The Absolute Best Crabs in Alexandria VA [Updated 2025]

I dove deep into the crab scene here, sampling succulent dishes and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere at 12 of the top spots around town. Each taste was a delightful adventure, and believe me, I took my crab-cracking responsibility seriously—because nothing beats the thrill of discovering the freshest, most mouthwatering crabs right in our own backyard.

As a longtime resident and seafood aficionado, I know the ins and outs of Alexandria’s culinary gems. Whether you’re a lifelong crab lover or a curious newcomer, I’ve got you covered with insider tips and tasty recommendations that will have you craving these crustaceans long after your visit. Let’s get ready to feast on some of the best crabs this charming city has to offer!

Sea Boil Crab House

Highlights
Poor customer service
Slow service and wait times
Inattentive staff
Unprofessional management
Difficult takeout experience

While I approached Sea Boil Crab House in Alexandria, VA, with high hopes, I quickly learned that the experience was less about culinary delights and more about navigating a series of unfortunate events. The promise of indulging in decadent crabs was overshadowed by poor customer service that would make anyone cringe. These crustaceans, renowned for their savory flavors, were largely ignored by the inattentive staff, which led to a rather frustrating visit.

Despite its vibrant decor and mouthwatering menu, the slow service left me twiddling my thumbs, counting the minutes as anticipation morphed into mild exasperation. What should have been a joyful feast turned into a test of patience as I watched fellow diners struggle with similar issues. The management seemed unprofessional, further compounding the situation.

While I did manage to enjoy some delicious crabs, the difficult takeout experience simply added to the misery. I left feeling more disappointed than delighted. If you're considering a visit, perhaps be prepared for a test of endurance rather than a straightforward crab adventure. In the bustling scene of Alexandria, this might not be the best catch after all.

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The Wharf

Highlights
Great food & service
Nice indoor atmosphere
Good outdoor seating vibe
Crowded and noisy inside
Limited menu options

The Wharf in Alexandria, VA, is a vibrant spot that truly captures the essence of coastal dining. As soon as I walked in, the atmosphere enveloped me—a delightful mix of casual charm and seaside elegance. I particularly enjoyed the outdoor seating, where the gentle breeze complemented my crab feast.

When it comes to crabs, The Wharf doesn't disappoint. The menu may be somewhat limited, but what they do serve, they do exceptionally well. The crabs were succulent, packed with flavor, and spiced just right. I found myself diving into their signature crab dishes with unabated enthusiasm.

However, the place gets crowded and noisy, especially during peak hours, which can detract from the overall experience. But let's be honest, it’s all part of the lively environment that gives The Wharf its unique character. The staff was both attentive and friendly, making sure even amidst the hustle and bustle, my needs were met.

In the end, if you're craving delicious crabs in a fun, upbeat setting, The Wharf is definitely worth a visit. Just be ready for a little commotion—because where there’s great food, there’s usually a lively crowd!

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Quarterdeck

Highlights
Authentic Maryland-style crabs
Fresh and meaty seafood
Great happy hour deals
Lively and fun atmosphere
Attentive and friendly service

Quarterdeck, nestled by the waterfront in Alexandria, is a hidden gem for crab enthusiasts like myself. As soon as I walked in, the lively atmosphere enveloped me, perfectly setting the stage for a delightful seafood feast. The aroma wafting from the kitchen hinted at the soon-to-be indulgence in authentic Maryland-style crabs.

I ordered the crabs, and I must say, they definitely did not disappoint. Each one was fresh and meaty, bursting with flavor and served with the perfect balance of Old Bay seasoning that transported me straight to the Chesapeake Bay. The attentive and friendly service enhanced my experience, making me feel right at home, as if I was dining among friends sharing their love for seafood.

What truly caught my eye were the great happy hour deals that made it feel like a celebration of crabs and camaraderie. As I cracked open the shells, I couldn’t help but smile, relishing every bite while enjoying the camaraderie of fellow crab lovers.

In summary, if you're hunting for top-notch crabs in Alexandria, Quarterdeck is a must-visit. Their commitment to flavor and atmosphere makes for an unforgettable dining adventure!

