Why The Kickin’ Crab LH is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family

The Kickin’ Crab LH is a lively seafood boil restaurant that provides an inviting atmosphere for friends and family to gather and enjoy a flavorful Cajun dining experience. Located in the Creekside Center near Alamo Drafthouse, this location brings the beloved California-based chain's signature style to the Lake Highlands area. The restaurant is designed with a beach crab boil vibe, featuring communal dining with paper tablecloths and plastic bibs, encouraging a casual and engaging meal shared family-style. Their specialty is the "seafood in a bag," where fresh seafood such as clams, crawfish, mussels, shrimp, Dungeness crab, lobster, and crab legs are boiled with sausage, corn, and potatoes, then tossed in your choice of six garlic butter-based seasonings with varying spice levels. Alongside the hearty boils, The Kickin’ Crab offers plated dishes like fish tacos, raw oysters, fried calamari, Cajun edamame, and coconut sea snails, complemented by beer and wine selections. Whether it's a casual lunch or a relaxed dinner, guests can expect a vibrant environment and generous portions perfect for social meals.

Here's what people think of The Kickin’ Crab LH

As of recent, The Kickin’ Crab LH holds a 4.7-star rating based on 867 reviews.

Customer reviews for The Kickin’ Crab across several locations highlight its fresh and flavorful seafood, particularly praising the quality of the crawfish and the distinctiveness of the Kickin’ seasoning. Positive feedback frequently mentions the friendly and attentive staff, the cleanliness of the venue, and the enjoyable atmosphere where music and the casual dining style enhance the experience. Several reviewers note that the portions are generous and the seafood is notably fresh, supporting the reputation for authentic Cajun flavors. However, some negative reviews point out that prices can be on the higher side and that certain menu items, like the oysters in one reported case, lacked flavor. A few reviewers also mention that the interior ambiance may feel more fast-food-like than upscale. Despite these critiques, the consensus is that The Kickin’ Crab offers an overall satisfying dining experience with a unique seafood boil concept that many find addictive and worth returning for. The restaurant's energetic, social dining format combined with quality food keeps guests coming back, making it a popular spot in each community it serves.

Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)

Oluwanifemi Grace Kolawole

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Really enjoyed the soft shell tacos. Tiffany was super nice and made us a great lemon drop. The drinks were amazing, loved the mango margarita. The music selection was on point too.

Christy Veneroni

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

The food is delicious and flavorful! I enjoyed the experience with having my seafood boil out on the table rather than on a plate. With people coming in and out, the flies sneaking in made it challenging to eat. I went on a day where they were out of alcohol on the limited drink menu so I had a beer. Our server was attentive and professional. Overall, it was a great experience! I would definitely go again.

Dana Walker

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

First visit, so we were checking the menu for a bit. We were cordially greeted at the door and promptly seated. Luckily for us because a large party arrived shortly after. Our server, Ashley, did a wonderful job servicing not only our table but practically a dozen others. The atmosphere was that of a well lit juke joint; the music was really nice to the ears. The shrimp tacos were outstanding! The kickin' wings were really tasty. We were given a complimentary order of fries that had us grabbing handfuls at a time. The snow crab legs were a different story. Most of the crab legs were actually hollow!!! That's why I could only give 3 stars for the food.

Marina Prado

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Our first time being here and it’s didn’t disappoint! Ashley aka Miss Cookie was on point with the service! Not only was our waiter great, but the rest of the servers were nice. The food came fresh and hot! We got the Kickin seasoning with medium spicy and it was chefs kiss! The fries were on point, they came out crispy and warm! Overall will come back to this establishment!

Michael G.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Food was on point. Not very busy at all yet the waitress never seemed to make her way back to our table not even once during our almost hour stay. Ordered the 95 dollar bag, you would think service would be a little better and the staff would at least be a bit attentive but nooooo. Won't be back to this location whatsoever because of that. At least come by the table to speak every say 20 mins or so.

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Why rally at The Kickin’ Crab LH with your friends?

