The Original Crab Shanty

City Island is a Bronx stable in terms of seafood, Crab Shanty being a big factor. The place is a quaint and charming little restaurant that has both outdoor and insider seating. The outdoor facing the street let you taking in the charm of the island main street. Pricing is good, actually better then you'll expect, and once you consider the great food and portions you'll easily see that it worth it. The combos like Lobster and Shrimp for a little over $20 is insane really. The staff were pleasant, intensive, and patient. Food came in good time, and the over all vibe was calming and welcoming. Definitely a place to bring your family on a sleepy weekend at or after going to the beach.

Food was ok but not outstanding. Ive had more flavorful fried calamari. Shrimp was a bit overcooked and chewy. Fried clams looked like burnt bits. Best part of the meal was the garlic bread and baked potato. The Inside ambiance is meh so best to sit outside.

Oh, the Baltimore Blue Crabs In A Garlic Sauce is the bomb; I always get it. That dish with New England Clam Chowder and a side of baked potatoes is the perfect combo. The rich flavors are so satisfying, and the garlic sauce is the best. Every time I go there, the service is always great, with friendly servers. DIVE SEAFOOD JOINT.

My first time here was amazing! Our food took a while to come out, but I was not disappointed once it did. Fresh, hot, and sooooo flavorful! Yummy. Our waitress was so sweet! I'm definitely coming back.

I had an incredible dinner at The Crab Shanty in City Island! The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, with friendly staff who made us feel right at home. I ordered the filet mignon with lobster tail, and it was absolutely perfect—the filet was tender and cooked to perfection, and the lobster tail was buttery, fresh, and full of flavor. The portions were generous, and everything was beautifully plated. The service was attentive without being overbearing, and you can really tell they take pride in what they do. Whether you're a seafood lover or in the mood for a hearty steak, this place delivers. Definitely a must-visit if you're in City Island!

First and foremost shut out to Cisco our server who is very friendly, engaging and gave a great breakdown of the menu and what kind of deals to get and good job On upselling the drinks It was my first time trying crab legs and they have a great deal offering crab legs shrimp and lobster tails. Absolutely delicious. I always have to laugh at the Salad but the creamy Ranch was good, the crabcakes. were definitely small but seafood is very filling. My gf Enjoyed her drinks & The best part of going to his restaurants in city island is that they are deceptively large on the phone. It looks small, but when you enter and see all these booze and we were in a nice private booth, and it was outside seating area as well, that looks very comfortable. Sadly, I failed to get pictures of the outside of the establishment but I can take pictures of the food

Came here yesterday for Valentines Day. The hostess said it’d be a 30 minute wait, we got in just under. The portions are worth the price! The snow crab legs were good, some of them were fresh and the other cluster I had was a bit salty, in an older batch kind of way. The Henny coladas were really good. They stuff anything with crab for an extra $13.99. Super delicious btw! Garlic hero is sooo garlicky in the best way. The staff were really nice, fast! It was worth the drive.

Food Was Decent.. Service Was Ok… The Seats Are To Close Together… I Enjoyed The Drinks More Than The Food.

Great food, inviting atmosphere and terrific staff! Fernando was our waiter (menu tour guide) and he was such a pleasure! Everything he suggested tasted outstanding and he was very interpersonal and attentive. We will be back! For lobster, garlic butter oysters, snow crab and Fernando!

Ordered the platter for 2 @USD$97. 8 shrimps 4 lobster tails Snow crabs Corn Salad Garlic bread Steamed brocoli Linguini Worth it!!!!!

My first time visiting and not be my last time!!! Loved everything from reservations to service! Our sangria was amazing. The garlic bread was yummy!! Our soups and salad were mediocre. Appetizers (baked clams and fried calamari were good. Our main dishes : seafood feast and prime rib- split between 3 people... was A LOT of food!!!! The seafood was cooked to perfection, the garlic pasta was al dente and full of flavor. The prime rib, obviously was cooked to perfection and seasoned perfectly. The restaurant was packed on a rainy Saturday night. Great vibes thanks to our waitress. Even though it was full of patrons, you definitely do not hear anyone else's business!

