When it comes to indulging in a culinary delight, few things compare to the succulent taste and tender texture of king crab. Native to the icy waters of Alaska, king crab is a prized catch among seafood enthusiasts, and for good reason. Not only is it a rich source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, but it’s also incredibly flavorful and versatile, making it a popular choice for everything from casual dinners to special occasions. But with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide where to get the best king crab in Alaska. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey across the Last Frontier, highlighting the top destinations and eateries that serve up the freshest, most delicious king crab in the state.
The Best Places to Eat King Crab in Alaska
From bustling seafood restaurants to quaint roadside eateries, Alaska is home to a diverse range of establishments that serve up mouthwatering king crab dishes. Here are some of the top destinations and eateries to consider:
Juneau
As the capital city of Alaska, Juneau is a hub for seafood enthusiasts, and its proximity to the Tongass Narrows makes it an ideal location for fresh king crab. Here are a few must-visit spots:
- The Rookery Cafe: This cozy cafe is a local favorite, serving up a variety of king crab dishes, including crab cakes, crab bisque, and even crab-stuffed French toast.
- The Hangar on the Wharf: Located in the heart of Juneau’s historic waterfront, this restaurant offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and serves up a range of seafood dishes, including king crab.
- The Salmon Creek Restaurant: This family-owned restaurant has been a Juneau staple for over 30 years, serving up a variety of Alaskan seafood, including king crab.
Sitka
Sitka is a charming coastal town located on the western coast of Baranof Island, and it’s renowned for its rich fishing heritage and delicious seafood. Here are a few top spots to try:
- The Sitka Fish Company: This family-owned restaurant has been serving up fresh seafood for over 20 years, including king crab, halibut, and salmon.
- The Baranof Hotel’s Silver Bay Cafe: Located in the heart of Sitka’s historic district, this cozy cafe serves up a range of seafood dishes, including king crab, and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
- The Alaska Fish House: This casual eatery is a local favorite, serving up fresh seafood, including king crab, at affordable prices.
Ketchikan
Ketchikan is a picturesque coastal town located on the Inside Passage, and it’s known for its rich Native American heritage and stunning natural beauty. Here are a few top spots to try:
- The Cape Fox Lodge: Located in the heart of Ketchikan’s historic district, this lodge serves up a range of seafood dishes, including king crab, and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
- The Tongass Brewing Company: This brewery and restaurant serves up a range of craft beers and delicious seafood dishes, including king crab.
- The Alaska Fish House: This casual eatery is a local favorite, serving up fresh seafood, including king crab, at affordable prices.
Anchorage
As the largest city in Alaska, Anchorage is a hub for seafood enthusiasts, and its proximity to the Bering Sea makes it an ideal location for fresh king crab. Here are a few top spots to try:
- The Anchorage Fish House: This casual eatery is a local favorite, serving up fresh seafood, including king crab, at affordable prices.
- The Simon & Seafort’s Saloon and Grill: Located in the heart of Anchorage’s downtown district, this restaurant serves up a range of seafood dishes, including king crab, and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
- The 49th State Brewing Company: This brewery and restaurant serves up a range of craft beers and delicious seafood dishes, including king crab.
King Crab Preparation Methods
King crab is a versatile ingredient that can be prepared in a variety of ways, from simple boiled or steamed dishes to more complex recipes. Here are a few popular preparation methods to consider: (See Also: Where to Eat Sushi in London? Top Recommendations)
Boiled King Crab
Boiling is one of the simplest and most popular ways to prepare king crab. To boil king crab, simply place the crab in a large pot of salted water, cover the pot, and bring the water to a rolling boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the crab is cooked through.
Steamed King Crab
Steaming is another popular way to prepare king crab. To steam king crab, place the crab in a steamer basket over a pot of boiling water, cover the pot, and steam for 8-10 minutes, or until the crab is cooked through.
King Crab Cakes
King crab cakes are a popular appetizer or entree that can be made by mixing cooked king crab with breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings, and then forming the mixture into patties and frying them in a pan.
King Crab Bisque
King crab bisque is a rich and creamy soup made by pureeing cooked king crab with heavy cream and seasonings. This is a popular dish for special occasions or as a decadent treat.
King Crab Etiquette
When dining on king crab, there are a few etiquette tips to keep in mind:
Cracking the Crab
When cracking the crab, be sure to use a nutcracker or crab cracker to avoid damaging the delicate flesh of the crab. Start by cracking the claws and then work your way down to the body of the crab. (See Also: Where to Eat in Whyalla? Best Local Spots)
Eating the Crab
When eating the crab, be sure to remove the shell and any other inedible parts before consuming the meat. You can also use a fork to gently pull the meat away from the shell.
Respect for the Catch
When dining on king crab, be sure to show respect for the catch by not wasting any part of the crab and by using all of the meat. This is not only a sign of respect for the fisherman who caught the crab, but also a way to reduce waste and minimize your environmental impact.
Conclusion
In conclusion, king crab is a delicious and versatile ingredient that can be prepared in a variety of ways. Whether you’re looking for a simple boiled or steamed dish or a more complex recipe, there’s something for everyone. By following the tips and etiquette guidelines outlined in this article, you can ensure that your king crab dining experience is both enjoyable and respectful. So next time you’re in Alaska, be sure to try some of the best king crab in the state and experience the rich flavors and traditions of this beloved seafood.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best way to cook king crab?
A: The best way to cook king crab is by boiling or steaming it. This helps to preserve the delicate flavor and texture of the crab. You can also add flavorings such as lemon, garlic, and herbs to the cooking water for added flavor.
Q: How do I crack open a king crab?
A: To crack open a king crab, use a nutcracker or crab cracker to break open the shell. Start by cracking the claws and then work your way down to the body of the crab. Be careful not to damage the delicate flesh of the crab. (See Also: Where to Eat in Johnson City Tx? Best Local Spots)
Q: Can I eat the shell of a king crab?
A: No, you should not eat the shell of a king crab. The shell is hard and inedible, and it can also be a choking hazard. Only eat the meat of the crab, and be sure to remove any inedible parts before consuming.
Q: Is king crab sustainable?
A: King crab is a sustainable seafood option. The king crab fishery is managed by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game to ensure that the fishery is sustainable and does not harm the environment. Additionally, many king crab fisheries are certified by organizations such as the Marine Stewardship Council, which ensures that the fishery meets high standards for sustainability and environmental responsibility.
Q: Can I find king crab outside of Alaska?
A: Yes, you can find king crab outside of Alaska. King crab is also caught in other parts of the world, including Russia and Canada. However, the king crab caught in Alaska is considered to be of higher quality and is often more expensive than king crab caught in other parts of the world.