Soft-shell crab is a staple of Outer Banks cuisine. This seasonal treat is so beloved that there will be a whole week dedicated to it this year! This May, come check out Soft-Shell Crab Week in the Outer Banks!
People look forward to soft-shell season all year long. The season usually starts in late April or Early May and continues through late August or early September. The limited time that they're available just makes them all the more special! During Outer Banks Soft-Shell Crab Week, you can eat your fill of delicious soft-shell crabs.
Never had soft-shell crab before? Outerbanks.org explains, "A soft-shell is a crab that has temporarily shed its tough exterior in favor of a softer, more sensitive side. These crabs are removed from the water as soon as they molt or, preferably, just before to prevent any hardening of their shell. This means that almost the entire animal can be eaten, rather than having to shell the animal to reach the meat."
Participating local restaurants will be serving the freshest, tastiest crabs from May 15-20, 2023. You can expect dishes ranging from classic sandwiches to creative appetizers to indulgent dinners.
The list of restaurants participating is currently:
- Awful Arthur's Oyster Bar
- Basnight's Lone Cedar Cafe
- Blue Moon Beach Grill
- Blue Water Grill & Raw Bar
- Bonzer Shack Bar & Grill
- Chili Peppers Coastal Grill
- Greentails Seafood Market & Kitchen
- Lucky 12 Tavern
- Miller's Waterfront Restaurant
- Red Drum Taphouse & Grill
- Shipwrecks Taphouse & Grill
- Sugar Creek Soundfront Restaurant
- TRIO Restaurant & Market
- Two Roads Tavern
You can enjoy crab from Roanoke up to Kitty Hawk!
Make plans to visit the Outer Banks during the 1st Annual Soft-Shell Crab Week. Can't make it in May? Visit before September and, odds are, you'll still be able to get your hands on some tasty crabs!
