Crack Open Fresh Dungeness Crab for the Holidays
Indulge in a true Morro Bay tradition this holiday season! Caught locally in our clean coastal waters from late November through late spring, Dungeness crab is now available in local fish markets just in time for your Christmas and New Year’s celebrations. Known for its distinct wide, dark-purple shell, this local delicacy offers a clean, delicate, slightly sweet flavor similar to lobster, but with a softer texture. Take the stress out of holiday meal prep and spend less time in the kitchen by ordering pre-prepared crab in advance, already cooked, cleaned, and cracked. Simply pick it up and bring it back to your room or vacation rental for an elegant, effortless, and delicious festive dinner!
Where can you order fresh dungeness crab?
Giovanni's Fish Market & Galley
(805) 772-2123 | 1001 Front Street
Giovanni’s Fish Market has been family owned and operated in Morro Bay for over 25 years and has a great reputation in the community. Dine out on Giovanni’s patio or if you’d rather do the cooking yourself, you can buy Crab LIVE or COOKED on the spot, or call ahead of time and they’ll have your order ready when you get there. You can also stop by the live tank out front to see the Dungeness' purple shells firsthand.
Tognazzini’s Dockside Too Fish Market
(805) 772-8120 | 1235 Embarcadero
Tognazzini’s Dockside Fish Market takes great pride in offering the highest quality local seafood available. Boats arrive to their dock daily. Catches are transferred directly from the boat to the case where you can pick your crab or cut of fish and its preparation. Enjoy your meal on the outdoor patio as live music floats through the salty air or purchase fresh seafood back at your home. Call for the catch of the day items.
Discover more fresh, local seafood options on our Seafood Page
How far in advance do you need to pre-order?
During the holidays be sure to place your order 48 hours in advance of pick up. After the festive season has past, only an hour or two notice is necessary.
How much should you order?
Plan on about one crab per person if you’re serving crab as a main or one crab for every two guests as an appetizer.
Wondering what to pair with your holiday crab?
Keep it simple with drawn butter, lemon, and old bay seasoning, or spice it up with a variety of dipping sauces. If you want to enjoy a chilled beverage with your crab, try a local buttery chardonnay, the traditional New Year’s glass of champagne, or craft wheat beer which all pair nicely without overpowering the delicate crab meat.
For New Year’s, celebrate like a Morro Bay local with a table full of fresh Dungeness crab. Tasty and easy, you can’t go wrong with crab for the holidays! Cooked, cleaned, cracked, and ready for you to ring in the new year Morro Bay style.
