0 Followers
The Chubby Crab
Master Critic Review
The Chubby Crab
7.8
The Chubby Crab is a counter-service Asian wok and Cajun kitchen where seafood boils, fried baskets, and rice bowls come built for takeout but work for quick dine-in. It’s a flexible Chinatown option when you want customizable crab-and-shrimp bags with bold sauces at relatively friendly prices.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chubby Crab seafood boil combo, Sample The Sea boil for two, Fit Shrimp bowl with rice or noodles
Scores:
Value: 8.7
Service: 7.2
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 7
What makes it special: Casual Asian–Cajun seafood boils built for delivery, takeout, or low-key dine-in.
Who should go: Seafood boil fans wanting customizable spice and affordable portions.
When to visit: Dinner hours before peak rush to snag one of few tables.
What to order: Chubby Crab combo, Sample The Sea boil, Fit Shrimp bowl.
Insider tip: If you’re eating on-site, call ahead or arrive early; the small dining room fills fast with boil orders and catering pickups.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; expect tight availability during dinner hours and weekends in Chinatown. Paid garages are within a 5–7 minute walk on Allen St and Ludlow St.
Dress code: Casual. Come as you are—hoodies, tees, and walk-in takeout attire all fit the room.
Noise level: Moderate during peak dinner rush due to takeout traffic and boiling pots; manageable for conversation at slower hours.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes for counter orders, though you may need to hover for a table if dining in.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; easy to order and sit if you’re dining solo or with one other person.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Very limited—this is a seafood-focused menu with only a couple of veggie sides.
Vegan options: Minimal options; most sauces and boils contain butter or animal-based seasonings.
Gluten-free options: Some boils can be prepared without breaded items, but cross-contact is likely due to shared fryers and prep areas.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date enjoys casual, hands-on eating; boils can be messy, and the room leans fast-casual over romantic.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—there are no reservations. Seating is first-come, first-served, and limited, so arrive early if you plan to dine in.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who like seafood and don’t mind a casual, sometimes crowded room. No dedicated kids’ menu, but fried baskets and mild shrimp options work well.
Best For
Better for: Affordable seafood boils and quick, customizable orders that travel well for takeout or delivery.
Skip if: You want a full-service seafood dinner, cocktails, or a quieter space—consider more traditional sit-down seafood spots nearby.