This Minnesota Riverfront Spot Serves Crab Cakes Locals Say Are Unbelievably Good For The Midwest
Crab cakes in Minneapolis that make coastal snobs do a double take?
You bet.
Smack Shack, tucked along Washington Ave in Minneapolis, Minnesota, dishes seafood with swagger in an industrial-chic space that hums from lunch to late night, and those golden crab cakes are the craving that keeps calling.
After a Target Center doubleheader just a few blocks away, I wandered in for a bite and left plotting my return before the check even hit the table.
The Famous Crab Cakes
First bite, instant hush.
The crab cakes at Smack Shack arrive seared and confident, with a citrusy pop that makes you sit up a little straighter.
You get lush crab up front, a whisper of spice in the back, and a crispy edge that proves the kitchen respects a good sizzle.
One night, I split an order and immediately regretted sharing.
The remoulade plays wingman without stealing the show, and a squeeze of lemon snaps everything into focus.
Locals keep calling them unbelievably good for the Midwest, and honestly, that feels like underselling it.
Order them as a starter or make them the headline.
Either way, they never last long on the plate.
Pro tip: pair with a bright cocktail and call it a perfect riverfront moment.
Lobster Roll That Rivaled My East Coast Trip
Prepare for a roll call worth attending. Smack Shack stuffs its signature lobster roll with generous chunks, lightly dressed so the sweet meat does the talking.
The toasted bun gives gentle crackle, and the cucumber bites keep things bright.
I tried it after hearing a Seattle transplant rave at the bar, and the comparison game stopped after the first bite.
It is coastal quality without the coastal airfare, and it lands alongside Cajun fries that disappear alarmingly fast.
You might plan to share, then suddenly forget how math works.
Get it cold or warm depending on mood.
Either version plays nicely with a crisp drink or zippy white.
When the plate clears, the only question is whether to order another.
Happy Hour Hooks You In
Deals that reel you in are not just rumor here. Happy hour brings oysters, peel-and-eat shrimp, and smartly priced drinks that make weekday afternoons in Minnesota feel like tiny vacations.
The bar team moves fast while keeping it friendly.
I slid onto a stool right at the bell and watched trays of oysters glide by like runway models.
Fresh, briny, and gone too soon, they paired perfectly with a tart cocktail that I suddenly needed a second of.
Portions lean generous, which means sharing becomes a sport.
Bring friends, grab a high top, and let the clock slow down.
With prices this good, sampling a few favorites becomes a plan.
Leaving without a smile in Minnesota becomes nearly impossible.
Shrimp N Grits With Serious Swagger
This bowl has main character energy.
Plump shrimp, creamy grits, and a sauce with just enough zing create a comfort food chorus that hits every note.
The texture play is spot on, and the seasoning respects the seafood.
I ordered it on a server recommendation and sent silent thanks after the first forkful.
The heat does not shout, it smolders, and the richness keeps you chasing one more bite.
If you think Midwest grits need rescuing, this dish changes the story.
Pair it with a light salad or go full cozy with a bisque starter.
Either way, you win.
The leftovers, if any, taste even better the next morning.
Atmosphere Built For Good Times
Energy meets ease the second you walk in.
The space blends industrial lines with warm touches, offering indoor tables, a roomy bar, and outdoor seating when the weather behaves.
Music hums, conversations buzz, and service keeps the pace relaxed.
I grabbed a patio seat once, noticed a wobbly table, and watched staff fix it before my drink even settled.
That kind of attention sets the tone for laid back fun.
Groups fit in easily, dates find their corner, and solo diners get a welcome that feels genuine.
Come for a quick bite or linger through dessert.
The vibe flexes with your plans.
By closing time, you will wonder how the hours vanished.
Plan Your Visit Like A Pro
Timing is everything when cravings hit.
Smack Shack runs from 11 AM most days and stays open late on weekends, which makes spontaneous seafood more than possible.
Parking can be tight, but valet and lucky street spots save the day.
Book ahead for peak nights or roll in early for happy hour glory.
I once squeezed in between events downtown and still felt unhurried, thanks to smooth service and quick pours.
The website keeps menus current, and the phone line is handy if you have questions.
Keep the budget in the $$ sweet spot and plan to explore beyond the crab cakes.
Oysters, mussels, and daily specials keep the rotation fresh.
Just remember to leave room for key lime pie.