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Guide to Washington

Crab cakes and wine

Made for those who consider a well-made crab cake the only acceptable companion for a glass of wine.

Based on 616 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
John's Grill image 1
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American restaurant

Small, intimate setting with dim lighting and Ralph Lauren country cottage decor creates a romantic atmosphere. Outdoor seating offers water views and a cool bar adds to the vibe. The pace is slow and relaxing, suited for quiet dinners.

Large, fluffy crab cakes packed with crab meat serve as a small meal on their own. They come in a homemade style and a perfect size for sharing.

A sizable selection of wine lets you sample several varieties, including some less common ones. Good wines pair well with dishes like crab cake and house salad, enhancing the meal.

People are saying

"The steak here is fantastic, served with a warm, intimate atmosphere."

"You have to try the Cajun shrimp and grits; they're unforgettable."

"They have a great selection of wine."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy times.

2

Parking can be difficult on event nights, but usually available nearby.

3

Expect to spend around $30 per person for a meal.

02
Earth And Ocean image 1
Butcher shop

Butcher shop with live tanks and a frozen section offers ultra premium quality meat and seafood. The atmosphere stays quiet and welcoming, attracting those who appreciate freshness and variety. Specialty sauces, wines, and beers complement the gourmet selection.

Crab cakes feature real crab meat and avoid the typical bread-heavy texture. They come with fantastic quality and stand out alongside other fresh seafood options.

A great wine selection pairs perfectly with steaks and other meats. Staff help pick out wines that complement dishes like littleneck clams. They also carry beers and ciders alongside wines.

People are saying

"You'll find the freshest, tastiest steak with great variety here."

"I thought the crab cakes here were fabulous and contained real crab."

"I found a great wine selection that paired perfectly with steaks."

Good to know

1

Weekly specials may require pre-ordering, especially during holidays.

2

The shop offers a great selection of fresh seafood and high-quality meats.

3

Expect a clean and well-organized store with a variety of proteins and spices.

03
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Restaurant

Large space combines upstairs dining with a basement speakeasy vibe featuring live jazz and stage performances. Atmosphere shifts from relaxed and welcoming upstairs to a more chill, intimate bar downstairs. Dedicated gluten-free kitchen supports varied menu options, attracting guests with dietary needs.

Crab cakes come fried and pair well with fries. They show expert preparation and stand out alongside dishes like fish and chips and cheese curds.

Homemade wine stands out for its smooth and flavorful profile. The selection pairs thoughtfully with dishes, offering a generous variety throughout the night.

People are saying

"I loved the gluten-free fish and chips; they were so delicious."

"The wine selection here is thoughtfully paired and excellent."

"I recommend the crab cakes here; they were really nice."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant fills up quickly.

2

The kitchen is entirely gluten-free, ensuring no cross-contamination.

3

They host weekly community events, including jazz jam sessions on Wednesdays.

04
Mia Cafe and Wine Bar image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Renovated building offers an upscale, clean, and contemporary vibe with comfortable booths and shady, spacious patio featuring a fire pit. Live music plays on weekends, creating a friendly, relaxed atmosphere that feels warm and welcoming. Some tables provide views of water and park areas, enhancing the cozy, casual setting.

Crab cake Benedict features more crab meat than expected and delivers a satisfying portion. Crab cakes are generally moist but opinions vary on their overall quality.

Flight of wines offers five selections for $25, showcasing local Washington varieties. Wine and food pairings come with detailed flavor profiles explained by a wine expert, enhancing the tasting experience.

People are saying

"The Brunch food here is delicious and fresh."

"I enjoyed the good pours on wine and the great list."

"The crab cake Benedict had more crab meat than I expected."

Good to know

1

Mia Cafe and Wine Bar offers outdoor seating right across from Juanita Beach.

2

Live music happens on Fridays and Saturdays, creating a lively atmosphere.

3

Happy hour features local Washington wines with special pricing.

05
Place Pigalle image 1
Restaurant

Cozy restaurant offers French cuisine with white tablecloths and live jazz music. Elegant, relaxed atmosphere features scenic water views from a tucked-away spot in a historic market area. The vibe is dark and intimate, blending classic charm with fresh seafood and fine wines.

