San Diego's Best Crab Legs [Updated 2024]

I've had my fair share of crab legs over the years, and let me tell you, I consider myself quite the connoisseur. From the fancy seafood restaurants to the hole-in-the-wall shacks, I've tried them all.

So, after countless butter-drenched fingers and messy bibs, I've taken it upon myself to compile a list of the best crab legs in San Diego. With 13 different places reviewed, you can trust that my taste buds have done their due diligence.

So grab your mallets and get ready for a lighthearted quest to find the absolute tastiest crab legs this city has to offer!

Water Grill San Diego

Highlights
Great dining experience
Well lit and clean
Easy menu with good portions
Well decorated atmosphere
Highly recommended

Let me start by saying that my dining experience at Water Grill was nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with a warm smile and ushered to a table that provided a perfect view of the well-lit and clean dining area.

The menu at Water Grill is designed with simplicity in mind, making it easy to navigate through the various options available. And let me tell you, the portions were no joke! Each plate presented an ample amount of succulent crab legs, leaving me feeling satisfied and content.

The atmosphere of Water Grill is something to behold. The restaurant is tastefully decorated, creating an ambiance that perfectly complements the delicious seafood on offer. It's clear that great attention has been paid to detail, as every aspect of the dining experience feels carefully thought out.

I must say that the crab legs at Water Grill are truly exceptional. The meat was tender and flavorful, cooked to perfection. Each bite was a delight for my taste buds, reminding me why I'm so passionate about reviewing crab legs.

In conclusion, if you're on the hunt for outstanding crab legs in San Diego, Water Grill should be at the top of your list. With its great dining experience, well lit and clean environment, easy menu with good portions, and beautifully decorated atmosphere - this place comes highly recommended by yours truly. So grab your bibs and get ready for a claw-some time!

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Ironside Fish & Oyster

Highlights
$1 oysters
Clam chowder filled with clams
Fish tacos with yummy fish and extras
Outstanding service
Cool vibe for the interior

Let me start by saying that Ironside Fish & Oyster is a true gem when it comes to crab legs. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with outstanding service. The staff was knowledgeable, attentive, and made me feel like royalty.

Now, let's dive right into the star of the show - the crab legs! Not only were they meaty and succulent, but they were also cooked to perfection. Each bite was a burst of flavor that left my taste buds dancing with joy. The freshness of the crab legs was undeniable, making it clear that Ironside Fish & Oyster takes great pride in sourcing their seafood.

But wait, there's more! Drumroll please... Their clam chowder deserves a standing ovation. It was loaded with clams – none of that skimpy filler nonsense here! The creamy texture and robust flavors were a match made in seafood heaven. I couldn't help but savor every spoonful.

While we're on the subject of deliciousness, let's not forget their fish tacos. These beauties were packed with yummy fish and topped with all sorts of delightful extras. It was like a party in my mouth!

Apart from the incredible food, Ironside Fish & Oyster boasts a cool vibe for its interior. The nautical-themed decor adds an extra touch of charm and creates an inviting atmosphere.

Oh, did I mention they have $1 oysters? Yes, you read that correctly! So if you're feeling fancy on a budget (or just love oysters), this is your place!

In conclusion, if you're seeking an unforgettable crab leg experience in San Diego, look no further than Ironside Fish & Oyster. With their outstanding service, fresh seafood offerings, and playful yet professional ambiance – this place has it all. Trust me when I say you won't be disappointed!

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King's Fish House

Highlights
Fantastic dining
Excellent service
Wonderful food
Kid-friendly

Walking into King's Fish House, I was immediately struck by the fantastic dining atmosphere. The dimmed lights and nautical decor created a cozy ambiance that made me feel like I was dining on a luxurious yacht, ready to set sail on a seafood adventure.

The excellent service further elevated my dining experience. The staff at King's Fish House were attentive and knowledgeable, offering recommendations and answering all my questions about their crab legs with a smile. Their genuine enthusiasm for seafood was contagious, making me even more excited to dive into my meal.