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Ada's on the River

Highlights
Delicious crab cakes
Outstanding service
Acoustic atmosphere at sunset
Generous shareable side orders
No filler in crab cakes

When I wandered into Ada's on the River, I was greeted by a lively atmosphere that perfectly set the stage for a delightful crab feast. The scent of fresh seafood wafted through the air, promising good things to come. I decided to try their renowned crab cakes, and let me just say – they were pure bliss! It's clear that Ada’s prides itself on quality; there was absolutely no filler in those cakes. Just succulent crab meat, seasoned to perfection.

As the sun began to set, the acoustic ambiance elevated my dining experience, casting a warm glow over everyone. The service was impeccable, with attentive staff who seemed genuinely enthusiastic about helping guests choose from the menu. I also appreciated the generous shareable side orders, which complemented the crabs beautifully.

What truly sets Ada's apart is the combination of delicious flavors and outstanding service in a setting that invites you to linger. Whether you're a local or just passing through, I wholeheartedly recommend making a stop at Ada's. You’ll leave with a belly full of crabs and a smile on your face, eager to return for more. Bon appétit!

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RT's Restaurant

Highlights
Long-standing local favorite
Incredible and flavorful food
Excellent service and drinks
Ideal for special occasions
Inconspicuous fine dining

RT's Restaurant has truly made its mark as a local favorite for crab enthusiasts. Nestled in a cozy spot, this hidden gem invites you in with the promise of incredible, flavorful food that celebrates the richness of local seafood. As I tucked into a generous platter of crabs, I was particularly impressed by the freshness and expert seasoning—each bite was a delightful adventure for my taste buds.

The excellent service further elevated my dining experience. The staff was not only attentive but also eager to recommend their favorite dishes, making me feel like I was part of the RT's family. And let’s not forget the extensive selection of drinks that pairs wonderfully with their meals. It’s a perfect match for a casual brunch or a more elegant evening out, making it ideal for those special occasions.

While the restaurant may seem inconspicuous, stepping inside reveals a warm ambiance that draws you in—making the experience even more special. If you’re hunting for the best crabs in Alexandria, RT’s is an essential stop on your culinary journey. Don't miss out!

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Georgetown Seafood

Highlights
Delicious crab cakes
Warm and attentive staff
Casual yet high-quality food
Popular dining location
Chowder worth a try

Georgetown Seafood is a delightful seafood sanctuary that offers a dazzling array of crab dishes, showcasing the best of what Alexandria has to offer. From the moment I stepped inside, I was greeted by the warm and attentive staff who made me feel right at home.

Now, let's talk crabs! I couldn’t resist sampling their delicious crab cakes, a local favorite, and let me tell you, they truly exceeded my expectations. Each bite was a heavenly blend of sweet crab meat, perfectly seasoned and pan-seared to golden perfection. Paired with a zesty remoulade, these cakes could easily steal the show! And if you’re feeling adventurous, don’t overlook their chowder – it’s rich, creamy, and worth a taste!

The ambiance strikes a lovely balance between casual and sophisticated, making it a popular dining spot for crab enthusiasts and seafood lovers alike. Whether you're looking for a simple lunch or a relaxed dinner, Georgetown Seafood insists on serving up quality food without pretension.

In my quest for the best crabs in Alexandria, Georgetown Seafood certainly stands out with its commitment to flavor, friendly service, and a menu that keeps you coming back for more!

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Blackwall Hitch

Highlights
Great views
Exceptional customer service
Lovely patio seating
Mixed dining experience
Recommended for gatherings

Blackwall Hitch, nestled by the scenic waterfront of Alexandria, is truly a gem for crab lovers! As I ambled towards the restaurant, the breathtaking views immediately caught my eye, setting the stage for a delightful dining adventure. Once seated on the lovely patio, I was eagerly anticipating a seafood feast.

The exceptional customer service was apparent from the moment I stepped in. The staff was not only friendly but also remarkably knowledgeable about the menu, guiding me toward the crab specialties. I couldn’t resist trying their legendary crab cakes, which were packed with delicious, tender meat and no fillers, oh my!

While the dining experience was perfect, the ambiance added a playful touch to my evening. As I savored my meal, I couldn’t help but notice that it’s an ideal spot for gatherings, making it a wonderful destination for friends and family alike.

