Introduction
Are you dreaming of cracking open a succulent crab leg, its briny aroma filling the air? Or perhaps you’re craving the creamy, comforting embrace of a perfectly prepared crab dip? If so, Bob’s Crab House is likely already on your radar. A beloved local institution, Bob’s Crab House has been serving up fresh, flavorful seafood for years, becoming a go-to spot for both casual diners and special occasion celebrations. But navigating the extensive menu can be a bit overwhelming, especially for first-timers. Don’t worry, that’s where this comes in. This article is your comprehensive guide to the Bob’s Crab House menu, highlighting the must-try dishes, offering insider tips, and providing everything you need to know for the ultimate seafood experience.
The Crab Feast: A Star of the Show
No trip to Bob’s Crab House is complete without indulging in their signature crab feast. The centerpiece of the menu, the crab selection is both impressive and incredibly fresh. But what exactly awaits you in the realm of crab?
Varieties of Crab
Firstly, let’s talk varieties. Bob’s Crab House typically offers a range of crab options depending on the season and availability. You’ll often find the classic blue crab, known for its sweet, delicate flavor and tender meat. These Maryland staples are a true taste of the Chesapeake Bay (if Bob’s Crab House is located in that area). Then there’s the Dungeness crab, a West Coast delicacy boasting a slightly nutty flavor and a more substantial meat yield. If you are lucky you might even spot Snow Crab or King Crab. Be sure to ask your server about the current offerings, as the selection can vary.
Preparation Styles
Once you’ve chosen your crab type, it’s time to decide how you’d like it prepared. Steaming is the most traditional method, allowing the natural flavors of the crab to shine through. At Bob’s Crab House they tend to season their steamed crabs with a generous dusting of Old Bay (if they are located on the east coast). For those who crave a bolder flavor, consider the seasoned option, often featuring a proprietary blend of spices, garlic, and herbs. This adds a delicious kick to the already flavorful crab. If Bob’s offer grilled crab, this adds a smoky flavor that is divine.
Crab Creations
Bob’s Crab House also excels in crab creations that go beyond the whole crab experience. Their crab cakes are legendary, boasting a high crab-to-filler ratio and a perfectly crispy exterior. Served with a tangy remoulade sauce, these crab cakes are a true testament to the restaurant’s commitment to quality ingredients. Don’t overlook the crab soup, either! Whether you prefer a creamy bisque or a robust Maryland-style crab soup with vegetables, it’s a comforting and flavorful way to start your meal.
Pricing and Ordering Tips
Because crab is a premium seafood item, you can expect prices to reflect the freshness and quality. The price of whole crab is typically listed as “market price,” which means it fluctuates based on availability and seasonal factors. Crab cakes and other crab-based dishes generally have fixed prices listed on the menu.
When ordering your crab feast, consider these tips for the best experience. Ask your server about the crab sizes and quality. For a truly satisfying meal, plan on about a pound of crab per person. The seasoned crabs can be quite messy, but Bob’s Crab House will usually provide you with all the necessary tools, including mallets, knives, and plenty of napkins!
For sides, there are many things to consider. Classic choices include corn on the cob, coleslaw, and french fries.
Appetizers and Starters: Beyond the Crab
While the crab is undoubtedly the star, the appetizers at Bob’s Crab House are not to be overlooked. They offer a delightful range of flavors and textures, perfect for whetting your appetite before the main event.
Seafood Appetizers
For seafood lovers, the oyster selection is a must-try. Whether you prefer them raw on the half shell, grilled with garlic butter, or prepared Rockefeller-style with spinach and hollandaise sauce, Bob’s Crab House sources the freshest oysters available. Calamari is another crowd-pleaser, lightly battered and fried to crispy perfection, served with a zesty marinara sauce. The shrimp cocktail is a classic choice, featuring jumbo shrimp chilled and served with cocktail sauce.
Must-Try Appetizers
But the real standout appetizer is the crab dip. This creamy, cheesy concoction is loaded with lump crab meat and served with toasted bread or crackers. It’s the perfect sharing dish and a true testament to Bob’s Crab House’s commitment to showcasing the best of the sea. If soups are more your thing, then make sure you sample the clam chowder. Or consider a pot of steamed mussels with a white wine broth.
