Nestled in the heart of every coastal town lies a special kind of eatery—one that draws locals and travelers alike with the promise of ocean-fresh flavors and a relaxed, inviting atmosphere. The Crab Trap has become synonymous with quality seafood, personable service, and culinary innovation.
Its lunch menu, a curated blend of classic favorites and inventive new dishes, is more than just a midday meal—it’s a celebration of the sea’s bounty and a testament to the art of coastal cuisine. For those seeking a memorable lunch experience, the Crab Trap’s offerings are designed to satisfy every craving, whether you’re in the mood for a light salad, a hearty sandwich, or a decadent seafood platter.
Each dish is crafted with care, showcasing the freshest ingredients and a passion for taste that sets this establishment apart. From the first bite to the last, lunch at the Crab Trap is about savoring the moment, enjoying the company, and indulging in dishes that capture the very essence of seaside dining.
Signature Starters: Opening the Meal with Flavor
Every great lunch begins with an appetizer that teases the palate and sets the stage for what’s to come. The Crab Trap’s starters are crafted to provide a perfect balance of texture, flavor, and freshness, ensuring guests are primed for the experience ahead.
These dishes combine traditional seafood staples with creative twists that surprise and delight.
The Crab Trap Crab Cakes are a perennial favorite, packed with tender lump crab meat and seasoned with a house blend of herbs and spices. Served with a tangy remoulade, they embody the restaurant’s commitment to quality and authenticity.
For those seeking something lighter, the Peel & Eat Shrimp is a must-try, featuring perfectly seasoned shrimp served chilled over a bed of crisp greens.
A standout among the starters is the Seafood Gumbo, a rich, savory broth brimming with shrimp, crab, and andouille sausage. Each bowl tells a story of Southern tradition, slow-cooked to perfection and finished with a hint of spice.
The menu also includes more adventurous options, such as the Fried Alligator Bites, showcasing the kitchen’s penchant for bold flavors and regional flair.
- Crab Trap Crab Cakes: Hand-crafted, golden, and bursting with flavor
- Peel & Eat Shrimp: Chilled shrimp with house dipping sauces
- Seafood Gumbo: Hearty, spicy, and deeply satisfying
- Fried Alligator Bites: Crispy, tender, and uniquely Southern
“The starters at Crab Trap are more than just appetizers—they’re the perfect introduction to an unforgettable meal.”
Fresh Salads and Light Bites
For guests craving a lighter lunch or a refreshing accompaniment, the salad and light bites section of the Crab Trap menu offers vibrant, nutrient-rich options. These dishes highlight the natural flavors of seasonal produce, balanced with seafood accents and house-made dressings.
The Seaside Caesar Salad is a classic reimagined, featuring crisp romaine, shaved parmesan, and crunchy croutons tossed in a creamy Caesar dressing. Additions like grilled shrimp or blackened chicken elevate the salad into a full-fledged meal.
The Crab Trap House Salad offers a medley of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions, finished with a choice of signature vinaigrette or buttermilk ranch.
For those drawn to seafood, the Ahi Tuna Poke Bowl is an outstanding choice. Fresh, sushi-grade tuna is marinated in a tangy sesame-soy sauce and served over jasmine rice, accompanied by avocado, pickled ginger, and crisp vegetables.
This dish is as visually appealing as it is delicious, providing a healthful and energizing midday option.
- Seaside Caesar Salad: Add grilled shrimp or blackened chicken for extra protein
- Crab Trap House Salad: Fresh, customizable, and full of color
- Ahi Tuna Poke Bowl: Bursting with flavor and nutrients
| Salad | Main Protein Option | Recommended Dressing |
| Seaside Caesar | Grilled Shrimp | Classic Caesar |
| House Salad | Blackened Chicken | Buttermilk Ranch |
| Ahi Tuna Poke Bowl | Sushi-Grade Tuna | Soy-Sesame |
“Light lunch options should never sacrifice flavor or satisfaction. At Crab Trap, every salad is an event in itself.”
Iconic Crab Trap Sandwiches
A standout feature of the Crab Trap lunch menu is its diverse selection of sandwiches. Each is built on a foundation of artisanal breads, premium fillings, and unique condiments, offering a handheld feast that’s both convenient and deeply satisfying.
