When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Claw Daddy's
Why Claw Daddy's is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Claw Daddy's represents a unique blend of entertainment and social dining, making it an excellent venue for meetups with friends and family. Established originally by Rob Pollard, a seasoned entertainment professional, Claw Daddy's started as an innovative arcade concept in California in 2023 and rapidly expanded to several locations including Fresno, Palmdale, Modesto, and San Diego. The arcade features a variety of engaging amusement games with a focus on claw machines, creating a nostalgic yet fresh environment for guests of all ages. The brand's approach emphasizes family-friendly fun, with Pollard involving his own family in the business, which adds a welcoming and community-focused atmosphere. Locations typically found in popular shopping malls benefit from easy accessibility and vibrant surroundings. In addition to arcade amusements, some Claw Daddy's venues feature inviting restaurant experiences serving Cajun and Creole cuisine, highlighted by hearty dishes and seafood options that appeal to diverse tastes. From the lively gaming floors to comfortable dining areas, Claw Daddy's offers enjoyable settings to relax, compete, and create memorable social moments. Whether you visit for casual play or shared meals, it's a destination fostering connection and entertainment.
Here's what people think of Claw Daddy's
As of recent, Claw Daddy's holds a 4.3-star rating based on 2104 reviews.
User reviews for Claw Daddy's are generally positive, as reflected by a strong 4.3-star average rating from over 2,100 reviews. Many reviewers praise the arcade's entertaining variety of games and the fun atmosphere, noting it as a great place to gather with friends or family. Positive feedback often highlights the friendliness of staff, the nostalgic feel of the arcade, and the appealing combination of entertainment with dining options. Customers appreciate the clean, inviting environment and the presence of unique game selections, which make returning visits enjoyable. On the dining side, several locations offering Cajun and Creole cuisine receive commendations for flavorful, generous portions and unique menu items like seafood buckets and tender meats, with some users specifically enjoying the ambiance and the relaxed yet lively setting. Negative reviews tend to focus on inconsistent food quality, describing some dishes as mediocre or heavy, and some mention the need for improvement in customer service or game maintenance. Certain users have cited waiting times or crowded conditions at peak hours. Despite these critiques, the overall consensus is favorable, underscoring Claw Daddy's as an innovative and fun destination that successfully combines arcade excitement with satisfying dining options. The balance of entertainment and food offerings attracts repeat customers seeking a sociable and engaging outing.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Natasha Natasha
I've been eating here occasionally for 6 years now. Every time I do, the food is always tasty and the service is perfect. I usually get the seafood boil with the Claw Daddy's sauce, and it is very flavorful. Add a side of rice and some wine, and you are good to go. I recommend this restaurant to anyone that loves seafood.
Lina
overcooked crab legs so doesn’t crack easily, there are definitely better priced places especially because these legs are small. cajun fries are really yummy tho might come back just for the fries it’s crunchy and flavorful
Chris Rivera
Food is always delicious! Definitely my go-to if I’m in the area.
Kay Layne
2024- Live dj playing during happy hour, can be a bit loud. Seafood boils are really good. They have happy hour oysters and adult caprisuns. 5 star rating spent $50+ 2025- I have visited many times over the last year. I went in May 2025 and it was definitely a disappointment. When I went the first time it was hands down 5 stars. This time around it barely made 2 stars. The drinks were not strong, the seafood boil was very small portioned, included one corn that was very small. The shrimp and crawfish linguine was a disappointment, very bland and it had baby shrimp. The only good thing we ordered at the table was the side mac and cheese 9/10. They also edited their menu and did not have alligator bites which was my favorite! Additional photos added. 2 star rating. Spent-$100+
Marisabel Santiago
Happy Hour all day Thursday!! Oysters both broiled and raw were tasty The snow crab legs were perfect! The adult capri sun was smooth too I liked the ginger and lychee flavors
How to reach Claw Daddy's
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Website: None
Why Claw Daddy's may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Claw Daddy's with your friends? This vibrant eatery offers much more than just a meal—it is an experience tailored for social gatherings and creating memorable moments. If you and your friends are seeking a lively spot where the atmosphere is as rich as the food, Claw Daddy's stands out as an excellent choice. With a solid 4.3 rating from over 2,100 reviews, it is evident that patrons consistently enjoy their time here. The restaurant's New Orleans-inspired vibe makes it a lively, laid-back setting that encourages conversation, laughter, and indulging in flavors that impress. The highlight here is the seafood, served in generous portions and with seriously good seasoning, bringing a taste of Cajun and Creole culture to the table. Whether it’s a casual catch-up or a special celebration, Claw Daddy’s vibrant ambiance combined with richly flavored dishes provides the perfect backdrop to rally your group and enjoy a memorable outing.
