When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
The Kickin' Crab
Why The Kickin' Crab is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Kickin' Crab is an American restaurant chain specializing in authentic Cajun cuisine, especially seafood boils that encourage a fun, hands-on dining experience. Established in 2010 in Southern California by Jan Nguyen, the restaurant has grown to over 23 locations across the Southwestern United States including California, Texas, Arizona, and Missouri, with plans for further expansion. The venue is known for its casual and lively atmosphere where diners wear bibs and eat with their hands, embracing the messy and interactive nature of seafood boils. Popular menu highlights include heads-off shrimp, crab, lobster, mussels, and crawfish, all offered in flavorful seasoning bags or plated dishes like seafood scampi and gumbo. Starters range from oysters and buffalo wings to coconut sea snails and garlic noodles, while sides feature options such as steamed broccoli, red rice, and French fries, providing variety to complement the main seafood offerings. The Kickin' Crab's welcoming vibe and unique dining style make it a great spot for friends and families looking to share a casual yet memorable meal that celebrates Southern seafood traditions. The butcher paper-covered tables and bibs add to the authentic Cajun boil experience, allowing guests to fully enjoy the rich flavors without worry. Additionally, some locations have started offering options for those who prefer a less messy eating style, accommodating diverse preferences.
Here's what people think of The Kickin' Crab
As of recent, The Kickin' Crab holds a 4.4-star rating based on 348 reviews.
Reviews for The Kickin' Crab present a generally positive view with a solid 4.4-star rating based on hundreds of customer feedback. Many patrons praise the restaurant for its delicious seafood boils that are flavorful, fresh, and generously portioned. The heads-off shrimp is frequently mentioned as a favorite, providing ease while maintaining great taste. Customers appreciate the casual, lively atmosphere that encourages sharing and social dining, often citing how fun it is to eat with friends and family while wearing the iconic bibs. The affordability relative to the portion size and quality seafood also receives commendation, making it an attractive option for group outings and celebrations. On the other hand, some negative reviews highlight inconsistent service and occasional delays, especially during busy times, which can impact the overall experience. A few customers have mentioned that the messiness can be challenging despite bibs and table covers, though this is often seen as part of the fun by most. Some locations have mixed ratings likely due to varying management or crowd levels. Overall, while The Kickin' Crab may not be perfect, its flavorful Cajun seafood offerings, interactive dining style, and vibrant ambiance have earned it a loyal customer base and make it a favored destination for seafood lovers looking for a unique and engaging meal.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Alesha P
I will never come back to this place. The guy was rushing us to order, the food was horrible I ordered shrimp Alfredo which came out on a paper plate , the shrimp still had the tails on ,the food had no flavor ,I ordered a side of broccoli and it was literally just steamed broccoli..we asked for some butter and old bay seasoning which we didn't know we were being charged extra for. That helped a little The wings were also gross. The only thing I did like was the music
mz w
It's on an CRACKIN' at TKC Hollywood! Gonna make you jealous 🤣🤣🤣🤣! Walking in this place the aroma of flavors and savory spices got my attention! Short wait for table, thumbs up! OMGGGGG, this is telling ya' momma it's good! Big shoutout to Van & Justin for taking care of our party! This is the place for 2025!!!!
beatriz salazar
5 Stars – Incredible Service & Experience! Visited The Kickin Crab on 05/24/2025 at 8pm and had an amazing experience. I usually don’t write reviews, but this one definitely deserves some recognition. The service was absolutely top-notch — a man and woman team (wish I had caught their names) went above and beyond the entire night. They were attentive, fast, friendly, and made the whole dining experience seamless and enjoyable. It’s rare to see that level of care and coordination, and it truly made an impression. The food was great as always, but the service really stood out and made this visit exceptional. Highly recommend this place — can’t wait to come back!
