Charleston’s vibrant culinary scene is a treasure trove for seafood lovers, and Crab Du Jour stands out as a beacon of authentic Cajun flavor and Southern hospitality. Nestled in the heart of Charleston, Crab Du Jour offers a rich menu that captures the essence of Cajun and Creole traditions, blending bold spices with fresh, locally sourced seafood.
Whether you’re craving succulent crab, tender shrimp, or flavorful crawfish, this restaurant and bar promises a dining experience that excites the palate and warms the soul.
From their signature seafood boils to expertly crafted cocktails, every item on the menu is crafted with care and passion. The atmosphere is casual yet vibrant, making it a perfect spot for family gatherings, casual dates, or lively nights out with friends.
Dive into a feast where the seafood is always fresh, the spices are perfectly balanced, and the service is as inviting as the flavors on your plate.
Exploring the Crab Du Jour Charleston Cajun Seafood Restaurant & Bar menu reveals more than just food—it’s a celebration of culture, community, and culinary craftsmanship. Every dish tells a story, inviting patrons to indulge in a true taste of the South with a Cajun twist.
Signature Seafood Boils
The heart of Crab Du Jour’s menu lies in its signature seafood boils, a celebration of fresh, robust flavors and communal dining. These boils bring together a medley of seafood, vegetables, and spices cooked to perfection and served in generous portions.
It’s a classic Cajun experience that encourages sharing and savoring every bite.
Each boil features a variety of seafood options, from sweet, tender shrimp to hearty crab legs and spicy andouille sausage. The seasoning is a highlight—balanced between heat and savory depth, with a touch of garlic and herbs enhancing the natural flavors of the sea.
The boils are customizable, allowing guests to choose their preferred spice level and mix of ingredients.
Seafood boils are served with traditional sides such as corn on the cob and red potatoes, both of which absorb the flavorful spices beautifully. The experience is not just about eating but about engaging with the food in a lively, hands-on manner that embodies the spirit of Cajun dining.
Popular Boil Options
- Cajun Classic Boil: Shrimp, crab legs, andouille sausage, corn, and potatoes seasoned with the house blend
- Lowcountry Blend: A regional favorite with shrimp, oysters, clams, and mussels
- Spicy Crawfish Boil: Fresh crawfish tossed in a fiery Cajun sauce with traditional accompaniments
- Vegetarian Cajun Boil: A unique twist featuring seasoned corn, potatoes, mushrooms, and okra
“Our seafood boils are crafted to capture the true spirit of Cajun cooking—bold, communal, and irresistibly flavorful.” – Executive Chef
Appetizers and Starters
Before diving into the main courses, Crab Du Jour offers a range of appetizers designed to awaken the taste buds and set the tone for a memorable meal. These starters blend traditional Cajun ingredients with creative twists, perfect for sharing or enjoying solo.
From crispy fried alligator bites to creamy seafood dips, the appetizers showcase the diversity of flavors found in Southern cuisine. They are perfectly seasoned, featuring a balance of spice, texture, and richness that complements the heavier entrée dishes.
Many appetizers feature locally sourced ingredients, emphasizing freshness and quality. They pair wonderfully with the restaurant’s signature cocktails or a chilled beer, making them a great way to start any dining experience.
Notable Starters
- Fried Alligator Bites: Tender alligator meat breaded and fried to a golden crisp, served with a spicy remoulade sauce
- Crab Dip: Creamy blend of crab meat, cheeses, and Cajun spices, served with toasted baguette slices
- Blackened Shrimp Skewers: Shrimp seasoned with Cajun blackening spice, grilled and served with a tangy dipping sauce
- Jambalaya Stuffed Mushrooms: Mushrooms filled with spicy jambalaya rice andouille sausage mixture
Main Entrees and Seafood Platters
Crab Du Jour’s main entrees offer a rich variety of seafood dishes that highlight both traditional Southern recipes and innovative culinary techniques. The menu is designed to satisfy a wide range of preferences, from classic fried dishes to grilled specialties and hearty seafood platters.
Each plate is thoughtfully prepared to bring out the natural sweetness and texture of the seafood. The use of bold spices and fresh herbs enhances the flavors without overpowering the delicate taste of the ocean’s bounty.