Crab Shanty - Nostalgic Favorite That Still Feels Like Home. I've been coming to Crab Shanty since I was 10 years old, and it's always held a special place in my heart. After a recent disappointing experience at a more trendy spot on the island (see my review on Vistamar), I knew I needed to get back to the place that never let me down growing up. Crab Shanty is everything I love about City Island--friendly staff, comforting food, and that laid-back, old-school seafood shack vibe that just feels right. This visit was special because it was my date's first time experiencing my go-to spot and we were celebrating good news. Normally, when I come with family and friends, I go all in: King Crab Legs, Jumbo Shrimp, Broiled Seafood Platter, Scallops, oysters, mussels, New England Clam Chowder, Fish--you name it. But since it was a quiet date night, I kept it a little lighter and went with fried shrimp and lobster tails. He had his with spaghetti and garlic; I stuck with French fries. To be honest, the lobster tails were a bit under-seasoned and the butter didn't add much flavor. But I'm a fried shrimp girl through and through--and they hit the spot. I love that it's not a mouth full of batter and breadcrumbs you can enjoy the meaty shrimp. I'd give the meal a 7/10. Not mind-blowing, but satisfying. What keeps me coming back isn't just the food--it's the memories. There's something about sitting in that space that feels like visiting an old friend. I may not stray from my usual favorites again, but you'll definitely still catch me here from time to time, indulging in oysters, king crab, shrimp, corn on the cob, and mussels. Crab Shanty is comfort food with a side of nostalgia, and for that reason alone--it'll always be a must-stop when I visit City Island.

Oh, the Baltimore Blue Crabs In A Garlic Sauce is the bomb; I always get it. That dish with New England Clam Chowder and a side of baked potatoes is the perfect combo. The rich flavors are so satisfying, and the garlic sauce is the best. Every time I go there, the service is always great, with friendly servers. Dive seafood joint.

The food here was excellent, but the service left a lot to be desired. Throughout our meal, the servers made repeated, inappropriate comments about the amount of food my partner and I ordered. For context, we were sharing a few appetizers and some à la carte items far less than what's offered in their prix fixe platters for two. There was nothing excessive about our order, yet the remarks continued, making the experience increasingly uncomfortable. One comment might have been overlooked, but the repeated behavior was unprofessional and completely unnecessary. Also not for nothing, who gives an F how much we order. youre getting paid and it isnt your food. Wont be back.

This place will always be on of my favorite stop ins while on City Island. The service was great, they give a lot of food and the drinks are always on point! The calamari wasn't too good this time. But everything else was perfect.

If you're looking for a more sit down, intimate vibe. The food is decent, pricey (but it's seafood). I usually order a feast and share comes with a lot of food. The service is pretty good.

Great food and service. Not sure why there are bad reviews of this place. Ive been here multiple times and always have had a great experience. Yesterday we ordered the crab legs and lobster. Both were great, especially the crab legs. I also recommend the 151 proof pina colada. It's the beat i have had outside of Puerto Rico.

This place is one our favorites on the island!! Food is great. Everyone is so friendly, service is excellent. We had the pleasure of meeting DamMarie and she was very helpful with a smile...

Came here yesterday for Valentines Day. The hostess said it'd be a 30 minute wait, we got in just under. The portions are worth the price! The snow crab legs were good, some of them were fresh and the other cluster I had was a bit salty, in an older batch kind of way. The Henny coladas were really good. They stuff anything with crab for an extra $13.99. Super delicious btw! Garlic hero is sooo garlicky in the best way. The staff were really nice, fast! It was worth the drive.

We love this place. They make you feel like family. They are always so friendly and kind. The food is amazing and we love Justina. She is so amazing. You can't go wrong. The ambience is great and the drinks are amazing too. Not to mention the tasty and amazing food. Thank you so much.

It's been years since I've last visited this establishment. And I always dream of this place whenever I think of great seafood. I finally was able to stop by today. The drinks were as I remembered strong and delicious. They give you a super HUGE footlong of garlicky, crispy, flavorful garlic bread on the house as soon as you get situated. And trust me, I never touch the free bread whenever I go anywhere. But this... I devoured half the footlong, and it got me so full. Lol. My tummy was happy. Anyway, onto what I ordered. Lunch Crabmeat lump cakes (3 pc per order) were a tad bit salty, but it paired so well w the tartar sauce. Tuna steak, I didn't get to eat it bc I was stuffed. Took a doogybag. Appetizer combo steamed platter, which consisted of clams and mussels. They were so fresh and delicious. Chefs kisses. And my food came with a new England clam chowda, fries , garlic linguine, and salad. I had so much leftovers. Enough for 2 more extra meals. Anyway, I def recommend it. And hopefully, next time, it won't take me years to return. The servers and bussers were super attentative. Never an empty cup. EVERYTHING WAS PERFECT. I def recommend it!!!

