Crab Shell

Crab Shell almost always has a wait, but it’s worth it. Be prepared to wait. We came later on a Saturday night and can’t recall exact wait time, might have been 30min (which isn’t that long).This restaurant has a nice view by the water, which is what I wanted. My friend brought me here for my birthday dinner. We sat outside for table service near bar, I enjoyed that. I will add though it was a bit harder to have a conversation, as expected. I ordered Seafood Penne A La Vodka, it was delicious! It included shrimp, scallops and small pieces of crab meat (this was harder to find, haha). I had leftovers and it still tasted just as good reheated. I highly recommend this dish. 😊 My picture is photobombed by my friend’s salmon dish with baked potato, tried it and it was fine. However, my dish still blows hers out of the water (pun intended).

Forget the other reviews—just focus on mine 😄 We had a great lunch experience here. Everything went smoothly… well, except the weather. It was pouring, so we sat inside, but that worked out just fine. There was quiet jazz playing, and it was peaceful enough to actually hear each other talk—rare and appreciated. The staff? Top-notch. From the hostess to our server Olga (shoutout!), and even the busboy—they struck that perfect balance of being attentive without hovering. Pro move. Outdoor seating looked beautiful, but again, rain. No biggie. Inside was cozy with a lovely harbor view. Now the food—wow. Incredible specials, huge portions, and the prices? Very fair, especially for seafood. I had a giant sautéed crab sandwich with fries and slaw for about $26. That’s a steal. Olga was absolutely terrific—bilingual, warm, and patient. She handled my 93-year-old dad (who’s got some… let’s call them “senior personality quirks”) like a total pro. Bottom line: I’d come back in a heartbeat. If it fit our budget, I’d be here every Friday night. Highly recommend.

Crab shell is amazing. Even though I have a shellfish allergy, my guests eat shellfish and the kitchen accommodates me by making me a grilled cheese and tomato and salad, delicious. Thank you Oscar and team

Service and Atmosphere are a 5. The food however has disappointed me the past 3 times. My steak today came out very well done, when asked for medium. My mom and dad both disliked the fried clams. The burger last time was also dry and bland. Overcooked and dry everything. Not to mention the prices are completely gauged. I believe the chicken salad is $28. The lobster cost $72 or $83

Fantastic service and amazing food. The portion sizes are a bit big so keep that in mind but they were absolutely delicious and I definitely recommend the shrimp tacos!

I heard very good things about the Crab Shell, but wasn’t overly impressed. The vibes were good, but the food was a little disappointing. My fried scallops were falling apart. However my rum punch drink was very well made! I wish I took a picture of it. I’d go back for drinks and the vibes.

We had a great time with our friends here. Service was excellent, drinks were strong and cold. The food was just little bit disappointing, maybe it was what I ordered…

My family and I went here to celebrate my sister’s birthday. We ordered some delicious appetizers such as the calamari, oysters, and mussels. I ordered the lobster roll which was amazing! We were seated by the waterfront too, and the view was beautiful! I’d love to eat here again!

Forget the other reviews--just focus on mine We had a great lunch experience here. Everything went smoothly... well, except the weather. It was pouring, so we sat inside, but that worked out just fine. There was quiet jazz playing, and it was peaceful enough to actually hear each other talk--rare and appreciated. The staff? Top-notch. From the hostess to our server Olga (shoutout!), and even the busboy--they struck that perfect balance of being attentive without hovering. Pro move. Outdoor seating looked beautiful, but again, rain. No biggie. Inside was cozy with a lovely harbor view. Now the food--wow. Incredible specials, huge portions, and the prices? Very fair, especially for seafood. I had a giant sautéed crab sandwich with fries and slaw for about $26. That's a steal. Olga was absolutely terrific--bilingual, warm, and patient. She handled my 93-year-old dad (who's got some... let's call them "senior personality quirks") like a total pro. Bottom line: I'd come back in a heartbeat. If it fit our budget, I'd be here every Friday night. Highly recommend.

