Crab 52 stands out as a culinary haven for seafood lovers, blending fresh ingredients with expertly crafted recipes that celebrate the ocean’s bounty. Its menu showcases an impressive array of dishes centered around crab, but it also offers a diverse selection of complementary seafood and sides that cater to a variety of palates.
Whether you’re a fan of classic crab boils, flavorful crab cakes, or innovative crab-inspired creations, Crab 52 delivers a dining experience steeped in rich flavors and high-quality ingredients.
The menu’s design thoughtfully balances tradition and innovation, ensuring each dish highlights the natural sweetness and texture of crab. Paired with perfectly seasoned sides and a curated selection of sauces, every meal at Crab 52 promises to be a memorable feast.
The atmosphere and service elevate the experience even further, making it a go-to destination for both casual diners and seafood connoisseurs.
Exploring the Crab 52 menu is like embarking on a journey through coastal flavors, where every bite tells a story of freshness, craftsmanship, and passion for seafood excellence.
Signature Crab Dishes
The heart of the Crab 52 menu lies in its signature crab dishes, each designed to highlight the unique flavors and textures of different crab varieties. These dishes are crafted with care, using fresh crab sourced from sustainable fisheries, ensuring quality and ethical responsibility.
From traditional steamed crab legs to more adventurous preparations, the variety on offer caters to a wide range of tastes. The dishes emphasize simplicity and freshness, allowing the natural sweetness of the crab to shine through without overpowering spices or heavy sauces.
Whether you prefer your crab served in classic style or with a modern twist, the signature dishes section offers something to delight every seafood enthusiast.
Steamed Crab Legs
Steamed crab legs are a staple at Crab 52, prepared using a time-honored technique that preserves the crab’s delicate flavor. Served with drawn butter and lemon wedges, this dish allows diners to experience the pure taste of the sea.
- Freshness: Crab legs are sourced daily to guarantee peak flavor.
- Preparation: Steamed to perfection, ensuring tender meat that easily pulls from the shell.
- Accompaniments: Served with melted butter infused with garlic and a hint of herbs.
“The steamed crab legs at Crab 52 are a celebration of the ocean’s finest gifts, simple yet unforgettable.”
Crab Cakes
Crab 52’s crab cakes are renowned for their generous crab meat content and perfectly balanced seasoning. These cakes strike the ideal harmony between moist, flaky crab and a crispy golden crust.
The recipe focuses on high-quality lump crab meat, with minimal filler to emphasize the crab’s natural flavor. Lightly pan-seared, the cakes maintain a moist interior and a satisfying crunch.
- Ingredients: Lump crab meat, light breadcrumbs, fresh herbs, and a touch of Dijon mustard.
- Serving style: Paired with a tangy remoulade sauce and a fresh garden salad.
- Portion: Available as single servings or a platter for sharing.
Crab Boil
The Crab Boil is a festive, communal dish that captures the spirit of coastal seafood feasts. At Crab 52, it features whole crabs boiled with a blend of spices, corn on the cob, potatoes, and smoked sausage.
This dish is a sensory experience, offering a perfect balance of spice, sweetness, and smoky undertones. The boil spices are a proprietary mix that adds depth without overwhelming the crab’s sweetness.
The presentation encourages sharing and conversation, making it an ideal choice for groups.
Appetizers and Small Plates
The appetizers and small plates section provides a variety of flavorful bites designed to complement the main crab dishes. These starters are crafted to awaken the palate and offer a glimpse into the menu’s rich seafood offerings.
From light, refreshing salads to rich, indulgent bites, the selection encourages diners to explore diverse flavors and textures. Perfect for sharing or enjoying as a light meal, these dishes showcase creativity and quality.
Each appetizer is thoughtfully prepared to pair seamlessly with Crab 52’s signature cocktails and wine list.
Crab Dip
The crab dip at Crab 52 is a creamy and savory starter that perfectly balances rich cheese with fresh crab meat. Served warm with toasted baguette slices, it’s a favorite for beginning any meal.
- Texture: Silky and smooth with generous chunks of crab.
- Flavor profile: A blend of cream cheese, cheddar, and a touch of Old Bay seasoning.
- Presentation: Garnished with fresh parsley and a drizzle of lemon-infused olive oil.
Crab Stuffed Mushrooms
This appetizer combines earthy mushrooms with a rich crab filling seasoned with herbs and breadcrumbs. Baked until golden, these bites offer a satisfying contrast of flavors and textures.
The filling includes fresh lump crab, cream cheese, garlic, and a hint of paprika for a gentle kick. Each mushroom is topped with parmesan cheese for an added layer of richness.
“Crab stuffed mushrooms deliver a perfect marriage of land and sea flavors, crafted with finesse.”
