If you've been to the Seattle Waterfront, you've probably noticed all the construction that's been taking place over the last several years. But in addition to all the changes and new attractions, you'll always see one icon: The Crab Pot, which rose to national fame after multiple TV appearances, most notably Man v. Food. And all summer long, you'll almost always see a line out the door to get in.
But don't write this place off as just another tourist trap. Despite its notoriety, the Crab Pot actually has a warm, welcoming, local atmosphere. This is due in part to the fact that its home, Pier 57, is family owned and operated... but it's also thanks to Chef Nick Novello, who always adds a personal touch to these famous seafood boils.
The Crab Pot has been an iconic spot on the Seattle waterfront for years... but if you went before 2018, you owe it to yourself to go again.
2018 was when Chef Nick Novello, a beloved part of the Seattle dining scene, joined the Pier 57 team.
On a warm summer day, or on any weekend, you can expect to wait awhile for a table here.
But if you think this is only a place for out of state tourists, think again -- more and more locals are realizing the food has come a long way.
The Crab Pot is famous for their legendary Seafeasts, seafood boils that feed two or more (many more).
These seafood boils are made to order, then ceremoniously dumped on your table on a huge paper table cover.
Everyone at your table will be given a seafood mallet, butter, seasonings, lemon, and plenty of napkins.
Don't be afraid to get messy -- this is quality food in a casual atmosphere.
The Royal Crab Feast was the most recent addition to the menu.
It includes four kinds of Alaskan crab, andouille sausage, shrimp, plus the corn and potatoes that come with all seafeasts. And it's absolutely delicious.
Chef Nick loves good seafood, and he's befriended a lot of local and Alaskan vendors.
In fact, he sometimes gets his seafood from the same people he's bought from his entire life.
While Crab Pot guests used to suggest that the food was heavily seasoned, that is definitely not the case these days.
The current chef actually uses minimal seasonings because the natural flavors are so great.
A few years ago, the Crab Pot opened a location in Bellevue, so you don't have to battle quite as many crowds to enjoy the food.
In fact, the Bellevue location is about to launch a new happy hour menu in October that will feature irresistible eats like Crispy Soft Shell Crab Tacos and Shrimp and Crab Flautas.
If it's been awhile since you've enjoyed a Crab Pot Seafeast, it may be time for a trip to Pier 57.
They're open daily from 11 a.m. - 9:30 p.m. (10:30 on Fridays and Saturdays).
Have you ever dined at The Crab Pot? We're spoiled by our seafood selection here in Washington, and we wouldn't have it any other way.
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