A Culinary Tour of America’s Finest Crab Cakes

Crab cakes have ignited passionate debates across the nation, with seafood lovers fiercely defending their preferences—from the inclusion of mayo to the acceptable use of fillers. This iconic dish has evolved from its coastal roots, inspiring a treasure hunt for the best crab cakes in every corner of the United States.

On a culinary adventure that spans all 50 states, we’ve uncovered a variety of crab cake masterpieces that showcase local flavors and traditions. Each state contributes its unique twist, ensuring that crab cake enthusiasts have plenty to sample and savor.

In Alabama, Cafe Acadiana’s Crab Cake Pontchartrain steals the spotlight with its house-made jumbo lump cake topped with a creamy shrimp-and-crawfish sauce. Diners rave about its generous crab content and seasoning, making it a must-try on the Alabama Tourism Department’s list of 100 Dishes to Eat.

Traveling north to Alaska, Tracy’s King Crab Shack offers mini crab cakes that pack a flavorful punch. Served as sliders accompanied by tartar sauce and coleslaw, they have become a favorite among locals and tourists alike, transforming a simple idea into a thriving culinary venture.

Arizona's Trident Grill brings Maryland-style crab cakes to the Southwest, featuring lump blue crab baked to perfection and served with remoulade. Owner Nelson Miller, originally from Maryland, has successfully integrated Eastern flavors into Tucson’s food scene, garnering loyal patrons who seek out his crab cakes.

In Arkansas, McGarity’s Restaurant & Irish Pub has made a name for itself with its real crab meat cakes. Grilled to perfection and accompanied by house-made cocktail sauce, these crab cakes have generated such demand that they were reinstated on the menu, much to the delight of local diners.

Over in California, Fishing with Dynamite presents a Maryland blue crab cake that has earned high praise for its freshness and minimal filler. Diners consider it among the best in the nation, earning accolades from Michelin for its quality.

Meanwhile, in Denver, Fish N Beer impresses with panko-crusted crab cakes, combining crab meat with bell pepper and arugula. Diners consistently highlight these cakes as a standout on the menu, reinforcing their reputation as a local favorite.

For a classic crab cake experience, Jeremiah’s Restaurant in Mystic serves a baked jumbo lump crab cake that has diners raving about its crispy exterior and juicy interior. Reviewers note it as a contender for the best crab cakes they've ever tasted, even when compared to those from Maryland.

At Woody’s Dewey Beach in Delaware, the house crab cakes feature jumbo lump crab meat with minimal fillers, broiled to a perfect golden brown. Locals and visitors alike celebrate these cakes, which have been recognized as the best in the state.

Riggins Crabhouse in Maryland focuses on fresh seafood and offers a Baltimore-style crab cake that locals laud for its buttery crab meat, making it a top destination for crab enthusiasts.

Tortuga’s Island Grille offers crab cakes during brunch in the classic Maryland style, using fresh crab meat tucked inside a Kaiser roll. Locals frequently refer to these as the best around, although they tend to disappear quickly.

In Hawaii, Mama’s Fish House serves unique macadamia nut crab cakes that provide a delightful tropical twist, earning local acclaim for both taste and presentation.

315 Cuisine at the Greenbriar Inn features crab cakes made with opilio crab, garlic lemon aioli, and Creole remoulade. Diners praise the freshness and flavor of this dish, which is enjoyed in a historic setting.

The Barn Steakhouse surprises guests with its crab cakes, which are crafted with minimal fillers to let the crab shine. Chef Russell Kook’s approach has garnered significant recognition from diners.

Indiana’s Paula’s on Main has won over locals with a crab cake that is frequently dubbed the best in the state, featuring a generous meat portion complemented by jalapeño tartar sauce.

Lastly, Prime & Providence in Des Moines serves a jumbo lump crab cake that has earned it a spot among the city’s best restaurants, showcasing a dish that rivals its renowned meat offerings.

Source: www.thetakeout.com