Laughing Crab offers a vibrant and mouthwatering seafood menu that has captivated seafood lovers far and wide. Known for its fresh ingredients and bold flavors, the menu features a variety of dishes that celebrate the ocean’s bounty in unique and exciting ways.
Whether you crave succulent crab legs, flavorful shrimp boils, or inventive twists on classic seafood fare, Laughing Crab has something to satisfy every palate. The lively atmosphere paired with a menu that emphasizes quality and creativity makes it a destination for both casual diners and devoted food enthusiasts.
At Laughing Crab, the focus is on delivering not just a meal but an experience. The menu is thoughtfully crafted to highlight the natural flavors of seafood while incorporating signature spices and cooking techniques that enhance every bite.
From starters to mains, each dish tells a story of freshness, tradition, and innovation. Diners can expect generous portions and dishes designed for sharing, fostering a communal dining experience that echoes the joyful spirit of the restaurant’s name.
Signature Crab Dishes
The heart of Laughing Crab’s menu lies in its impressive array of crab dishes. These offerings showcase the versatility of crab meat, from simple steamed preparations to richly seasoned boils.
Each dish is designed to bring out the sweet, delicate flavors of crab while adding layers of seasoning that excite the palate.
One standout is the Classic Crab Boil, a dish that combines fresh crab legs with potatoes, corn, and sausage, all cooked in a spicy broth. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy bold, zesty flavors with a hint of heat.
The boiling process infuses every ingredient with the signature seasoning blend that Laughing Crab is known for.
Another favorite is the Garlic Butter Crab, where crab legs are sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce that enhances their natural sweetness without overpowering it. It’s a dish celebrated for its simplicity and elegance, appealing to those who prefer a more refined seafood experience.
Popular Crab Options
- Snow Crab Legs: Steamed or boiled, served with drawn butter and lemon wedges.
- King Crab: Larger and meatier, often paired with spicy Cajun seasonings.
- Crab Cakes: Made with fresh crab meat, lightly seasoned, and pan-fried to golden perfection.
- Crab Boil: A communal feast with crab, shrimp, potatoes, corn, and sausage cooked in a spicy broth.
“The crab dishes at Laughing Crab perfectly balance freshness with bold spices, making every bite a celebration of the sea.”
Shrimp Specialties
Shrimp is a versatile seafood staple that Laughing Crab elevates through a variety of cooking styles and flavor profiles. From spicy boils to grilled skewers, the shrimp dishes are crafted to appeal to those who enjoy vibrant, savory tastes with a touch of southern flair.
The Shrimp Boil is a crowd-pleaser, featuring plump shrimp cooked alongside traditional boil ingredients and tossed in a signature seasoning mix. It’s a dish that encourages sharing and lively conversation, making it a centerpiece for group dining.
For those who prefer something lighter, the Grilled Shrimp Skewers offer a smoky, charred flavor complemented by a tangy citrus glaze. This option is perfect for diners looking for a balanced, less spicy alternative without sacrificing depth of flavor.
Highlights of Shrimp Offerings
- Spicy Shrimp Boil: Shrimp boiled with potatoes, corn, and sausage, drenched in a spicy Cajun sauce.
- Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Marinated shrimp grilled to perfection with a citrus glaze.
- Garlic Butter Shrimp: Shrimp sautéed in garlic butter, served over rice or pasta.
- Shrimp Po’ Boy: Classic sandwich with fried shrimp, lettuce, tomato, and remoulade sauce on a hoagie roll.
Dish | Flavor Profile | Recommended Pairing |
Spicy Shrimp Boil | Bold, spicy, and savory | Cold beer or crisp white wine |
Grilled Shrimp Skewers | Smoky, tangy, and light | Chardonnay or sparkling water with lemon |
Garlic Butter Shrimp | Rich, buttery, and garlicky | Light red wine or iced tea |
Oyster and Clam Selections
Fresh oysters and clams form an essential part of the Laughing Crab experience. These shellfish are served raw, grilled, or baked, offering a range of textures and tastes that highlight their briny sweetness and oceanic freshness.
The raw oyster platter is a favorite among purists, served chilled with lemon wedges and cocktail sauce. It’s a simple yet elegant way to enjoy oysters, allowing their natural flavors to shine.
For those seeking a more robust taste, baked oysters topped with garlic herb butter and Parmesan cheese provide a rich and savory option.
Clams are often featured in hearty dishes such as clam chowder or steamed clams in white wine and garlic sauce. These preparations emphasize warm, comforting flavors that contrast beautifully with the crispness of the oysters.
Popular Shellfish Dishes
- Raw Oyster Platter: Freshly shucked oysters served with traditional garnishes.
- Baked Oysters: Topped with garlic butter, herbs, and cheese, then broiled.
- Steamed Clams: Cooked in white wine, garlic, and fresh herbs.
- New England Clam Chowder: Cream-based soup with clams, potatoes, and smoky bacon.
“Our oysters and clams capture the essence of the sea, providing a fresh and refined seafood option that complements the heartier dishes.”
Fish Entrées and Specialties
Laughing Crab’s fish selections offer a diverse array of options that cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. From grilled fillets to fried classics, each fish dish is prepared with care to highlight its unique qualities.
Grilled salmon is among the most popular, known for its rich, oily texture and delicate smoky flavor. Served with seasonal vegetables and a light citrus dressing, it’s a dish that balances health and indulgence.
