Stone crab is a delicacy that is highly prized for its succulent, sweet meat and is found in the waters of St Pete, Florida. But why is this particular type of crab considered such a delicacy? In this blog post, we’ll explore the reasons why stone crab is so highly sought after, including its scarcity, flavor, and appearance. We’ll also delve into some tips on where to find the best stone crab in the area. So if you’re a seafood lover or just curious about this tasty treat, read on to learn more about stone crab in St Pete, Florida.
Preserving Stone Crabs
Because of its abundance of seafood, Florida is a popular state for its seafood delights. Florida also has a unique type of crab that is only found on the east coast. They are called Florida stone crabs. The government regulates that these crabs can only be harvested between the 15th of October and the 15th of May to prevent over-fishing. They are therefore a scarce commodity.
Only certain sizes of stone crabs are allowed to be harvested. After the crabs have been captured, the larger claws of the crabs can be cut and the crabs are then released back into the ocean. They can re-grow their claws within two to three years. When you buy a stone crab, you are one of few people in the world who get access to them, therefore they have become a fine delicacy.
The claws of crabs contain a lot of meat. Although the meat tastes a lot like lobster, it is quite different. This is to ensure that the claws retain their best flavor. However, this is not always true. They may need to be preserved as they aren’t harvested for most of the year. They are delicious and people love to eat them, so preservation must be done. Although it can be difficult to preserve crab claws, it is easy. To preserve the crab claws for a long period of time, you will need to keep them below-freezing temperatures.
St Pete Stone Crabs – A Delicacy
They are a rare treat because not many people can provide ready-to-eat meat. Stone crabs are also very rare due to their short life expectancy. You can’t buy stone crabs that have been fished for more than 24 hours or from outside of legal fishing seasons.
Stone crab is a delicacy that is highly prized for its succulent, sweet meat and is found in the waters of St Pete, Florida. But why is this particular type of crab considered such a delicacy?
Scarcity
One reason is its scarcity. Stone crabs are found in the Gulf of Mexico and along the Atlantic coast, but they are most abundant in the waters off the coast of Florida. However, despite their abundance in this region, stone crab is still considered a delicacy because the claws are harvested and then the crab is returned to the water, allowing the claws to regenerate. This sustainable harvesting method ensures that the stone crab population is not overfished and allows for a continuous supply of this tasty treat.
Flavor
Another reason that stone crab is so highly prized is its flavor. The meat of the stone crab is sweet and tender, making it a favorite among seafood lovers. It is often served chilled, either as a standalone dish or as an ingredient in salads and dips. Stone crab claws are also a popular choice for dipping in sauces such as mustard or cocktail sauce.
Appearance
But it’s not just the flavor that makes stone crab a delicacy. Its appearance also sets it apart from other types of crabs. The claws of the stone crab are large and impressive, with a mottled brown and beige color that is distinctive and visually appealing. This makes them a visually striking and impressive addition to any seafood platter.
If you’re a seafood lover visiting St Pete, Florida, be sure to try some of the local stone crabs. It’s a delicacy that you won’t find anywhere else and is sure to become a new favorite. Whether you choose to have it served chilled with a dipping sauce or as part of a salad or other dish, stone crab is a must-try when you’re in the area.
Where to Find the Best Stone Crab in St Pete
If you’re in search of the best stone crab in St Pete, look no further than Cap’s Steamer Bar and Grill. Located in downtown St Pete, this seafood restaurant is known for its fresh, locally sourced seafood and its commitment to sustainability.
At Cap’s St Pete, stone crab is a customer favorite. The restaurant sources its stone crab claws from local fishermen who use sustainable harvesting methods, ensuring that the crab population is not overfished. The claws are then expertly prepared by the restaurant’s chefs, who use a variety of cooking techniques to bring out the natural sweetness and tenderness of the meat.
In addition to serving stone crab claws as a standalone dish, Cap’s St Pete also incorporates the delicious meat into a variety of salads, dips, and other dishes.
But the stone crab at Cap’s Steamer is just one of the many reasons to visit this popular restaurant. The menu also features a wide variety of other seafood options, including oysters, shrimp, and fish, as well as non-seafood dishes for those who prefer something different. All of these delicious options can be enjoyed in the stunning alfresco dining setting. The outside dining features tables with breathtaking views of the city, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a drink or a meal while taking in the natural beauty of the area. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual drink with friends or a more upscale dining experience, Cap’s has something for everyone.
So if you’re in St Pete and looking for the best stone crab in town, be sure to pay a visit to Cap’s Steamer Bar and Grill. You won’t be disappointed.
Dine With Us Today
Cap’s Steamer Bar & Grill is the ultimate destination for seafood lovers in St Petersburg, Florida. With its wide variety of delicious seafood options, expertly crafted cocktails, and stunning alfresco dining setting, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a memorable meal with friends and family. So if you’re in the area and looking for a seafood restaurant that truly stands out, be sure to book a reservation at Cap’s Steamer Bar & Grill. We can’t wait to welcome you and treat you to the freshest and most delicious seafood in town.
You can view our complete menu here. We are open from 5 pm to 10 pm on Wednesday through Sunday. Make a reservation now and enjoy the freshest seafood St Pete has to offer!