Overall, my visit to Blackwall Hitch was a delightful adventure. If you're seeking crabs with a side of stunning views and top-notch service, this restaurant should be at the top of your list! Don’t miss out on this spectacular culinary experience in Alexandria, VA!

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Whiskey & Oyster

Highlights
Amazing happy hour prices
Outstanding fresh oysters
Impressive whiskey selection
Delicious lobster roll
Great atmosphere and service

Whiskey & Oyster: A Crustacean Celebration in Old Town Alexandria

Nestled in the heart of Alexandria, Whiskey & Oyster is a delightful destination for seafood enthusiasts like myself. My visit was nothing short of spectacular, a true meeting of land and sea. As I entered, the atmosphere buzzed with the laughter of patrons and the enticing aroma of fresh seafood.

I couldn't resist sampling their outstanding fresh oysters, which were a perfect start, complementing an extensive whiskey selection that sets the bar high for local establishments. The real showstopper, however, were the crabs! When paired with their amazing happy hour prices, I found myself indulging more than planned—who can resist such temptation?

What I truly appreciated was the friendly service, making me feel like a part of the Whiskey & Oyster family. To round out my visit, I savored a delicious lobster roll that had me daydreaming about my next visit. If you're on a quest for the best crabs in Alexandria, look no further—Whiskey & Oyster is a culinary oasis that will keep you coming back for more. Trust me; your taste buds deserve this adventure!

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Jason's Crab House

Highlights
Delicious snow crab
Great value combo
Accommodating servers
Reasonably priced seafood
Impressive new restaurant service

At Jason's Crab House, I discovered a delightful treasure trove of delicious seafood that left me ravenous for more. The moment I entered, the inviting atmosphere set the stage for an unforgettable culinary experience. I dove right into their scrumptious snow crab, which was cooked to perfection. Its tender meat and sweet flavor had me savoring every succulent bite.

What truly impressed me, however, was the great value combo that offered a variety of crabs and sides, pleasing both my palate and my wallet. The portion sizes were generous, which is always a bonus when it comes to seafood!

The staff at Jason's were exceptionally accommodating, eager to recommend their favorite dishes and ensure my experience was top-notch—kudos to their attentive service. As I indulged in the reasonably priced seafood, I found myself thinking this might just be the best crab experience in Alexandria VA.

In summary, if you’re searching for a place where flavor meets value, look no further than Jason’s Crab House. This gem has solidified its place in my heart (and stomach) as a must-visit spot! I can’t wait to go back!

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Crafty Crab Alexandria

My recent visit to Crafty Crab Alexandria was an absolute delight! The moment I stepped in, the vibrant atmosphere set the stage for a seafood adventure. I indulged in their succulent Maryland blue crabs, perfectly seasoned and bursting with flavor. The dipping sauces were a flavorful symphony, enhancing each bite. The staff was friendly, adding to the warm ambiance that makes you feel at home. If you’re in the mood for a crab feast that dances on your taste buds, look no further than Crafty Crab. This is a place where crabs are not just served; they are celebrated! Crab lovers rejoice!

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Vola’s Dockside Grill and Hi-Tide Lounge

During my delightful evening at Vola’s Dockside Grill and Hi-Tide Lounge, I was treated to a crab feast that made my taste buds dance with joy. The Steamed Blue Crabs were generously spiced and perfectly cooked—each bite was a taste of summer on the Potomac. The ambiance, with its vibrant waterfront views, was just the cherry on top! If you're yearning for a crab-centric adventure, look no further. Their friendly staff made sure I felt like a VIP while indulging in the succulent goodness. In short, this spot is a must-visit for crab lovers in Alexandria!

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Crab Cab Seafood Restaurant - Alexandria

At Crab Cab Seafood Restaurant, the atmosphere was as lively as the crabs themselves! The moment I walked in, the aroma of seasoned seafood enveloped me, promising a delightful meal. I indulged in their famous blue crabs, and let me tell you, they were _ succulent and packed with flavor_. Each bite was a testament to their freshness and preparation. The staff was friendly and attentive, adding to the overall warmth of the experience. If you’re in Alexandria and craving a crab feast, this spot should definitely be on your list!

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