And oh boy, the crab legs! The moment they arrived at my table, I knew I was in for a treat. The meat was succulent and flavorful, easily pulling away from the shell with every bite. Each piece seemed to melt in my mouth like butter on a hot summer day. It was clear that King's Fish House takes pride in serving only the freshest seafood.

What impressed me even more was that this seafood haven is also kid-friendly. They had a special menu for little ones, ensuring that even the pickiest of eaters could find something delicious to enjoy while their parents indulged in their own crab leg feast.

In conclusion, King's Fish House is an absolute gem when it comes to finding the best crab legs in San Diego. With its fantastic dining atmosphere, excellent service, and wonderful food options for both adults and kids alike, it truly deserves its place among the top contenders. So next time you're craving some mouthwatering crab legs, make your way to King's Fish House and let your taste buds embark on an unforgettable seafood journey!

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Gaslamp Fish House

Highlights
Excellent staff
Unique entrées
Delicious salmon and steak
Short-staffed but still excellent service
Wonderful appetizers and desserts

From the moment I stepped foot into Gaslamp Fish House, I was greeted by an excellent staff who were more than eager to guide me through their menu. Speaking of the menu, it was filled with unique entrées that caught my attention immediately.

But let's get down to the main event—the crab legs. Now, I know what you're thinking: "What makes these crab legs so special?" Well, let me tell you, dear reader. The crab legs at Gaslamp Fish House are a true delicacy. They were cooked to perfection and had a succulent taste that left me wanting more.

Now, don't get me wrong; seafood isn't the only star of the show here. If you're not in a crabby mood (pun intended), their salmon and steak dishes are equally as delicious. Each bite was bursting with flavor and left me craving for another visit.

One thing worth mentioning is that during my visit, they seemed a bit short-staffed. However, despite this minor setback, the service remained top-notch. The staff went above and beyond to ensure that all guests were taken care of—a true testament to their commitment to customer satisfaction.

If you happen to find yourself at Gaslamp Fish House, be sure to try their appetizers and desserts as well. They are simply wonderful. From crispy calamari to decadent chocolate lava cake—they certainly know how to start and end a meal on a high note.

In conclusion, Gaslamp Fish House is a hidden gem in San Diego when it comes to crab legs and seafood in general. With an excellent staff, unique menu options, and mouthwatering dishes like salmon and steak, it's definitely a place worth checking out—even if you're not usually a seafood lover.

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100's seafood grill buffet

Highlights
Lots of dishes
All you can eat crab legs
Excellent sushi
Pepper steak sauce

First and foremost, let me tell you that this place is a haven for seafood enthusiasts. As soon as I walked in, my eyes were greeted with a plethora of dishes. From succulent shrimp to mouthwatering mussels, this buffet had it all.

Now, let's get to the star of the show - the crab legs. Oh boy, they did not disappoint! The crab legs were fresh, juicy, and perfectly cooked. Each bite was a burst of flavor that transported me to crab heaven. And the best part? They were all you can eat! Yes, you heard that right. I indulged in plate after plate of these delicious crustaceans without an ounce of guilt.

But wait, there's more! The sushi selection at 100's seafood grill buffet was simply outstanding. Each piece was meticulously crafted with precision and care. The combination of flavors and textures danced on my palate like a well-choreographed tango.

One unexpected surprise at this seafood extravaganza was the pepper steak sauce. I know what you're thinking - why would I try steak sauce at a seafood buffet? Trust me on this one; it added an extra layer of richness to the crab legs that made them even more delectable.

To sum it up, if you're searching for the best crab legs in San Diego, look no further than 100's seafood grill buffet. With their abundance of dishes, all you can eat crab legs, top-notch sushi, and mouthwatering pepper steak sauce, this place truly deserves its spot on the list of San Diego's finest seafood establishments. So grab your bibs and get ready to indulge in some serious crustacean feasting!