Dungeness crab shines in the crab cakes here, offering a delicious and memorable taste. These crab cakes stand out even compared to those from the Caribbean.

A very good wine selection includes local options. Waitstaff offer recommended pairings that match the food well. Service is attentive and enhances the wine experience.

People are saying

"The French food, especially the onion soup, is divine and rich."

"The wine list here is fantastic, with great pairings for the bouillabaisse."

"I thought the crab cakes here were awesome."

Good to know

1

An automatic 27% fee is added to all bills instead of tips.

2

A meal for two costs around $90.

3

The restaurant is located on the second or third floor of the market.

06
SHUCKERS OYSTER BAR image 1
Oyster bar restaurant

Old school upmarket oyster house offers a cozy bar and intimate dining with warm lighting and classy decor. Atmosphere feels relaxed yet vibrant, filled with camaraderie and laughter. Known for fresh oysters and a top notch Scotch menu, it blends tradition with a touch of elegance.

Rich flavor defines the crab cakes, making them a standout appetizer. They come in a smaller size but deliver a perfect taste that earns high praise.

Staff offer tasting opportunities and prioritize guest preferences when serving wine. Recommendations are attentive and spot-on, with advice on pairings that complement dishes like oysters and cioppino.

People are saying

"These oysters were so succulent and delicious."

"The servers here give great advice on wine pairings."

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

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to ensure a table, especially during peak hours.

2

Happy hour features $2 oysters and skinny fries, making it a popular time to visit.

3

Street parking is limited, but nearby garages are available for convenience.

07
John Howie Steak image 1
Steak house

Steakhouse offers an elegant yet inviting atmosphere with dim lighting and sleek decor suited for business meetings. Tables are small and closely spaced, with some seating providing window views. Cocktails and wine receive expert attention, complementing high-quality steaks like Wagyu and Australian fillet.

Crab cakes come with a slight Asian spin and rely heavily on the sauce for flavor. They pair well with sides like lobster mash and Yukon gold potato puree.

Waitstaff offer great recommendations for dishes and wine pairings. Xavier provides knowledgeable and excellent wine suggestions matching the meal.

People are saying

"I found the steak here to be amazing and cooked perfectly."

"The wine here is perfectly paired with expertly cooked steaks."

"I found the crab cakes here to be excellent."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available Monday through Thursday until close.

2

Happy hour starts at 4 pm with discounted appetizers.

3

Children under 21 are not allowed in the restaurant.

08
16Eleven image 1
Steak house

Space resembles an old supper club with a new twist, featuring stunning interior design and great acoustics. Atmosphere is cool and classy with live piano music enhancing the experience. Seating offers privacy and the vibe suits special occasions.

Lightly battered and fluffy crab cakes come with a delicious remoulade. Some servings appear burnt and dry, with an unappetizing look on the plate.

Outstanding wine selection pairs well with sides. Staff offers killer wine recommendations and cocktails like the Lucille, Too stand out.

People are saying

"It's the perfect vibe for a date night with its quiet, relaxing atmosphere."

"The red wine recommended by the bartender was fantastic."

"The crab cakes were lightly battered and fluffy."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with a limited menu.

2

Live music occurs every Tuesday during supper club with a three-course meal.

3

Reservations are recommended for the weekly Supper Club event.

09
Ruth's Chris Steak House image 1

Elegant steakhouse with intimate windowless dining and bright lighting that highlights activity in the open kitchen. Atmosphere blends family-friendly warmth with occasional noise requiring raised voices. Known for high-quality steaks and a well-curated wine and cocktail menu.

Crab cakes come packed with fresh lump crab meat and have a crispy exterior. They are perfectly seasoned and sometimes served with just enough cracker to hold them together.

Staff provide great wine recommendations that pair well with dishes like French onion soup and steak. The menu includes options like Whispering Angel, noted for being out of sight.

People are saying

"The steak here is amazing, thanks to attentive service."

"The wine here is outstanding, perfectly complementing the steaks."

"The crab cakes are packed with fresh lump crab meat."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. daily.

2

The happy hour menu is only available in the bar area.

3

Expect to pay around $100 per person for a full meal.

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