Ranking Chain Restaurant Crab Cakes From Worst to Best
Crab cakes may look simple, but opinions about them are anything but. Too much filler, not enough crab, or a poorly balanced sauce can sink the entire dish. We read through dozens of diner reviews to see which chain restaurants get it right—and which ones miss the mark. Here’s how they stack up.
The Keg Steakhouse
Credit: Wikimedia Commons
This crab cake has been described as mushy, bland, and overwhelmingly herbal. The dominant dill throws off the balance, and the crab flavor barely shows up. Diners also note small portions and a forgettable lemon sauce.
Legal Sea Foods
Credit: flickr
Despite its seafood reputation, Legal’s crab cake doesn’t impress diners. The texture draws strange comparisons; pulled pork is a recurring one, and the lack of a crisp crust doesn’t help. Accompanying sauces like mustard vinaigrette barely register.
Bonefish Grill
Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Most customers noticed an inconsistency in Bonefish Grill’s crab cakes. One diner might get a lightly crisped, meaty crab cake; another might get something salty, burned, or oddly smoky. The red remoulade has fans, but it can’t cover up the issues. It’s a coin toss, not a favorite.
The Capital Grille
Credit: Wikimedia Commons
The Capital Grille’s crab and lobster cake promises decadence but often falls short. The texture lacks focus, and the flavors don’t always blend, as many guests noticed. Corn salad has been noted to be too sweet for the mix, and the lemon basil aioli is commonly compared to store-bought tartar.
STK Steakhouse
Credit: flickr
This one arrives looking polished, but diners often find the portion disappointingly small. Some note it’s not hot enough, and the cucumber-mustard cream gets more attention than the cake itself. It’s stylish and fine for a light bite but not something people seek out twice.
Ruth’s Chris Steak House
Credit: flickr
The sizzling cast iron and buttery aroma create a promising first impression. The crab content is generous, and the texture holds, but the sweetness in the sauce splits opinion. It’s a respectable choice with a distinct personality, probably better as part of a steak pairing.
Phillips Seafood
Credit: flickr
When it’s cooked right, people expect this from a classic crab cake. But the usual problem is consistency. Reviews mention undercooked centers, greasy edges, or cakes falling apart mid-bite. On better nights, it’s full of seasoned crab and crisp edges.
Ocean Prime
Credit: Yelp
The appeal of this charming establishment is its simplicity. The crab cake arrives warm, holds its shape, and actually tastes like crab. The mustard sauce cuts through just enough, though a few bites might feel saltier than expected.
The Palm
Credit: Yelp
At The Palm, the crab cake keeps things classic. It’s well-seared, packed with firm crab, and seasoned just enough to let the seafood lead. The Old Bay aioli brings a little kick without stealing the spotlight. Guests often say one isn’t quite enough, which says more than any garnish or twist ever could.
Morton’s The Steakhouse
Credit: flickr
This is a well-structured cake with real crab and minimal filler. Diners appreciate its consistency and straightforward flavor. The mustard mayo is sharp enough to keep things interesting, and the plating with arugula and onion feels composed.
Stoney River Steakhouse and Grill
Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Unexpectedly strong reviews come in for this Southern chain’s take. The mango-jalapeño combo adds heat and sweetness. Guests say it’s generously portioned and consistently fresh. Some tables even share it as an appetizer—and still rave.
Smith & Wollensky
Credit: Yelp
This one succeeds because it doesn’t overreach. While others have fillers, Smith & Wollensky boast crab cakes with solid crab meat with a golden crust. The ginger and cognac mustard sauces add interest without overshadowing the primary flavors.
Mastro’s
Credit: Yelp
Crab cakes at Mastro’s earn praise for their clean flavor and solid texture. The seasoning never overpowers, and the cakes hold together without feeling dense. Guests of all ages, yes, even kids, tend to ask for more.
Truluck’s
Credit: Yelp
This dish leans toward simplicity, as it is nearly all crab, lightly bound, and perfectly seared. The spicy remoulade adds a bit of heat, but guests mention the texture and clarity of flavor the most. Reviewers call the crab cake elegant and unfussy.
Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
Credit: Wikimedia Commons
The thing about this restaurant’s crab cake is how the supporting ingredients never get in the way. The lime butter adds brightness, while the roasted red pepper brings contrast. Fans love the cake because it is packed with flavor.