If you love seafood and are always looking for ways to enjoy a delicious meal without breaking the bank, then the Crab Trap Early Bird Menu is for you. Located in Somers Point, New Jersey, the Crab Trap is a beloved restaurant that has been serving mouthwatering seafood dishes for over 50 years. Whether you’re a local or visiting the Jersey Shore, stopping by the Crab Trap to enjoy their Early Bird Menu is a must.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into everything you need to know about the Crab Trap Early Bird Menu, from the food offerings and timings to the reasons why it has become a favorite for diners. We’ll also provide tips on how to get the most out of your experience and why the Crab Trap remains a top dining destination.
History of The Crab Trap: A Local Institution
The Crab Trap is more than just a seafood restaurant; it’s an institution in Somers Point. Opened in 1967 by the Henry family, the Crab Trap has grown from a modest eatery into one of the most well-known seafood restaurants in South Jersey. The restaurant offers a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere for families, couples, and friends, making it a popular spot for all types of diners.
Over the years, the Crab Trap has earned a reputation for serving fresh, high-quality seafood dishes. With its prime location near the Jersey Shore, the restaurant attracts both locals and tourists, and the Early Bird Menu has become one of its standout features. Offering great food at affordable prices, it’s no wonder that the Crab Trap continues to be a favorite among seafood lovers.
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What Is the Crab Trap Early Bird Menu?
The Crab Trap Early Bird Menu is designed to provide guests with the opportunity to enjoy a delectable meal at a discounted price. Available during the early evening hours, this special menu features a variety of the restaurant’s most popular dishes, making it perfect for diners who want to enjoy a full meal while saving some money.
The Early Bird Menu typically includes:
- A choice of appetizers or soups
- A selection of main courses, often centered around seafood dishes
- Accompaniments like salad, bread, or side dishes
- Dessert options (in some cases)
- A drink, depending on the menu deal
The Early Bird specials are available for a limited time during the day, usually between 3:00 PM and 5:30 PM, giving diners a window to take advantage of this offer before the dinner rush. It’s especially popular with retirees, early diners, and those who want a satisfying meal before heading out for evening activities.
Menu Highlights: What to Expect
The Crab Trap Early Bird Menu features a wide range of dishes that cater to different tastes. However, seafood lovers are in for a real treat, as many of the items focus on fresh catches from local waters. Some of the most popular offerings you might find on the Early Bird Menu include:
1. Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes
One of the Crab Trap’s signature dishes, their Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes are a fan favorite. Made with generous portions of fresh, flaky crab meat and seasoned to perfection, these crab cakes are served with a tangy remoulade sauce that perfectly complements the sweetness of the crab.
2. Broiled Salmon
For those who prefer something lighter, the Broiled Salmon is an excellent option. The salmon is cooked to perfection, remaining moist and flavorful, and is often accompanied by fresh vegetables and a choice of rice or potatoes.
3. Stuffed Flounder
If you’re in the mood for a rich, indulgent seafood dish, the Stuffed Flounder is a must-try. The flounder is stuffed with a savory crabmeat mixture and broiled until golden. This dish is a true testament to the Crab Trap’s commitment to quality seafood.
4. Fried Shrimp
Another classic seafood dish, the Fried Shrimp at the Crab Trap is golden, crispy, and absolutely delicious. Served with fries and coleslaw, it’s a simple yet satisfying meal that hits all the right notes for shrimp lovers.
5. Chicken Parmigiana
While seafood reigns supreme at the Crab Trap, non-seafood options like Chicken Parmigiana are also available for those who prefer something different. This Italian classic features tender chicken breasts, breaded and fried, then topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese.
6. New England Clam Chowder
Before diving into your main course, warm up with a bowl of the Crab Trap’s famous New England Clam Chowder. Creamy, rich, and packed with tender clams, this soup is the perfect starter to any seafood meal.
Prices and Value: Why the Early Bird Menu is a Deal
One of the key attractions of the Crab Trap Early Bird Menu is its affordability. Compared to the regular dinner menu, the Early Bird specials are priced at a significant discount, often saving diners 20-30% off their meals. This makes it a fantastic option for families, retirees, or anyone looking to enjoy a delicious seafood dinner on a budget.
While the Early Bird Menu might have fewer options than the full dinner menu, it still offers plenty of variety and generous portions. Most diners find that the portion sizes are just right, providing a full, satisfying meal at a fraction of the cost. This value, combined with the quality of the food, is why the Early Bird Menu is so popular.
Dining Experience: What to Expect When You Visit
Visiting the Crab Trap for the Early Bird special is a wonderful experience, whether you’re a local or a visitor. The restaurant’s casual yet classy atmosphere makes it ideal for a relaxing meal. The friendly staff are always attentive, ensuring that diners are well taken care of throughout their meal.
The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating, so on a nice evening, you can enjoy your meal while taking in views of the nearby bay. The Crab Trap’s location, just minutes from Ocean City, also makes it a convenient stop for anyone spending the day at the shore.
It’s worth noting that the Crab Trap can get quite busy, especially during the summer months when tourism is at its peak. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to arrive early or call ahead to ensure you get a table, particularly if you plan on taking advantage of the Early Bird Menu.
Tips for Enjoying the Early Bird Menu at the Crab Trap
To make the most of your Early Bird dining experience at the Crab Trap, keep the following tips in mind:
1. Arrive Early
The Early Bird specials are typically only available for a limited window of time, usually between 3:00 PM and 5:30 PM. To ensure you don’t miss out on the deals, plan to arrive a bit before these hours so you can get seated and order before the cut-off.
2. Check for Seasonal Specials
The Crab Trap occasionally updates its Early Bird offerings based on the season, so be sure to check if there are any special dishes available. During peak seafood seasons, you might find additional items like local oysters or fresh-caught fish on the menu.
3. Try the Crab Cakes
If you’re having trouble deciding what to order, you can’t go wrong with the Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes. This dish is consistently one of the restaurant’s top sellers and is a true representation of the Crab Trap’s commitment to quality seafood.
4. Pair Your Meal with a Drink
While the Early Bird Menu offers incredible value, don’t forget to treat yourself to one of the Crab Trap’s signature cocktails or a glass of wine. The restaurant has a well-stocked bar with plenty of options to complement your meal.
Why The Crab Trap Remains a Favorite
There’s no shortage of seafood restaurants along the Jersey Shore, but the Crab Trap stands out for several reasons. Its commitment to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients ensures that every dish is of the highest quality. Combine this with its friendly service, inviting atmosphere, and the unbeatable value of its Early Bird Menu, and it’s easy to see why the Crab Trap has remained a favorite for decades.
The restaurant also caters to a wide range of diners, from families and retirees to couples looking for a romantic evening out. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a casual dinner after a day at the beach, the Crab Trap offers something for everyone.
Conclusion: The Best Early Bird Deal on the Jersey Shore
If you’re looking for a delicious seafood meal at an unbeatable price, the Crab Trap Early Bird Menu is hard to beat. With a wide range of dishes, generous portions, and the quality that the Crab Trap is known for, it’s no wonder that this menu has become a favorite for both locals and tourists.
Whether you’re craving a classic crab cake or want to try the stuffed flounder, the Early Bird specials offer something for every palate. Plus, the restaurant’s relaxed atmosphere and welcoming staff make dining here an enjoyable experience from start to finish.
So, the next time you find yourself in Somers Point, don’t miss the chance to stop by the Crab Trap and enjoy their Early Bird Menu. With great food, great value, and a longstanding reputation for excellence, it’s a dining experience you won’t forget.