The Crab Trap Po’ Boy is a must for newcomers and regulars alike. Guests choose between crispy fried shrimp, oysters, or fish, all nestled in a toasted French roll with lettuce, tomato, and the restaurant’s signature remoulade.
Equally popular is the Blackened Grouper Sandwich, served on a toasted brioche bun and topped with tangy slaw and house-made pickles.
For those seeking something more traditional, the Classic Cheeseburger is available, featuring a juicy beef patty, melted cheese, and all the fixings. Vegetarian diners aren’t left out—the Portobello Mushroom Sandwich offers a savory, umami-rich alternative, dressed with roasted red peppers and goat cheese.
- Crab Trap Po’ Boy: Customizable with shrimp, oysters, or fish
- Blackened Grouper Sandwich: Packed with bold flavors
- Portobello Mushroom Sandwich: A hearty vegetarian option
- Classic Cheeseburger: For traditional tastes
“When a sandwich is done right, it’s more than just a quick lunch—it’s a reason to return for more.”
Seafood Platters: The Heart of Coastal Dining
The centerpiece of the Crab Trap lunch experience is undoubtedly the seafood platters. These generous offerings showcase the best of the ocean, artfully presented and expertly prepared.
Each platter serves as a tribute to the versatility and richness of fresh seafood.
The Fisherman’s Platter is a showstopper, featuring a medley of fried shrimp, oysters, scallops, and flounder, all served with hand-cut fries and house slaw. This dish is perfect for sharing or for those who want to sample a little of everything.
For guests who prefer grilled options, the Grilled Seafood Sampler offers a lighter take, pairing seasoned shrimp and scallops with grilled fish, complemented by seasonal vegetables.
The Low Country Boil is another highlight, combining sweet corn, red potatoes, and smoked sausage with plump shrimp and crab legs, all simmered in a richly seasoned broth. This dish captures the spirit of Southern gatherings and is best enjoyed with hands on and sleeves rolled up.
- Fisherman’s Platter: Fried favorites in one abundant dish
- Grilled Seafood Sampler: Lighter, healthier, and bursting with flavor
- Low Country Boil: A communal, festive option
| Platter | Preparation | Best Paired Side |
| Fisherman’s Platter | Fried | Hand-cut Fries |
| Grilled Seafood Sampler | Grilled | Seasonal Vegetables |
| Low Country Boil | Simmered | Corn & Potatoes |
“Nothing brings people together like a seafood platter piled high with the day’s freshest catches.”
Daily Specials and Seasonal Offerings
A dynamic menu keeps things exciting, and the Crab Trap excels in presenting daily specials and seasonal items. These dishes highlight the freshest catches, local produce, and the creativity of the kitchen team.
Guests are encouraged to ask about what’s new or featured each day.
The Market Catch changes regularly, offering guests an opportunity to sample whatever seafood is at its peak. Whether it’s blackened snapper, grilled swordfish, or seared mahi-mahi, each preparation is tailored to accentuate the unique qualities of the fish.
The Soup of the Day is another rotating favorite, providing comforting and inventive flavors that evolve with the seasons.
During certain months, the Soft Shell Crab Sandwich might make an appearance, featuring locally sourced crabs lightly fried and paired with zesty aioli. Special events or holidays often bring limited-time menu items, such as oyster roasts or seafood paellas, further enhancing the dining experience.
- Market Catch: Always fresh, always unique
- Soup of the Day: Rotates to reflect the season
- Soft Shell Crab Sandwich: A seasonal delicacy
- Special Event Dishes: Don’t miss holiday-only offerings
“Embracing the seasons allows us to offer something new and exciting every time you walk through our doors.”
Comfort Sides and Add-Ons
No lunch is complete without the perfect accompaniment. The Crab Trap’s array of comfort sides and add-ons ensures every meal is personalized to your taste and appetite.
These options range from classic Southern staples to innovative twists on familiar favorites.
The Hand-Cut Fries are a crowd-pleaser, crisped to golden perfection and lightly seasoned. For something a little different, the Sweet Potato Fries offer a touch of sweetness and a satisfying crunch.
Guests also rave about the Creamy Coleslaw, which balances freshness with a tangy bite.
Health-conscious diners will appreciate the Steamed Broccoli or Grilled Asparagus, both prepared simply to let their natural flavors shine. For a heartier option, the Loaded Baked Potato comes generously topped with cheese, bacon, sour cream, and chives.