What activities can you enjoy at Claw Daddy’s that make it perfect for a group meetup? First and foremost, the culinary experience is designed to be shared. The menu’s focus on fresh seafood like king crab, crab legs, and crayfish is ideal for communal eating, encouraging guests to dig in family-style. Guests rave about the option to try different spicy sauces, which adds an interactive component to the meal, sparking conversations over who picks the best sauce. The restaurant also features a casual yet fun atmosphere reminiscent of New Orleans, with upbeat music and a welcoming environment that energizes group dynamics. The staff is known to be friendly and attentive, adding to the relaxed vibe that makes groups feel right at home. Claw Daddy’s isn’t just a place to eat; it’s a destination where you can celebrate food, friendship, and fun all at once.
Why is Claw Daddy’s atmosphere ideal for hosting a group? The restaurant blends a cool, rustic aesthetic with a friendly and laid-back vibe that reduces the formality of dining out, which is perfect for large groups. You won’t find the stiff, quiet environment typical of many restaurants; instead, you get a bustling, energetic space where everyone can talk and laugh easily. This energetic ambiance aligns well with the food style—bold, flavorful, and unapologetically hearty—which complements the casual social experience. Staff interactions contribute to the ease of group dining, as the servers are praised for being helpful, engaging, and able to handle large orders efficiently. This balance of good food, good music, and good service creates an atmosphere that makes groups want to linger longer and enjoy each other’s company.
What kind of food does Claw Daddy’s serve that draws groups together? Their menu is focused on seafood, especially Cajun-style dishes that bring a spicy, savory, and communal eating experience. Dishes like king crab legs, crayfish, and other shellfish come with spicy sauces and sides that enhance the flavor and encourage sharing. The seafood is fresh, and the seasoning is known to hit the perfect balance between bold and enjoyable without overwhelming the palate. For those with dietary considerations, there are gluten- and dairy-free options that do not compromise on taste. The additions, such as spicy sausages inspired by New Orleans roots, add extra layers of flavor and excitement to the meal. Food here is meant to be experienced together—peeling crab, dipping in sauces, and passing around sides—which naturally creates bonding and lively interaction within groups.
How does Claw Daddy’s accommodate different group sizes and occasions? Whether you’re planning a small dinner with close friends or a larger family reunion, the seating and service at Claw Daddy’s adapt well to your needs. The layout supports groups comfortably without feeling cramped, and the staff is experienced in managing group orders to ensure everyone gets their favorite dishes and drinks quickly. For occasions such as birthdays, casual celebrations, or just a weeknight gathering, the restaurant fosters a festive spirit. The informal yet carefully curated environment can make any event feel special yet uncomplicated. Customers note the convenience of reservations and the accommodating nature of the team, making it straightforward to organize and enjoy your meetup without stress.
What additional experiences does Claw Daddy’s offer to enhance your group outing? Beyond food and atmosphere, Claw Daddy’s creates a sense of community. Many reviewers highlight that the place feels like a family, with a welcoming culture that spills over from the staff to the customers. This communal feeling adds warmth to your experience, turning it from just a meal into a shared celebration. The music and sometimes lively conversations among guests contribute to a spirited atmosphere that can elevate mood and engagement for your group. The restaurant also offers an informal space that makes it easy to socialize before, during, and after your meal. All these elements combine to make Claw Daddy’s more than just a dining spot—it’s a chosen local hub for making memories with friends and family.
In summary, Claw Daddy’s with its flavorful seafood, friendly atmosphere, and accommodating service, makes an outstanding venue for rallying your friends or family. Its unique Louisiana-inspired charm coupled with a focus on group enjoyment sets it apart. Whether you come for the legendary king crab, the fun of sharing plates, or just to soak up a lively and welcoming ambiance, Claw Daddy’s offers the perfect recipe for a successful group meetup. This makes it easy to see why so many choose it as their go-to spot when looking for good food and an even better time with their favorite people.