Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

Crab cakes and calamari in New Jersey

You judge a kitchen by its ability to get the texture of the calamari right while still delivering a solid crab cake.

Based on 727 Opinions
+724
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Channel Marker Cafe image 1
Channel Marker Cafe image 2
Channel Marker Cafe image 3
View all
American restaurant

Waterfront setting offers breathtaking sunset views and dock-and-dine options for boats. Outdoor patio provides an amazing atmosphere with direct bay views. Inside seating includes corner tables overlooking boats and dock for a cozy experience.

Large pieces of crab meat stand out in the crab cakes, which come with a delectable cream sauce. Options include a crab cake sandwich and plates priced around $45 for two large cakes.

Lightly breaded with perfect crispness, the calamari comes with fresh marinara sauce. Portions are huge and tender, offering a fresh taste that stands out.

People are saying

"The crab cakes here have large pieces of crab meat."

"The service here is excellent and the staff are wonderful."

"The calamari was huge, tender, and perfectly crisp."

Good to know

1

The cafe is BYOB, allowing customers to bring their own alcohol.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially on busy nights.

3

Expect large portion sizes; consider sharing dishes.

02
Eddie V's Prime Seafood image 1
Seafood restaurant

Elegant seafood restaurant offers a modern, high-end design with a business casual atmosphere. Live jazz bands create a lively, fun vibe, especially near the bar where patrons enjoy carefully crafted cocktails. Dining areas are well thought out, combining fresh seafood with an upscale ambiance.

Jumbo crab cakes feature 7oz of fresh crab with no filler, packed with more meat than usual. The Maryland style version combines rich crab and flavorful breading, making it a perfect appetizer for sharing.

Calamari comes with a buttery, salty cashew twist that stands out. It pairs well with cabbage sides and holds its own among other seafood dishes.

People are saying

"The food at this dinner spot was amazing and cooked to perfection."

"The calamari here is prepared with such professional care."

"These Crab Cakes are packed with lump crabmeat and contain no filler."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers a selection of small bites and drinks at discounted prices.

2

Jazz nights occur every Friday and Saturday, starting at 9pm.

3

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours and special events.

03
F1RST Restaurant image 1
American restaurant

Two dining rooms offer distinct warm, inviting decor with dim lighting and modern design. Atmosphere shifts from calm and elegant to lively with larger groups, maintaining a family-friendly vibe without pretension. Owner interaction adds a personal touch uncommon in similar restaurants.

The crab cake appetizer features bacon that stands out, even for those who usually skip it. It offers a great flavor that makes it a solid choice.

Large pieces of calamari come very tender with a lime Caesar aioli that stands out. Some dishes pair calamari with artichoke hearts and roasted red peppers, offering a flavorful mix, though a few pieces can be over salted.

People are saying

"The calamari and artichokes were perfectly crispy and flavorful."

"The pork chop entree here is fantastic and tender."

"I thought the crab cake appetizer was great."

Good to know

1

Reservations are a must for dining at this restaurant.

2

The restaurant is BYOB, which provides some savings.

3

The total cost was $75 per person for a five-course meal.

04
Crab Shack image 1
Seafood market

Seafood market with a fresh seashore look and a recent renovation creates a neat, casual setting. Outdoor patio offers pleasant music, shaded seating, and a nice breeze. Atmosphere feels fun and lively, often attracting groups enjoying BYOB gatherings.

Plenty of crab meat fills the crab cakes, making them super delicious and reasonably priced. They appear in sandwiches and alongside scallops or octopus, all cooked well on the grill.

Calamari comes with cherry peppers adding a spicy kick. It appears alongside other seafood like mussels marinara and hush puppy shrimp.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh, I never want to buy fish elsewhere."

"I found the crab cakes here to be amazing and delicious."

"I loved the calamari with cherry peppers."

Good to know

1

Crab Shack is BYOB, allowing guests to bring their own drinks.

2

The menu is limited on weekends, focusing on appetizers and fish tacos.

3

Parking is plentiful, making it easy to visit.

05
Char Steakhouse image 1
Steak house

Upscale steakhouse features modern, classy decor with a warm, welcoming atmosphere and vibrant music. It offers outdoor seating with heaters and private dining areas, attracting diners seeking a relaxed yet refined experience. The venue stands out for its spectacular design and clean, high-end look.

