Crabby Al’s Seafood Restaurant is a hidden gem in Thomaston, Connecticut. With owners, James Kelly, Al Dugan, and master chef Dan Brayton, the restaurant has everything you need for a great evening out. Crabby Al’s offers a range of delicious seafood, steak, chicken, wings, the lobster rolls are huge and succulent and arguably the best burger in the country – plus all the sides you could want. Did I mention a full kids menu? I am putting this on the list as one of the best restaurants in the world because it is every man’s and woman’s restaurant. We will be adding to this story over the next week with staff interviews so come back soon.
When looking for a five-star restaurant experience, there are a few factors to consider. Ambiance is one of the most important factors in creating an unforgettable experience. The atmosphere should be warm and inviting, with luxurious décor and comfortable seating. Top chefs must also be brought on board to create incredible dishes that tantalize taste buds and keep guests coming back for more. A well-stocked wine cellar adds class and sophistication, as does attentive staff who understand the importance of providing excellent service. To make sure that these high standards never slip, restaurants need to invest in quality control measures such as regular reviews from customers or industry bodies so they can stay up to date with trends and customer feedback. When these elements come together, it’s easy to see.
Crabby’s is not a 5-star restaurant, but they can laugh about it all the way to the bank. They are one of the top restaurants because they know their customers. A 5-star restaurant in Thomaston with dinner out priced at $500 would not last. The owners know the customers and their local demographics and cater to that creating a “Cheers” like, everyone knows your name vibe.  To say they hit a home run would be an understatement, it implies a one-time event.  Crabby Al’s has built a team that works together to provide an exceptional customer experience. The atmosphere is cozy and the specials look and taste amazing. Instead of choosing to attract the 1% they chose to serve good, hard-working folks like you and me. The staff is friendly, the food is great and we all show up over and over again. To me, that is something to be proud of. It really comes down to the staff, friendly wins every time! If I had one complaint, it would be that the food deserves a better wine list. This is just another way of saying the food is amazing!
When James Kelley was asked about secrets to success he said, “It would be a big mistake to not credit our manager Cathy Jenkins who’s been with us since day one and is the main reason Crabby Al’s is successful. Not to forget our late partner Phil Andreson whose wisdom, and personality is everywhere! Our entire staff since day one and John Fox who had a large part in establishing our kitchen. And Chevi who is a fantastic chef along with the whole kitchen staff wait staff and bartenders. And finally the BEST PATRONS IN THE WORLD. THANK YOU ALL”
Measured Soul at Crabby Al’s 6 songs 04 21 2023
There’s also live music on weekends to provide the perfect atmosphere while you dine.
Best Burger in the Country: The parking lot is consistently packed and the food is consistently awesome! I moved to town about 9 years ago and stumbled across this spot. I ordered a burger and I can say it is the best in the country! I spent a month driving through 28 states in 28 days, I had alot of burgers so I am calling myself an expert. As with many of the best things in life the recipe is simple, the burger isn’t one of those monster burgers but it is 1/2 pound of mouth-watering black angus, lettuce, tomato, and mayo for $12.99, choice of cheeses for an extra buck, and the bun ahh the bun is grilled lightly in butter so it is crispy on the inside and soft on the outside. For 13 bucks it is consistently delicious and takes my top pick of the country.  I loved the burger so much I moved my real estate office, art gallery and Home & Art Magazine to the second floor.
Don’t forget to check out their art gallery which features works by local artists
and take in the breathtaking views of the waterfront deck when weather permits.
To top off an unforgettable experience, don’t miss Taco Tuesday, karaoke nights and paint parties!
At Crabby Al’s Restaurant, there’s something for everyone. Stop by and experience this Thomaston CT gem for yourself! Come experience the warm hospitality of Crabby Al’s Restaurant today! there is something for everybody.
Oh yeh did we mention wings? WINGADDICTS (S5: E17) Crabby Al’s in Thomaston, CT
OK, so the sign says Crabby Al’s “Seafood.” Who in his right mind would go into a “seafood joint” for wings? Who said we were in our right mind? And we have a winner! What a great spot!
Steve Schappert Founded, and is the broker at Connecticut Real Estate, The Connecticut Art Gallery and Home & Art Magazine  Steve also designed, built, and shipped a zero-energy double-walled home to Germany. Schappert is an abstract painting artist and has painted over 1300 homes. If you are looking for a creative broker that thinks outside the box and has been a recognized expert for over 30 years call or text 203-994-3950
