This New Jersey Shore Shack Serves An All-You-Can-Eat Seafood Feast Locals Call A Summer Tradition
Tucked away in Lower Township, New Jersey, The Crab House at Two Mile Landing has become more than just a restaurant—it’s a full-blown summer ritual for locals and visitors alike.
This waterfront gem serves up an all-you-can-eat seafood extravaganza that keeps people coming back year after year, drawn by fresh catches, stunning marina views, and an atmosphere that screams summertime celebration.
Whether you’re cracking open steaming crab legs or sipping a signature Orange Crush cocktail as the sun sets over the bay, this spot delivers an experience that perfectly captures the spirit of the Jersey Shore.
Waterfront Location That Takes Your Breath Away
Location makes all the difference when you’re talking about a seafood restaurant, and The Crab House at Two Mile Landing absolutely nails it.
Perched right on the edge of a working marina at 1 Fish Dock Rd in Wildwood Crest, this place offers panoramic views that turn every meal into a postcard moment.
You can watch fishing boats glide across the back bay while seagulls circle overhead, and the salty breeze coming off the water reminds you exactly why people flock to the shore every summer.
Most of the seating is outdoors, which means you’re not just eating—you’re experiencing the full sensory package.
The sun warms your shoulders while you crack into crab legs, and as evening approaches, the sky transforms into brilliant shades of orange and pink that rival any Instagram filter.
Reviewers consistently mention arriving around 4 PM to snag a table without the wait, especially those coveted spots right on the dock.
Some seats are literally suspended over the water, giving you front-row access to the marina’s comings and goings.
Bring a hat if you’re sun-sensitive, though most tables have umbrellas for shade.
The location isn’t just beautiful—it’s functional too, sitting in the middle of marshland where local fishermen dock their daily catches, which means the seafood couldn’t be fresher if you caught it yourself.
All-You-Can-Eat Seafood Boils That Keep Coming
Nothing says summer tradition quite like an all-you-can-eat seafood feast, and The Crab House delivers this experience with gusto.
Their seafood boil combos arrive at your table steaming hot, loaded with crab clusters, shrimp, corn, potatoes, and sausage—all seasoned and ready to devour. The beauty of the all-you-can-eat concept means you’re never left wanting more; just signal your server and another round appears like magic.
One reviewer noted ordering the seafood broil combo and appreciated the variety, though they wished it had arrived a bit warmer. The snow crab clusters are a popular choice, though some locals hold out hope for king crab legs when they’re available.
What makes this tradition special is the communal, hands-on nature of it all. You’re not delicately cutting food with fancy silverware—you’re rolling up your sleeves, cracking shells, and getting gloriously messy in the best possible way.
The restaurant provides everything you need: mallets, bibs, and plenty of napkins. Kids love the interactive experience, and adults appreciate not having to worry about portion sizes.
At a price range of thirty to fifty dollars per person, you’re getting serious value for fresh, quality seafood. The all-you-can-eat option transforms dinner into an event, stretching out the meal into a leisurely celebration that can last hours if you want it to.
Orange Crush Cocktails That Define Summer
Walk into The Crab House and you’ll immediately notice tables dotted with bright orange drinks that practically glow in the sunlight.
These are the legendary Orange Crush cocktails, and they’ve become as much a part of the Two Mile Landing experience as the seafood itself.
Made with orange vodka, fresh citrus, and a splash of fizz, these refreshing concoctions go down dangerously easy on a hot summer day.
Multiple reviewers specifically call out the Orange Crush as a must-try, describing it as wonderfully refreshing and the perfect complement to salty, savory seafood.
The bar is well-stocked with everything you need, but locals know to order this signature drink first thing.
The restaurant also offers variations like the Creamsicle Crush and Watermelon Crush, giving you options if you want to mix things up.
One reviewer mentioned the Creamsicle version felt slightly off, but raved about the watermelon, proving there’s a flavor for every palate.
What makes these drinks special isn’t just the taste—it’s the ritual. Sipping an Orange Crush while watching boats drift by and cracking into fresh crab creates a sensory memory that pulls people back summer after summer.
The drink has become so iconic that many visitors consider it part of the authentic Two Mile Landing experience, right up there with the seafood itself.
