This Virginia Beach Spot Serves Crab Cakes Worth The Hype
Picture this: you’re cracking open fresh blue crabs with a wooden mallet while the smell of seafood fills the air. Since 1964, Margie & Ray’s Crabhouse has been serving up coastal magic at 1240 Sandbridge Road in Virginia Beach.
I’m here to tell you why this local treasure deserves a spot on your must-visit list, from their legendary crab cakes to homemade pies that’ll make you want seconds.
She-Crab Soup That’s Legendary
How does soup become famous in an entire region? By being absolutely incredible, that’s how. The she-crab soup here is rich, velvety, and packed with so much crab meat you’ll need a spoon and a fork. People drive from all over Tidewater just to get a bowl.
It’s the kind of soup that warms you from the inside out on a breezy beach day. Every spoonful delivers that perfect balance of cream and seafood flavor. Many regulars claim it’s the best they’ve ever tasted, period.
Fresh Catch Straight From The Water
Living near the ocean means access to the freshest seafood imaginable. At Margie & Ray’s, the menu changes with what’s swimming in local waters that day. You’ll find steamed blue crabs, golden fried oysters, plump scallops, and whatever else is in season.
Everything tastes like it just came off the boat because, honestly, it probably did. The quality speaks for itself when you’re eating seafood this fresh. If you love ocean flavors, this place delivers them in spades!
Homemade Pies Worth Saving Room For
Did you know that some of the best pies in Virginia Beach come from a crabhouse? It’s true, and I’m here to spread the word. After your seafood feast, you absolutely must try one of their homemade pies. The key lime variety is especially popular among regulars.
Each slice is made from scratch with love and attention to detail. The tangy sweetness provides the perfect ending to a savory meal. Your taste buds will thank you for not skipping dessert here!
Picnic Tables And Wooden Mallets
Forget fancy tablecloths and stuffy atmospheres. Here, you’ll sit at picnic tables covered with brown paper, armed with wooden mallets ready for action. It’s casual, fun, and perfect for families who want to relax without worrying about perfect manners. Kids especially love the hands-on experience of cracking crabs.
The laid-back vibe makes everyone feel welcome and comfortable. You can wear your beach clothes and nobody bats an eye. This is coastal dining at its most authentic and enjoyable!
Portions That’ll Fill You Up
Are you someone who hates leaving a restaurant still feeling hungry? You won’t have that problem here. Every dish arrives loaded with food that’s meant to satisfy even the heartiest appetites. The portions are seriously generous without being wasteful.
You’re definitely getting your money’s worth with every order. Many diners find themselves taking leftovers home for another meal. It’s refreshing to visit a place that doesn’t skimp on serving sizes!
Friendly Staff Who Care
Good food tastes even better when served with genuine hospitality. The team at Margie & Ray’s treats everyone like family, whether you’re a first-timer or a regular. They’re attentive, helpful, and ready to answer questions about the menu or make recommendations.
You’ll notice their warmth from the moment you walk through the door. Service like this is becoming rare these days, which makes it extra special. A friendly smile and good conversation really do enhance your dining experience!
Breakfast Menu To Start Your Day
Who says a crabhouse can only serve lunch and dinner? Margie & Ray’s opens early with a full breakfast menu that’ll fuel your beach adventures. You can order fluffy omelets, golden pancakes, savory country ham, and other morning favorites. It’s a great way to start your day before hitting the sand.
The breakfast portions are just as generous as their other meals. Everything is cooked fresh and served hot. Stop by before your beach day begins!
Crab Cakes Packed With Lump Meat
When you bite into one of these beauties, you’ll taste pure crab heaven. Each cake is loaded with generous chunks of lump crab meat and just enough binder to hold it together. I’ve tried crab cakes all over the East Coast, and these rank at the very top.
The natural sweetness of the crab shines through without being masked by heavy breading or fillers. You’re getting the real deal here, not some mystery seafood patty. It’s no wonder locals swear these beat anything you’ll find in Maryland!
Daily Specials For Variety
Routine gets boring fast, which is why daily specials keep things interesting. Each day brings new lunch options that give you more reasons to return. The rotating menu means you can try different dishes and never get tired of eating here. It also provides excellent value for your money.
Check the board when you arrive to see what’s featured that day. The specials often highlight seasonal catches or chef favorites. Variety truly is the spice of life, especially at this crabhouse!
Local Favorite Since 1964
What started as a country store and tackle shop in 1964 became a seafood institution by 1989. Generations of Virginia Beach families have grown up eating here, creating memories over steamed crabs and she-crab soup. That kind of longevity only happens when you’re doing something right.
Locals know that Margie & Ray’s represents authentic coastal dining at its finest. It’s not just a restaurant, it’s a community gathering place. When an establishment survives for decades, you know the food and experience are worth every visit!
