Located on the beautiful St. Simons Island, the Crab Trap offers an authentic coastal dining experience that captures the essence of Southern seafood cuisine.
Known for its warm hospitality and stunning waterfront views, the restaurant’s menu is a celebration of fresh, local ingredients and traditional flavors. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the Crab Trap’s menu invites you to indulge in a variety of dishes that reflect the rich maritime heritage of the region.
From succulent crab legs to perfectly fried fish, each plate is crafted with care to deliver both comfort and culinary delight.
The Crab Trap’s menu balances classic favorites with innovative creations, making it a favorite among seafood lovers looking to savor the coastal charm. The casual yet inviting atmosphere complements the hearty offerings, encouraging guests to relax and enjoy the bounty of the sea.
Every dish is thoughtfully prepared, emphasizing freshness and quality that can only be found in a seaside setting. The menu also caters to a range of tastes, including non-seafood options, ensuring a satisfying experience for all.
Exploring the Crab Trap’s menu is like taking a culinary journey through the coastal South, where simple ingredients meet expert preparation. With a focus on sustainability and local sourcing, the restaurant not only serves delicious food but also supports the community’s fishing traditions.
A meal here is more than just dining; it’s an immersion into the flavors and stories of St. Simons Island.
Appetizers and Starters
The Crab Trap’s appetizer selection sets the tone for a memorable meal, offering a variety of small bites that showcase the freshest seafood and Southern flavors. Designed to whet the appetite and encourage sharing, these starters are perfect for beginning your dining experience with bold, savory notes.
Each appetizer reflects the restaurant’s commitment to quality and tradition.
Popular options include classic fried green tomatoes, served with a tangy remoulade sauce, and crispy calamari that’s lightly breaded and seasoned to perfection. The crab dip is a standout, packed with generous chunks of blue crab and baked until golden and bubbly.
These starters are crafted to complement the main dishes while introducing guests to the depth of coastal cuisine.
Vegetarian guests will also find delightful choices such as the garden salad with fresh, locally sourced greens and a zesty vinaigrette. The menu balances indulgent, rich flavors with lighter, refreshing options, ensuring there’s something for every palate.
Pair any appetizer with a craft beer or a crisp white wine to enhance the experience.
Signature Starters
- Crab Dip: Creamy blend of blue crab, cheeses, and spices, served with toasted baguette slices
- Fried Green Tomatoes: Southern classic, topped with house-made remoulade
- Calamari: Tender rings, lightly battered and fried, served with marinara and lemon aioli
- Steamed Shrimp: Fresh Gulf shrimp steamed with Old Bay seasoning and served with cocktail sauce
“The appetizers at the Crab Trap perfectly capture the essence of Southern seafood – bold, fresh, and comforting.” – Local Food Critic
Entrees: Fresh Seafood Delights
The entree section of the Crab Trap menu is where the restaurant truly shines, offering an extensive selection of fresh seafood dishes that celebrate the Atlantic Ocean’s bounty. Each entree is thoughtfully prepared to highlight the natural flavors of the fish and shellfish, often complemented by classic Southern sides that enhance the overall meal.
From the famous steamed crab legs to the delicate pan-seared flounder, the menu offers a variety of preparations to suit different tastes. The steaming process preserves the crab’s sweetness, while fried options provide a satisfying crunch.
For those who prefer grilled seafood, the menu also includes options like blackened salmon and mahi-mahi, seasoned with a signature blend of spices.
Portion sizes are generous, making these entrees ideal for those with hearty appetites. Many dishes come with traditional sides such as hush puppies, coleslaw, or seasoned fries, which add texture and flavor contrast.
The emphasis on fresh, local seafood guarantees an authentic taste of St. Simons Island’s coastal cuisine.