Crab cakes come with a beurre blanc sauce or a horseradish cream sauce that enhances their flavor. They taste unbelievably fresh and serve well as appetizers alongside other dishes.

Fried calamari stands out as a top quality appetizer here. It pairs well with other dishes like mashed potatoes and mushrooms, making it a solid choice to start a meal.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and amazing."

"The steak here is amazing, and the service is outstanding."

"I had the best calamari I've ever had."

Good to know

1

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

2

The restaurant accommodates private events for groups of various sizes.

3

Reservations are recommended for larger parties to ensure seating.

06
House 157 Restaurant image 1

Restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere with a nature-themed garden-scape that creates a peaceful vibe. DJ music plays throughout, enhancing the lively yet intimate energy. Beautiful decor and thoughtful lighting make it ideal for intimate gatherings and date nights.

Crab cakes stand out with a rich, flavorful taste. They pair well with sides like mashed potatoes and spinach, making them a memorable dish here.

Fried calamari comes out fresh and never greasy. It appears as a popular appetizer alongside dishes like ceviche and coconut shrimp.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious."

"The crab cakes here were out of this world."

"The calamari here is so crispy and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are a must to get a table.

2

Brunch at House 157 Restaurant ends at 3 PM.

3

Expect a 30-minute wait to be seated during peak hours.

07
The Anchor Fish & Chips image 1
Fish & chips restaurant

Small, family-owned fish and chips spot offers a cozy atmosphere with a clean, unassuming interior. The vibe is friendly and warm, attracting those seeking large portions at reasonable prices and a balance of fried and non-fried seafood options.

The crab cake varies in quality, with some versions described as delicious and others as bland and filled with filler. It appears alongside other seafood dishes like fish and chips and blackened cod.

Crispy texture stands out in the calamari here. It pairs well with the hush puppies, making a solid combo.

People are saying

"The seafood here is fresh, hot, and delicious."

"The calamari here is so crispy."

"I thought the crab cake was delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers size options for fish and chips, such as 1 for $10 and 2 for $16.

2

Their Tuesday special is 3 tacos for $10.

3

Parking can be a bit of a hassle.

08
Jacks Surf & Turf- Seafood & Steak image 1

Nautical-themed decor creates a bright, casual space with two floors and outside seating. Music ranges from live performances to a well-curated oldies playlist, adding to the chill vibes. The atmosphere stays pleasant and lowkey, avoiding any upscale or stuffy feel.

Crab cakes feature real crab with minimal breadcrumbs. They appear as both an appetizer and in a sandwich, paired with dishes like lobster mac and cheese.

Fresh calamari comes with a perfect crunch and is seasoned well. The dish includes both rings and legs, served with a great marinara sauce for dipping.

People are saying

"The lobster rolls are warm, buttery, and loaded with fresh lobster."

"The calamari here is seasoned perfectly and has a great crunch."

"I found the crab cakes unbelievably delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

2

Parking is available in the lot at the back and on the street.

3

Expect high prices, with some dishes costing over $20.

09
Ott's Good Earth Garden image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant offers an elegant interior with soft lighting and smooth jazz music creating a romantic atmosphere. The setting feels intimate and upscale, enhanced by fresh flowers and candles on tables. Guests often come for high-quality seafood and a diverse menu in a luxurious environment.

Excellent crab cakes stand out here, served alongside dishes like scallops and hogfish specials. The crab cakes pair well with the Zucchini Linguine, creating a notable combination.

Calamari and rock shrimp appear as a special appetizer and in a lasagna with mussels and short rib. Preparation varies, with some servings described as delicious and others as small, overcooked, and fishy.

People are saying

"The food at these dinner spots is phenomenal and unforgettable."

"I enjoyed the excellent Crab Cakes."

"The calamari and rock shrimp were incredible."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to dine at Ott's Good Earth Garden.

2

Ott's Good Earth Garden allows BYOB, but does not have a liquor license.

3

The restaurant offers farm-to-table dining with a diverse menu.

10
Keyport Fishery image 1
Seafood market

Seafood market with an old school setup and freshly caught fish fills the air with a strong aroma. Busy and often crowded, it offers cash-only transactions and a simple menu focused on fried fish. Outdoor benches by the water provide a peaceful view of the bay for enjoying take-out seafood.