Portions are generous, ensuring guests leave fully satisfied.
Seafood platters are a particular highlight for those wanting a sampler of different tastes and textures. These platters combine crab, shrimp, oysters, and more, often paired with fries, hush puppies, or seasoned vegetables.
Signature Dishes
- Blackened Redfish: Fresh redfish fillet coated in a spicy blackening seasoning and seared to perfection
- Fried Shrimp Basket: Crispy breaded shrimp served with house-made tartar sauce and fries
- Seafood Platter: A combination of fried oysters, shrimp, and crab cakes with traditional sides
- Stuffed Crab Cakes: Lump crab meat mixed with Cajun spices, served with remoulade and seasonal vegetables
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Flavor Profile | Recommended Pairing |
| Blackened Redfish | Redfish fillet, Cajun spices | Spicy, smoky, rich | Chardonnay or light lager |
| Fried Shrimp Basket | Shrimp, breading, tartar sauce | Crispy, savory, tangy | IPA beer or sparkling water |
| Seafood Platter | Oysters, shrimp, crab cakes | Varied: crispy, sweet, creamy | Sauvignon Blanc or pilsner |
| Stuffed Crab Cakes | Crab meat, Cajun spices | Delicate, spicy, buttery | Pinot Grigio or amber ale |
Vegetarian and Non-Seafood Options
Recognizing the diverse needs of its guests, Crab Du Jour offers a thoughtful selection of vegetarian and non-seafood dishes that maintain the bold flavors and spirit of Cajun cuisine. These options ensure that everyone at the table can enjoy a satisfying meal without missing out on the Southern experience.
Vegetarian dishes incorporate fresh, local produce and traditional Cajun spices to create hearty, flavorful meals. Non-seafood options often feature chicken, beef, or pork, prepared with the same attention to detail as the seafood dishes.
These entrees are crafted to be both filling and delicious, providing an excellent alternative for those who prefer to avoid seafood without compromising on taste or quality.
Popular Choices
- Vegetarian Étouffée: A rich sauce made with mushrooms, bell peppers, and okra, served over rice
- Blackened Chicken Alfredo: Cajun-spiced chicken breast atop creamy Alfredo pasta
- Jambalaya with Andouille Sausage: Classic rice dish featuring spicy sausage and vegetables
- Grilled Pork Chop: Seasoned with Cajun spices and served with roasted vegetables
“Our non-seafood dishes are just as passionately prepared, ensuring every guest experiences the heart of Cajun cooking.” – Head Chef
Beverages and Bar Selections
The bar at Crab Du Jour complements the flavorful menu with an impressive array of beverages, from craft cocktails to local brews and fine wines. The drink offerings are carefully curated to enhance the Cajun dining experience.
Signature cocktails often incorporate Southern ingredients like bourbon, sweet tea, and fresh citrus, creating refreshing and bold flavors that pair well with the spicy dishes. The wine list features selections designed to balance the heat and richness of the cuisine.
For those who prefer non-alcoholic options, the restaurant offers specialty sodas, iced teas, and house-made lemonades, ensuring there’s something for every palate.
Featured Drinks
- Cajun Bloody Mary: A spicy twist on the classic, with house-made seasoning and fresh celery
- Sweet Tea Bourbon Smash: Bourbon, sweet tea, lemon, and mint, served over ice
- Lowcountry Margarita: Tequila, lime, and a hint of jalapeño for a subtle kick
- Local Craft Beers: Rotating selection from Charleston breweries
| Drink | Main Ingredients | Flavor Profile | Best Paired With |
| Cajun Bloody Mary | Vodka, tomato juice, Cajun spices | Spicy, savory, tangy | Seafood boils and fried appetizers |
| Sweet Tea Bourbon Smash | Bourbon, sweet tea, lemon, mint | Sweet, refreshing, smooth | Grilled dishes and mild entrees |
| Lowcountry Margarita | Tequila, lime, jalapeño | Bright, citrusy, slightly spicy | Blackened fish and spicy dishes |
| Local Craft Beers | Varied | Varied | Versatile with most menu items |
Desserts and Sweet Endings
Ending a meal at Crab Du Jour is a sweet celebration of Southern tradition and Cajun flair. The dessert menu features classic favorites alongside inventive creations that provide the perfect balance of sweetness and spice.