Popular Seafood Entrées
| Dish | Description | Typical Sides |
|---|---|---|
| Steamed Crab Legs | Fresh blue crab legs steamed with Old Bay seasoning | Hush puppies, coleslaw |
| Fried Shrimp Basket | Crispy fried shrimp served with cocktail and tartar sauces | French fries, coleslaw |
| Blackened Mahi-Mahi | Grilled mahi-mahi coated with Cajun spices | Seasonal vegetables, rice pilaf |
| Pan-Seared Flounder | Lightly seasoned flounder fillet pan-seared to perfection | Garlic mashed potatoes, steamed broccoli |
Burgers and Sandwiches
For guests seeking a more casual dining option, the Crab Trap’s burger and sandwich offerings provide flavorful, satisfying choices that don’t skimp on quality. These dishes are perfect for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner by the water.
Each sandwich is crafted with fresh ingredients and served on toasted buns or bread.
The menu includes a variety of seafood and non-seafood options, ensuring that everyone can find something to enjoy. The crab cake sandwich is a highlight, featuring a generous, lightly fried crab cake topped with lettuce, tomato, and a house-made remoulade.
For those who prefer beef, the classic cheeseburger is juicy and cooked to order, with optional toppings like bacon and avocado.
Complementing these sandwiches are flavorful sides such as seasoned fries and sweet potato wedges. The restaurant also offers customizable options, allowing guests to tailor their meals to their preferences.
The vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients make these sandwiches a popular choice among locals and visitors alike.
Featured Sandwiches
- Crab Cake Sandwich: Jumbo lump crab cake, remoulade sauce, lettuce, tomato, served on a brioche bun
- Classic Cheeseburger: Angus beef patty, cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickles, with optional bacon
- Fried Shrimp Po’ Boy: Crispy fried shrimp, lettuce, tomato, spicy mayo on French bread
- Blackened Chicken Sandwich: Cajun-seasoned grilled chicken breast, pepper jack cheese, lettuce, tomato
Kids’ Menu
The Crab Trap’s kids’ menu offers a variety of dishes designed with younger diners in mind, focusing on familiar flavors and smaller portions. These meals are crafted to be both nutritious and appealing, ensuring that children enjoy their dining experience as much as adults do.
The menu is simple yet flavorful, encouraging kids to try seafood in a fun setting.
Options include classic favorites like chicken tenders and grilled cheese, alongside mild seafood selections such as fried shrimp and fish sticks. Each dish is served with a choice of kid-friendly sides like fries, apple slices, or steamed vegetables.
The restaurant strives to make dining enjoyable and accessible for families visiting St. Simons Island.
Special requests and dietary accommodations are welcomed, allowing parents to customize meals according to their child’s needs. The friendly staff is attentive and eager to ensure that every child leaves happy and satisfied.
The kids’ menu is an important part of the Crab Trap’s inclusive dining approach.
Popular Kids’ Choices
- Chicken Tenders: Crispy breaded tenders served with honey mustard dipping sauce
- Fried Shrimp: Bite-sized fried shrimp, mild and crunchy
- Grilled Cheese: Classic American cheese melted between toasted bread
- Fish Sticks: Mild white fish breaded and fried, served with tartar sauce
“The kids’ menu at the Crab Trap offers simple, tasty options that make family dining stress-free and enjoyable.” – Frequent Family Visitor
Salads and Lighter Fare
For those seeking lighter options, the Crab Trap offers an assortment of fresh salads and healthier fare that doesn’t compromise on flavor. These dishes are perfect for balancing indulgence with nutrition, featuring crisp vegetables, fresh seafood, and vibrant dressings.
Each salad is thoughtfully composed to provide a satisfying meal or a refreshing starter.
The menu includes a signature crab salad made with lump crab meat and mixed greens, as well as a classic Caesar salad topped with grilled chicken or shrimp. Seasonal ingredients are often incorporated, offering guests a chance to enjoy the freshest produce available.
The dressings are house-made, enhancing each salad’s unique flavor profile.
These lighter options also serve as a great alternative for those watching their calorie intake or seeking a palate cleanser between more robust dishes. The salads are versatile and can be paired with a variety of beverages, from light white wines to sparkling waters with citrus.
