At This New York Harbor Restaurant, The Skyline Views Are Just As Memorable As The Seafood
Brooklyn Crab offers more than just seafood; it delivers a full sensory experience where the skyline steals nearly as much attention as the menu.
Locals and visitors gather to savor fresh catches, buttery lobster rolls, and perfectly fried calamari while soaking in views of the water and cityscape.
The lively atmosphere, friendly service, and unbeatable scenery make every visit feel like a mini celebration, proving that great food and unforgettable views go hand in hand.
1. Elevated Dining Experience – Literally
Built on wooden stilts about 10 feet above street level, Brooklyn Crab offers more than just elevated cuisine.
This clever design choice proved crucial during Hurricane Sandy, allowing the restaurant to escape serious damage when much of Red Hook was underwater.
The raised structure creates a treehouse-like atmosphere while providing practical protection against coastal flooding. Plus, standing tall means better views for everyone!
2. Three Levels of Seafood Heaven
Your dining adventure unfolds across three distinct levels, each offering its own vibe. The rooftop dining area steals the show with unobstructed skyline views and harbor breezes.
During summer months, enjoy the open-air experience as boats drift by. When temperatures drop, heaters keep things cozy so you can savor those same views year-round.
Each level offers a slightly different perspective on the water and city beyond.
3. Play While You Wait at Reed Park
Who says restaurants can’t be playgrounds too? Adjacent Reed Park transforms your dining wait into pure fun with mini-golf, cornhole games, and casual hangout areas.
Grab a drink from the private bar while waiting for your table. The separate snack kitchen means you won’t go hungry during intense cornhole tournaments. This playful addition makes Brooklyn Crab perfect for families, friend groups, and first dates looking for more than just dinner.
4. Seafood Served in Buckets
Forget fancy plating – here, the best dishes come in buckets! Heaping portions of fresh crab are delivered in metal pails, creating that authentic seaside experience.
Roll up your sleeves and prepare for a deliciously messy feast. The raw bar showcases fresh oysters harvested from local waters.
Brooklyn Crab embraces casual dining while maintaining serious quality standards for their seafood, proving that memorable meals don’t require white tablecloths.
5. Statue of Liberty Watching You Eat
Few restaurants can claim Lady Liberty as a dining companion. From Brooklyn Crab’s strategic vantage point, the iconic statue stands clearly visible across the harbor.
As evening falls, watch the statue illuminate against darkening skies while ships pass silently by.
This million-dollar view comes complimentary with your meal. Many first-time visitors come for the food but return repeatedly for these unparalleled harbor views.
6. A Hurricane Sandy Survivor Story
When Hurricane Sandy devastated Red Hook in 2012, Brooklyn Crab had just opened its doors.
While neighboring businesses suffered catastrophic damage, the restaurant’s elevated design proved remarkably prescient.
Waters rose dramatically throughout the neighborhood, but the main structure remained safely above the surge.
This survival story added to the restaurant’s legend and demonstrated the practical wisdom behind its distinctive architecture. Today, it stands as a symbol of Red Hook’s resilience.
7. Finding This Hidden Waterfront Gem
Located at 24 Reed Street in Brooklyn’s Red Hook neighborhood, Brooklyn Crab sits slightly off the beaten path.
The journey is part of the experience – many visitors combine their meal with exploring this historic waterfront district. Doors open at noon daily during season, though hours vary seasonally.
The slightly remote location keeps tourist crowds manageable while creating a genuine neighborhood feel. Locals know to arrive early on summer weekends when tables fill quickly.