Crab Cakes That Set The Standard
While many items on the menu shine, the crab cakes at The Crab House have earned themselves a devoted following.
Multiple reviewers specifically mention ordering the crab cake sandwiches and being thoroughly impressed by what arrived.
These aren’t the bread-heavy, filler-packed imposters you sometimes encounter—these are the real deal, loaded with sweet, lump crab meat held together with just enough binding to keep them intact.
The exterior achieves that perfect golden-brown crust that gives way to tender, flavorful crab inside.
Seasoned just right without overpowering the natural sweetness of the crab, they exemplify what happens when a restaurant has access to truly fresh, local catches.
You can order them as a sandwich, as part of a platter, or as an appetizer to share.
One reviewer noted the crab cakes were excellent, using that simple but powerful word that says everything.
What separates good crab cakes from great ones is the ratio of crab to filler, and The Crab House clearly understands this fundamental truth.
Each bite delivers that sought-after crab flavor without being masked by breadcrumbs or excessive seasoning.
Paired with a side of Old Bay fries or a fresh salad, the crab cakes work as a lighter option for those who want the seafood experience without committing to a full boil.
Picnic-Style Seating That Creates Community
Forget white tablecloths and formal place settings—The Crab House embraces a laid-back, picnic-style atmosphere that perfectly matches the casual vibe of a shore town.
Long picnic benches dominate the seating area, creating a communal feel where strangers become temporary neighbors united by their love of seafood.
This high-volume setup means the restaurant can accommodate large crowds, which explains why it’s become such a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
The picnic bench arrangement also makes practical sense when you’re serving messy, hands-on food like crab legs and seafood boils.
There’s no need to worry about ruining fancy upholstery when shells start flying.
Reviewers note that this is definitely a high-volume operation, so expect plenty of company during peak hours. Some people love the energetic, bustling atmosphere, while others prefer arriving during off-peak times for a quieter experience.
The casual seating extends to both indoor and outdoor areas, though the outdoor tables get snatched up quickly thanks to those unbeatable water views.
Families particularly appreciate the relaxed setup—kids can be kids without worrying about formal dining etiquette.
Groups of eight or more can easily sit together, making it ideal for family reunions, friend gatherings, or celebrating special occasions.
The communal vibe actually enhances the experience, creating that summer camp feeling where everyone’s just there to have a good time.
Fresh Local Catches Straight From The Dock
Being located right next to a working marina isn’t just about the views—it’s about access to the absolute freshest seafood possible.
Local fishermen dock their boats at Two Mile Landing throughout the day, and much of that catch ends up on your plate within hours.
This farm-to-table concept, but for seafood, means you’re tasting the ocean at its peak freshness.
The restaurant offers daily catch specials that change based on what’s available, giving you a true taste of seasonal eating.
While one reviewer noted limited catch-of-the-day options that were only available fried, others have praised the variety of local seafood featured throughout the menu.
From grouper to scallops to various types of crab, the selection showcases the bounty of New Jersey waters. The proximity to the source also means the restaurant can maintain competitive pricing on premium items.
When you’re not paying for seafood to be shipped across the country, those savings get passed along to diners.
The commitment to local catches also supports the regional fishing industry, creating a sustainable cycle that benefits the entire community.
Reviewers consistently mention the freshness as a standout feature, with one noting they drove down from Central Jersey specifically hoping to enjoy fresh fish.
While experiences vary, the access to dockside catches gives The Crab House a significant advantage over landlocked competitors.
Stuffed Pretzels That Steal The Show
Sometimes the most unexpected menu items become the most memorable, and the stuffed pretzel at The Crab House definitely falls into that category.
One enthusiastic reviewer specifically called it out as a must-order appetizer, describing it as absolutely delicious.
This creative twist on traditional bar food combines two beloved comfort foods: soft pretzels and seafood.
Imagine a warm, pillowy pretzel stuffed generously with crab or other seafood filling, served with a complementary dipping sauce.
It’s the kind of indulgent appetizer that makes you reconsider whether you really need an entrée.
The stuffed pretzel showcases the restaurant’s willingness to have fun with their menu, offering options beyond the standard shrimp cocktail or clam chowder starters.
It’s also a great choice for groups who want to share something unique while waiting for their main courses.
