After a taste of the savory barbeque and the classic of shrimp and grits one item still existed on my personal Charleston ‘must eat’ list: crab cakes. So where better to eat a low country pan seared cake of goodness then the Charleston Crab House.
the menu...
With the first steps inside the restaurant the mood was set. The decor delightful and the friendly staff created a festive energy that nearly forced smiles. It spread too. Every table whether families, couples, tourists, or co-workers no matter, they all seemed to be having a good time.
The menu, loaded with crab options also includes other seafood favorites, southern specialities, and daily specials. It might make for a difficult decision, but not for me. My first course – the crab cake.
Photo: Charleston Crab House (I ate mine to quickly)
I finished the first one in record time. I devoured it actually. Delicious. It made my next decision easier – I kept the crab coming and added some shrimp too. All fried. (it is the south after all).
Over my meal, I also enjoyed the opportunity to chat with the owner, John Keener. We discussed southern cuisine. From the origin of the hushpuppy (great story) to the restaurant’s new crab recipes designed to provide even more crab in every bite he had me entertained.
I took away more than facts or stories, he personified the restaurant. Happy, friendly, and open for conversation. Walking out it I realized those are the very reasons everyone heads to the Charleston Crab House in the first place. Well, that and the crab cakes too.
crabs and shrimps, both Charleston favorites
Tip: The Charleston Crab House has three locations in town (Mt Pleasant, the Historic District and James Island.) I’d make my reservation for James Island on the outside deck. From there you can watch the peaceful inter-coastal waterway at sunset with a cocktail.
a perfect place for a sunset sunday moment...
Stay adventurous, Craig
This is the first installment of the Culture Through Cuisine – Restaurant Week Series. This is the third of five on Charleston. Also, I’d like to thank the Charleston Crab House for their invitation to dine.