Loreal James
on Sunday march 17th i brought my kids here. my nephew ordered the shrimp alfredo pasta which we had no complaints about, my daughter and i ordered each a pound of shrimp potato and rice i also got a corn in my bag. When my order came i peeled the shrimp as i always do first when i go to check my rice it’s completely hard at the top i tell the waitress but i said you know what nevermind because under the hard part when i peele it off was ok. Then i go to taste my shrimo and corn and its just completely overcooked like a few more seconds and it would be burned. Its honestly something I never experienced at a restaurant i contemplate complaining but it just wasn’t a pleasant meal. I grab my waitress (leann) and tell her im disappointed in my meal. She said let me see what i can do. She goes to the back and comes back out and proceeds to tell me to my face i ate half my shrimp and all she could do was half off each bag. Mind you all I really genuinely wanted was her to acknowledge my food was overcooked. She came back to lie to my face and accuse me of eating half the food when i didnt. I tasted 1 but didnt eat half the bag i didnt even have time to after i peeled the whole bag first. i asked to talk to her manager and she said she didnt have one on site all it was was her and the guy who burned my food the cook named victor whom she said did not speak english. Also they do bot have a corporate number only an email over all this was the absolute worst restaurant experience ever and i will never be back. The burned food was one thing but the waitress leann lying on me in my face was a complete whole other do not go here you will regret it. And also the establishment was raunchy y it gave hole in the wall But in a nice neighborhood. i wish there were zero stars everyone needs to be fired.pics are of the top of the rice that was hard that i peeled off the top and wrapped in a napkin and the food she lied and said i ate and over cooked corn do not waste your time or money here
Bronson Austin
The food was great. The staff was very good. I ate my crawfish and shrimp and grilled shrimp tacos. They were so good I forgot to take a picture.😂
How to reach The Kickin' Crab
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Website: None
Why The Kickin' Crab may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Kickin' Crab with your friends? The Kickin' Crab stands out as an ideal meetup spot because it combines exceptional Cajun seafood with a lively, casual atmosphere that invites socializing and fun. Unlike typical restaurants that rely on formal settings, this is a place where you dive right into your meal—no plates or utensils needed—just your hands, a bib, and a boatload of mouthwatering seafood drenched in bold, spicy, sweet, and tangy Kickin' Crab sauces. This hands-on dining experience naturally encourages laughter, interaction, and a sense of camaraderie among friends and family alike. The rustic, welcoming vibe allows everyone to relax and fully enjoy the moment, breaking the ice even in larger groups. Whether you are catching up after work, celebrating a special event, or simply looking for a unique place to share great food, The Kickin' Crab's energetic yet comfortable environment makes it a perfect place for your next gathering. Plus, with two convenient locations in Texas, it’s accessible and ready to serve up unforgettable seafood feasts crafted for sharing.
What kinds of activities can groups enjoy at The Kickin' Crab? While The Kickin' Crab primarily excels as a food destination, it offers several activities and features that make it perfect for group meetups. First and foremost, the interactive eating experience works as an engaging activity itself—getting hands dirty pulling apart crab legs and peeling shrimp creates collective moments of fun and teasing. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience. The restaurant also caters to group sizes by offering communal seating arrangements that facilitate conversation and mingling. Weekly specials and themed sauce options add variety and encourage groups to try different combinations, fueling friendly debates and shared discoveries. Furthermore, The Kickin' Crab hosts casual gathering-friendly hours, including weekend openings from noon to late evening, ideal for brunch, lunch, or dinner meetups. The vibrant, upbeat music and relaxed ambiance keep energy high, perfect for casual conversations or celebrating milestones. Though it is not primarily an event venue, groups can request accommodations or call ahead for larger parties, ensuring a smooth, convivial meetup experience.
Why is The Kickin' Crab the perfect place for a group seafood adventure? The Kickin' Crab’s specialization in Cajun seafood makes it a standout spot for groups looking to explore bold and exciting flavors together. The menu features freshly prepared seafood like crab, shrimp, crawfish, and clams, all cooked to perfection and tossed in their signature Kickin’ Crab sauces that blend spicy, sweet, and tangy notes to satisfy a wide range of taste preferences. This not only offers variety for everyone in your group but also sparks fun interactions as people debate and share their preferred sauce styles. Unlike typical seafood restaurants that require cutlery and individual plating, here you get to dive in freely, fostering a hands-on approach that is perfect for social dining. The use of bibs further adds to the playful atmosphere, encouraging everyone to enjoy the messy, flavorful experience without worry. The casual setting along with generous portion sizes and affordable pricing means groups can feast heartily without breaking the bank, making it accessible for both casual hangouts and special celebrations.