Food and service mediocre at best. Only reason to go is location . Avoid pricey specials.

It's called "Crab Shell" but they didn't have actual crab. Just crab cakes and other meals with crab meat. Foods bland, service is slow, expect to sit with an empty glass.

The restaurant is situated at the Stamford harbor. It is casual dining. It has a boating dock for you to dock your boat and dine there. The view is very calming and nice. The food could be better since the fish and seafoods look like they are fresh catches.

came here with a group of 4 co workers on a sat. We were promptly seated at a table, which was good but soon would take a turn for the worse. We waited nearly 15 minutes until the waiter got us water. Nearly 15 more minutes until we flagged the waiter down to take our order. We waited nearly 45 mins for all fried food that we ordered. It wasn't that busy and fried food should have came out quick. The waiter never once checked on us after taking our order. We sat with glasses empty for 20 mins until we finally flagged him down. He brought the water for one of our party but didn't ask about anyways else or seeing that the glasses were empty being it to be courteous and attentive. The fish and chips were horrible, a ton of batter and little fish. He didn't even bring the vinegar out with the baskets.

Always a good crowd and atmosphere here. As well as great food..!!! This is my go to spot when I am in town for work..

My friends and I shared a lobster roll with the butter - that was very good. I also had the whole belly clams - they were fried, but good. Coleslaw good too. We had a pleasant waiter and a beautiful breezy day on the deck - so nice. Will return for more.

I remember this place being one of my memory highlights. Started coming here in 2005 and boy did we have some good times. Beautiful scenery on the water, great food and the staff was on par. Sadly, last few times I visited while there, I noticed a lot of changes. The staff needed training, restaurant was dead, food was mediocre, prices increased a lot, and the whole place just looks dingy. It saddens me because that place was a gem years ago. I hope they repair the damage and it continues to stay open.

Who doesn't love fried food on the water!! We came from Long Island to Connecticut by boat to eat this delicious food. The food was fast, the drinks were faster and it was packed!! Lots of bathrooms and shade to stay out of the sun. There is a fee to park your boat here but it was cheap. The calamari was delicious, the fried clam strips were great and the French fries were perfect! We all loved it here

I have been going to the crab shell for close to 30 years ! Every time I fly to CT from Arizona it the first stop! I was there last week with my 88 year old Mom and we had a dozen of clams on the 1/2 shell and lobster rolls!! It was amazing ! I love this place !!!

Have lived in the area for 17 years and never went here. My wife and I were heading to Prime for dinner, but heard the live music at Crab Shell. We cancelled at Prime to eat outdoors on the patio and listen to the music. Service was excellent start to finish. My wife said her Stuffed Sole was very good, but the side veges were cooked well, but could have more seasoning. My Grilled Swordfish was good. Side sweet potato and cole slaw were both great.

Venue / vibes 5 stars Right on the water with a HUGE sit down area and a very unusual outdoor bar for Stamford, but let's go with it! You get to view the river, the docks, the boats and people watch as folks on land and boat pass by on the boardwalk and river. Indoor, massive bar 5 stars and big fish tanks 4 stars. Great views of the boardwalk and river docks & boats if ahem some in your party aren't ready for a tiny breeze. Did we eat alone indoors. Yes. Was it fine? Yes. Had the place to ourselves 'cause everyone was outside. Massive windows everywhere, not a bad seat in the house. 5 stars. Food, excellent 4 stars. I'm stingy with 5 star food reviews, only a handful of places get this. But the food is really, really, good and the menu is very long. Nice job. Service 5 stars. Got to chat with one of the partners who told us some Stamford trivia we were curious about. Drink selection was very long, but I was driving etc.. So missed out on this, lot to choose between. 5 stars. Iced tea was excellent. Vibe check - lots of full tables that's a great sign. Not a long wait, they really have a TON of tables. 5 stars. Great job everyone!

