16 Chain Restaurant Crab Cakes And Their Average Star Rating

Crab cakes at chains can swing from unforgettable to just fine, and that is half the fun. To help you set expectations, I checked Tripadvisor averages for one popular U.S. location of each brand.

Think of these as snapshots, not lifetime verdicts, so you can gauge where to aim when the craving hits. Let’s sort the comforting classics from the upscale stunners and find your next plate.

1. Red Lobster — 4.0/5 (Miami)

Red Lobster is classic comfort-seafood territory, and the crab cakes lean familiar. Expect a seared crust, tender interior, and a creamy dipping sauce that keeps things simple.

When they are on, they scratch that seafood night out itch.

Miami’s 4.0 rating suggests dependable flavor and portion value. You will not get ultra-lump premium meat every time, but you will get satisfying, buttery bites.

Pair with cheddar biscuits and a crisp lager for maximum nostalgia.

2. Bonefish Grill — 4.0/5 (Denver)

Bonefish Grill in Denver delivers a polished-casual take that feels calm, steady, and consistent. The crab cakes typically feature a balanced mix of lump meat and binder with a lightly spicy sauce.

It is a solid choice when you want something dependable rather than flashy.

The 4.0 rating tracks with reliable quality and thoughtful plating. Expect attentive service, gentle citrus accents, and clean flavors.

Pair with a refreshing sauvignon blanc and seasonal sides to round out dinner.

3. The Cheesecake Factory — 4.3/5 (Los Angeles)

The menu is a novel, but the crab cakes land as a savvy detour when pasta fatigue hits. In Los Angeles, a 4.3 rating hints at crowd-pleasing consistency and generous portions.

Expect a well-seasoned crust, creamy interior, and a zesty sauce that makes each bite pop.

It is a social setting, great for groups who want variety. Pair your crab cakes with a fresh side salad, then save room for dessert.

You will leave full and happy.

4. P.F. Chang’s — 3.7/5 (Nashville)

P.F. Chang’s in Nashville sometimes features crab cakes as a fusion-leaning starter.

Think ginger, chili heat, and citrus brightness rather than traditional Old Bay. The 3.7 rating suggests hits and misses, but adventurous eaters can find a fun twist.

Expect a slightly crisp exterior, moist interior, and bold sauce that steals the show. It pairs nicely with a cold beer or a light cocktail.

Go in open-minded, and treat it as a snack before noodles or stir-fry.

5. Ruth’s Chris Steak House — 4.3/5 (Las Vegas)

Ruth’s Chris in Las Vegas serves steakhouse-style crab cakes that lean rich and indulgent. Expect buttery notes, generous seasoning, and a sear that locks in moisture.

With a 4.3 rating, it hits celebratory dinner vibes without overshadowing the steak.

Pair with a crisp chardonnay to cut the richness. The portion size satisfies without tipping into heavy.

You will appreciate the classic presentation and polished service that make dinner feel special.

6. The Capital Grille — 4.5/5 (New York City)

At The Capital Grille in New York City, a 4.5 rating signals refined execution. Expect jumbo lump meat taking the spotlight with minimal filler and a delicate sauce.

The texture is plush, the crust subtly crisp, and the flavors clean.

It is a special occasion pick when you want seafood that feels important. Pair with a mineral-driven white wine and a simple salad.

You will leave feeling you got your money’s worth.

7. Seasons 52 — 4.5/5 (Orlando)

Seasons 52 in Orlando delivers a lighter, fresher vibe, and the crab cakes match that mood. Expect bright citrus, herbs, and a leaner feel that pairs beautifully with salads.

The 4.5 rating suggests dialed-in flavors and careful sourcing.

It is an easy recommendation for date nights where balance and wine matter. The plating is clean, the sauces restrained, and the texture tender.

You will feel satisfied without the heavy aftermath.

