In a state surrounded by water on three sides, finding exceptional seafood should be easy, but Mr. & Mrs. Crab on Dale Mabry in Tampa stands out like a lighthouse among the foggy sea of mediocre fish shacks and overpriced coastal eateries.
The moment you spot the cheerful cartoon crab couple grinning from the restaurant’s sign, you know you’re in for something special – a place that doesn’t need ocean views or white tablecloths to deliver seafood that makes locals line up and visitors detour.
The unassuming exterior might not scream “culinary destination” – with its simple brown wooden facade and brick accents giving it the appearance of a cozy cabin rather than a seafood haven – but that’s part of its charm.
Two benches flank the entrance, a practical addition for those inevitable wait times during dinner rush, because word has definitely gotten out about this place…