You need to train your hosts at the entrance. My husband and I decided to come at around 4pm and grab some dinner and a couple of drinks while enjoying the outdoors! The bar was packed and many tables were filled with people dining and drinking, but there were 3 empty 2 tops in plain sight and they refused to seat us. We were told that we could go to the packed bar until 4:30 and then we could be seated. Pure insanity- We left and went to Prime and they welcomed us with no hesitation! Your loss Crab Shell!

Food was just mediocre. Setting is beautiful. With a little bit of work, this place could be awesome.

Maddy is one of the best bartenders I've had in Stamford! Went above and beyond and exemplifies good customer service. Looking forward to coming back due to her being such a standout

Ok, so our Mother's Day experience at the CS was equivalent to what ShainneTyresse posted earlier...below are the key points... - We were a party of 8 (3 young kids) with reservations in the late afternoon, 2 were present on time, other 6 arrived 10 mins late...we were given a table right away. When our waiter came over about 10 minutes later, he said that they were absolutely slammed, and he would do his best for us. - we ordered drinks and two appetizers while everyone was still choosing their meals. The drinks and appetizers came about 10 minutes later. - We waited, and engaged with the staff several times in the 90 minute wait to get our meals, and were repeatedly told they were doung their best, but the kitchen was moving at a crawl. After the kids started to melt down, we sent everyone home (unfed) as the meals were just about to arrive while I paid the drink and app bill....my points of contention are these... -waiter was working his butt off, but had little team support. - an established restaurant should know how to prepare for a holiday, which it clearly the Clam Shack did not. The two individuals at the front, one an African-American who "seemed to be in charge clearly was not, as evidenced by the lack of progress when appealing to her. - Now, is it possible that some kitchen staff called in sick, etc...perhaps, but if you are acknowledging the fact that the restaurant is performing below standards, then you attempt to appease your guests by comping.....anything, but no offer made. Saying the kitchen is so backed up does nothing for your diners. Should have just gone to Prime as one of our party originally suggested.

Came here on a visit hearing great reviews of this place. Walking up, there is a lot of seating options: outside, outside covered, and inside. Good views all around and many staff to get you seated and taken care of regardless of location. You are also able to make a reservation which was great for us! We started with beers, rum runner, and a frozen daiquiri. Holy cow are they huge cocktails! Awesome!! But unfortunately no photo because I was too excited. Highly recommend the drinks here. Got the half order of onion straws which could feed a family! Very light, crispy with a tangy sauce on the side. Then three of us got the hot lobster roll which was pretty good. I did think mine was a bit fishy but lots of meat, awesome bread, and of course the butter. Romano Potato was a good side, rice was not great, broccoli and fries were also good. Side salad was quite large and already pre-dressed so maybe get it on the side next time. All the food was good except the cold slaw. I love Cole slaw and don't typically have any issues but this was bad. It has some horseradish in it which I thought I'd love but just a bad flavor and grainy texture. I know it's a side but it could be so much better. Good service, food, and views. Could improve on serving outside of plastic containers for sauces and sides but pretty good place. There is limited parking for several business's in the area so be aware.

Satisfying CT Lobster Roll (warm with butter). Friendly TOGO service. Right on the water nice view of the boats.

Great blended beverages-really the star of the show. The vegetable stir fry was decently spicy when I asked. The sauce was delicious and all the veggies were cooked well. The French fries are perfect and we'll seasoned. Good amount of cheese on the burger. We parked our boat at the docks and service was attentive and fast. We sat outside and the weather was beautiful. Not a ton of vegetarian options but it's a seafood restaurant so not unexpected.