Other Appetizer Options
If you are craving something less seafoody, Bob’s Crab House likely also offers some options. French fries and onion rings will always be crowd pleasing.
Main Courses (Other Than Crab)
While Bob’s Crab House is renowned for its crab, their menu extends far beyond just the shell. They offer a variety of other seafood and non-seafood dishes to satisfy every palate.
Fish and Seafood Dishes
For fish lovers, the grilled fish options are a healthy and flavorful choice. You might find salmon, tuna, mahi-mahi, or other seasonal catches expertly grilled and served with your choice of sides. Fried seafood platters are another popular option, featuring a generous portion of fried shrimp, oysters, and fish, served with french fries and coleslaw.
Pasta Dishes
Many menus now feature pasta. Pasta dishes often incorporate seafood, such as shrimp scampi, crab Alfredo, or lobster ravioli.
Combination Platters
The combination platters at Bob’s Crab House are a great way to sample a variety of seafood offerings. These platters typically include a combination of fried shrimp, oysters, fish, and crab cakes, providing a diverse and satisfying meal.
Non-Seafood Options
If you have someone in your group who isn’t a seafood fan, Bob’s Crab House may also offer some non-seafood options, such as steak, chicken, or pasta dishes.
Dietary Restrictions
If you are managing dietary restrictions, it is important to ask your server what the options are. Bob’s is likely able to accommodate your specific needs.
Sides and Accompaniments
No seafood feast is complete without the perfect side dishes. Bob’s Crab House offers a variety of classic and creative sides to complement your meal.
Classic Sides
The classic sides include coleslaw, french fries, mashed potatoes, and corn on the cob. Coleslaw provides a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the seafood, while french fries are a universally loved side dish. Mashed potatoes offer a comforting and creamy texture, and corn on the cob is a summertime favorite. Hush puppies, small deep-fried balls of cornmeal batter, are a staple of Southern seafood cuisine and are a must-try at Bob’s Crab House.
Other Side Options
For those seeking healthier options, Bob’s Crab House also offers steamed vegetables and salads. These provide a lighter and more nutritious alternative to the richer side dishes.
Pairing Suggestions
When choosing your sides, consider which ones will best complement your main course. Coleslaw and french fries are a classic pairing with fried seafood, while mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables pair well with grilled fish.
Desserts and Drinks
After a satisfying seafood feast, it’s time to indulge in a sweet treat. Bob’s Crab House offers a selection of classic desserts to end your meal on a high note.
Dessert Menu
The key lime pie is a perennial favorite, with its tangy citrus flavor and creamy texture. Chocolate cake is a decadent choice for chocolate lovers, while cheesecake is a classic dessert that’s always a crowd-pleaser. For a lighter option, consider the ice cream, which comes in a variety of flavors.
Beverages
To complement your dessert, Bob’s Crab House offers a variety of beverages, including soft drinks, beer, wine, and cocktails. They may feature specific cocktails or specials.
Drink Pairings
When choosing your drink, consider which one will best complement your dessert. A glass of sweet wine pairs well with key lime pie, while a rich coffee is a perfect accompaniment to chocolate cake.
Allergies
If there are any dairy or gluten allergies at the table, be sure to ask your server for what options are available.
Special Considerations & Tips for Diners
Before you head to Bob’s Crab House, here are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable dining experience.
Specials and Promotions
Be sure to ask about any daily or weekly specials. Many restaurants offer discounted prices on certain menu items or special promotions on certain days of the week. Many restaurants have a happy hour with discounted prices.
Family-Friendly Information
If you’re dining with children, Bob’s Crab House likely offers a kids’ menu with smaller portions and kid-friendly options.
Reservations and Ordering
Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak hours or on weekends. Bob’s might offer online ordering.
Other Considerations
The atmosphere at Bob’s Crab House is typically casual and lively, making it a great place to relax and enjoy a delicious meal with friends and family. If there are any dietary restrictions, be sure to make it clear.
Parking is often available, but it can sometimes be limited, especially during peak hours.
Conclusion
From its succulent crab feasts to its diverse seafood offerings and classic desserts, Bob’s Crab House has something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned seafood aficionado or a first-time crab cracker, you’re sure to have a memorable dining experience at this local institution. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your friends and family, head to Bob’s Crab House, and experience the best seafood in town! Check out their website or social media pages for their hours and up to date information.
