Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Florida's best

Spots with nice views and crab cakes

Enjoying a plate of crab cakes while looking out at a scenic view makes the food taste even better.

Based on 936 Opinions
+933
User
User
User
Updated June 2026
01
Craft Tampa image 1
Craft Tampa image 2
Craft Tampa image 3
View all
Restaurant

Boat cruise restaurant offers relaxing river views and an elegant atmosphere with air conditioning and scenic waterfront sights. Guests enjoy well-crafted cocktails and perfectly cooked meals while dining in an intimate, peaceful setting that feels exclusive and special.

Huge crab cakes feature no breadcrumbs, focusing on fresh crab meat and delicious flavor. The gluten-free option highlights the same quality, earning multiple compliments for its taste.

Sunset dinners offer best views of Tampa. Sitting outside on the boat provides relaxing, beautiful views of the Hillsborough River.

People are saying

"The food at these dinner spots is amazing and beautifully prepared."

"The waterfront view made the whole experience feel peaceful and special."

"The crab cakes are truly all crab, without fillers or breading."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for special events like Valentine's Day and Father's Day brunch.

2

Dinner cruises typically cost around $79 per person, excluding drinks.

3

Parking at the Garrison lot costs $2 per hour via the Park Mobile app.

02
Calypso Bar & Grill image 1

Bar and grill combines lake view with screen-enclosed patio and fireplace for a relaxed, island-inspired vibe. Live music and performances create a family-friendly atmosphere that feels welcoming and lively. Distinct areas offer both casual bar seating and fine dining with white tablecloths.

Crab cakes come out iced cold but pack a killer flavor that many find wonderful.

Outdoor seating offers a relaxing view of the water. The setting includes a lakefront view that enhances the atmosphere, especially at the outside bar.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing; Matija makes you feel so welcome."

"I loved the relaxing lake view from the outdoor seating."

"I thought the crab cakes were killer."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour runs from 4-7pm on Sundays with discounted drinks.

2

Bellydance show every Friday night at 8pm.

3

Hot Mic Night on Wednesdays features local talent for poetry, comedy, or singing.

03
Sonata Restaurant image 1

Restaurant offers waterfront views and a live pianist that shapes a romantic atmosphere. Staff attire varies from formal black and white to casual jeans and hoodies, creating a relaxed yet elegant vibe. Lounge areas with multiple couches invite conversation against the backdrop of Tampa Bay.

Crab cakes come out well baked with a solid texture and fresh flavor. They sit alongside other seafood like baked oysters and shrimp cocktail that complement the dish.

Tables sit by a floating moon and water view that stands out. Multiple couches in the lounge offer spots for conversation with a stunning view of Tampa Bay.

People are saying

"It's a no-brainer to grab dinner here before a show."

"The waterfront views here are gorgeous and second to none."

"I was amazed with the crab cakes."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 to 7 PM with discounted drinks.

2

The restaurant may start a buffet-style brunch soon.

3

Validated parking is available nearby for theatergoers.

04
Watervue Grille- Downtown Tampa- Harbour Island image 1

Restaurant sits right on the water with beautiful waterfront views and a vacation relaxed vibe. Indoor and outdoor seating offer shady, pleasant dining near a marina and downtown skyline. Atmosphere feels cozy and quiet, ideal for casual meals or date nights.

Crab cakes come perfectly seared with a balanced mix of sauces and garnishes. The crab cake sandwich stands out as a well-flavored, satisfying meal.

Sitting outside offers a great view of the water and the downtown skyline. The atmosphere stays quiet with beautiful views of the canal and nearby landmarks.

People are saying

"The Dinner Spots here are delicious, especially the perfectly seared crab cakes."

"You get a nice view of the water, especially at sunset."

"I tried the crab cake sandwich; it's so delicious and well balanced."

Good to know

1

They are now open Friday to Sunday for brunch.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with great drink deals.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere on Saturdays between 11-2 pm.

05
Oceanwalk image 1
Restaurant

Oceanwalk offers spectacular ocean views with comfortable outdoor seating that includes shaded areas and space for kids to play. The atmosphere is intimate and serene, providing a quieter alternative to busier nearby spots. Guests enjoy a beachy vibe enhanced by live violin music and casual games like cornhole.

A huge, flavorful crab cake sandwich stands out as a filling option. The jumbo lump crab cake and big crab cake both deliver very good taste and texture.

Views focus on the oceanfront with clear sightlines. Outdoor seating lets you watch people and the water. The setting shifts from bright daytime to a special evening atmosphere.

People are saying

"The seafood, especially the fish and chips, is great."

"It's a nice view of the beautiful ocean."

"I found the crab cake to be an excellent choice."

Good to know

1

Expect an 18% gratuity added automatically to your bill.

