My eyes were bigger than my stomach because the crab cakes were bigger than expected! I mean, 4oz doesn't sound like much, does it? But when that's 3.9 oz of crab meat and a wee speck of filler, wow, do you get (wait for it FILLED up fast! Not that I didn't try to eat my delicious cream of crab soup...and not that I didn't polish off two delish crab devilled eggs... And, hey, don't judge me for also having some of the shrimp salad (which is not usually a favorite, but certainly is now! . This non-descript, family-run little spot is a fantastic place and is my new go-to for all things crab. I'll definitely be working with them to get some fresh fish, too!
We hadn't had steamed crabs in a couple years and I'd recently discovered Hard Shell so decided to give their crabs a try. We ordered a dozen medium and were more than happy with what we got. At least 13 or 14 medium crabs, perfectly seasoned and steamed and full of meat. I stopped in the day before to order, I don't know if it's necessary to pre-order but I'd suggest it just in case. Delicious!
I have picked up HardShell multiple times. always just caught, noted by the light yellow row, vs dark brown. always HEAVY!!, can barely pop down a dozen X-large between the 2 of us. there are several places that do deliver...begins with R, ends with L, DO NOT!. Never have I had a light, re-cooked, dead-cooked crab from HardShell. Better than cantlers, mikes, or any other. 30 year MD native.
By far the best crabs within 15+ miles of Columbia MD. ALWAYS full. Mustard is always pale yellow (a sign of freshness). At most crab houses the 2 of us have to order 2+ dozen large, here we are sated at 12....pushing it when we get 1.5 dozen. Perfectly cooked, not over seasoned.
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Love the crab cakes here! They don't come cook but just 8-10 minutes in the oven or airfryer and you're good to go. Super delicious and the price is perfect. If in the area, a great place to stop by.
Picked up a dozen large to cook at home today, very pleased! Good size, very lively (one tried to escape across the yard! , nice and full, sweet and meaty. Highly recommend!
Had a large party and we ordered 2 bushels. Hard Shell has great customer service. And the large crabs were excellent! Seasoned very well.
The best steamed blue crabs! They’re always packed with meat, regardless of their size. The prices are reasonable, and it’s takeout only.
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Got a couple dozen large male crabs this past weekend and Hard Shell Crabs were on point! I'd highly reccomend them!
Steamed crabs were delicious on Monday night! It was our first time and we will certainly be back!