What makes the ambiance and location of The Kickin' Crab ideal for meetups? The Kickin' Crab's ambiance perfectly balances fun, comfort, and Southern hospitality flair to create an environment where groups feel welcomed and engaged. The interior design features rustic wooden tables, cozy lighting, and casual décor that mirrors the hearty Cajun cuisine. This relaxed setup encourages casual conversations, laughter, and the kind of informal bonding experiences that make meetups memorable. Additionally, the strategic locations in Carrollton and Fort Worth, Texas, serve as accessible hubs for friends and families living in and around the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. The Carrollton location is conveniently situated at the corner of Old Denton Road and the George Bush Turnpike, providing easy access for suburban gatherings. Meanwhile, the Fort Worth spot on S. Hulen Street is similarly accessible, making it easy for multiple groups to find it without hassle. Business hours throughout the week support flexibility, with later evenings open until 10 PM or 10:30 PM, accommodating both after-work groups and more leisurely weekend plans. Parking and seating options further enhance the convenience factor for larger parties.
How does The Kickin' Crab cater to different group sizes and preferences? Whether you are planning an intimate dinner with a few friends or a larger family reunion, The Kickin' Crab has you covered. The seating arrangement accommodates various group sizes, providing both smaller tables for intimate chats and larger tables for extended groups wanting to share a feast. The staff is experienced in handling groups and sometimes suggests advance reservations or calls to ensure your party is well taken care of, especially during peak hours. The flexible menu allows for mix-and-match ordering, so everyone can find something to enjoy, whether you want something mild or crave the spiciest of their trademark sauces. The absence of plates and cutoff utensils means everyone can partake in the same communal experience without fuss, promoting inclusion. Also, the rich variety of seafood and sauce combinations satisfies diverse palates and dietary preferences within a group, making it easier to plan without compromise. Overall, the welcoming environment and accommodating service ensure that groups leave The Kickin’ Crab happy and satisfied.
What notable features make The Kickin' Crab’s dining experience unique for celebrations? Hosting a celebration at The Kickin' Crab means embracing a lively, engaging seafood feast that transforms ordinary dinners into memorable experiences. Their distinct no-plates, no-utensils policy means guests will be bonding over cracking shells, peeling shrimp, and savoring sauces straight from the bucket. This informal eating style promotes interaction and a playful spirit among friends or family, perfect for birthdays, graduations, or casual get-togethers. The vibrant flavor profiles of the sauces—the perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and tangy—stimulate conversation and keep guests coming back for more tastings. The bibs provided by the restaurant add to the festive mood, letting everyone enjoy the messy aspects without concern. Moreover, the welcoming ambiance with upbeat music and a bustling yet relaxed crowd amplifies the fun factor and makes celebrations at The Kickin’ Crab feel special and distinct compared to traditional dining venues. This combination of food, fun, and atmosphere ensures your celebration will be talked about for a long time.
What can guests expect in terms of service and value at The Kickin' Crab? Guests at The Kickin' Crab can expect attentive, friendly service that enhances the overall dining experience, especially when hosting groups. Staff members are knowledgeable about the menu and happy to recommend dishes and sauce pairings based on preferences, ensuring every guest’s taste is considered. The hands-on dining approach requires a bit of guidance for newcomers, and the team’s enthusiasm helps everyone feel comfortable from the start. Pricing is reasonable given the generous portion sizes and quality of seafood, providing excellent value for group outings. With specials on certain days and combo deals, guests can maximize their enjoyment without overspending. Additionally, the option for phone orders or takeout at multiple locations makes it easy for groups to plan their meetups conveniently. Overall, The Kickin' Crab delivers a combination of quality food, lively service, and affordable pricing that invites repeated visits from friends and families eager for their next seafood adventure.
In summary, The Kickin' Crab is an outstanding choice for any group gathering due to its unique Cajun seafood dining experience, lively and welcoming atmosphere, accommodating service, and convenient locations. Whether you want to indulge in a boldly flavored seafood feast, enjoy hands-on communal eating, or just chill with your favorite people in a casual setting, The Kickin' Crab offers all the ingredients for memorable meetups filled with laughter, flavor, and fun.