New York City, a culinary melting pot, boasts an incredible array of seafood restaurants. Among the many delectable options, crab cakes stand out as a popular and beloved dish. But with so many choices, finding the best crab cake can feel overwhelming. This guide navigates the bustling NYC food scene to highlight 13 exceptional spots offering some of the city's finest crab cakes. We'll explore what makes each location special, highlighting factors like crab quality, preparation techniques, and overall dining experience. Whether you're a seasoned crab cake connoisseur or a curious newcomer, this list will guide you to crab cake heaven.
Where to Find the Best Crab Cakes in NYC: A Detailed Look
This list isn't ranked in any particular order; each restaurant offers a unique and delicious take on the classic crab cake. Instead, we focus on the distinct qualities of each, helping you choose the perfect spot based on your preferences.
1. The Lobster Place (Chelsea Market)
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What makes it special: Located in the vibrant Chelsea Market, The Lobster Place offers incredibly fresh, sustainably sourced seafood. Their crab cakes reflect this commitment to quality, featuring generous chunks of lump crab meat with minimal filler. The simple preparation lets the natural flavor of the crab shine.
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Price Range: $$
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Ambiance: Casual, bustling market atmosphere.
2. The Smith (Multiple Locations)
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What makes it special: The Smith is a popular NYC institution known for its consistently high-quality food and lively ambiance. Their crab cakes are a crowd-pleaser, featuring a perfectly balanced blend of crab meat, herbs, and spices. The light breading keeps the focus on the star ingredient: the crab.
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Price Range: $$
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Ambiance: Lively, upscale-casual.
3. Lilia (Williamsburg)
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What makes it special: Lilia is a celebrated Brooklyn restaurant renowned for its innovative approach to Italian cuisine. Their crab cake isn't your typical rendition; it's a more sophisticated take on the dish, often featuring unique pairings and interesting preparations. Expect creative twists and unexpected flavor combinations.
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Price Range: $$
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Ambiance: Chic, modern, and upscale.
4. J.G. Melon (Upper East Side)
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What makes it special: A New York City classic, J.G. Melon is known for its old-school charm and consistently good food. While their menu is fairly simple, their crab cakes are a standout, served with a classic tartar sauce that perfectly complements the delicate crab meat.
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Price Range: $$
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Ambiance: Traditional, classic New York eatery.
5. The Fulton (Seaport District)
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What makes it special: Overlooking the historic Seaport District, The Fulton provides a stunning waterfront view to accompany its delicious seafood. Their crab cakes are a highlight of their extensive seafood menu, prepared with care and attention to detail, showcasing the freshest ingredients.
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Price Range: $$
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Ambiance: Elegant, waterfront dining.
6. Gaonnuri (Midtown)
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What makes it special: For a Korean take on crab cakes, Gaonnuri offers a unique and delicious experience. Their crab cakes often incorporate Korean spices and flavors, creating a memorable culinary fusion.
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Price Range: $$
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Ambiance: Upscale Korean restaurant with a modern design.
7. Shake Shack (Multiple Locations)
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What makes it special: While not a dedicated seafood restaurant, Shake Shack's surprisingly delicious crab cake is worth mentioning. It's a great option for a quick and satisfying crab cake fix, especially for those on the go.
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Price Range: $
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Ambiance: Casual, fast-casual.
8. Ocean Prime (Midtown)
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What makes it special: This upscale steakhouse also offers fantastic seafood, including their generously portioned and expertly cooked crab cakes. Ocean Prime’s crab cakes are a luxurious choice for a special occasion.
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Price Range: $$
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Ambiance: Sophisticated and elegant steakhouse.
9. Prime 112 (Midtown)
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What makes it special: Another high-end steakhouse with exceptional seafood options. Prime 112's crab cakes are known for their rich flavor and luxurious presentation, making them a perfect treat for a celebratory meal.
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Price Range: $$
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Ambiance: Upscale, modern steakhouse.
10. The Clam (West Village)
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What makes it special: The Clam, a West Village gem, serves up some of the freshest seafood in the city. Their crab cakes are no exception, showcasing pristine crab meat with a light and flavorful preparation.
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Price Range: $$
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Ambiance: Cozy, neighborhood vibe.
11. Riverpark (Kips Bay)
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What makes it special: Riverpark offers stunning views of the East River and a refined menu that includes delicious crab cakes. The restaurant's sophisticated ambiance and waterfront location make it a great option for a special occasion.
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Price Range: $$
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Ambiance: Upscale, sophisticated, waterfront views.
12. Balthazar (Soho)
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What makes it special: Balthazar, a classic New York brasserie, offers a wide range of French-inspired dishes, including their well-regarded crab cakes. The classic preparation and high-quality ingredients make them a worthwhile addition to this list.
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Price Range: $$
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Ambiance: Lively, classic Parisian brasserie.
13. Red Hook Lobster Pound (Red Hook)
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What makes it special: For a more casual and outdoorsy experience, Red Hook Lobster Pound offers a simple but satisfying crab cake. The fresh, locally sourced ingredients are a highlight here.
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Price Range: $
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Ambiance: Casual, outdoorsy, waterfront setting (seasonal).
Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Crab Cake
When choosing where to indulge in a crab cake, consider these factors:
- Crab Meat Quality: Look for restaurants that emphasize using lump crab meat and minimal fillers. The best crab cakes let the crab's flavor take center stage.
- Preparation Style: Do you prefer a pan-fried, broiled, or baked crab cake? Each method yields a slightly different texture and flavor.
- Accompaniments: The sides and sauces served with the crab cake can greatly enhance the dining experience. Consider what complements your preferences.
- Ambiance: Choose a restaurant that matches the mood you're looking for, whether it's a romantic dinner, a casual meal with friends, or a special occasion.
- Price: Crab cakes can vary significantly in price, so set a budget before making your choice.
This list provides a diverse range of options, catering to various budgets, tastes, and dining preferences. Happy crab cake hunting in NYC!
