10/19/09

Im glad I didnt pay attention to the bad reviews

by angsgirl

We had a fabulous time, and I almost didnt go because of the bad reviews this place had gotten. The atmosphere was fun and loud. The service was excellent, friendly, upbeat. The food was perfect. We had crab nachos (not what you expect but yummmmmm) and shared The crab feast steam pot. The red pot.s were good the sausage tasted boiled, but we werent there for sausage. We were having such a good time we closed the place down and not one person looked at us impatiently or started vacuuming like most places will. They kept saying not a problem and were happy we were happy. We cant wait to go back.

• Pros: Yummy Mai Tais
• Cons: A long drive for us is the only bad thing I can write

06/17/09

great view, thats it

by chefmikey01

First the bartender on duty can't mix drinks, our waiter had to go back and try again on my wifes mojito. Garlic bread appetizer was ok but not worth the price, seafood enchiladas tasted like seasalt enchiladas, overall, a very bad and expensive outing. I will never go back to Joes Cra p Shack!! If you want river views and decks just go next door to Who-song and Larrys.

• Pros: on the river
• Cons: kitchens food

06/01/09

Not half bad.

by lcpio2010

Let's get one thing straight right away: Joe's Crab Shack is a chain restaurant. Aka lower your expectations! With that in mind...

I went with my aunt, aunt's friend, and cousin this evening. I am always wary of chain restaurants and had some reservations about Joe's, but it surprised me. The crab was good, very meaty and one bucket was adequate for my cousin and I to split. It was cooked fine. I couldn't taste the seasoning, but I love plain dungeness crab dipped in butter regardless. The sides were a little skimpy. Got a refill on our drinks no problem. Service was friendly. And the location is awesome; it was so nice to relax and chat with good people outside on the deck overlooking the Columbia River.

The only downside was the price. I admit, it was way too expensive for what you got. But to be fair, that is how most chain restaurants are.

So here is my recommendation: if you go here, keep in mind that it is a chain restaurant. It is tacky, loud, and the food will not be winning an award anytime soon. But for a relaxed atmosphere, decent grub, and good views, this place isn't half bad. If you want white tablecloths and caviar, go elsewhere and let the rest of us middle Americans enjoy it.

• Pros: Decent food, great views, fun atmosphere
• Cons: Overpriced