2

Reservations are recommended during Snowbird season and holidays.

3

Happy hour offers great deals on drinks and appetizers.

06
Vista at the Top image 1

Rooftop restaurant offers 360-degree water views and a peaceful, romantic atmosphere with live music on weekends. The vibe is laid back yet phenomenal for sunset watching. Cocktails and tapas-style food complement the setting well.

Crab cakes here have a rich, fresh flavor and a satisfying texture. They pair well with other dishes like tuna poke.

Spectacular rooftop views from the 7th floor showcase the marina, bay, and sunset. The vantage points include stunning vistas of Tierra Verde and an overall magical atmosphere that complements the scenery.

People are saying

"The views from up here are absolutely stunning."

"The food and drinks here are amazing."

"These crab cakes are some of the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Happy hour features craft cocktails for $7 from 4-6pm daily.

2

Brunch is available only on Sundays for $45 per person.

3

The sunset wine pairing event occurs monthly on the rooftop.

07
Ocean Prime Fort Lauderdale image 1
Seafood restaurant

Upscale seafood restaurant offers breathtaking marina views with outdoor terrace seating that captures a consistent breeze. Atmosphere feels luxurious and romantic, ideal for date nights or special occasions. Hand-crafted cocktails and attentive amenities like pashminas enhance the refined dining experience.

Crab cakes come out fresh and cooked to perfection, offering a savory and tasty bite. They pair well with other dishes like deviled eggs and seafood options, highlighting their quality and flavor.

Seating right on the water offers a beautiful, romantic setting with a consistent breeze year-round. Views include boats on the water, creating a spectacular and unforgettable scenery.

People are saying

"The food here is outstanding, with thoughtful recommendations and warm service."

"I loved the beautiful water view from the window."

"I found the crab cakes delicious and cooked to perfection."

Good to know

1

Happy hour features creative drinks and sunset views over the intercoastal.

2

Reservations for special events like proposals or birthdays are recommended.

3

Expect a lively environment during happy hour, especially on weekends.

08
Smith & Wollensky - Miami Beach image 1

Waterfront setting offers spectacular ocean views and outdoor seating under shaded trees. Atmosphere blends glamour and tranquility with a spacious interior and lively outdoor bar perfect for sunset watching. The place attracts those seeking a cozy yet elegant dining experience by the sea.

Perfectly cooked crab cakes come with a crispy outside and a tender, flavorful inside packed with fresh crab meat and balanced seasoning.

Spectacular bay view blends glamour and tranquility. Cruise ships sailing out to sea create a dynamic waterfront scene. The view ranks among the best seen from any restaurant.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and the portions are plentiful."

"You'll love the amazing water view of cruise ships and dolphins."

"The crab cakes were good, not great."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for outdoor seating, especially during sunset hours.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Expect longer wait times during peak dinner hours on weekends.

09
The Wharf Restaurant image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant on the water offers waterfront views and an Old Florida vibe with outdoor seating and heaters. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, featuring a dock for boats and a dedicated dog-friendly space. Multiple TVs show sports, creating a lively yet comfortable setting.

Crab cakes come out very good and often stand as the best part of the meal. They pair well with other seafood like grilled shrimp and are sometimes served alongside creamy chowder or hush puppies.

Water views dominate the scene with a beautiful canal and waterfront seating. Various birds, fishermen, and scenic homes add to the relaxing ambiance and authentic seafood experience.

People are saying

"The peel and eat shrimp and blackened grouper were rated 10/10."

"I loved the great water views here."

"I thought the crab cake was to die for."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is from 3:30 to 6:00 PM, but only at the bar.

2

Parking at the restaurant is limited and can be challenging to find.

3

The restaurant closes at 10 PM tonight.

10
Crabby Bill's in St. Pete Beach image 1

Rooftop dining offers ocean views and sunset live music, creating a casual seafood atmosphere with beach access nearby. The space feels cool and inviting, with a mix of quiet spots and lively moments during sunset. Drinks like margaritas and rum runners complement the relaxed vibe.

Succulent crab cakes burst with flavor and freshness. Blackened and perfectly cooked, they stand out among other seafood options.

Seating next to large windows offers a fantastic view of the beach. The atmosphere on the beach with an ocean view adds to the experience.

People are saying

"The blackened grouper was tender with phenomenal seasonings."

"Our server Jamie was efficient, personable, and responsive."

"The crab cakes here have an awesome view of the beach and sunset."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 6 pm with affordable drink prices.

2

They offer all-you-can-eat snow crab on Thursdays.

3

Daily specials include drinks and all-you-can-eat crab legs.