Service was horrible! We visited this restaurant today which is Mother's Day. We made a reservation a week in advance due to the busy day. We arrived 5 minutes before and were greeted but they made us wait 15 minutes for a table. We were seated and we waited another 20-30 minutes to have a waiter come over to our table. We were a party of 7 and a party.a party of two that was seated across from us were served right away. When we got there waiters attention when brushed us off. We grew angry waiting for such a long time, as any one would. After another 30 minutes a waiter greeted us his name was Nash he was extremely kind and tried the best to service us. We put our appetizers, drink and food order in at the same time due to the lack of staff. We had to keep getting up from the table to ask for things. After almost 40 minutes of waiting, our waiter came over and said our food would come out shortly; a woman walked over to inform us that there were no more snow crab legs. We were extremely upset as we ordered our food around 4pm and it was almost 5 when we were informed that something was out of stock. My husband got up and asked for the manager she blamed the waiter over and over, this was very upset because it would have been a team effort any staff member could have came over and told us that this item was out of stock. This was a horrible experience, and I ruined Mother's Day.

Man this food is really bad. If you'd like a nice vibe on the water it's a good place just don't eat anything;)

Food is really good. Had the lobster bisque and my friend had the lobster roll. They're excellent service is good. Very attentive without being too pushy. We went after work and sat on the patio. It was just relaxed and enjoyed the sunset.

Eating slightly fair seafood right by the Harbor Point Marina is always a pleasure. Any waterside restaurant with a half an appetizing menu works for me. Crab Shell has that laid back, shorts and a t-shirt atmosphere on the outside with a comparable laid back inside. I've been here twice in the past several years and nothing much has changed with the exception of the prices. I was in the mood for Soft Shell Crabs, but was told it was only one crab @ $18.00. I didn't think it was worth it for one crab at that price, so opted for my Clam Bellies instead. More yummy bites for the buck. They were quite good and I suppose within range of pricing. Covid certainly has done a doozy on all of us. The resulting Covid Related Expenses is certainly a thing throughout the restaurant industry and unfortunately appears here to stay to offset the Pandemic supply and demand, among other factors. Aside from pandemic pricing, I still enjoyed revisiting. If in the area and weather permits, I would visit again. Crab Shell: 4 stars for location Service: 3.5 stars Food: 3.5 stars Outdoor Atmosphere: 4 stars Price: 2 stars

The food was tasteless. The service was good the waitress was very attentive. The ambiance was okay. I was disappointed. I definitely expected better food.

Solid offerings here from deep fried to salads. On this visit, we chose salads and seafood. It was an excellent choice--everything was fresh and well prepared. The service was friendly and efficient, and our food came out quickly during a busy lunch service. We'll be back when we're in the area.

I came for an afternoon special event for universities and stayed extra for dinner because I enjoyed it that much. The pot pie was soooo delicious and the most memorable, like wow! I enjoyed eating it so much - it was an experience! The oysters were good as well, though I've had fresher-tasting. The crab balls were okay, but did not stand out, as they could be very greasy and slightly bland. I just love the atmosphere and location by the water here! The restaurant is so big and spacious with many areas to sit in, separate outdoor bar area for those who just come for drinks, and a boardwalk to hang out in or for special events. Service was nice and friendly too. I'd be happy to get the chance to come back.

The foods portion is quite large and it's a little salty. But the calm and oyster are very fresh. Overall, it was such a nice experience. It's kind of pricey but it's worth it

Food is not good and the restaurant is WAY overpriced. If you want to have a pricey experience for a mid meal, in a mid restaurant, go ahead.

Cool spot by the water in Harbor Point (the more residential side). Almost always busy, especially when the weather is nice. The prices are a little steep because you're essentially paying for a water view. Otherwise, vibes are immaculate and food is solid.

Highly suggest, the pasta was great and it came with bread!! beautiful view of the pier/water. The rum punch was amazing and strong. Our waiter was very attentive, highly recommend!!

Another great meal at the Crab Shell. Food and service is good but the setting and view makes it a very special place! So beautiful , and a lovely walkway along the water and a beautiful garden as well. At 5:00 pm there is a free boat shuttle that takes you across the way to the other apartments/ restaurants. A beautiful spot.