Been coming here since 2010 and over the years they've been good. The last 2 times things seem to change. The lighting which is a yellowish color gives off a bad reflection when looking at the menu. I noticed they stopped giving the pickled veggies with the great bread ( so great I asked for the recipe ) they move much slower now. I even had to go up myself to pay for my food. Which was crazy because I could've just walked out without paying but that's not my style. Maybe they were short on staff this day. All in all my food was good except they over cooked my deep fried lobster tail but the flavor made up for it!

I had a wonderful experience. Carlos was attentive, made suggestions and gave us a complementary birthday surprise. The food was fresh and cooked correctly. Oysters, tails, snow legs, all done right!! Love this place!

Had reservations for a party of 10. Our server was kind and friendly but the server for the table next to us had a horrible attitude and kept sucking her teeth and rolling her eyes as she passed our table . The food for the most part was very mid. The mango Pina colada was delicious but we had another drink and it was absolutely disgusting. The portion for the pasta was extremely big , but the pasta lacked in flavor . The crab legs were good but the crab cakes also lacked in flavor . All in all , I wouldn't return here just because the cost of the food doesn't match the quality . Also , it began to rain and dust started falling off the ceiling in large amounts and onto our heads .

Had a wonderful Martini & Lobster lunch. We enjoyed the broiled lobster with vegetables and baked potatoes. The dirty Martini and Piña colada were excellent. I highly recommend this place.

Came here and had the tuna steak , my friends had chicken with salad , lobster tail and baked calms , shrimp and scallops, crabs legs , calamar . The calamar was too soggy , tuna had a fishy taste , chicken wasn't season the right way , pasta had no flavor, lobster was bland. No taste . Will not come back again

I decided to come early Saturday before the crowd and the congestion. Haven't been here in so long they still provide valet parking. They also have new Benches & Tables in the front of the restaurant if you prefer outside seating in the summer months. Providing customers with Ordering window for To Go orders. I got to sit in my favorite booth since it wasn't crowded yet when we arrived. I haven't been here for years and honestly couldn't wait to enjoy my nice New England clam chowder. Yet it was disappointing not creamy and thick like I remember it also very bland and watery. We both had the broiled lobster special. Unfortunately my lobster was very mushy. The claw meat was stuck to the shells and wouldn't come out which made eating it very hard unfortunately. The texture was off like who it's mushy lobster meat it was just left very disappointing and left still very hungry.

This restaurant is DEFINITELY my go to AND the service is impeccable! My food is always as I ordered and tasty. The portions are more than enough. Now, Everyonne at Crab Shanty is friendly, but I want tobtalk about FERNANDO. He is a student that works there in the weekends. Not only is he funny, patient, quick and accommodating, he is so caring towards his customers, not only because he should be, but because his spirit hits different when it comes to his customers. We frequent Crab Shanty often and we always look forward to seeing Fernando and him servicing us. We miss him when we are there and he is off, but we are still taken care of. :-) The resturant is cozy and very family oriented. The booths give great privacy, and the BREAD! Oh the BREAD! That's another story, but I want to thank Crab Shanty for the great food and thank you for our guy FERNANDO!

Love their marinara sauce and garlic bread. Usually get the shrimp Parmesan and chicken Parmesan. Always nice portions and very flavorful.

06/03/23: Its been a while since I've been to City Island but OMG still a seafood Mecca for the soul. Choice of the night Crab Shanty. Walk in no reservations. It's very busy and bustling. They will not seat until entire party present. Our party of 6 waited about 10mins or less. Friendly hostess, our waitstaff and everyone encountered very pleasant all with smiles and welcoming. Extensive selection of food and drinks if you are a seafood lover look no further. Although pricy I believe the combo meals are worth it. Lobster, crab legs, shrimp oh my. I'm salivating as I'm writing this review and thinking of all the deliciousness I ate. The crabmeat was so juicy and tender and actually flavorful not the bland taste as other places may serve. We definitely enjoyed and can't wait to

Mhmmm the seafood here is so fresh and flavorful. Not salty at all like other seafood spots. Went on a sunday for lunch and it was fairly empty. By the time we ordered the lunch crowd started to form. Before we ordered they took our drink orders and brought out a crusty garlicy loaf of bread...we could not stop tearing off a peice. We ordered our drinks and our meals. The seafood was fresh, full of flavor steamed, fried or broiled. This sides were good and the portion sizes were worth the price.

