Rustic Inn Crabhouse

Simple restaurant, with plastic tables and chairs, but I come every time I pass through Fort Lauderdale. I went back for the King Crab that is now impossible to find in Italy. The atmosphere is that of a place frequented practically only by locals. You can eat inside or outside in front of the canal. It's really cold inside with ball air conditioning, so we prefer outside even if sometimes you have to wait a while. This year (2025) I went there two consecutive nights. For two (huge) servings of King Crab $240 including tip. And they're all worth it. He does a snuggle that's hard to forget. The second dinner we had a fried Red Snapper (to share), a slice of Key Lime Pie and two beers for $86 tip included. Fixed stop!

Wonderful meal dining with my husband and brother. The food was delicious and the service couldn’t have been better. Our waitress, Michelle, was excellent.

WOW! We wanted something within walking distance as our room was not yet ready. This was roughly a 15 minute walk from the hotel. Everything was positive! We were given the option to indoor or outdoor seating. We chose to sit outside as the weather was beautiful. We were there during lunch and we felt the prices were very fair. We ordered 6 steamed oysters and a crab sampler plate. There was more than enough food as we walked away stuffed! The food was amazing and we had great service. Our server was very attentive and was quick on drink refills. The kid’s menu has a wide variety and the popcorn shrimp did not disappoint. Highly recommend this place.

I’ve been coming to the Rustic Inn for over 20 years — first with my mom, who has since passed away — so this place holds a very special spot in my heart. Today, my husband and I flew into Fort Lauderdale and came straight here, and I’m so glad we did. David took care of us, and his service was truly exceptional. From the moment we sat down, he made us feel welcome, seen, and at home — even though we don’t live here. His recommendations were spot-on: the conch soup, the mussels, and the fried seafood platter were all incredible. You can tell he knows the menu and genuinely cares about giving guests the best experience. David’s personality, professionalism, and warm energy reminded me why I’ve loved this place for decades. Thank you, Rustic Inn, for staying consistent all these years — and thank you, David, for making today feel special. We’ll absolutely be back.

Located on a canal with outside dining on the deck. Great for families or couples. Specializing in stone crab and crab cakes. Large portions. Attentive servers. Takes reservations. Save room for the jey lime pie.

The restaurant has a really nice and authentic vibe. It feels welcoming and true to its coastal style. The seafood was fresh and well-cooked. Prices are a bit on the higher side. If I could change one thing, I’d love a bit more seasoning to make the flavors pop more. Overall, it’s a pleasant experience and a great place to enjoy fresh seafood in a cozy atmosphere.

Our waitress name was Michelle. She was absolutely fantastic. The food is absolutely great. The crabs are superb. If you want great crabs, this is a place you need to go.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Very attentive and friendly staff. Delicious food!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

One of my favorite spots. Laid back relaxed, and food is always on point.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 4

Service: 4

Recommended dishes: Garlic Crab Sampler Platter, Key Lime Pie

Great atmosphere, staff, and food. We went for dinner in a business trip and we will definitely be back again soon. Crab legs were fresh. We both had the Queen Crab legs. Some of the best I have eaten in a long time! The waitress we had was awesome. She taught me how to use the mallet to crack the shells, something I had only used metal crackers to do in the past. She brought bins to wear to keep out clothes clean too. I honestly didn’t think I would need it because I don’t use the melted butter. Get the bib! I was so glad I had it on once I started using that wooden mallet.

The worst service ever by far , the blond bartender had ZERO customer service , managers also have no customer service … no wonder food ok

Fried oysters were rubbery and just not good. Shrimp stuffed with crabmeat was very average. Service was excellent (Great job, Kevin!) and the atmosphere/location is very nice. Overall, the dining experience is overpriced for the quality of food.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 2

Service: 5

Alway the food anx service here...

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Excellent all Lunch From the start the scrabs were really good and the scintilla better still loved that if they carry wet wipes and alcohol gel for later. If you wash the experience! To repeat the visit.

Laurie was amazing. I will go back just to see her. The pasta dish can feed 9. Go for the Queen snow crabs. Insane. Super fun atmosphere!!! expensive!!!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5