- Hand-Cut Fries: Always crisp, always satisfying
- Sweet Potato Fries: A sweet and savory treat
- Creamy Coleslaw: Fresh and tangy
- Loaded Baked Potato: Comfort food at its best
- Steamed Broccoli & Grilled Asparagus: Lighter, nutrient-rich choices
| Side | Flavor Profile | Recommended Pairing |
| Hand-Cut Fries | Salty, Crisp | Po’ Boy Sandwich |
| Sweet Potato Fries | Sweet, Savory | Grilled Grouper Sandwich |
| Creamy Coleslaw | Tangy, Fresh | Fried Platters |
| Grilled Asparagus | Earthy, Light | Seafood Sampler |
“Every side dish at the Crab Trap is crafted to complement the main event, ensuring a meal that’s as balanced as it is delicious.”
Kid-Friendly and Family Menu Options
The Crab Trap prides itself on being a welcoming destination for families. The lunch menu includes a variety of kid-friendly and family-style options, ensuring younger diners and group gatherings are just as memorable as a solo lunch or business meeting.
The Little Sailors Menu features simplified versions of popular dishes, such as grilled cheese, chicken tenders, and mini shrimp baskets. Each meal comes with a choice of side and a drink, making lunchtime easy and enjoyable for parents and kids alike.
Family Platters are available for larger parties, providing generous portions meant for sharing and fostering a sense of togetherness at the table.
The Crab Trap’s accommodating kitchen is happy to adjust dishes to meet dietary needs and preferences, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied. Coloring sheets and engaging table activities help keep young guests entertained while the adults savor their meals.
- Grilled Cheese: A timeless favorite for picky eaters
- Mini Shrimp Baskets: Fresh seafood for adventurous kids
- Chicken Tenders: Crispy, flavorful, and kid-approved
- Family Platters: Perfect for sharing and sampling
“Dining out should be fun for every member of the family, from the littlest sailor to the most seasoned seafood lover.”
Beverages and Sweet Finishes
No lunch at the Crab Trap would be complete without a refreshing beverage and a tempting dessert. The drink menu features a range of options, from classic soft drinks to house-made teas and lemonades, as well as a curated selection of wines and local craft beers for those seeking a more leisurely midday meal.
The House Lemonade is a standout, made fresh daily with just the right balance of tart and sweet. Southern Sweet Tea is another guest favorite, offering a taste of tradition in every glass.
For a more indulgent pairing, the wine list includes crisp whites and light rosés, thoughtfully selected to complement seafood dishes.
When it comes to dessert, the Key Lime Pie is a perennial bestseller, boasting a creamy filling and a perfectly crumbly graham cracker crust. Guests also rave about the Chocolate Lava Cake, served warm with vanilla ice cream, and the Seasonal Fruit Cobbler that highlights the freshest local produce.
- House Lemonade: Refreshing, balanced, and made in-house
- Southern Sweet Tea: A true classic
- Key Lime Pie: Tangy, sweet, and unforgettable
- Chocolate Lava Cake: Decadent and warming
- Seasonal Fruit Cobbler: Ever-changing and always delicious
| Dessert | Main Flavor | Recommended Beverage |
| Key Lime Pie | Citrus, Creamy | House Lemonade |
| Chocolate Lava Cake | Rich Chocolate | Sweet Tea |
| Seasonal Fruit Cobbler | Fruity, Warm | Rosé Wine |
“Every meal deserves a sweet ending, and at the Crab Trap, dessert is always worth saving room for.”
A lunch at the Crab Trap is more than a simple meal—it’s an experience that combines the freshness of the sea, the warmth of Southern hospitality, and the creativity of passionate chefs. The menu is thoughtfully designed to cater to every preference, from seafood aficionados to families with young children, and from health-conscious diners to those seeking a little indulgence.
Each dish reflects a commitment to quality, flavor, and community, ensuring that every guest leaves not only satisfied but eager to return. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet solo lunch, catching up with friends, or introducing out-of-town visitors to the best of coastal cuisine, the Crab Trap’s lunch menu offers something to delight every palate.
With its inviting ambiance, attentive service, and ever-evolving specials, the Crab Trap has truly set the standard for seaside dining. So next time you’re craving a midday escape, let the Crab Trap’s lunch menu transport you to the heart of the coast, one delicious bite at a time.
