Los Angeles is a city known for its diverse food scene, and seafood is no exception. When it comes to crab cakes, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Whether you're a local or a tourist, finding the best crab cakes in Los Angeles can be a daunting task.
One thing to keep in mind is that not all crab cakes are created equal. Some are made with fresh, high-quality crab meat, while others are made with artificial crab or a mix of different kinds of seafood.
The preparation and seasoning of the crab cake can also make a big difference in its taste and texture.
Luckily, Los Angeles has a variety of restaurants and seafood shacks that offer some of the best crab cakes in the city.
From upscale restaurants to small, family-owned businesses, there is something for everyone. So, if you're a crab cake enthusiast or just want to try them for the first time, Los Angeles has got you covered.
1. Fisherman's Outlet
Fisherman's Outlet is a seafood market and eatery that serves up classic bites on paper plates from its counter.
Their crab cakes are a must-try, with a perfect blend of spices and fresh crab meat. The garlic herb sauce that comes with it adds a great flavor and complements the dish well.
The seafood here is always fresh and reasonably priced. The service is excellent, and the staff is friendly and helpful.
The only downside is that the place can get pretty busy during peak hours, so it's best to come early. All in all, Fisherman's Outlet is a great spot for seafood lovers looking for a delicious and affordable meal.
2. Fish Grill – Beverly
Fish Grill – Beverly is a great spot for fresh and tasty crab cakes. The restaurant offers a casual atmosphere with friendly service.
The crab cakes are made with fresh ingredients and cooked to perfection.
The prices are reasonable for the quality of food, and the portions are generous.
The outdoor seating area is a plus, and the restaurant is conveniently located. If you are a fan of crab cakes, Fish Grill – Beverly is definitely worth a visit.
3. La Corita
La Corita is a seafood restaurant that offers some of the best crab cakes in town.
The crab cakes are well-seasoned and perfectly cooked, with a crispy outer layer and a moist and flavorful interior.
The restaurant also offers a variety of other seafood dishes, including shrimp empanadas and fish tacos, all of which are equally delicious.
The atmosphere is casual and laid-back, and the service is friendly and efficient. Prices are reasonable, making La Corita a great option for anyone looking for a tasty and affordable seafood meal.
4. Lobster & Beer
Lobster & Beer is a hip seafood joint that serves delicious crab cakes. They offer a lobster-centric menu with a variety of seafood bites and happy hour specials.
The cozy bar and eatery has a friendly environment and attentive service.
The crab cakes are a must-try and are made with fresh ingredients.
Whether you're a seafood lover or just looking for a casual spot to hang out, Lobster & Beer is worth checking out.
5. L & E Oyster Bar
L & E Oyster Bar offers exceptional crab cakes that are a dreamy delight. The yellowtail and oysters are fresh and decadent, while the bread pudding is a must-try.
The side salad is dressed with a magical unknown dressing that adds to the experience.
The Michelin-worthy bites and white-glove service in a relaxed and cool old house turned restaurant make for a great dining experience.
Though it's not cheap, it's worth every penny.
6. Fish Only
Fish Only is a seafood restaurant that serves up delicious crab cakes.
The staff is friendly and remembers regulars. The food is always fresh and affordable.
They also offer a variety of shrimp and fish plates that are worth trying.
If you're looking for a great place to satisfy your seafood cravings, Fish Only is definitely worth a visit.
7. Tangaroa Fish Market
Tangaroa Fish Market is a hidden gem for seafood lovers. Their crab cakes are simply delicious and the seared scallops with succotash are a must-try as well.
They have a nice selection of sake, beer, and wine to complement your meal. The service is excellent and the atmosphere is casual and inviting.
The outdoor seating is perfect for a relaxed dining experience. Don't forget to try their fish and chips, which are some of the best around.
If you're in the mood for something different, their Peruvian ceviche is also highly recommended. Tangaroa Fish Market is a great spot for fresh seafood in a laid-back setting.
8. Water Grill
Water Grill is a high-end seafood restaurant that serves excellent crab cakes.
