Stone crab season is finally here which means that it’s time to roll our sleeves up and get crackin’ on some fresh claws. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best spots in town to grab stone crab so that you’re ready to dig in. Bon appetit!
1. Joe’s Stone Crab, South Beach
A total institution of Stone Crab season, Joe’s has been serving hungry Floridians its fresh claws for over a hundred years since it discovered the delectable crustacean — or at least so they claim! This traditional spot in South Beach offers fine dining and decadence where you can enjoy your claws with a side of their classic hashbrowns or creamed spinach. Beware though, it can be really difficult to snag a reservation!
P.S.: If you rather not wait, you can always get Joe’s claws to-go from their takeaway spot right next door!
Find it at 11 Washington Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139.
2. Garcia’s Seafood Grille & Fish Market, East Little Havana
This laid-back spot is another absolute classic of the 305 and one of our favorite ones when it comes to waterfront dining. grab a spot on their patio and enjoy some of the freshest claws and seafood in town with some gorgeous views of the Miami River.
Find it at 398 NW N River Dr, Miami, FL 33128.
3. Rivertail, Ft. Lauderdale
Head on over to this waterfront dining spot in New River to get your hands on these succulent seafood delicacies harvested off the Florida coasts with a platter of freshly-shucked oysters on the side! It’s yet another delicious addition to the seafood culinary creations under the helm of Chef José Mendín.
Find it at 4 W Las Olas Blvd, Ste. 120, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301.
4. Stiltsville Fish Bar, Miami Beach
‘Tis the season for stone crab claws at this Sunset Harbor restaurant! They’re served on ice with a side of classic mustard dipping sauce. There’s no better place to be especially on Thursdays, where seasonal crab night specials will feature $7 medium claws from 4 to 7 p.m.
Find it at 1787 Purdy Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139.
5. Golden Rule Seafood Market & Restaurant, Palmetto Bay
This Palmetto Bay spot has been feeding Miamians fresh seafood since 1943. Enjoy your claws under a fun tiki hut and pair them with other dishes like conch fritters, smoked fish dip, and key lime pie for full on Florida experience.
Find it at 17505 S Dixie Hwy, Miami, FL 33157.
6. George Stone Crab, Brickell
A total Miami staple when it comes to stone crabs, George’s ships its crab claws (available in medium, large, jumbo, and colossal sizes) all around the country. You can also choose to add on their homemade butter or mustard sauces, Russian caviar and even a freshly baked key lime pie to round off your totally Florida-themed meal!
Order online through their website.
7. Fresh Florida Fisheries, West Dade
This laid-back market in West Dade is best known for its fried fish, but during stone crab season you can also find some pretty good claws at this spot that offers them at a much more affordable price than a lot of its competitors!
Find it at 2238 SW 57th Ave #2235, Miami, FL 33155
8. Bayshore Club, Coconut Grove
If you’re looking to enjoy your claws alfresco along with a view, Coconut Grove’s newest addition is one of the best choices. The Bayshore Club is offering stone crab claws on ice with a classic mustard sauce all season long! Make sure to check out the rest of their seafood-filled menu.
Find it at 3391 Pan American Dr, Miami, FL 33133.
9. Truluck’s Miami, Brickell
This lovely surf and turf spot in Brickell is also great for those looking to enjoy their claws over a nice dinner. They take pride in serving their crab claws uber-fresh — never frozen. Once crabs are caught, they’re removed and cooked directly after harvest. Then, they’re packed in ice and delivered to the restaurant within hours.
Find it at 777 Brickell Ave, Miami, FL 33131
10. Billy’s Stone Crab, Hollywood Beach
This classic seafood spot has been serving prime claws since the ’70s. Here, you’ll find fresh ones of all sizes while you sit in their dining room or see the boats cruising by on the water. And, if you rather enjoy them at home, you can also get them delivered from their Hollywood market!
Find it at 400 N Ocean Dr, Hollywood, FL 33019.
Contributed by Mª del Rosario Castro Díaz