8. Yard House — 4.1/5 (Los Angeles)

Yard House in Los Angeles brings a casual energy that calls for a cold beer and crispy bites. The crab cakes lean pub-friendly with a punchy sauce and approachable portion.

A 4.1 rating tells you they often hit the spot.

Expect solid sear, a bit of spice, and a satisfying crunch. It is perfect with something hoppy and a shared appetizer spread.

Come for the game, stay for the snackable seafood.

9. Joe’s Crab Shack — 3.9/5 (Orlando)

Joe’s Crab Shack in Orlando leans hard into comfort and vibes. The crab cakes are approachable, crunchy outside, and saucy inside, built for casual fun.

A 3.9 rating fits a place where atmosphere carries as much weight as technique.

Order with fries, corn, or a bucket for the table, then relax. It is not precious, it is just enjoyable.

You will laugh, nibble, and leave happily full.

10. Legal Sea Foods — 4.2/5 (Boston, Long Wharf)

Legal Sea Foods at Long Wharf carries a seafood-first reputation, and it shows. The crab cakes feature sweet lump meat, restrained binder, and a classic coastal seasoning.

With a 4.2 rating, you can expect steady execution and bright acidity.

It is a go-to for business lunches or tourist dinners near the harbor. Pair with clam chowder to double down on New England comfort.

You will get clarity of flavor and a confident sear.

11. Eddie V’s Prime Seafood — 4.7/5 (Austin)

Eddie V’s in Austin has the highest vibes and a 4.7 rating to match. Expect luxe jumbo lump meat held together lightly, with buttery sauces and refined plating.

Each bite feels composed and confident, ideal for celebrations.

Order a martini or bright champagne to cut through richness. The staff will guide pairings and pacing so dinner flows.

You will remember the texture and the care.

12. Chart House — 3.9/5 (Cardiff-by-the-Sea)

Chart House in Cardiff-by-the-Sea is often a view-with-dinner choice. The crab cakes sit in a classic lane with creamy sauce, golden crust, and coastal garnishes.

The 3.9 rating suggests enjoyable, if not unforgettable, consistency.

Book around sunset, sip a crisp white, and enjoy the panorama. You will get reliable flavors that complement the scenery.

It is a relaxing, slightly upscale experience.

13. Landry’s Seafood House — 4.1/5 (Galveston)

Landry’s in Galveston channels Gulf Coast comfort with familiar richness. The crab cakes bring seasoned crusts, meaty interiors, and a touch of spice.

At 4.1, it hits that satisfying, family-dinner sweet spot.

Expect friendly service, generous sides, and sauces that lean creamy. A cold pilsner or iced tea fits perfectly.

You will taste warmth and tradition in every bite.

14. Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen — 4.4/5 (Houston)

Pappadeaux in Houston brings bold, Louisiana-leaning flavors to its crab cakes. Expect spice, tang, and a punchy Creole mustard sauce that wakes everything up.

With a 4.4 rating, it is a strong bet for flavor seekers.

Portions are hearty, textures are lively, and the vibe is festive. Pair with a hurricane or bubbly to balance spice.

You will leave buzzing, happy, and full.

15. McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood & Steaks — 3.7/5 (National Harbor)

McCormick & Schmick’s at National Harbor offers the dependable seafood-and-steaks formula. The crab cakes show up as a reliable starter with a lemony caper note.

A 3.7 rating signals occasional inconsistency but generally fair value.

It is a business-dinner standby where service steadies the experience. Pair with oysters or a Caesar to start.

You will get classic flavors and a satisfying sear.

16. Mitchell’s Fish Market — 4.1/5 (Brookfield)

Mitchell’s Fish Market in Brookfield keeps things seafood-focused and approachable. The crab cakes are a safer, crowd-pleasing pick with balanced seasoning and a light sauce.

A 4.1 rating reflects steady execution and friendly service.

It is the place for a relaxed dinner where seafood feels central but not fussy. Pair with a citrusy cocktail or clean lager.

You will leave satisfied, with flavors that feel dialed-in.