg menu at approachable price points. Even if you’re not near their physical location in NYC, take advantage of their delivery options to enjoy classic dishes like the “Dungeness Crab Bucket” from the comfort of your own home.
9. Lobster Place
Address: 75 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011
Contact: (212) 255-4045
Website: lobsterplace.com
Tucked inside Chelsea Market, Lobster Place is a specialty seafood market where you can find fresh crab legs to take home or sample dishes at their seafood counter. With an impressive selection, it’s a one-stop-shop for seafood enthusiasts, allowing for both culinary exploration and gourmet shopping.
10. East Coast Seafood
Address: 40-5 82nd St, Jackson Heights, NY 11373
Contact: (718) 425-3939
Website: eastcoastseafood.com
Located in Jackson Heights, East Coast Seafood specializes in fresh, sustainably sourced seafood. Their crab legs are celebrated for their quality and flavor, making them a popular choice for both cooking at home and dining in. The shop often hosts educational events focused on sustainable practices, appealing to eco-conscious diners.
New York City boasts an eclectic range of options for crab leg enthusiasts, from bustling eateries to chic fine dining establishments. Each location offers its own unique take on this beloved seafood, ensuring that you can find the perfect dish to suit your palate. As you embark on your culinary voyage through the neighborhoods, take a moment to appreciate the diverse flavors and vibrant settings that New York has to offer. Happy dining!