The combination of textures—crispy pretzel exterior, soft dough interior, and rich seafood filling—creates a satisfying contrast that keeps you reaching for another piece.
Kids who might be hesitant about traditional seafood often find the pretzel format more approachable and fun.
At a restaurant where seafood rightfully dominates the conversation, having an appetizer that generates this much excitement says something special about the kitchen’s creativity and execution.
Don’t skip this one just because it sounds unconventional—sometimes the best discoveries come from trying something different.
Family-Friendly Atmosphere That Welcomes Everyone
Finding a restaurant that truly welcomes families with children while still appealing to adults can be challenging, but The Crab House manages this balance beautifully.
Multiple reviewers specifically mention bringing children and having excellent experiences, with one noting that being seated overlooking the marina was especially great for keeping kids entertained.
The casual atmosphere means parents can actually relax instead of constantly shushing excited children.
The picnic-style seating removes the pressure of formal dining, and the hands-on nature of eating crab legs and seafood boils turns dinner into an activity that engages kids naturally.
Watching boats come and go provides endless entertainment for restless young diners.
The menu offers enough variety that even picky eaters can find something appealing, from fish baskets to fries to less adventurous options.
The restaurant clearly expects and embraces family crowds, with staff described as helpful and accommodating to groups with children.
That said, the family-friendly vibe doesn’t mean the experience feels like a Chuck E. Cheese—plenty of adult groups and couples enjoy the space without feeling overrun by chaos.
The large seating capacity means different groups naturally spread out across the venue.
Locals have made bringing their families here a summer tradition, with some reviewers mentioning they visit regularly year after year.
Creating those multi-generational memories over shared seafood feasts is exactly what makes a restaurant become part of a community’s fabric.
Sunset Views That Create Magic Hour Dining
Timing your visit to The Crab House around sunset transforms a great meal into an unforgettable experience.
Multiple reviewers rave about the sunset views, with one describing them as gorgeous and another timing their arrival specifically to catch the evening light show.
As the sun dips toward the horizon over the back bay, the sky explodes in shades of orange, pink, and purple that rival anything you’d see on a tropical vacation.
The waterfront location means you get unobstructed views of this natural spectacle while you’re cracking into your second round of crab legs.
The changing light casts everything in a warm glow that makes already-delicious food taste even better.
Photographers and Instagram enthusiasts will find endless opportunities for stunning shots, though honestly, sometimes it’s better to put the phone down and just soak in the moment.
The sunset timing also helps you avoid the longest waits—arriving around 4 or 5 PM gets you seated before the dinner rush while positioning you perfectly for the golden hour.
The marina setting adds extra dimension to the sunset experience, with boats creating interesting silhouettes and the water reflecting the colorful sky.
Even locals who’ve seen hundreds of sunsets make a point of mentioning this feature in their reviews.
There’s something deeply satisfying about combining fresh seafood with a spectacular natural display, creating a multi-sensory experience that stays with you long after the meal ends.
Exceptional Service That Keeps Pace With The Crowds
Running a high-volume waterfront restaurant during peak summer season could easily result in overwhelmed staff and frustrated customers, but The Crab House has clearly figured out the formula for maintaining quality service.
Reviewers consistently praise specific servers by name—Hannah, Nico, and others get called out for doing fantastic jobs even when handling large groups.
One reviewer mentioned their server expertly managed a party of eight, getting orders correct and checking in throughout the meal.
The staff is described as helpful, nice, and attentive, which matters enormously when you’re dealing with complex seafood orders and special requests.
Service remains excellent even during busy periods, with food arriving hot and fresh despite the crowd.
That said, some reviewers note occasional inconsistencies—one mentioned their waiter provided good service but they overheard another server giving helpful general information to a neighboring table that they wished they’d received.
These minor variations are understandable in a restaurant of this size.
Wait times are generally reasonable if you arrive strategically, though expect lines during peak dinner hours in summer months.
The staff handles the crowds efficiently, keeping things moving without making anyone feel rushed.
Training servers to maintain composure and attentiveness when the patio is packed and everyone wants their Orange Crush refilled simultaneously is no small feat.
The fact that service quality appears in so many positive reviews suggests management has made this a priority, understanding that great food needs great service to complete the experience.