Freshness stands out in the crab cake sandwich and deep-fried crab cakes. The crab cakes come with a delicious, shareable portion often paired with fish like cod or flounder.

Calamari comes with a tomato marinara sauce and never feels chewy. It appears in fried sandwiches and platters alongside crab cakes and scallops, offering a tasty seafood option.

People are saying

"I found the fish here to be the best and freshest I've ever had."

"I thought the crab cakes were the best I ever had."

"I thought the calamari here was the best."

Good to know

1

Keyport Fishery only accepts cash payments; an ATM is available inside.

2

Keyport Fishery does not offer dine-in options; takeout is available.

3

Expect limited parking and long lines during peak hours.

11
SeaGrass Restaurant image 1
Seafood restaurant

Small, charming seafood restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating and a tropical fish tank that adds to the ambiance. Atmosphere feels relaxed yet refined, suitable for dates or special dinners, though it can get noisy inside. Decor has a Cape May look with comfortable, slightly dark interiors.

Huge crab cakes come loaded with lump crab and no fillers. The appetizer is substantial and delicious.

Large portions of crispy fried calamari stand out here. The calamari is fresh, cooked to perfection, and not oily, making it a solid choice for seafood lovers.

People are saying

"The clam chowder at this lunch spot is among the best."

"I loved the calamari; it was so fresh and crispy."

"The crab cakes were huge and loaded with lump crab."

Good to know

1

$1 oyster night is offered on select days.

2

Reservations are not accepted, so arrive early to avoid long waits.

3

The restaurant allows customers to bring their own alcohol.

12
Chris Michael's Steakhouse image 1

Steakhouse offers a quiet atmosphere with fancy decoration blending elegance and functionality. It hosts live bands and DJs, creating varied energy levels, and features a welcoming environment where staff remember names and maintain professionalism.

Crab cakes feature pure crab stuffing with virtually no filler and a crispy, light outer layer. They deliver strong flavor and a delicate texture.

Soft, light calamari comes with a spicy firecracker sauce. Fried calamari stands out as a key Jersey food scene appetizer and pairs well with other excellent starters like clams casino.

People are saying

"I found the steak perfectly cooked with tasty seasoning."

"The service at these dinner spots is so polite and attentive."

"The calamari here is soft, light, and has a great spicy sauce."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for private dining events to ensure availability.

2

The speed dating event lasts 8 minutes per participant, advertised on the Meetup app.

3

Parking is ample and available for guests visiting the restaurant.

13
Denizen's image 1
Restaurant

Bright, airy space with floor-to-ceiling windows and an open kitchen creates a chic, modern design vibe. Music plays a key role, often featuring live performances, setting a lively yet cozy atmosphere. The place attracts a mix of diners looking for casual meals, dates, and social nights out.

Crab cakes come with a side salad and taste delicious. They are a favorite choice for many.

Crispy and crunchy calamari comes with a light sauce that adds flavor. The calamari itself is lightly crispy but mild on its own.

People are saying

"The brunch here has creative comfort food and outstanding entrees."

"I left the crab cakes plate clean, they were delicious."

"The calamari here is served by the most attentive and friendly staff."

Good to know

1

Brunch is served on weekends from 10am to 2pm.

2

A surprise drag show occurs monthly; check the schedule for dates.

3

Parking can be tricky, but there is a small public lot half a block away.

14
Coastal Blue Oceanside Bar & Grill image 1
New American restaurant

Ocean views dominate the setting with a beachy, boutique hotel vibe and a colorful, well-decorated interior. Warm, inviting atmosphere pairs with live music and a good bar to create a lively, comfortable space. Outdoor seating overlooks pool and beach areas but lacks a true beach ambiance.

Big Ole crab cakes feature mostly all meat with very little filler. They taste absolutely delicious and stand out as a famous appetizer.

Fresh calamari comes in a respectable portion that easily serves four. It pairs well with a great sauce and stands out as an excellent appetizer.

People are saying

"The Crab Cakes here are so moist and delicious."

"I thought the calamari was excellent and loved the sauce."

"The outdoor seating area is casual and comfortable."

Good to know

1

Reservations are available online, but tables may be fully booked upon arrival.

2

Expect to pay around $60 for breakfast for two, which may not meet quality expectations.

3

The restaurant has a limited menu and may run out of popular dishes.

Discover more

New Jersey

Area guide
Loading Map...