If you’re searching for the perfect spot to gather your friends or family for an unforgettable social occasion, The Kickin’ Crab LH offers an atmosphere and experience that is hard to beat. At this Cajun seafood restaurant, every detail is designed to bring people together—whether to celebrate, catch up, or just enjoy great food in a relaxed setting. Here, the dining style encourages you to shed formalities: no plates or utensils, just paper tablecloths, bibs, and the shared joy of eating seafood straight from the bag with your hands. This casual, communal style naturally fosters conversation and group interaction, making it ideal for meetups. The vibrant, beach-themed décor enhances the laid-back vibe, radiating a festive, coastal energy that instantly lifts spirits as soon as you walk in. With a remarkable rating of 4.7 from 867 reviews, the positive feedback reflects consistent customer satisfaction with both service and food quality. The extensive menu boasts fresh, spiced seafood like Dungeness crab, crawfish, shrimp, and lobster alongside tasty sides and starters, accommodating a wide range of tastes across your group. The Kickin' Crab LH isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a social hub where great food and fun collide to create memorable gatherings for all ages and occasions.

What activities can you enjoy at The Kickin’ Crab LH, and why is it perfect for group meetups?

The Kickin’ Crab LH offers more than just dining; it’s an experience that engages your senses and encourages shared enjoyment. The centerpiece is the signature "seafood in a bag" — a boiling pot of seafood delights bursting with bold Cajun spices drenched in garlic butter sauces. When your bag arrives, the real activity begins: tearing open the bag to pour the steaming, flavorful mix onto the butcher paper covering your table, ready for hands-on eating. This interactive eating style breaks down barriers and fuels lively conversation, laughter, and communal fun with friends or family. Besides the classic seafood boils, the menu offers a variety of starters like fried calamari, raw oysters, and Cajun edamame, perfect for sharing and sampling different flavors. For those who prefer a less messy option, plated dishes like fish tacos and coconut sea snails are available. The Kickin’ Crab LH also provides alcoholic beverages such as beer and wine, enhancing the social experience, especially for adult groups. The casual, family-style setup, combined with the festive, beach-inspired décor, makes it not only a meal but an event—ideal for birthdays, casual get-togethers, or simply a fun night out. This communal and relaxed vibe, paired with the freshness and quality of the food, makes it an excellent venue to enjoy quality time together.

How does the dining style at The Kickin’ Crab LH enhance group interaction?

Dining at The Kickin’ Crab LH is intentionally designed to maximize group engagement and enjoyment. Unlike conventional seafood places that provide plates and utensils, here you eat directly with your hands, using bibs to catch the flavorful mess. This informal approach eliminates dining formalities and encourages diners to loosen up and interact more freely. The tables are covered with butcher paper, and food is served in large bags that you spill out and share family-style. This style facilitates a sense of togetherness that is rare in many restaurants because everyone is actively involved in the meal experience. Sharing seafood boils provides an opportunity for everyone to dive in, discuss which seasoning they like best (six garlic-butter-based sauces with varying spice levels), and pass around different types of seafood like mussels, crab legs, and shrimp. This tactile, collaborative way of eating fosters conversation and shared pleasure that strengthens bonds, making your meetup more enjoyable and memorable. This hands-on experience is especially great for groups who want to avoid the distractions of phones or individual orders and instead focus on camaraderie.

What makes the menu at The Kickin’ Crab LH ideal for groups with diverse tastes?

One of the key advantages of The Kickin’ Crab LH for group meetups is the menu’s broad variety, which caters to many different palates and dietary preferences. The main attraction, seafood boils, can be customized with different types of seafood—Dungeness crab, king crab legs, shrimp, crawfish, and mussels—allowing groups to select their preferred mix. The six unique garlic butter-based sauces come in five spice levels, ranging from mild to raging hot, so everyone from spice lovers to those preferring milder flavors can find something to enjoy. Complementing the boils are a variety of sharable starters like fried oysters, Cajun wings, and even fried shrimp, which provide excellent finger foods to munch on while waiting or for those preferring less messy fare. For those who want a plated meal, options like fish tacos and coconut sea snails offer a break from the boil but maintain the Cajun seafood theme. The sides—such as Cajun fries, red rice, and steamed broccoli—round out the meal and accommodate different tastes and dietary needs. The flexibility to mix and match dishes allows groups with varied preferences to eat well together without anyone feeling left out.