Alternatively, fried catfish brings a southern comfort food vibe to the menu, featuring a crispy cornmeal crust and tangy tartar sauce.
For something more adventurous, the blackened snapper offers a spicy, charred crust paired with creamy coleslaw and rice. This dish is a flavorful option for those who enjoy bold spices and textural contrasts.
Fish Menu Highlights
- Grilled Salmon: Lightly seasoned, served with vegetables and citrus sauce.
- Fried Catfish: Crispy cornmeal-coated fillets with tartar sauce.
- Blackened Snapper: Spiced and seared with a smoky crust.
- Fish Tacos: Grilled or fried fish with fresh salsa and creamy sauce.
Fish Type | Cooking Style | Flavor Notes |
Salmon | Grilled | Rich, smoky, slightly sweet |
Catfish | Fried | Crispy, savory, mild |
Snapper | Blackened | Spicy, smoky, robust |
White Fish | Tacos (grilled/fried) | Fresh, zesty, creamy |
Appetizers and Small Plates
To start the meal or enjoy alongside drinks, the appetizer menu at Laughing Crab offers a variety of small plates designed to complement the main seafood offerings. These dishes are crafted to be flavorful, shareable, and perfect for whetting the appetite.
Popular appetizers include fried calamari, seasoned with a blend of spices and served with a tangy marinara sauce. Another favorite is the crab nachos, a creative twist on a classic snack featuring crispy chips topped with melted cheese, fresh crab meat, jalapeños, and drizzled with a spicy aioli.
For lighter fare, the seafood ceviche offers a refreshing mix of diced fish, shrimp, lime juice, and fresh herbs. It’s a zesty and vibrant dish that offers a bright contrast to the richer options on the menu.
Top Appetizer Choices
- Fried Calamari: Crispy and seasoned, served with marinara.
- Crab Nachos: Chips topped with crab, cheese, and jalapeños.
- Seafood Ceviche: Fresh fish and shrimp marinated in citrus.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Filled with crab meat, cheese, and herbs.
“Our appetizers set the tone for a memorable meal, combining familiar favorites with inventive seafood twists.”
Sides and Accompaniments
A great seafood meal is incomplete without the perfect sides, and Laughing Crab’s menu offers a variety of options to round out your dining experience. These accompaniments range from classic Southern-style dishes to fresh, crisp salads.
Traditional sides like Cajun fries, garlic mashed potatoes, and steamed vegetables are staples, enhancing the main dishes without overpowering them. Corn on the cob, often seasoned with Cajun spices or butter, adds a sweet and savory balance to many seafood plates.
For those seeking healthier alternatives, the house salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast. The coleslaw, made fresh daily, is also a popular choice for its creamy texture and tangy flavor.
Popular Side Dishes
- Cajun Fries: Seasoned with a blend of spices for extra kick.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and flavorful, a comforting classic.
- Steamed Vegetables: Lightly seasoned, perfect for balance.
- Coleslaw: Crisp, tangy, and fresh.
- Corn on the Cob: Often spiced or buttered for added flavor.
Side Dish | Flavor Profile | Best Paired With |
Cajun Fries | Spicy, crispy | Crab Boil, Fried Fish |
Garlic Mashed Potatoes | Rich, creamy | Grilled Salmon, Blackened Snapper |
Steamed Vegetables | Light, fresh | Any seafood entrée |
Coleslaw | Tangy, crunchy | Fried Catfish, Shrimp Po’ Boy |
Desserts and Sweet Endings
After indulging in the rich and savory dishes of Laughing Crab, the dessert menu offers a delightful conclusion to the meal. These sweets are crafted to provide just the right amount of sweetness without overwhelming the palate.
One standout is the Key Lime Pie, which delivers a refreshing tartness balanced by a buttery graham cracker crust. It’s a perfect palate cleanser after a heavily seasoned seafood feast.
Another favorite is the Chocolate Lava Cake, served warm with a molten center and a scoop of vanilla ice cream, offering a rich and comforting finish.
For those looking for something lighter, the seasonal fruit sorbet is an excellent choice, providing a cool and fruity contrast that complements the meal’s flavors.
Sweet Highlights
- Key Lime Pie: Tart, creamy, and refreshing.
- Chocolate Lava Cake: Rich, warm, and decadent.
- Seasonal Fruit Sorbet: Light and fruity.
- Cheesecake: Classic and smooth, often served with fresh berries.
“Desserts at Laughing Crab are crafted to provide a sweet balance, ensuring every meal ends on a high note.”
Conclusion
The Laughing Crab seafood menu is a testament to the joy and diversity of ocean-inspired cuisine. Each dish reflects a commitment to freshness, bold flavors, and a communal dining experience that brings people together.
From the signature crab boils to the delicate oysters and hearty fish entrées, the menu offers something for every seafood enthusiast.
With thoughtfully prepared sides and delectable desserts, every meal is a well-rounded celebration of taste and texture. Whether you prefer spicy, buttery, or simply fresh, the Laughing Crab provides an inviting culinary journey that honors the sea’s gifts.
The combination of high-quality ingredients, expert preparation, and a lively atmosphere makes this menu a standout choice for anyone seeking a memorable seafood dining experience.
Ultimately, Laughing Crab’s menu is more than just food—it’s an experience that captures the essence of coastal cuisine, camaraderie, and culinary delight. The rich variety ensures that every visit offers new flavors to explore and savor, making it a beloved destination for both casual diners and seafood connoisseurs alike.