Their appetizers are tasty, especially the crab cakes, but the main course could use some more seasoning. The seafood tower and raw scallops are fresh and delicious.
The service, however, can be slow. The restaurant has a nice ambiance and is suitable for special occasions.
The food is pricey, but the quality justifies it. If you're a seafood lover looking for a sophisticated dining experience, Water Grill is worth a try.
9. Seafood Xperience
Seafood Xperience is a must-visit place for seafood lovers. The crab cakes here are simply divine.
The restaurant is a classic seafood crabshack that serves fried fish, shrimp, and crab platters from a casual strip mall storefront.
The service is outstanding and the prices are reasonable. The location is great and the atmosphere is relaxed.
If you are looking for a sit-down place to eat at, Seafood Xperience is one of the best options in the area. Don't miss out on their mouth-watering crab cakes!
10. Seasalt Fish Grill
Seasalt Fish Grill is a casual seafood counter-serve eatery that specializes in fresh crab cakes. The restaurant offers a limited seating area, but the food is well worth it.
The crab cakes are perfectly seasoned and have a crispy exterior with a tender and juicy interior.
The menu also includes a variety of seafood dishes, such as fish and chips, clam chowder, and poke bowls.
The staff is friendly and provides excellent customer service. Seasalt Fish Grill is a great place to grab a quick and delicious meal.
11. Full House Seafood
Full House Seafood is a Chinatown staple that offers a variety of traditional Chinese dishes, including crab cakes.
The restaurant is known for its generous portions and reasonable prices. The crab cakes are flavorful and well-seasoned, with a crispy exterior and tender meat inside.
The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, perfect for a quick lunch or a late-night bite. The service is attentive, and the staff is knowledgeable about the menu.
Full House Seafood is a great option for those looking for authentic Chinese seafood dishes, including delicious crab cakes.
12. Fish Town
Fish Town is a casual counter-serve spot for seafood plates and down-home sides. They are known for their perfectly fried fish, shrimp, and wings, but their crab cakes are a must-try.
The crab cakes are crispy on the outside and have a generous amount of lump crab meat on the inside.
The prices are reasonable, and the customer service is great. The only downside is the limited parking, so it's best to call in advance and order take-out.
All in all, Fish Town is definitely worth a visit for their delicious crab cakes and other seafood dishes.
13. Via-Mar Restaurant Express
Via-Mar Restaurant Express is a counter-serve Mexican seafood restaurant that serves up some delicious crab cakes.
The seafood is fresh and the prices are reasonable.
The restaurant has an informal setup with a casual ambiance in the open.
They have daily specials, and their shrimp and fish tacos are highly recommended. The food is amazing and worth the visit.
14. Pescado Mojado Seafood Grill
Pescado Mojado Seafood Grill is a must-visit place for crab cakes. The restaurant is known for its fresh and delicious seafood dishes.
The crab cakes are perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection. The staff is friendly and provides quick service.
The prices are reasonable for the quality of food served. The restaurant is clean and has a great ambiance.
Whether you're a seafood lover or just looking to try something new, Pescado Mojado Seafood Grill is the place to be.
15. Fish Town Outlet
Fish Town Outlet is a seafood restaurant that offers a wide variety of fish, shrimp, and onion rings. Their crab cakes are a must-try for any seafood lover.
The tarter sauce is delicious and complements the crab cakes perfectly. The food is always fresh and made to order.
The customer service is friendly and the environment is welcoming. Although wait times for takeout can be long, it is worth the wait for the delicious food.
The restaurant also offers other seafood options such as red snapper, oysters, and jumbo shrimp. It is a great place to satisfy your seafood cravings without breaking the bank.
16. Catch 21
Catch 21 is a no-frills seafood joint that offers a variety of dishes at reasonable prices.
While the clam chowder may not be the best, the crab cakes are a must-try. They are crispy on the outside and filled with juicy crab meat on the inside.
The coleslaw is a bit bland, but the French fries are excellent. The staff is friendly and welcoming, and the restaurant is clean and well-maintained.
Catch 21 may not be the fanciest seafood restaurant in town, but it definitely delivers on taste and value.
