When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Bag O' Crab
Why Bag O' Crab is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Bag O' Crab, located in Berkeley, California, is a vibrant seafood restaurant known for its engaging and flavorful dining experience, making it an excellent spot for friends to gather. Specializing in seafood cooked in distinct Cajun styles, Bag O' Crab offers a unique interactive experience where customers order bags of seafood prepared in a choice of sauces and spice levels, providing an adventurous twist to traditional seafood dining. Besides the signature seafood bags, the menu includes flavorful options like chicken wings in various sauces, fried fish, shrimp, calamari, oysters, chicken tenders, po’ boy sandwiches, lobster rolls, grilled short ribs, soups, salads, and pasta, offering a wide selection that can satisfy diverse tastes within a group. The restaurant’s casual, friendly atmosphere combined with attentive service and reasonably priced menu items enhances its appeal as a destination for social outings. With approximately seven years of operation and an estimated annual revenue of around $354,576, Bag O' Crab maintains steady popularity among locals seeking a full-service seafood experience. Its single, well-managed location staffed by about eleven employees ensures an inviting environment with quality service. Overall, the eclectic menu variety, customizable spice and sauce options, and welcoming ambiance make Bag O' Crab a great place for friends to meet, indulge in seafood, and enjoy a memorable time together.
Here's what people think of Bag O' Crab
As of recent, Bag O' Crab holds a 4.4-star rating based on 812 reviews.
Customer reviews highlight a generally positive dining experience at Bag O' Crab, appreciating the freshness and quality of seafood, especially shrimp, and the flavorful Cajun and lemon pepper sauces that enhance the dishes. Many reviewers commend the attentive and friendly service, clean surroundings, and the casual but comfortable atmosphere, which together create a pleasant dining environment suitable for families and friends. Positive feedback often mentions the restaurant's signature seafood bags and the lobster roll as standout menu items, with guests noting that shrimp is fresh—not frozen—and cooked perfectly. However, some reviewers express less enthusiasm about the spice and sauce combinations, feeling that certain dishes like the bag of shrimp with original Cajun sauce did not fully meet expectations and that the flavor profile could be improved. There is also an indication that consistency might vary between locations, with some people less inclined to visit regularly based on their palate preferences. In conclusion, while Bag O' Crab's unique concept and quality seafood earn it commendations and a solid 4.4-star average rating from over 800 reviews, potential diners should consider personal taste preferences regarding spice levels and sauce flavors to ensure an enjoyable experience.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Kimmiee Turner
Y’all the food was so good here. The sauce was on point and the fries were so yummy! The service was also amazing. I would definitely go back. If there is a wait, you can check in online. Only thing I will mention is this street has a lot of prostitution on the corners so beware.
Nose2wind
Everything about this place was good. There was a wait, but 30 minutes on a Saturday was to be expected. The service was friendly. The atmosphere was cozy and informal. And the food was great, but be ready to part with some bucks. 🫢
Stella Ortiz
The seafood boil we got was delicious. We got the Louisiana mild. We also got the butter spaghetti. It was very good when dipped into the Louisiana mild sauce definitely recommend it.
C “Around the Country” K
Food was amazing! Place was packed, I suggest making a reservation. Service could use a little improvement, but wasn’t horrible. Maybe we over ordered a little.
BHer USA
The staff and the robot that deliver the food are all good. The quantity of food and balanced seasonings and spices are perfect. Very delicious! We ordered the Combo#4 with Dungeness Crab and an add-on of lobster tail, in their atomic sauce. We also had their garlic noodles and oysters. They provide wet wipes, bibs, gloves, shell crackers, and seafood scissors. Their attention to the customer dining experience is top notch! Definitely worth it.
How to reach Bag O' Crab
None
Website: None
Why rally at Bag O' Crab with your friends?
Gathering your friends at Bag O' Crab offers a lively and delicious way to share a memorable meal together. Known for its fresh seafood served in generous portions and packed with bold Cajun flavors, Bag O' Crab creates an experience that encourages communal dining and joyful interaction. The restaurant’s concept centers around serving seafood in bags seasoned with rich, spicy sauces, making it ideal for groups who enjoy hands-on eating and casual settings. This interactive style naturally fosters a relaxed atmosphere perfect for laughter, storytelling, and bonding. Beyond the food, the modern and renovated interiors, combined with a friendly and attentive service team, help create an inviting environment where groups feel comfortable to linger and enjoy each other's company. Whether you’re celebrating an occasion or just catching up, Bag O’ Crab’s unique blend of fresh seafood, spicy seasonings, and cozy group-friendly vibe makes it a destination where friends can rally for a satisfying and unforgettable meal.
What activities can you enjoy at Bag O’ Crab for a group meetup?
