The Crab at Bournemouth

Review summary

1. H

   Howard

   Hampshire44 reviews

   3.0

   Dined 1 day ago

   1. Overall 3
   2. Food 4
   3. Service 4
   4. Ambience 4

   The food is very good. The service in the main good. This was Mothers Day but we were there having stayed 2 nights at the hotel for leisure so not a celebration for that. Prices felt a bit high especially considering other meals we had in Bournemouth over the weekend of a similar ilk. One issue was one of us had the Prawn Paperdelle with Asparagus. On eating this the remarks were that the Asparagus was not evident. Having seen a similar plate towards the end of our meal it was realised the Asparagus had been missed off. The reaction was not of an apology but more of “hard luck” you should have told us earlier! Not really the response we wanted. A waiter before we left did apologise but was too late - damage done already.
   

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2. G

   Gary

   Dorset1 review

   5.0

   Dined 2 days ago

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 4

   Duggy (not sure of the spelling) the Bar Manager - was fantastic, he looked after the family very well, was considerate and friendly. The food was fresh and delicious, so a great lunch was had by all the family
   

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3. L

   Lana

   Dorset1 review

   3.0

   Dined 3 days ago

   1. Overall 3
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 2
   4. Ambience 4

   As we came in, we weren’t greeted by any one. It wasn’t long when one of the staff members approached us and without asking if we have reservations just asked to go through and wait in the lobby by the cocktail bar. In the lobby all tables were taken apart from one and it wasn’t cleared from used cups of previous customers. Maybe 5 min later other staff member came over to clear the table and asked if we want any drinks then I said that we have table reservation. He took us to the table straight away. From there service was good, food amazing. It was my boyfriend’s birthday they brought out a plate with happy birthday written on it with lovely brownie, strawberry and cream at the and of meal. Wasn’t much but lovely presentation and just a nice touch. I did mention that it’s a birthday meal when reserving a table but didn’t expect that. On overall experience was good.
   

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4. J

   John

   Yorkshire1 review

   5.0

   Dined on 22 March 2025

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   Excellent night, great service, food out of this world, we had a lovely night thanks.
   

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5. L

   Lawrence VIP

   Berkshire26 reviews

   5.0

   Dined on 8 March 2025

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   As usual, excellent service and excellent food. One of my two favourite restaurants in Bournemouth. It’s a “must visit” if you like seafood. My favourite starter here is the half-dozen fresh oysters.
   

   The Crab at BournemouthResponded on 12 March 2025

   Dear Mr Lawrence, Thank you for your lovely review. It is always a pleasure hosting you and your guests. We look forward to seeing you soon! Kind Regards, Crab Team
   

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6. RK

   RichardK

   London3 reviews

   1.0

   Dined on 7 March 2025

   1. Overall 1
   2. Food 2
   3. Service 1
   4. Ambience 4

   Been coming here for years - it’s really gone down hill - service poor and food not much better - I won’t be coming back
   

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7. HG

   HeatherG

   London2 reviews

   4.0

   Dined on 5 March 2025

   1. Overall 4
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 3

   Dining out of season - so not seeing restaurant at full ability. Food was lovely and very well cooked. Fish/seafood all was fresh. Puddings were delicious and ice cream was surprisingly excellent. Team serving food and drinks were incredibly friendly and efficient. Drinks - not up to par and don’t expect world beating cocktails. Coffee was also so so. Atmosphere- trying hard but not authentic. Overall a lovely place for the food and team work.
   

   The Crab at BournemouthResponded on 12 March 2025

   Dear HeatherG, Thank you for your lovely review. We are always looking to improve and we appreciate your feedback. Kind Regards, Crab Team
   

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8. A

   Alexey

   Lincolnshire1 review

   5.0

   Dined on 4 March 2025

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 4

   It was recommended by a friend. And I'd like to recommend it to others. Overall, it was an outstanding meal. Responsive service, with almost no waiting time, even during peak times. Every waiter was attentive and considerate, and could tell there was effective teamwork. The food was well prepared while the production time was very reasonable. Right seasoning, not too thick or heavy. Ingredients tasted fresh and clean. I ordered 1/2 lobster and was provided with tools including lemon water to clean my hands, absolutely a thoughtful process. You could tell that the food and service were well thought out with attention to detail. The distance between each table was right so it was hardly to be bothered by other's conversation, except if your neighbours were in a hype mood. Thus, it's perfect for a date or a get-together. Personally I don't like the shaking flame but generally the atmosphere was cozy under the dim lights setting. Suitable for taking pictures. Cost would be better if you come with your friends and sharing the dishes.
   

   The Crab at BournemouthResponded on 12 March 2025

   Dear Alexey, Thank you for your lovely review! We are happy to hear you had a pleasant time at the Crab. Kind Regards, Crab Team
   

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9. L

   Lawrence VIP

   Berkshire26 reviews

   5.0

   Dined on 2 March 2025

   1. Overall 5
   2. Food 5
   3. Service 5
   4. Ambience 5

   The Crab continues to offer excellent food, service and value for money. My guest and I received a warm welcome and thoroughly enjoyed our food. The crevettes were served in a delicious sauce, and the moules-frites were similarly tasty and fresh. Thanks to the team who maintain a high standard that keeps me coming back.
   

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10. W

    Wendy

    Devon22 reviews

    5.0

    Dined on 26 February 2025

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 4
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5

    Very friendly and efficient service. Nice food and for a reasonable price
    

    The Crab at BournemouthResponded on 12 March 2025

    Dear Wendy, Thank you for your lovely review. Kind Regards, Crab Bournemouth
    

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