From rich bread pudding to zesty key lime pie, desserts are crafted to complement the bold flavors of the main courses and leave diners with a memorable final taste. The use of fresh ingredients and traditional recipes ensures authenticity and indulgence.
Many desserts feature house-made sauces and fresh fruits, adding layers of texture and flavor that elevate the dining experience to a satisfying conclusion.
Popular Desserts
- Cajun Bread Pudding: Traditional bread pudding with a bourbon caramel sauce
- Key Lime Pie: Tart and creamy, with a graham cracker crust
- Chocolate Beignets: Light, fluffy doughnuts dusted with powdered sugar and served with chocolate dipping sauce
- Peach Cobbler: Warm peaches baked with a crumbly topping, served with vanilla ice cream
“Our desserts are the perfect harmony of Southern soul and Cajun spice—they complete the story of every meal.” – Pastry Chef
Specials and Seasonal Offerings
Crab Du Jour continually evolves its menu with specials and seasonal dishes that showcase the freshest ingredients and innovative Cajun-inspired recipes. These limited-time offerings provide an opportunity to explore new flavors and experience the creativity of the kitchen.
Specials often highlight local seafood varieties or introduce unique spice blends and preparation methods that differ from the regular menu. Seasonal vegetables and herbs are incorporated to enhance freshness and variety.
Guests are encouraged to inquire about current specials, as they can include anything from a unique seafood boil to a chef’s special entrée or a themed cocktail.
Examples of Recent Specials
- Spring Crawfish Étouffée: Featuring fresh crawfish simmered in a spicy, savory sauce
- Summer Grilled Mahi Mahi: Marinated in citrus and herbs, served with seasonal vegetables
- Fall Gumbo: Slow-cooked with chicken, sausage, and okra, perfect for cooler days
- Winter Spiced Rum Punch: A warming cocktail with seasonal spices and fresh fruit
| Season | Special Dish | Main Ingredients | Flavor Highlights |
| Spring | Crawfish Étouffée | Crawfish, roux, bell peppers | Spicy, rich, fresh |
| Summer | Grilled Mahi Mahi | Mahi mahi, citrus, herbs | Light, bright, herbaceous |
| Fall | Gumbo | Chicken, sausage, okra, roux | Hearty, smoky, comforting |
| Winter | Spiced Rum Punch | Rum, spices, citrus | Warm, sweet, aromatic |
Family-Friendly Atmosphere and Service
Crab Du Jour is not just about exceptional food—it’s an experience designed to bring people together in a warm, welcoming environment. The restaurant prides itself on delivering attentive service with a friendly, knowledgeable staff committed to making every visit memorable.
The atmosphere is casual and lively, with décor that reflects Charleston’s coastal charm and the vibrant energy of Cajun culture. Families, groups, and individuals alike enjoy the comfortable seating arrangements and the open layout that fosters a communal dining vibe.
Special accommodations are available for children and guests with dietary restrictions, ensuring that everyone feels valued and cared for. The staff is well-versed in the menu and happy to offer recommendations or customize dishes to suit individual needs.
“Our goal is to create a space where every guest feels like part of our family, sharing great food and great times.” – General Manager
Conclusion
Crab Du Jour Charleston Cajun Seafood Restaurant & Bar offers a truly immersive Cajun dining experience that captures the vibrant flavors and rich traditions of the South. From their signature seafood boils to the carefully crafted appetizers, entrees, and desserts, every element of the menu is designed to delight and satisfy.
The extensive beverage selection and seasonal specials add depth and variety, ensuring there’s always something new to discover.
The welcoming atmosphere and attentive service create the perfect setting to enjoy bold, authentic Cajun cuisine, whether you’re a local or a visitor seeking the best Charleston has to offer. With a dedication to fresh ingredients, expert preparation, and genuine hospitality, Crab Du Jour stands as a must-visit destination for anyone eager to indulge in the true taste of Cajun seafood.
For those who appreciate a lively environment paired with unforgettable flavors, Crab Du Jour delivers an experience that leaves a lasting impression. It’s not just a meal—it’s a celebration of culture, community, and the irresistible allure of the sea.