Seafood Ceviche
A refreshing option on the appetizer menu, the seafood ceviche features crab, shrimp, and scallops marinated in citrus juices with fresh herbs and diced vegetables. It offers a light, tangy start to the meal.
- Marinade: Lime and lemon juice with cilantro and jalapeño for mild heat.
- Ingredients: Fresh crab meat combined with diced tomatoes, onions, and avocado.
- Serving: Accompanied by crispy tortilla chips for added texture.
Signature Sauces and Dips
The sauces and dips at Crab 52 are crafted to enhance the natural flavors of the seafood without overpowering them. They range from classic accompaniments to inventive blends that add a unique twist.
Each sauce is made in-house, using fresh ingredients and carefully balanced seasonings. These condiments elevate the dining experience by adding depth and contrast to the dishes.
Whether you prefer something zesty, creamy, or spicy, the range of sauces covers all preferences.
Classic Drawn Butter
The simplest and often most beloved sauce, drawn butter at Crab 52 is made from high-quality unsalted butter gently melted to preserve its richness. It is served warm, ideal for dipping crab legs and claws.
To enhance the flavor, subtle infusions of garlic and fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary are sometimes added, depending on seasonal availability.
- Flavor: Rich and buttery with a hint of herbaceous freshness.
- Texture: Silky smooth, perfect for soaking crab meat.
- Serving: Presented in ramekins heated to maintain warmth throughout the meal.
Spicy Remoulade
Crab 52’s remoulade sauce offers a zesty complement to crab cakes and fried appetizers. It combines mayonnaise, mustard, horseradish, and a blend of spices to create a creamy yet spicy dip.
The balance of heat and tanginess cuts through the richness of fried or sautéed seafood, providing a refreshing contrast.
- Ingredients: Mayonnaise base with Dijon mustard, capers, and chili flakes.
- Use: Ideal for crab cakes, fried shrimp, and even as a sandwich spread.
- Customization: Available mild or extra spicy on request.
Garlic Aioli
The garlic aioli at Crab 52 is a creamy, garlicky sauce made with fresh garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. It pairs excellently with grilled crab dishes and vegetable sides.
“This aioli is the perfect balance of bold garlic flavor and smooth creaminess, enhancing without overwhelming.”
Side Dishes and Accompaniments
Complementing the star crab dishes, Crab 52’s side offerings add variety and balance to the meal. These sides are designed to pair well with seafood while providing satisfying textures and flavors.
From fresh salads to hearty starches, the side menu caters to those looking for light options as well as more indulgent accompaniments. Each dish is prepared with the same attention to quality and flavor as the main courses.
The sides provide necessary contrast and help round out the dining experience.
Coleslaw
Crab 52’s coleslaw is a refreshing and crisp side, made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a light, tangy dressing. It offers a crunchy counterpoint to the softness of crab meat.
- Dressing: A vinegar-based blend with a hint of sweetness and mustard.
- Texture: Crisp and refreshing to cleanse the palate.
- Serving: Chilled and garnished with fresh herbs.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
A rich and creamy side, the garlic mashed potatoes are whipped to a velvety smoothness with roasted garlic and butter. This classic comfort food pairs beautifully with heavier crab dishes.
The potatoes are seasoned thoughtfully to enhance but not overpower, providing a satisfying base for the meal.
Grilled Asparagus
For a lighter vegetable option, grilled asparagus spears are seasoned with olive oil, sea salt, and cracked black pepper. The grilling adds a smoky depth that complements the seafood flavors.
- Preparation: Lightly charred to preserve tenderness and enhance flavor.
- Nutrition: A healthy, fiber-rich addition to balance the meal.
- Presentation: Served drizzled with lemon juice for brightness.
Beverage Pairings
Crab 52 offers a curated beverage list designed to complement its seafood-forward menu. Whether you prefer wines, cocktails, or non-alcoholic options, the selections are thoughtfully chosen to enhance the dining experience.
The beverage program seeks to balance acidity, sweetness, and aromatics to pair well with crab’s delicate flavor profile. The staff is trained to provide expert pairing recommendations.
Whether sipping a crisp white wine or a refreshing cocktail, Crab 52’s drinks elevate every bite.
Wine Selection
White wines dominate the wine list, with varietals selected for their crisp acidity and mineral qualities that match perfectly with seafood.
| Wine | Tasting Notes | Pairing |
| Sauvignon Blanc | Crisp, citrusy, with herbaceous undertones | Steamed crab legs, seafood ceviche |
| Chardonnay (unoaked) | Light-bodied, with green apple and mineral notes | Crab cakes, garlic mashed potatoes |
| Riesling (dry) | Floral, crisp acidity, subtle sweetness | Spicy remoulade dishes, crab boil |
Signature Cocktails
The cocktail menu features creative drinks crafted with fresh ingredients and artisanal spirits. Many cocktails incorporate citrus and herbal notes to complement the seafood dishes.
