This February, a cherished seafood celebration returns. Anna Maria Oyster Bar proudly hosts Crabapalooza. It marks a highly anticipated comeback for this popular event. The restaurant listens to its dedicated diners. Guests loved Crabapalooza previously. They raved about its unique seafood offerings. Many patrons specifically requested its return. The restaurant happily obliged this popular demand.
Crabapalooza is back for a limited time. It runs from February 10 through April 20, 2026. This festive event celebrates peak crab season. It offers a menu designed for sharing. Diners can enjoy cracking, dipping, and lingering. The celebration spans all six Anna Maria Oyster Bar locations. It brings bold coastal flavors to every table.
This year’s menu features exciting seafood delights. Diners enjoy a truly customizable experience. The Seafood Boil offers a classic taste of the coast. It includes snow crab, mussels, and peel-and-eat shrimp. Guests also select corn on the cob and red potatoes. Garlic bread is served alongside this feast. Diners choose from several seasoning styles. Options range from Old Bay to Cajun. Tajín and lemon pepper are also available. You can even go all in with “The Works.” Delicious sauces like garlic butter or tequila lime elevate the dish. For a lighter yet flavorful choice, the Maryland Style Crab Cake Salad awaits. It features a classic crab cake atop fresh mixed greens. Blue cheese and a zesty remoulade salsa complete this dish.
The Seafood Tower returns as a magnificent centerpiece. This impressive, multi-tiered offering is perfect for sharing. It showcases snow crab clusters and tuna poke. Shrimp ceviche and fresh Gulf oysters are also included. Peel-and-eat shrimp add to the bounty. Several house-crafted sauces complement these selections. These include piquant chimichurri and zesty mignonette. This trending food event truly highlights the best of the coast.
Beyond the delicious food, Crabapalooza offers a vibrant atmosphere. The restaurant’s decor enhances the coastal theme. Seafoam jellyfish lights dangle gracefully. Wooden crab traps add a rustic touch. Teal fish-scale tiles adorn the bar area. Open garage doors invite the coastal breeze. The ambiance is relaxed and fun. It fosters a family-friendly dining experience. This creates a lively backdrop for Chef Will Parard’s seasonal creations. It is a true celebration of coastal dining.
Furthermore, this indulgent event embraces sustainability. Anna Maria Oyster Bar actively participates in eco-friendly practices. They are part of Manatee County’s “Shuck n’ Shell” program. This initiative collects used oyster shells. The shells are then sun-cured and returned to nature. They help rebuild local oyster reefs. This program diverts approximately 40 tons of shells from landfills annually. It is a wonderful way to support marine ecology. Serving oysters directly contributes to reef restoration. This commitment makes dining here a feel-good experience.
Anna Maria Oyster Bar has a rich history. Founded in 1995, it started on the Anna Maria City Pier. Over nearly three decades, it has grown significantly. Today, six locations serve the Bradenton-Sarasota area. The brand is known for “Five Star Fun.” It consistently earns awards for best seafood and atmosphere. The restaurant group also supports community initiatives. This dedication solidifies its role as a coastal staple. The current news showcases its ongoing commitment to great food and guest experiences.
Crabapalooza offers a perfect excuse for indulgence. It is a chance to celebrate all things crab and oyster. The event encourages sharing and enjoyment. Guests can experience incredible coastal food. They can also appreciate the restaurant’s commitment to its community. Visit Anna Maria Oyster Bar soon. Experience the vibrant flavors and festive spirit. It is a must-try dining trend on the Florida coast.