11
CJ's Crab Shack image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating offers beautiful beach views and a lively, family-friendly atmosphere. Music from a DJ creates a happy, danceable vibe that complements the setting. Large umbrellas provide plenty of shade on the patio, making it a popular spot to watch the surrounding activity.

Lots of crab meat fills the crab cakes with no celery. They come as part of combos or platters with snow crab and oysters, offering flavorful and delicious bites.

Outdoor seating offers an awesome view of South Beach with plenty to see. The atmosphere pairs well with the beautiful scenery across the beach.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"I would eat the crab cakes every day if I could."

"I loved the beautiful view across the beach."

Good to know

1

Happy hour drinks are 2 for $20, normally $12 each.

2

The restaurant adds an 18% service fee to every bill.

3

They open for dinner service at 4 pm.

12
Jet Runway Cafe image 1
American restaurant

Large windows offer incredible runway views where private planes take off and land just feet away. The atmosphere stays lively yet comfortable, attracting aviation lovers and families alike. Background music and an aviation-themed kids menu add to the unique dining experience.

Crab cakes here feature generous lump crab with minimal binders. The Crab Cake Hash pairs the cake with flavorful breakfast potatoes, peppers, onions, poached eggs, and a rich hollandaise sauce.

Large windows provide a beautiful view of the runway with planes taking off and landing. The scene includes private jets, small airplanes, and helicopters visible from the cafe.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the French toast."

"I loved watching private jets and helicopters take off and land."

"The Crab Cake Hash was full of crab, unlike other places."

Good to know

1

The cafe offers brunch on Saturdays and Sundays.

2

Reservations are recommended due to long wait times.

3

Expect a long wait if you arrive without a reservation.

13
Buccaneer Waterfront Bar & Grill image 1

Waterfront seafood restaurant offers incredible views and a lively atmosphere with live music and a friendly bar downstairs. Seating options include inside, outside, and rooftop areas ideal for watching sunsets. The space features beautiful themed decor and a clean, inviting environment.

Large, Florida-style crab cakes come as appetizers and show expert preparation. They pair well with sides like beet salad topped with candied nuts and whipped goat cheese foam.

Views from the upper deck offer a spectacular sunset and incredible waterfront scenery. Outdoor seating provides a beautiful setting to enjoy cocktails while taking in the sights.

People are saying

"The desserts here were excellent, especially the orange crรจme brรปlรฉe."

"Chef Paul made my birthday dinner unforgettable with his delicious lobster cioppino."

"The crab cakes here are large and fantastic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high demand during meal times.

2

Parking is limited; expect a packed lot during peak hours.

3

The restaurant is dog-friendly and offers a special dog menu.

14
Gemma Fish + Oyster image 1
American restaurant

Rooftop dining offers charming, comfy atmosphere with warm sophistication and coastal charm. Music and heating lamps create a great vibe that suits both casual and special occasions. Valet parking and elevator access add convenience to the experience.

Crab cakes arrive quickly and are served generously. They make a solid start to the meal and sometimes come with unexpected perks like being comped by the GM.

Rooftop bar offers spectacular sunset views under an open roof. Oysters come with a stunning scenery that complements the food and service.

People are saying

"The oysters here are large and full of succulent regional flavors."

"The rooftop view wasn't great once seated."

"I'd give these Crab Cakes a perfect 10 out of 10."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for rooftop seating, especially during peak hours.

2

Valet parking is available right outside the restaurant for convenience.

3

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm on weekdays.

15
Palm Tree Club Miami Restaurant image 1

Open waterside setting offers stunning ocean views and a relaxed atmosphere with live DJ performances creating vibrant weekend energy. The space feels cozy and welcoming, drawing a crowd that enjoys seaside dining and entertainment.

Crab cake stands out as the highlight and best dish here. It delivers a rich, satisfying flavor that ranks among the better ones around.

Waterfront seating offers breathtaking views of the bay and Miami Beach. Palm trees sway in the breeze, creating a tropical vibe with a peaceful atmosphere.

People are saying

"I loved the ocean view and the palm trees swaying."

"Oliver gave me great food recommendations."

"The crab cakes were the best dish of the evening."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for weekend evenings due to high demand.

2

Valet parking costs $50, and street parking is limited.

3

Live music events occur on weekends until 10 pm, requiring table reservations.

16
Chowder Ted's image 1
Seafood restaurant

Small seafood shack with rustic nautical decor offers a cozy, old Florida vibe. Seating includes covered picnic tables on the water, providing a picturesque river view. Atmosphere feels uncomplicated and local, attracting a relaxed crowd.

Crab cakes come delicious and often served on a salad or as a sandwich. They pair well with chowder or other seafood dishes.

Beautiful water views surround the outdoor area, creating a relaxing atmosphere. The back room offers a stunning sunset view that enhances the dining experience.

