7 Crab Shacks That Could Make Rehoboth Beach Dining Special
Rehoboth Beach is famous for its beautiful shoreline, but its seafood scene deserves just as much attention.
Fresh-caught crabs and locally sourced seafood make this Delaware destination a food lover’s paradise. If you’re planning a trip to this coastal gem, these seven crab shacks could transform your beach vacation into a memorable culinary adventure.
1. The Crab House – Where Traditions Meet Modern Flavors
Nothing beats the authentic coastal vibe at The Crab House in Rehoboth Beach. Their signature blue crab feasts come piled high on brown paper-covered tables, inviting you to grab a mallet and dig in without worry about mess.
What makes this place special is how they balance traditional crab preparation with subtle modern twists. Their secret spice blend rumored to include over twelve ingredients creates a flavor profile you won’t find anywhere else along the coast.
Families particularly love their early bird specials, offering full crab dinners at reduced prices before 5 PM. I recommend trying their steamed crab platter with corn on the cob and potatoes it’s the quintessential Rehoboth experience!
2. Dogfish Head Brewings & Eats – Craft Beer Meets Seafood Excellence
Did you know that one of America’s most celebrated craft breweries also serves some of Rehoboth’s most innovative crab dishes? Dogfish Head Brewings & Eats pairs their famous brews with seafood creations that showcase the best of Delaware’s coastal bounty.
Their crab cakes contain barely any filler just sweet lump crabmeat held together with minimal ingredients to let the natural flavors shine. The restaurant’s industrial-chic atmosphere creates a perfect backdrop for enjoying their signature crab mac and cheese infused with their SeaQuench Ale.
I always tell friends to save room for their surprising dessert a subtle crab apple crumble that perfectly balances sweet and savory notes after a hearty seafood meal.
3. Henlopen City Oyster House – Seafood Sophistication by the Shore
Henlopen City Oyster House transforms the casual crab shack concept into something more refined without losing its coastal soul. The moment you walk in, the aroma of garlic butter and Old Bay seasoning tells you you’re in for something special.
Their soft-shell crab sandwich available only during peak season features whole crabs lightly battered and fried until crisp, then served on fresh-baked brioche with house-made remoulade. It’s messy eating at its finest! The raw bar selection changes daily based on what local watermen bring to their door each morning.
My favorite time to visit is during happy hour when oysters are discounted and their crab-stuffed mushrooms pair perfectly with local craft cocktails made with spirits from nearby distilleries.
4. Fins Fish House & Raw Bar – Where Fresh Catches Shine
Locals swear by Fins Fish House when they want seafood that was swimming just hours before it hits their plate. This unpretentious spot focuses on simple preparations that highlight the natural sweetness of Chesapeake Bay blue crabs.
Their steam pots are legendary heaping portions of crabs, clams, mussels, shrimp, corn and potatoes all cooked together in beer and Old Bay. The communal nature of these meals makes dining here feel like joining a beach town family celebration.
When I’m craving something different, I order their crab-topped hush puppies crispy cornmeal fritters drizzled with crab imperial sauce. It’s worth visiting on Wednesdays for their all-you-can-eat crab legs special that draws crowds even in the off-season.
5. Salt Air Kitchen – Farm-to-Table Meets Ocean-to-Plate
Salt Air Kitchen stands out by combining the farm-to-table movement with Rehoboth’s seafood heritage in unexpected ways. Their crab corn chowder made with sweet corn from nearby farms and fresh-picked crabmeat exemplifies their philosophy of seasonal, local ingredients.
The restaurant’s bright, airy space feels more like a sophisticated beach house than a traditional crab shack. You’ll often spot the chef chatting with local farmers and fishermen who deliver ingredients throughout the day.
If you visit, try their signature dish: deviled eggs topped with crab salad and a sprinkle of Old Bay. It’s a simple but perfect bite that captures Delaware’s coastal cuisine in miniature form. Their commitment to sustainability means you can enjoy your seafood feast with a clear conscience.
6. The Starboard – Lively Atmosphere with Serious Seafood
Though technically in nearby Dewey Beach, The Starboard’s reputation for combining party vibes with surprisingly excellent crab dishes makes it worth the short trip from Rehoboth. Their famous Crab Bloody Mary garnished with an actual crab claw has become an Instagram sensation among beach visitors.
Beyond the drinks, their crab pretzel is legendary a soft Bavarian pretzel smothered in crab dip, cheese, and Old Bay seasoning. It’s the perfect shareable snack while enjoying live music on their sprawling deck.
Weekends here get crowded, so I recommend visiting for their “Hair of the Dog” Sunday brunch featuring crab Benedict with a spicy hollandaise that will cure whatever ails you from Saturday night. The casual atmosphere makes this a perfect spot for making new beach friends.
7. The Blue Hen – Upscale Comfort Food with Crab Influences
Hidden within the historic Rehoboth Avenue district, The Blue Hen offers a more refined take on Delaware’s crab traditions. Their crab and corn risotto made with Arborio rice slowly simmered in seafood stock and finished with lump crabmeat exemplifies their elegant approach to comfort food.
The restaurant’s setting in a renovated Victorian house creates an intimate atmosphere perfect for special occasions. Large windows overlook a garden where they grow many of the herbs and vegetables used in their dishes.
My personal recommendation is their breakfast crab cake a morning twist on the classic, served with poached eggs and herb hollandaise. It’s worth noting that they’re one of the few upscale restaurants in town that welcomes sandy feet and beach attire, maintaining Rehoboth’s relaxed coastal character despite their sophisticated menu.