We frequented this establishment at about 2 in the afternoon during the work week and it was still busy; a good sign. They have a medium sized parking lot but it might be full when you dine. The restaurant is on the small side and the atmosphere is "whatever". It will not add to your experience. They have "specials" that are of a good value. The prices are competitive; translation- check your CC limit. Look, you're going out to enjoy yourself , not to save money. My wife had the fried scallops. The batter was light and the scallops fresh. I've eaten and even prepared better, but they were good. I had the seafood fettuccine. It included scallops, shrimp and lobster. The scallops and shrimp were well prepared. The lobster somewhat overdone. The sauce was a bit bland, but after adding more cheese, it markedly improved. I believe it simply required more salt. The coffee and dessert is not worth writing about. Solid, solid 7.

It's been many years since I've visited this restaurant. It was a group of us. We had a very nice time. It was very crowded, but our waiter was very attentive. The food was good. Everyone seemed to enjoy their meal. All in all, it was OK!

Visted here Saturday 2/18, food had nice taste. I ordered baked clams and my daughters whole order came out 20 minutes before mine did. My clams had no flavor, my daughter ordered fried calamari, it was rubbery and also had no taste. Clam chowder was ok

My cousin and I took a chance and went to Crab Shanty at the last minute last night. We got right in. Talk about lucky it was very crowded and actually got there as a couple cars we leaving the parking lot so we also got a spot in the nice sized lot. It was pretty loud with all the people but not so loud you couldn't hear each other talk. The only thing was the booth behind me had only children and 2 tables put together next to it had the adults. The children were very unruly and no one spoke to them. The waiters nor the parents. I was so happy when they left! The food was very good. I got the lasagna (I was trying to be good I usually go all out LOL ). She got the taste of seafood. The portions were very sizable. I totally forgot to take pictures but when I tell you her meal was enough for 2 people and I had enough for a lunch. I've been here before and I've never had a bad meal here. Next time I'll take pictures and try a dessert.

While exploring City Island, we were craving some seafood and noticed this establishment while walking. It had decent reviews so we walked in and were seated immediately at a table because the booths had a wait time. Food: 4.5/5 I hate to admit that the free table garlic bread loaves is definitely a highlight of the experience. It is fresh out of the oven and super tasty! My partner and I got the platter for two and it was great in the Italian cuisine context. For our Cajun seafood lovers, please do not come here expecting any flavor expect butter and breadcrumbs! But, it was still very fresh and a perfect meal for the older people in my life as it very simple and light. I will definitely come back with my grandparents. . Service: 4/5 They run a pretty busy shop so, I was still pretty impressed by their service especially as we were finishing our food. My only pet peeve was that multiple busyboys asked if I wanted to pack my crab legs while I was still eating it. Almost as if they expected that I won't be able to finish it during this sitting. Alittle annoying but, nothing another loft of garlic bread didn't fix. All in all, I would give this place a 4.5. After reading the previous reviews, I mostly understand the recent low ratings due this place changing their menu and Cajun lovers being disappointed with the lack of seasoning. However, I feel it unfair to compare Cajun seafood boils to this Italian style seafood spot. Thus, with an Italian cuisine context definitely worth coming again.

The food and service was excellent the crab legs were nice and big and tasty and it was my Birthday everything was on point can't wait to go back

I've been coming here for years and they don't disappoint ever ! Got the broiled lobster and shrimp. The garlic bread is so good. You can taste the actual garlic pieces and it's a generous size you can definitely share.

We had a great time dining at crab shanty. The foods are super fresh. Their clam chowder isn't too salty and it's very tasty. their salmon fillet is super nice as well. They cooked it perfectly and the portion is quite large as lunch special.

Tasty food. Fernando did a great job with my dinner party. The shrimp and seafood was delicious and fresh. Thank you

Love cracking the crab legs here! Great service, nice vibe, affordable menu. Really can't go wrong. Love to go on Friday's and get the $40 special, it comes with a cluster of crab legs, fried shrimp, lobster tail, fries, and clam chowder soup with tasty garlic bread on the side.Can't go wrong!

Great seafood had the Lobster special with clams and shrimp and son had fettuccine Alfredo that could serve 4 people wow mmm mmm

Five stars for the staff Food 3 stars lots of butter and salt on everything unless you specify. A whole loaf of garlic bread is placed on every table. Appetizer, a dozen of blue points, they were large, and fried calamari was ok. Entree: crab legs and lobster tails were small soaked in seasoning and butter. No large crab legs on the island. Broiled Red Snapper laying on a plate of sauce. Chose steamed broccoli and French fries (tasted like ore ida) as my sides. Large portions. I advice sitting in the front dining room. Nice drink selection Pricey

I been going here since forever and everything has gone down! Quality and quantity! Only thing that gone up is price which is ridiculous for 2 person feast!!!!! That's insane! Drinks are super expensive and watered down! They need to do better price wise.