Both of the 2 stars earned by this restaurant was the staff and the rum punch. The other 3 that are missing are due to the RED PEPPER filled lobster roll that is only there to portray itself as lobster meat. No lobster roll on this earth comes with red peppers unless your trying to fake plump the roll with tofu like meat. They couldn't even get my poor waiter a desert menu. He has to carry around a white board. Paper trifold is 25$ for 1,000

Finally a restaurant in Stamford with GREAT calamari! I've been looking for years. Both the calamari and clam strips were seasoned perfectly. My husband isn't a seafood person so he had the crab shell burger which he enjoyed. We definitely found our new seafood spot in Stamford. Looking forward to coming when the weathers nice.

3 stars Yelp?! Sweet baby Jesus, I just don't understand Yelpers sometimes. I think this place deserves more than 3 stars. Food was delicious. The wait staff super attentive and friendly. I left with a happy tummy.

First post-quarantine meal at an actual restaurant! Like others have mentioned already, the outdoor seating here is absolutely amazing. They have perfectly distanced tables with parasols, right along the Stamford Harbor. Fresh air, a view of the boats, delicious seafood, you can't go wrong. Started with the lobster bisque and it was a delight. Wish it was just a tweak hotter but it was a warm day anyway so I didn't mind as much (toss those oyster crackers right in!). The broiled lobster tail special was fantastic. There's nothing worse than tough/chewy lobster - and this was the complete opposite of that. I chose the mashed potatoes for the side and it was fluffy with a slight cheesy crisp. Service was excellent - starting with the hostess seating & accommodating us, our server checking up on us, and especially the cleanliness all around: Masks on all staff, tables & chairs are wiped once a party leaves, and one way in & one way out of the outdoor dining area. Couldn't be better! I feel like every spot deserves a fair shot (or another shot) after what we've all been through and it was honestly a great experience through & through. Definitely check it out!

Good food. Great view. Tottenham Hotspur supporters. That's what you want in a bar. A lot of boating transients and a few registers from the apartments at the marina. Decent crowd on a weeknight. Come On You Spurs!

I always take my boat over here from Northport. Fantastic docking. Everything on the menu is delicious last visit I got the grouper franchise five stars along with their rum, punch excellent, great outdoor seating. Great, Staff See you soon.

Nice location by the water. Good service. Food is pretty uninteresting and expensive. A lot of fried items and not many healthy items. Fried onions were tasteless

I kind of got scammed here this past Saturday evening, but I was having a serious dinner and did not have the bandwidth to let them know that something happened in the kitchen. I ordered a Lobster Pot Pie and it didn't have any lobster at all. I looked but could not find it. My Lobster Pot Pie looked like my guest's appetizer lobster bisque soup. My entree soupy bowl was priced as a Lobster Pot Pie MP ($$$). I called to let the manager know, and they did not really know what to do with this feedback.

Stumbled upon this place because we were looking for a decent lobster roll in Stamford. Hands-down one of the best I've ever had, have a pint of corona with it and get the double baked mash! Amazing. Also, shout out to Sharnae. She looked after us for our whole time there and was an absolute sweetheart, a credit to the business. All of the staff were super friendly and we will definitely be back!

Great place for outdoor dining by the water! Also, a perfect spot for an after hours drink.

My wife and I stopped by for lunch since we were in the area. My wife had the CT style Lobster Roll and I had the Philly Cheesesteak. My wife enjoyed her lobster roll, good amount of lobster meat, and fresh. Although a little pricey at $38, but at least it was good. My cheesesteak was good, could have had a little more cheese, wasn't dry, but almost.

Crab Shell restaurant hit all of the points that we were looking for. Great food overlooking the harbor. There was plenty of parking. We had a big group of 8 and our server, Francisco, was awesome and issued us separate checks. The food was delicious. The Maryland Crab cake full of fresh crab and very little breadcrumbs. Everyone was happy with their meal. The price points were appropriate for the upscale neighborhood and fresh seafood. After lunch we walked on the boardwalk and watched the yachts take off. I would definitely return!