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Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill

Highlights
Fresh seafood
Award-winning tacos
Wide variety of options
Cozy and inviting ambiance
Attentive and accommodating staff

From the moment I stepped into Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill, I could tell that their commitment to freshness is no fishy business. The scent of the ocean wafted through the air, assuring me that only the freshest seafood would grace my taste buds.

Their menu boasts an array of options, but being on a mission to find the best crab legs in San Diego, I focused my attention on their crab delights. And oh boy, was I in for a treat! The succulent meat inside those crab legs was so tender that it practically melted in my mouth. Each bite was like a mermaid's lullaby serenading my taste buds.

What truly set Blue Water apart were their award-winning tacos. Yes, you heard me right – tacos! Who knew that crab could be nestled so perfectly inside a tortilla? It was a match made in seafood heaven. The combination of flavors was simply divine and left me wanting to order another round.

The ambiance of this place is cozy and inviting. With its nautical-themed decor and warm lighting, it felt like stepping onto a luxurious yacht without actually leaving land. The staff were attentive and accommodating, making sure every aspect of my dining experience went swimmingly.

In conclusion, if you're looking for the best crab legs in San Diego (and some mind-blowing tacos), look no further than Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill. Their commitment to fresh seafood and their ability to transform it into mouthwatering dishes will leave you feeling like you've hit the culinary jackpot. So dive right in and let your taste buds embark on an aquatic adventure!

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Crab Hut

Highlights
Love the spice
Epic seafood boil
Wonderful service
Large portions
Expensive but yummy

Walking into Crab Hut, my taste buds were immediately tantalized by the aromatic spices in the air. The menu boasted an epic seafood boil that promised to deliver a flavor explosion, and boy, did it deliver!

The service at Crab Hut was nothing short of wonderful. The staff welcomed me with warm smiles and promptly seated me at a cozy table. They were attentive throughout my meal, ensuring that I had everything I needed to fully enjoy my crab leg feast.

Now, let's talk about those crab legs. Oh dear readers, they were divine! The portions were generous, leaving me feeling satisfied and impressed. Each succulent bite was bursting with flavors that danced on my tongue - spicy yet balanced, just like a well-choreographed salsa routine.

While I must admit that Crab Hut's prices are on the higher side, the quality of their crab legs more than justified the expense. After all, when it comes to indulging in delicious seafood delights, sometimes you have to dig a little deeper into your pockets.

In conclusion, if you're looking for the best crab legs in San Diego and don't mind splurging a bit for some mouthwatering goodness, Crab Hut is definitely worth a visit. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you for this seafood extravaganza.

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Joe's Crab Shack

Highlights
Waterfront location
Variety of seafood dishes
Alaskan crab legs
Fast and friendly service
Clean bathrooms

Let me start by saying, if you're looking for a waterfront dining experience that combines the serenity of the ocean with the deliciousness of crab legs, then Joe's Crab Shack is the place to be. Situated right on the water, this seafood joint offers stunning views that will make your crab legs taste even better.

Now let's talk about their variety. Joe's Crab Shack has an extensive menu filled with all sorts of seafood dishes to satisfy any craving. From shrimp scampi to lobster rolls, they've got it all. But what really stole the show were their Alaskan crab legs. These magnificent creatures were cooked to perfection, with meat that was tender and juicy. Each bite was like taking a dip in a pool of pure bliss.

The service at Joe's Crab Shack deserves a shoutout as well. The staff was fast and friendly, making sure our every need was met without being too intrusive. They truly know how to provide top-notch service without cracking under pressure.

And let's not forget about cleanliness! We all know that bathrooms can be a make or break factor when it comes to dining experiences. Well, fear not my friends because Joe's Crab Shack has clean bathrooms that are as refreshing as a dip in the ocean after devouring some mouthwatering crab legs.

