The Naked Crab™—Frequently Asked Questions

Featuring Carry-Out Seafood & Crabs – the fullest crabs in Ocean City, Md.

Cooking crabs

Our seafood expert, a long-time Maryland waterman, pulls a Naked Crab out of the steamer in the spotlessly clean kitchen.

Naked Crabs are our specialty. They are easy to eat, there is less mess, and the unique preparation process and special seasoning mix impart superior flavor throughout each succulent crab. You’ll wonder why no one though of this before!

Why Naked Crabs?
Good question! Since we have removed the main top shell and all of the crab’s organs for you, it makes it easier for you to access the crabmeat. Less hassle, less mess! Also, our special seasoning can better find its way to the crabmeat. By the way, Naked Crabs are “kid friendly.”
Does The Naked Crab sell female crabs?
No. The Naked Crab only offers male crabs to help ensure that the volume of future crab harvests will remain stable.
How do I open up and eat steamed crabs?
For traditional steamed crabs, follow steps 1-5. For Naked Crabs, follow steps 4 and 5 only.
  1. First remove the apron on the underside, at the center of the crab.
  2. Then pull off the back (the main outer shell).
  3. Remove the eyes, mouth, and organs. Some people also remove the legs.
  4. Remove the large claws and hammer them with a wooden mallet to access the meat.
  5. Use a knife and your fingers to access meat in the main body of the crab.
Is it OK to eat the yellow mustard inside a traditional or Classic Steamed Crab?
The yellow “mustard” is actually an organ that is part of the digestive system. Concentrations of mercury, PCBs, and pesticides may be present in the mustard, although it probably doesn’t cause any harm in small quantities. Our Naked Crabs do not contain any mustard.
Are Naked Crabs and the traditional Classic Steamed Crabs cooked or seasoned differently?
No. Both are seasoned and steamed to order in our steamers, the traditional way.
Do Naked Crabs cost a lot more than the traditional Classic Steamed Crabs?
Our pre-cleaned Naked Crabs are only a couple of dollars more. They’re worth the difference.
Is The Naked Crab open only during the summer months?
The Naked Crab carry-out is open from Memorial Day weekend until the end of October (3:00 to 9:00 PM daily). T-shirts and other items are available from our online store all year.