The Crab Shack

4.3 ( 2662 reviews )
Checking... 11:00 AM - 08:00 PM See Hours
$20–30
146 Headen Ln, PKS, NC 28512, United States
+1 252-247-3444

The Crab Shack, located at 146 Headen Ln, PKS, NC, is a gem for seafood enthusiasts and families alike. Customers rave about the fresh, high-quality offerings and the welcoming atmosphere. Frank Lydens highlights the family-friendly vibe, complemented by a spacious outdoor deck overlooking the sound, perfect for enjoying a drink while waiting for a table. The wait is often worth it, as many reviews emphasize the delightful dishes served.

Samantha Mc describes a range of satisfying options, from mahi to crab balls, all reasonably priced. Tom Pereira's five-star experience emphasizes the standout steak and snow crab, alongside exceptional service from their attentive staff. His praise of Denise showcases the level of hospitality that keeps guests returning.

Brian Wilder delighted in the scenic views from the deck while enjoying the hush puppies and She Crab Soup, calling the scallops the best on the island. Jonathan Festa echoed similar sentiments, noting generous portions and a delectable homemade ranch dressing. Overall, The Crab Shack not only serves delicious seafood but also embodies a spirited community atmosphere that leaves diners with memorable experiences.

Amenities and More

  • Service options
    • Takeaway
    • Dine-in
    • Delivery
  • Highlights
    • Fast service
    • Serves local specialty
  • Popular for
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
    • Solo dining
  • Accessibility
    • Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • Wheelchair-accessible entrance
    • Wheelchair-accessible seating
    • Wheelchair-accessible toilet
  • Offerings
    • Alcohol
    • Beer
    • Coffee
    • Comfort food
    • Food
    • Small plates
    • Wine
  • Dining options
    • Lunch
    • Dinner
    • Dessert
    • Seating
    • Table service
  • Amenities
    • Gender-neutral toilets
    • Toilet
  • Atmosphere
    • Casual
    • Cosy
  • Crowd
    • Family friendly
    • Groups
    • Tourists
  • Planning
    • Usually a wait
    • Accepts reservations
  • Payments
    • Credit cards
    • Debit cards
    • Credit cards
  • Children
    • Good for kids
    • High chairs
    • Kids' menu
  • Parking
    • Free of charge street parking
    • Free parking lot
    • Parking
  • Pets
    • Dogs allowed outside

Reviews For The Crab Shack

Frank Lydens
Jun 19,2025
Great fresh seafood and other options. Very family friendly. Always has a wait, but it's worth it. They have a big deck outside for waiting right on the sound. You can get a beer or wine while waiting.
Samantha Mc
May 24,2025
This place was great. Everything we got was perfect. Mahi, onion rings, chicken tenders, crab balls. This place was reasonably priced compared to other restaurants.
Tom Pereira
May 3,2025
5 Stars – Absolutely Outstanding! My wife and I had an incredible dining experience at The Crab Shack in Emerald Isle, NC! From the moment we walked in, everything was top-notch. We were seated in about 10 minutes, which was impressive given how popular the place is. We ordered steak and snow crab, and I have to say the steak was one of the best I’ve ever had. Perfectly cooked, flavorful, and tender. The snow crab was fresh and delicious, and the combination made for a meal we’ll remember for a long time. But what really made the evening special was our server, Denise. She was phenomenal: professional, attentive, kind, and genuinely welcoming. For our first time dining at The Crab Shack, she made us feel like regulars. She answered our questions with a smile, kept everything moving smoothly, and her timing was spot-on. Denise truly elevated the entire experience. We’ll definitely be back, and we’ll be asking for Denise again! Thank you for an unforgettable night.
Brian Wilder
Apr 21,2025
We walked over not having a reservation or calling. There was a 20-25min wait for a table but honestly sitting on the back deck overlooking the bay made the wait feel like 10min or less, not even sure how long it took. The atmosphere was great, beautiful waitresses that made you feel welcome, location to die for, plus Michelob Light on tap for 3. The hush puppies were delicious. My fiance got the She Crab Soup. She loved it. I got the 3 combo dinner with flounder, oysters, and scallops, with a sweet potato and slaw. The scallops were cooked to perfection, probably the best scallops we've eaten on the island so far. I know Everyone isn't a Cole slaw person, but The Crab Shacks' slaw was the closest to my mom's/Granny's that I've had (added anda little salt of course). Everything was great. Would absolutely return.
Jonathan Festa
Apr 14,2025
Food was great, big portions and fresh! My wife and I split the shrimp plate and we were more than satisfied. Definitely a place to check out. Oh by the way the ranch is homemade and goooood.
ID J.
Mar 25,2025
The long wait was worth it. Once seated, diners are given tasty and complementary hush puppies. Very friendly staff. Menu consists of many different seafoods, and other types of options. Must try the green beans, smoky taste to them. A gem of a seafood restaurant in Emerald Isle.
Jami St Germaine
Mar 20,2025
Food was spot-on, as usual! Always love the atmosphere! We went a little earlier than usual because the restaurant fills up quickly!
L L
Mar 9,2025
My first time to visit the area and this restaurant. Upon arriving I was greeted by several sweet hard working ladies who made sure I was taken care of - and took my "to go" order promptly. This time of year there are not many choices of restaurants open before the dinner rush, and I am so happy I took a chance at the Crab Shack. I was craving fried shrimp and theirs did not disappoint. I imagine it is made in what I have read about, called the Calabash style because it is very lightly breaded and fried. It was unlike any fried shrimp I have eaten and it was delicious. I definitely prefer their style of lightly breaded and seasoned shrimp because it lets the flavor and texture of the shrimp be the star. My order came with a baked potato, hush puppies and coleslaw - it was obvious all were fresh made. I ordered the senior portion because I am 60 and why not get a discount (but still so much food), plus I received an additional discount for paying with cash! Love this place. I will be back - Thanks guys!

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