I thought this would be a good place to stop in for a bite to eat after a sailing trip when visiting during my travels. I must've had too high of expectations and was disappointed with my visit. The food was great however the service is what really brings this down in the ratings for me. My visit started off well, I arrived during the lunch/dinner transition and the host was kind and said I could be seated in 15 minutes for dinner but I could go to the bar and order a drink if I wanted. I decided to just wait. Not too long after he escorted me to my table. That's when things became a little rocky. The waitress greeted me in a bit of a rush and I don't even think she stated her name. I was a party of one and had never been before but there was no greeting, no suggestions given and I wasn't really given the chance to ask. She showed me the evenings specials and went on. I figured it might have been just coming off the lunch/dinner transition and her having to tend to a needy table next to me that was leaving after what appeared to be a long afternoon of drinks but I realized it was just my table that the wait staff was being a bit more impersonable too. It appeared that I'd you weren't a regular, you were treated in a much less of a personable fashion. Maybe it's because I was just a party of 1 rather than a family of 3-5 but I still expected a bit more. Anyways, I ordered one of the specials, Cajun catfish with shrimp salsa, side of rice and coleslaw. The catfish, shrimp salsa and rice were good, but the coleslaw was mediocre. Right before my food came, someone practically tossed a basket of dinner rolls at me. I understand if they were running behind with getting the dinner rush started, however, all of the other tables also had plates and silverware given to them for their bread and meals. I never received a plate for my bread and I had to ask for silverware after my entree came. It's a shame that I had to observe all the other tables getting cordial and interactive service when I was getting mediocrity at best. I hope this isn't the norm but it definitely appeared that if you're not a regular you might as well forget it. If I'm back in the area I doubt I'll stop in again. I'm sure I can find good seafood else where. The only reason this gets 2 stars is the food and the outdoor views being on the water. Service is a 1 at best.

What can you say about this place. It's a Stamford staple, however the food is not good. Drinks are solid and a nice pour. Other spots for food to go to. The service needs to be better. Our waitress had a big language disparity and was not friendly. The ambiance is great if it wasn't for that they'd need Jon Taffer.

A while ago before Covid I used to go to Crabshell for dinner and drinks after work. I decided to take my family to Crabshell over the weekend. I had the lobster roll with fries with some fried Calamari and Lobster Bisque. The food was good overall but not as good as it used to be and the prices were very high considering the portion. I really had a great time given the beautiful location on the water. I would definitely go back but wish the old Crabshell can come back.

Great spot for happy hour and fried seafood with water front views! Parking is easy and there are always tables outside in the shade or out in the sun. Highly recommend sitting outside if you can - the inside felt old and outdated and bathrooms were not clean.

I wouldn't come back unless i drink somewhere prior as the drinks are either ridiculously strong or flavorless, it was explained that their is no mixing up of the drinks, they don't use any fresh limes and obviously a very flavorless orange juice as i couldn't taste a hint of citrus in a drink that was supposed to have OJ. Management and the waiter didn't seem to understand the importance of a good bartender , 2 drinks returned we had water with our meals which was highly disappointing on a beautiful day , in addition a simple meal such as a lobster roll had MP as the price instead of the $32 which is normal. I could definitely tell this is a place with a hood location so people come on a nice day but it's definitely not worth the drive if you aren't in the area, other yelp reviews are honest it's just not giving .

Stopped by here for lunch and the food was really good. We decided to sit outside and it was a bit breezy but not unbearable. In spite of children running back and forward while their parents continue to dine without telling their children to stop running it was still a decent experience. The food was a nice portion for lunch and the beer was ice cold. I wish I would have known that they had a full bar because I needed something strong to deal with the children running back and forward. I will definitely go back but for dinner.