Pincers at the ready for Claw's winter residency at The Three Compasses in Dalston

We had always thought that crabs came after drinking, but that relationship doesn’t apply at Claw.

Here the partnership between shellfish and alcohol is all positive – there’s nothing remotely itchy about it. Missionaries for preaching the gospel of the humble crab to Londoners, Claw has just started a new residency at The Three Compasses (99 Dalston Lane) with a delightful selection of burgers and sides and a brunch menu for the weekends. The samphire burger is sandwiched in an organic brioche bun with a powerful salsa as well as the marine greenery. But crab aficionados beware: while the sauce is tangy and delicious, it’s also very powerful. The poor crab just doesn’t stand a chance.

 

A photo posted by CLAW (@clawfood) on Nov 26, 2015 at 12:52am PST

Barbecued octopus is also delicious: delightfully tender and with just enough gherkin to balance out the sweetness of the sauce. While we don’t think we’ll be swapping the mighty beef burger for its crustacean counterpart any time soon, the burgers at Claw did make us pause and consider it. If only for second, while licking our fingers clean.

Claw serves up until January 31 2016; Monday to Saturday from 5pm-10pm, plus brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 11am-4pm.

Fancy something a bit more festive? Take a look at the best Christmas sandwiches ranked best to worst.