At Bag O’ Crab, the main activity revolves around indulging in seafood feasts served “Cajun style” in steaming bags right to your table. The distinctive dining experience starts with choosing your seafood — from snow crab legs and Dungeness crab to shrimp, crawfish, and lobster — then selecting your preferred spice level, ranging from mild to fiery hot. This hands-on approach to eating encourages group members to dig in with their hands, sharing platters and passing around bowls of potatoes, corn, and sausage that come with each seafood boil. The social nature of peeling crabs and cracking shells creates a fun and interactive environment that keeps everyone engaged throughout the meal. Besides the seafood, groups can also choose from non-seafood options like Cajun-style wings and grilled beef short ribs, catering to different tastes within the party. The staff is trained to accommodate larger groups, ensuring efficient service and enough space to enjoy the meal comfortably, which makes Bag O’ Crab perfectly suited for gatherings where conversation flows as freely as the seafood.
Why is Bag O’ Crab the perfect place for a group dining experience?
Bag O' Crab’s perfect balance between casual dining and flavorful sophistication makes it an excellent choice for group meetups. Its seafood boils, served in bags and seasoned to order, create a shared dining experience that naturally promotes a sense of community and engagement. Unlike formal restaurants where courses are plated individually, here the food’s presentation and communal style turn eating into an activity. Guests can sample various spice levels and mixes, sparking conversations about preferences and reactions to the heat or flavor. The portion sizes are generous, typically large enough to share between two or more people, which encourages sampling and collaboration. The interior, designed with comfort and socializing in mind, allows groups to gather around large tables. Plus, multiple locations mean there's accessibility for many regional groups. This combination of great food, social interaction, and accommodating team service means Bag O' Crab is not just about eating, but about creating memorable group moments around a shared love for seafood.
What makes the food and menu at Bag O’ Crab ideal for groups?
The food at Bag O’ Crab stands out because it caters to both seafood lovers and those who prefer other options, making it inclusive and versatile for any group. Their menu features a range of freshly handpicked seafood like snow crab legs, shrimp (both head-on and off), crawfish, and Dungeness crab, prepared with a selection of Cajun-inspired spices and sauces. This variety ensures that everyone in your group can find something they enjoy, whether they want a mild dish or crave the spiciest “Level 3” heat. Each order includes additional sides such as corn on the cob, boiled potatoes, and sausage slices, adding hearty and comforting touches that complement the seafood perfectly. For those who do not eat seafood, Bag O’ Crab also offers Cajun-style wings and grilled beef short ribs with French fries, so no one in the group feels left out. The pricing allows for sharing—often one combo is enough to feed two people, promoting sharing and minimizing waste. This diverse and flavorful menu designed for sharing helps unite groups around a flavorful feast where all palates are considered.
How do the atmosphere and service at Bag O’ Crab enhance group gatherings?
The atmosphere at Bag O’ Crab is crafted to be welcoming and social, making it an excellent spot for group meetups. Each restaurant location is renovated with a modern, clean interior that balances casual comfort and lively energy, encouraging guests to relax and enjoy their time together. Tables are arranged to accommodate groups of various sizes, so whether your meetup is small or large, you have a comfortable space to gather. Unlike traditional servers, some locations have innovative food delivery methods, such as robotic food delivery, which adds an entertaining and tech-savvy aspect to your visit. However, the human staff remains actively involved and attentive, ensuring your needs are met promptly and your dining experience stays smooth. Friendly staff who understand the dynamics of group dining assist with orders, spice-level recommendations, and accommodating special requests, so every guest feels cared for. This thoughtful combination of environment and service quality helps groups focus on having fun, sharing their food, and building connections without distraction.
What can you expect in terms of value and customer satisfaction at Bag O’ Crab?
With a strong rating of 4.4 out of 812 reviews, Bag O’ Crab generally garners positive feedback particularly praising the food’s flavor and freshness. Many diners commend the rich, authentic Cajun spicing and generous seafood portions, highlighting the meals as worth the price for the quality served. Groups often note that sharing dishes is economical and satisfying, as one combo can fill two people adequately, making it a budget-friendly option for social gatherings. While most reviews emphasize the fun and tasty dining experience, there have been some concerns regarding consistency in portions and occasional service complaints, so it’s wise for groups to communicate clearly with staff if they have specific meal or service expectations. Overall, the restaurant’s reputation as a seafood destination with flavorful dishes, comfortable seating, and a lively atmosphere creates a dependable setting for group meetups where guests feel they get good value for their money.
Why should you choose Bag O’ Crab for your next friend or family meetup?
Choosing Bag O’ Crab for your next gathering means opting for an interactive, flavorful, and engaging dining experience that brings people closer through shared plates and robust seasoning. The hands-on seafood boils encourage conversation and cooperation as you peel, break, and savor fresh crustaceans together. The ample variety on the menu ensures no one’s tastes are left out, and the accommodating space and service support group comfort and convenience. Plus, the casual yet thoughtfully designed environment invites groups to stay longer, enjoy drinks, and celebrate in a stress-free setting. From the lively atmosphere to the crowd-pleasing food, Bag O’ Crab offers a distinctive blend of factors that make it not just a meal location but a destination for building lasting memories with friends or family. Whether you’re planning a casual meetup or a special occasion, Bag O’ Crab’s combination of great seafood, flexibility, and social ambiance makes it an ideal choice for group dining.