The Crab Cooker

Situated along the vibrant Newport Beach coastline, The Crab Cooker stands as a cherished seafood restaurant and market that has been delighting locals and visitors for over 70 years. This iconic Crab House offers an unmistakably authentic dining experience, deeply rooted in Newport Beach tradition and maritime culture. Upon stepping inside, you are embraced by a vintage, no-frills atmosphere that exudes nostalgic charm—its unchanged décor feels like a warm tribute to decades of seafood excellence.

The cuisine here is a true celebration of the ocean’s bounty. The menu is bursting with fresh, flavorful options that showcase the best seafood Newport Beach has to offer. Signature dishes such as the perfectly grilled Lobster on a Skewer, succulent Shrimp and Scallop Skewers with hints of smoky bacon, and the iconic Alaskan King Crab deliver rich, layered textures that dazzle the palate. For soup lovers, the celebrated Red Clam Chowder provides a heartwarming twist on a classic, while the Smoked Fish Combo and freshly shucked Oysters on the Half Shell offer a taste of pure coastal freshness.

Every bite at The Crab Cooker reverberates with quality and care, whether it’s the creamy mashed potatoes that complement the seafood or the bread and butter that create a simple yet satisfying harmony on the plate. The coal fire BBQ imbues many dishes with a subtle, smoky depth—a technique that enhances the natural flavors without overpowering them.

Beyond the savory offerings, don’t miss out on the dessert menu, featuring indulgent options like the rich Fudge Cake or the dense yet light NY Style Cheesecake. These sweet finales cap off your meal with comforting, nostalgic touches just as authentic as the rest of the dining experience.

What truly sets The Crab Cooker apart is its unwavering commitment to authenticity and attentive service. Long-time patrons and newcomers alike cherish the friendly, knowledgeable staff who add a personal touch to every visit. Michael Fung, a delighted customer, summed it up best: “The Crab Cooker is my new favorite seafood place… This place has a lot of authentic charm and character.” Others, like Jacob Stackhouse, praise the grill items and the rich, flavorful chowder that depart from typical New England styles with tasty success.

Whether you’re seeking a casual, hearty lunch of fresh-cooked shrimp cocktail or an evening feast boasting local lobster and freshly caught salmon fillets, The Crab Cooker promises a memorable meal steeped in Newport Beach’s rich coastal heritage. It’s more than a restaurant; it’s a beloved institution where decades of seafood craftsmanship and community spirit merge on every plate.

For those eager to bring the ocean’s flavors home, The Crab Cooker’s seafood market section offers fresh market catches like swordfish steaks and salmon fillets to cook yourself, ensuring the Newport experience continues beyond the table.

Visit The Crab Cooker at 2200 Newport Blvd, Newport Beach, CA, or call +1 949-673-0100 to reserve your spot at this local gem where every meal feels like a step back into a rich, flavorful seaside tradition.