Hold up wait a minute lol. This is gonna be my spot moving forward lol. First of all my drink was drinking lol I had a Mai Tai and it did waht it was supposed to do. Then I had the sirloin and broiled shrimp. Let's just say I took the half of steak and one shrimp I had left home. My hostess name was Eric and he was on his job doing what needed to be done with a smile. I'm gonna request his station when I come back with the gang. It's a must and I went here on a whim just wanting to get out and about. My second drink was my movie money lol. I'm going home now!!!

Definitely worth the trek out here My party and I had their king crab legs, crabcakes, the taste of seafood spaghetti platter, and their platter for 2 which came with 2 clusters of crab legs, shrimp, lobster tails, scallops, and corn on the cob Everything was nicely seasoned and prepared well (no food poisoning afterward) Their seafood pasta was amazing and is a great alternative for those that don't order the platter because they're too big The garlic bread appetizer was amazing. I'd pass on the clam chowder though as it was extremely watery

This used to be my favorite place to eat on City Island. Key words USED TO BE. The service was horrible. The sides never came, no one came to refill our water glasses, our server totally ignored us, I had to practically yell to get her attention. I've been coming here on and off for thirty years and this is worst service I've ever experienced.

We were there last week, 10,27,2020. It brought back some wonderful memories from over the past 40 years. They now have outdoor dining under a tent. The booths were always private, with plenty of personal space. The menu has something for everyone; it always did. But, why go to a seafood place and order a steak?!! The food, and service, are still great; that hasn't changed. Wish they had a sister restaurant up state.

Food 5 stars Alcoholic drinks 5 stars Waitstaff behaves as if they want to be there, attentive and helpful; 5 stars Ambiance perfect for lunch or dinner dates, clean no flies; 5 stars

Everything goes well when your at the crab Shanty. They have one of the best service friendly kind waitresses and waiters, busboy, the cooks, quality of food, everything is all superb

It's been a while since I've been to Crab Shanty so this was a good spur of the moment stop. I had the fried seafood platter wit linguine and garlic sauce. They put garlic bread on the table. The garlic bread was probably the best I've had in a while. All the food was good, the staff was great.

My wife and I ate here last night for my birthday dinner. This was my second time here. We were very pleased. The server and service were outstanding. My wife absolutely loved her cocktail (I rarely drink so it was soda for me) and the garlic bread was amazing! The seafood tasted fresh and was cooked to perfection. The only criticism I can give is the seafood was a little underseasoned. Other than that, great food and great experience.

Been going here for 20 years. Best seafood in city island. Also best bang for your buck. Portions are huge, food is amazing. Absolutely love the pasta Del Mar.

Great seafood place on City Island off Bronx. Very popular place, if coming after 6pm be prepared to wait. Their garlic bread is a great way to start any meal. Crabs are what we usually get. Snow crab Maryland style was a bit salty but the crabs were very meaty and plentiful. Went off season, no blue crabs but still was able to get hard shell crabs with garlic sauce. Very good. Been coming to the place over few decades, was surprised to see the prices where they were. I get it, it's the pandemic and the supply shock has probably raised seafood prices. Would have been a 5 star review, with one off for higher prices. I'd still go back, maybe not as often since you need to bring a lot of money to feed a family. Wait staff, valet guy all stellar and professional given the loads of people they need to handle on daily basis.

just go. the garlic bread and opening salad is a great starter and the combo broiled seafood platter that i had was wonderful. my wife had sausage broccoli rab and she still talks about it

We had a party of 4 (January 7, 2024) at 12:15 PM, and three of us ordered the chicken and ribs combination. The ribs were of the lowest quality I've seen. They were not meaty and most of the bones contained rubbery membrane. The sauce tasted like something out of a jar. The same sauce was dumped on the chicken, which appeared to be the tiny drumstick from a cornish game hen. Hardly a morsal, and very dry. The baked potato tasted like a reheated leftover. The bread was tasty but so full of garlic, I was able to fend off an entire vampire apocalypse. I was tasting the garlic 8 hours later. The only redeeming quality in this place was our cordial, friendly server. Give him a raise, because he saved you from a one-star rating. Very disappointing. I used to come here a lot when I taught in the Bronx, but the quality in Crab Shanty is all but gone. Won't be back.

The king crab legs were so meaty and juicy and good!! We got it with the garlic and oil. The video doesn't do it justice, these things were HUGE. My husband and I split the king crab entree and it was enough to fill us up! Also the waitress and the manager were both amazing, they really made our visit so nice :)