The Best Seafood Shacks in America

The family-owned Stevensville Crab Shack has been serving softshell crab, king crab legs, snow crab legs, and crab cakes since it opened in 1988. Oysters, scallops, clams, and calamari are other possibilities.

Crayfish. Crawdad. Mudbug. Called by many names, this delectable crustacean features prominently on the menu at P’Reaux’s, along with other Cajun fare. Oysters, shrimp, catfish and more are other choices, and there are tacos and po’boys as well as platters available.

Bull on the Barn sits on the banks of the Nantuxent Creek, and serves its crabs South Jersey style – cleaned, then seasoned and cooked (in Maryland, the crabs are cleaned after they’re steamed). Kenny Lore, the chef and owner, comes from generations of oystermen, and guests can enjoy also Delaware Bay oysters at the establishment.

Crab Shack only serves wild-caught seafood, their website noting that no farm-raised fare will end up on the menu. They make jumbo lump crab cakes by hand every morning, and their lobster roll is acclaimed by many reviewers. The lengthy menu also offers seafood pastas, including one with mussels marinara and another with jumbo shrimp fra diavolo.

Viking Fresh Off the Hook keeps seafood quality and sustainability front and center. They are family-owned, and operate in conjunction with Viking Village, a commercial fishing dock that allows for fresh, high-quality catches. Patrons recommend the scallops and the grilled tuna appetizer.