People are saying

"The seafood here is fresh and well-seasoned."

"The nice view of the water is great for relaxing."

"I thought the crab cake was delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required one day in advance for a gallon of chowder.

2

Sides must be ordered separately from the main menu items.

3

Expect a difficult exit from the parking lot due to a blind spot.

17
Jack Willie's Bar, Grill & Tiki image 1

Small shack with tiki bar on the water offers laid-back atmosphere and live music on a stage. Seating includes inside padded bar seats and outdoor tables by the canal, where alligators can be seen swimming. Family-friendly vibe includes games like corn hole and picnic tables for kids.

Crab cakes come with a bed of arugula and lemon wedges that stay fresh. They have a noticeable crab flavor and are not overly breaded, making them delicious and well-balanced.

A shallow tidal creek full of nature and swimming activity creates a beautiful canal view. The setting offers a cozy water view perfect for relaxing lunches and watching wildlife like alligators.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be fantastic and great."

"You'll love the nice view of the waterway and the wildlife."

"The crab cakes are delicious with a noticeable crab flavor."

Good to know

1

Live music is available on weekends at select times.

2

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

3

Expect a 20% gratuity added to your bill without prior notice.

18
Sandbar Jax Bch image 1
Restaurant

Oceanfront restaurant offers spectacular beach views with open glass doors and outdoor seating overlooking the pier. Atmosphere blends relaxed beach vibe with a setting suitable for both work and leisure. Guests enjoy varied seating options including bar, table, and comfortable outdoor chairs.

Starters include crab cakes that come out perfect and delicious alongside calamari.

Breathtaking ocean views dominate from the outdoor deck and railing areas. Watching the waves and feeling the breeze during sunset adds to the stellar beachside atmosphere.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the Caribbean flatbread."

"The ocean view from here is spectacular."

"The crab cakes were perfect as an appetizer."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for special events like brunch or dinner parties.

2

Brunch entrees include a complimentary mimosa or Bloody Mary.

3

Parking is available directly in front of the hotel for easy access.

19
Ruth's Chris Steak House image 1

Elegant steak house offers breathtaking riverfront views and a welcoming atmosphere with live jazz and piano music. The space fills quickly, especially the bar area without reservations. Guests enjoy expertly crafted cocktails alongside perfectly cooked prime steaks.

Crab cakes here stand out for their rich flavor and good texture. They pair well with other seafood dishes like salmon and shrimp.

Tables by the window offer a clear view of the St. Johns River. Nighttime reveals a stunning downtown skyline that lights up the atmosphere.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be excellent."

"The service at these dinner spots made our experience special."

"I loved their crab cakes; they were the best I had."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 to 6 PM, only at the bar.

2

Reservations cannot be made in the bar, leading to busy times.

3

The restaurant hosts special events like Mother's Day celebrations.

20
BrewFish Bar & Grill image 1

Waterfront setting offers stunning views and a large outdoor patio with dog-friendly space. Casual vibe features laid-back live music at comfortable volume, attracting a relaxed crowd. Indoor and outdoor bars accommodate various seating preferences.

Two-piece crab cakes come crispy outside and tender inside. They are perfectly seasoned and cooked, showing clear chef skill.

Waterfront seating offers a calm atmosphere with views of the canal and water. Outdoor areas provide a sunset view and a chance to enjoy the open air setting away from crowds.

People are saying

"This bar has such a chill vibe, it makes you feel like a local."

"I loved the nice view of the water from the outdoor seating."

"The crab cakes were perfectly seasoned and crispy outside."

Good to know

1

Happy hour drink specials are available, but only certain drinks are discounted.

2

Karaoke nights are hosted on Fridays and Saturdays; arrive early to get on the list.

3

Lobster night occurs on Tuesdays and Thursdays, but reservations are recommended.

21
Chef Adrianne's Vineyard Restaurant and Bar image 1

Dark dining creates a magical atmosphere blending warmth and elegance. Visible kitchen through glass adds a modern touch while outdoor terrace offers a spectacular lakeside setting. Live music and private rooms enhance the inviting, sophisticated vibe.

Juicy and crispy crab cakes come with a corn Remoulade Salsa and a flavorful aioli. They are perfectly prepared and do not need extra toppings like pico de gallo.

Seating by the water offers a stunning outdoor view that makes the surroundings feel peaceful. The restaurant's beautiful scenery and pleasant outside view create a relaxing atmosphere.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, truly off the charts good."

"The crab cakes were juicy, crispy, and perfectly prepared."

"I loved the nice view of the water."

Good to know

1

Making a reservation is necessary because the restaurant is very busy.

2

There is ample free parking available.

3

Happy hour runs from Monday to Friday between 4 pm and 7 pm.

Discover more

Florida

Area guide
Loading Map...