Fresh Salad Options
| Salad | Main Ingredients | Optional Protein Add-Ons |
|---|---|---|
| Crab Salad | Lump crab meat, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers | None needed (protein-rich) |
| Caesar Salad | Romaine lettuce, Parmesan, croutons, Caesar dressing | Grilled chicken, grilled shrimp |
| Garden Salad | Mixed greens, carrots, cucumbers, red onion, tomatoes | Grilled salmon, chicken breast |
Desserts and Sweet Endings
The Crab Trap’s dessert offerings provide a perfect conclusion to a satisfying meal, showcasing classic Southern sweets and indulgent treats. Desserts are made in-house or sourced locally, ensuring freshness and authenticity.
Each sweet ending aims to complement the coastal flavors enjoyed throughout the meal.
Popular choices include a rich pecan pie, a Southern staple with a buttery crust and caramelized pecans, and a decadent chocolate lava cake served warm with vanilla ice cream. The menu also features seasonal fruit cobblers that highlight the best of Georgia’s produce.
These desserts are crafted to provide a comforting, satisfying finish.
The dessert menu pairs well with coffee, dessert wines, or a scoop of locally made ice cream. Whether you prefer something light and fruity or rich and chocolatey, the Crab Trap offers something to delight every sweet tooth.
The careful balance of flavors and textures ensures a memorable finale.
Signature Desserts
- Pecan Pie: Traditional Southern pie with a flaky crust and toasted pecans
- Chocolate Lava Cake: Warm chocolate cake with a molten center, served with vanilla ice cream
- Seasonal Fruit Cobbler: Fresh fruit topped with a sweet biscuit crust, served warm
- Key Lime Pie: Tart and creamy pie with a graham cracker crust
“Desserts at the Crab Trap are a sweet celebration of Southern tradition, perfect for rounding out a seafood feast.” – Dessert Enthusiast
Beverage Selection
The Crab Trap’s beverage menu complements its food offerings with a well-curated selection of wines, beers, cocktails, and non-alcoholic drinks. The drink list is designed to enhance the flavors of the dishes while catering to a variety of tastes and preferences.
Whether you prefer a crisp white wine or a refreshing craft beer, the options are thoughtfully chosen.
Local craft beers are prominently featured, highlighting breweries from Georgia and the Southeast. The wine list focuses on whites and rosés that pair well with seafood, alongside a few reds for those who prefer bolder flavors.
Classic cocktails with a coastal twist, such as the signature crab trap punch, add a fun, festive element to the dining experience.
Non-alcoholic options include freshly squeezed lemonades, iced teas, and house-made sodas, providing refreshing choices for all ages. The knowledgeable staff is always happy to recommend pairings that best suit your meal and personal preferences.
Beverage Highlights
| Drink Type | Examples | Recommended Pairings |
|---|---|---|
| Craft Beers | Local pale ales, IPAs, lagers | Fried shrimp, crab cakes |
| Wines | Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Rosé | Steamed crab legs, grilled fish |
| Cocktails | Crab Trap Punch, Mojitos, Classic Margaritas | Appetizers, light salads |
| Non-Alcoholic | Lemonade, Sweet Tea, Sparkling Water | All menu items |
Conclusion
The Crab Trap on St. Simons Island offers more than just a meal; it provides an immersive experience into the rich coastal culture and culinary traditions of the region.
Its menu is a testament to the dedication to freshness, quality, and Southern hospitality. Each section, from appetizers to desserts, is crafted to highlight the best of local seafood and complementary flavors.
Whether you’re indulging in steamed crab legs, savoring a fresh salad, or enjoying a decadent dessert, the Crab Trap delivers consistently satisfying dishes that celebrate the Atlantic coast’s bounty.
What sets the Crab Trap apart is its ability to balance authenticity with innovation, honoring classic recipes while embracing new tastes and techniques. The menu caters to a wide range of diners, including families, seafood aficionados, and those seeking lighter fare.
Paired with a thoughtfully curated beverage selection and an inviting atmosphere, dining at the Crab Trap becomes a memorable occasion.
For anyone visiting St. Simons Island, the Crab Trap’s menu promises a delicious journey through Southern seafood cuisine, served with genuine warmth and a stunning view.
It’s a place where every bite tells a story of the sea, the land, and the people who bring them together. The Crab Trap remains a beloved destination for those who appreciate the true flavors of the coast and the pleasures of relaxed, friendly dining.