Why is the location and ambiance of The Kickin’ Crab LH ideal for meetups?

Situated in the bustling Creekside Center at 6770 Abrams Road at Skillman in Lake Highlands, The Kickin’ Crab LH benefits from both accessibility and a lively neighborhood environment. Being adjacent to popular venues like the Alamo Drafthouse adds to the convenience for groups who might want to combine dining with entertainment in one outing. The restaurant’s décor embraces a relaxed, coastal beach crab boil vibe, featuring rustic wooden tables, nautical accents, and an open, airy layout that encourages communal dining and relaxed socializing. This ambiance creates a festive yet cozy atmosphere that invites everyone to unwind, enjoy the food, and focus on the company. The bright, informal setting with paper-covered tables and bibs makes it easy for groups to let loose and not worry about etiquette. Operating hours that cover weekday evenings and full weekends offer flexible scheduling options for groups planning casual dinners or weekend celebrations. This location also benefits from abundant parking and easy access via main roads, making it hassle-free to gather friends and family. The overall atmosphere strongly supports a fun night out free from the stiff, formal setting some seafood places might have.

How does The Kickin’ Crab LH’s reputation and customer feedback support its appeal for group gatherings?

With an outstanding customer rating of 4.7 out of 5 from over 860 reviews, The Kickin’ Crab LH has earned a solid reputation for quality food and an enjoyable experience. Reviewers frequently praise the freshness of the seafood, the generous portion sizes, and the variety of bold, flavorful sauces that make each boil unique. Guests also highlight the friendly, attentive staff who are helpful in explaining the menu and enhancing the overall experience, which is especially important for those visiting for the first time. Many reviewers mention how the casual, communal dining style makes it perfect for groups, as it turns a meal into a social event. High ratings consistently suggest that groups—whether families, friend circles, or coworker meetups—find the atmosphere welcoming and the food consistently satisfying. This strong positive feedback offers reassurance that your gathering will be both delicious and entertaining. The positive reviews coupled with the chain’s successful growth across several states reinforce the restaurant’s stable quality and appeal, enhancing its attractiveness for anyone planning a meetup.

What additional benefits does The Kickin’ Crab LH offer that enhance group meetups?

Beyond the exceptional food and ambiance, The Kickin’ Crab LH offers several practical benefits that make it a smart choice for group outings. The portions are generous and intended for sharing, which can make dining more economical when split among several people. The hands-on eating style means no need to worry about complicated orders or special utensils, lowering the stress for large groups. The restaurant provides bibs and a casual setup that minimizes cleanup or mess concerns, making it friendlier for families with children or more informal meetups. Their menu includes non-seafood items, such as Cajun wings and chicken tenders, catering to mixed dietary preferences or picky eaters within your group. The restaurant’s beer and wine selection adds an option for toasting special occasions or relaxing after a long week. Lastly, the proximity to other venues like movie theaters or shopping centers means your meetup can be extended before or after your meal, turning the outing into a full-day social event without excessive travel hassle.

In summary, The Kickin’ Crab LH offers a unique combination of communal dining, flavorful Cajun seafood, accessible location, and casual, inviting atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to rally friends or family for a lively, delicious, and memorable group meetup.

Don't just take our word for it. Check out these other websites for more info on the The Kickin’ Crab LH

• https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g32122-d8621319-Reviews-The_Kickin_Crab-Buena_Park_California.html
• https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g33260-d5008992-Reviews-The_Kickin_Crab-Westminster_California.html
• https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g57041-d15793993-Reviews-Kickin_Seafood_Cajun_Style-Layton_Davis_County_Utah.html