The best places to devour fresh stone crabs in Miami

What is it? The most famous crab shack in Miami—and possibly the entire state of Florida. Joe’s is an institution. Old-school servers dash back and forth in coats and tails. There are no reservations. And the food—from the reasonably priced fried chicken to the very pricey stone crabs—is all delicious.

Why go? You go to Joe’s for the experience. It is a time machine of Miami decadence and hospitality, where you will leave full, dazzled and happy. 

What is it? Time Out Market’s seafood counter does everything from oysters and lobster rolls (pictured here) to fresh claws. 

Why go? Salt & Brine is not messing around for its first stone crab season. Chef Christian Plotczyk is sourcing his claws from nearby Florida City and pairing them with his house-made Chinese mustard mayo. After years of the regular sauce, we think it’s time you dipping in something new.

What is it? London import Novikov showcases its stone crabs in the restaurant’s seafood market, a focal point for diners who can pick their favorite fish—or in this case, claw—from what’s on ice in the actual dining room.

Why go? Novikov’s sauce game is strong. Get (market price) claws with your choice of creamy nori, ginger and sesame vinaigrette, or mustard yuzu goma. Lunching on a Friday or Sunday? Pair your claws with a $23 bottle of Whispering Angel.

What is it? A no-fuss riverfront restaurant that is basically a Miami landmark at this point. This is one of those places that has enough regulars and loyal customers to fill a stadium. Why? Because the product is fresh as can be, occasionally coming off the owners' own fishing boats.

Why go? With the restaurant’s onsite market, you can take some home.

What is it? Monty’s is a Coconut Grove happy hour tradition but during stone crab season there’s more reason to come down to the waterfront tiki restaurant than just strong frozen drinks. Monty’s offers stone crab claws priced per piece, ranging from $8 to $28 for the jumbo size. Stop by during happy hour, weekdays from 4 to 8pm, and score medium claws for just $5. 

Why go? The sun is setting, you’ve got a rum runner in your hand and your server just plopped a pile of stone crab claws down on the table. This could be you.

What is it? A family-run joint that dates back to 1943. Unlike some of the fancier options above, there is no dress code at this neighborhood favorite. Come in a bathing suit and flip-flops. Just make sure you’re hungry.

Why go? Because on a nice night, Golden Rule’s impressive backyard tiki hut is the perfect place to crack open some claws.

What is it? An upscale surf and turf joint catering to Brickell’s collective fancy taste. On a budget? Stop by the restaurant’s Stone Crab Lounge from 3pm to 7pm Monday through Friday and 4pm to 7pm Saturday and Sunday for half-price drinks and appetizers.

Why go? For a rib-eye and a large order of fresh claws. Find some excuse to celebrate. You deserve it.

What is it? A flashy surf and turf joint perfect for an anniversary celebration or your dad’s birthday. The lobster is generally the star of the show here but you’ll see plenty of South Florida stone crabs being carried through the elegant dining room during season.

Why go? Starting October 17, the restaurant offers jumbo and colossal stone crab claws, when available, sourced locally from the Florida Keys as well as the Bahamas. Pick your favorite from the ice display and get ’em solo with sauce, as part of a seafood tower or cooked inside your favorite Grille dish. 

What is it? A very good reason to make the drive up to Fort Lauderdale. Find this fancy restaurant inside the gorgeous Ritz-Carlton. You can see the ocean from the dining room, which somehow makes the stone crabs taste better. We have no proof of this. Just a hunch.

Why go? Because the crabs are served with an amazing mango mustard for dipping. Ask for an extra.

What is it? An institution in Miami’s Pinecrest neighborhood and a hidden gem you’ll be glad you found. If it’s stone crabs you’re after, you’ll find them as a starter cocktail ($19 for 1/2 pound) or sold by the claw at market price.

Why go? Because Tuesday is two-for-one Maine lobster night! Stone crabs and lobster? Sounds good, huh?

What is it? We love everything about this cute Little Havana seafood spot, which does everything from its namesake mollusk to fresh Florida stone crabs during season. Pair a couple of claws with a coconut mojito (because you are in Little Havana) and say a quick little prayer of gratitude that you’re lucky enough to be in Miami for the seasonal feast.

Why go? Check the chalkboard menu for daily raw bar specials and make your own seafood tower from the day’s catch. 

Because you need a nightcap.