In conclusion, if you're in San Diego and searching for the best crab legs around, head straight to Joe's Crab Shack. With its waterfront location, variety of seafood dishes, delectable Alaskan crab legs, fast and friendly service, and clean bathrooms; this place is an absolute winner in my book. So dive into some shellfish delights at Joe's and let your taste buds embark on an unforgettable journey!

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Rockin' Baja Lobster - Gaslamp

Highlights
Best seafood tacos
Homemade sauce
Lobster bisque
Tasty and chunky chowder

Prepare to have your taste buds rocked because Rockin' Baja Lobster - Gaslamp is a seafood haven that knows how to serve up some seriously rockin' crab legs.

Let's start with the highlights of this place, shall we? First off, their seafood tacos are out of this world! The combination of succulent crab meat nestled in a warm tortilla with a burst of fresh flavors will make you want to do a little happy dance right at your table. Trust me, you won't be able to stop at just one.

Now, let's talk about their homemade sauce. Oh boy, it's like a flavor explosion in your mouth! This secret recipe takes their already delicious crab legs to another level. With just the right amount of tanginess and spice, it perfectly complements the sweet and tender meat.

But wait, there's more! The lobster bisque is an absolute must-try. Creamy, rich, and oh-so-satisfying, it warms up both your tummy and your soul. And if you're in the mood for something heartier, their chowder is tasty and chunky – packed with generous chunks of crab that will leave you wanting more.

The atmosphere at Rockin' Baja Lobster - Gaslamp is lively and energetic, making it the perfect spot for a fun night out with friends or family. Plus, the staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring you have an enjoyable dining experience.

So if you're on the hunt for some seriously rockin' crab legs in San Diego, look no further than Rockin' Baja Lobster - Gaslamp. Trust me when I say that once you've tried their delectable seafood offerings, other places simply won't compare. It's time to grab those bibs and get ready for a crab-tastic feast!

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The Fish Market - San Diego

Highlights
Beautiful Bay View
Great Service
Tasty and Cooked Perfectly
Amazing Views
Fresh Fish Specialties

From the moment I stepped into The Fish Market, I was captivated by the beautiful bay view. It was as if I had been transported to a seaside paradise. As I sat down, the attentive staff immediately made me feel welcome with their warm smiles and great service.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show: the crab legs. Oh boy, were they a treat! The crab legs at The Fish Market were not only tasty, but also cooked to perfection. With each succulent bite, I could taste the freshness of the sea. It was like being hugged by Poseidon himself.

As I indulged in my crab leg feast, I couldn't help but appreciate the amazing views surrounding me. The restaurant's location right on the water provided a breathtaking backdrop for my culinary experience. It truly added an extra layer of enjoyment to my meal.

In addition to their outstanding crab legs, The Fish Market is also known for their wide variety of fresh fish specialties. If you're feeling adventurous or want to try something different alongside your crab legs, I highly recommend exploring their menu further.

Overall, my visit to The Fish Market - San Diego was a delightful experience from start to finish. With its stunning bay view, top-notch service, and mouthwatering seafood offerings including their delectable crab legs, it's no wonder this place is considered one of the best in San Diego. So if you're craving some exceptional crab legs and an unforgettable dining experience, make sure to pay them a visit!

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Eddie V's Prime Seafood

Highlights
Excellent service
Delicious food
Beautiful atmosphere
Live music
Memorable experience

From the moment I stepped foot into Eddie V's Prime Seafood, I knew I was in for a memorable dining experience. The beautiful atmosphere immediately caught my eye, with its elegant decor and dimly lit ambiance. The live music playing in the background added a touch of sophistication to the already enchanting setting.

The service at Eddie V's was nothing short of excellent. The staff was attentive and knowledgeable, providing recommendations that perfectly matched my craving for succulent crab legs. They truly went above and beyond to ensure that every aspect of my dining experience was top-notch.