- The Coastal Breeze: Vodka, elderflower liqueur, cucumber, and lime
- Spicy Ginger Margarita: Tequila, fresh ginger, lime, and jalapeño syrup
- Classic Mojito: Rum, mint, lime, and soda water
Non-Alcoholic Options
For those seeking alcohol-free beverages, Crab 52 offers a range of house-made lemonades, iced teas, and sparkling water infused with fresh herbs and fruits.
“A thoughtfully crafted non-alcoholic beverage can be just as refreshing and complex as any cocktail.”
Desserts Inspired by the Sea
Crab 52’s dessert menu is a delightful way to end a seafood feast, offering sweet treats with subtle nods to coastal flavors. Each dessert is designed to provide a satisfying conclusion without overwhelming the palate.
Using fresh, seasonal ingredients and creative flavor combinations, the desserts bring a refreshing balance of sweetness and texture.
Whether indulging in a light sorbet or a rich pastry, the dessert options are crafted to complement the preceding courses.
Lemon Basil Sorbet
This sorbet is a light, palate-cleansing dessert featuring fresh lemon juice and fragrant basil. It offers a bright and refreshing finish to the meal.
- Flavor: Tart citrus balanced by aromatic herbaceous notes
- Texture: Smooth and icy, ideal after rich seafood dishes
- Serving: Garnished with a basil leaf and a twist of lemon zest
Key Lime Tart
The key lime tart combines a buttery graham cracker crust with a tangy lime custard filling. It is topped with a light whipped cream and a sprinkle of toasted coconut.
This dessert echoes the freshness of the sea while adding a creamy, indulgent texture.
Chocolate Sea Salt Cake
A rich, moist chocolate cake accented with flakes of sea salt to enhance the deep cocoa flavor. This dessert balances sweet and savory in a sophisticated way.
“The interplay of chocolate and sea salt creates a complex flavor profile that lingers delightfully.”
Special Menus and Seasonal Offerings
Crab 52 frequently updates its menu to highlight seasonal seafood and regional specialties. These limited-time offerings celebrate the freshest catches and unique ingredients at their peak.
Seasonal menus allow diners to experience new flavor combinations and rare crab varieties. They also showcase the kitchen’s creativity and responsiveness to market availability.
These special menus often include prix fixe options and chef’s tasting menus for a curated dining experience.
Winter Crab Feast
During the colder months, Crab 52 offers a Winter Crab Feast featuring hearty crab bisque, hot crab boils with warming spices, and rich crab-stuffed dishes.
- Highlights: Creamy bisque with sherry, spicy crab boil, baked crab-stuffed mushrooms
- Pairings: Bold red wines and warming cocktails like spiced rum toddies
- Availability: December through February
Summer Light Bites
Summer menus focus on lighter, refreshing dishes such as chilled crab salads, citrus-marinated ceviches, and sorbets. These are perfect for warm weather dining.
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Flavor Profile |
| Chilled Crab Salad | Fresh crab meat, avocado, cucumber, citrus vinaigrette | Light, fresh, and tangy |
| Citrus Ceviche | Crab, shrimp, scallops, lime, jalapeño, cilantro | Bright, spicy, and aromatic |
| Lemon Basil Sorbet | Lemon juice, basil, sugar, water | Refreshing and cooling |
Chef’s Tasting Menu
The chef’s tasting menu offers a multi-course experience showcasing the best seasonal ingredients and culinary techniques. It is an excellent choice for special occasions or those wanting to explore the full range of Crab 52’s offerings.
“The tasting menu is a journey through the ocean’s finest flavors, curated with passion and precision.”
Conclusion
Crab 52’s menu is a testament to the versatility and allure of crab as a culinary ingredient. Its thoughtfully crafted dishes emphasize freshness, quality, and balance, offering diners a rich experience that celebrates seafood in all its glory.
From signature crab preparations to inventive appetizers, complementary sides, and carefully selected beverages, every element is designed to enhance the natural flavors of the sea.
The seasonal and special menus further elevate the dining experience, showcasing the kitchen’s creativity and dedication to sourcing the best ingredients. Whether indulging in a classic crab boil or savoring a refined tasting menu, guests can expect impeccable service and a warm, inviting atmosphere that makes each visit memorable.
Ultimately, Crab 52’s menu is more than just a list of dishes—it is an invitation to explore the ocean’s treasures through expertly crafted flavors, textures, and presentations that delight the senses and celebrate the art of seafood cuisine.