Now let's talk about the star of the show - the crab legs! Oh boy, were they delicious! Each bite offered a burst of flavor that made my taste buds dance with delight. The meat was tender, sweet, and oh-so-satisfying. It was evident that Eddie V's takes great pride in sourcing only the freshest seafood.

While indulging in these delectable crab legs, I couldn't help but appreciate the attention to detail in every dish served. The presentation was impeccable, showcasing culinary artistry at its finest.

If you're looking for a place to enjoy exceptional crab legs in San Diego while being treated like royalty, look no further than Eddie V's Prime Seafood. It may be on the pricier side, but trust me when I say it is worth every penny for the memorable experience it offers.

In conclusion, Eddie V's Prime Seafood exceeded my expectations with their outstanding service and mouthwatering crab legs. It has definitely earned its spot as one of the best crab leg destinations in San Diego. So why not treat yourself to an unforgettable evening at Eddie V's? Your taste buds will thank you!

Tom Ham's Lighthouse

Highlights
Hang by the bay
Tenderloin Tips
'Tiny Bubbles' gin drink
Wonderful paella
Great service & atmosphere

Upon arriving at Tom Ham's Lighthouse, I couldn't help but admire its stunning location by the bay. The views alone are worth the visit, but let's get down to business: crab legs.

As I perused the menu, my eyes were immediately drawn to the tantalizing selection of seafood delights. But it was the promise of their tenderloin tips that caught me off guard. Oh, how could I resist such a tempting diversion from my crabby mission?

However, I managed to steer myself back on track and ordered their famous crab legs. The anticipation was palpable as I eagerly awaited my plate of crustacean goodness. And boy, did they deliver!

The crab legs were nothing short of exquisite. Each succulent bite offered a burst of seaside flavor that transported me straight to the ocean floor. The meat was tender and sweet, perfectly cooked to retain its natural juiciness.

To accompany this delightful feast, I indulged in their signature 'Tiny Bubbles' gin drink – a refreshing concoction that added a touch of effervescence to my meal.

But Tom Ham's Lighthouse is not just about crab legs; they have an impressive lineup of culinary wonders. Their paella was a revelation – a medley of flavors that danced on my palate with every forkful.

What truly sets this place apart is not only the outstanding food but also the exceptional service and inviting atmosphere. The staff made me feel like royalty, attentively catering to my every need.

In conclusion, if you're searching for an unforgettable crab leg experience in San Diego, look no further than Tom Ham's Lighthouse. Hang by the bay, savor some tenderloin tips (if you dare), sip on 'Tiny Bubbles,' and indulge in their wonderful paella – all while enjoying great service and an atmosphere that will make your taste buds sing with joy!

Saltwater Seafood & Steak

Highlights
Fresh seafood
Excellent service
Upscale dining experience
Reasonable prices
Amazing location

Let me start by saying that the crab legs at Saltwater Seafood & Steak are a true delight for any seafood lover. As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by the enticing aroma of fresh seafood wafting through the air. The restaurant itself exuded an upscale ambiance, perfect for a special night out or a celebration.

The service at Saltwater Seafood & Steak was nothing short of excellent. The attentive staff made me feel like a queen, catering to my every need and ensuring that my dining experience was truly memorable. They were knowledgeable about the menu and offered helpful recommendations when it came to choosing the best crab legs option.

Now, let's talk about these crab legs! Oh boy, were they something else. Each bite was a succulent explosion of flavors, with the meat cooked to perfection and easily sliding out of its shell. The freshness of the crab legs was undeniable, and it was clear that only top-quality ingredients were used.

Despite being an upscale establishment, Saltwater Seafood & Steak surprised me with its reasonable prices. It's not often you find such high-quality seafood without breaking the bank!

Lastly, I must mention their amazing location. Nestled in San Diego, this restaurant offers breathtaking views of the ocean coupled with a cozy and elegant atmosphere.

If you're looking for an unforgettable crab leg experience in San Diego, make sure to visit Saltwater Seafood & Steak. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!