Reviews seem a little harsh but could be seasonality driven. We were here on a nice day in Dec - good service and food/pricing were in line for the Joe's chain. Best part of the restaurant was the amazing ocean-side view of Dolphins at play - also, wait-staff very versed with Gluten-free needs Would recommend giving it a shot for a premiere view (or if you are a Joe's fan)
(3)
Lisa H.
A few weeks ago not long after eating lunch here I got very sick and had to be hospitalized for food poisoning. I can not say that it absolutely came from here however I honestly feel that it did and from what my doctors told me. I can not prove it. Their corporate office wouldn't even reimburse me for my $35 meal because it would be admitting to guilt which they will not do, so their customer service sucks as well as their food. Mediocre food, snobby servers who rarely check on you and don't bring out what you asked for to begin with, very overpriced!! Beware!! I won't be going back. I have been here many times and not for great food but because it is the only place to eat outside if you are lucky enough to get a booth and see the ocean. After this experience, I won't be going back.
(1)
Bill C.
It is what it is. Go for the atmosphere and the pretty upbeat waitresses. Food is only okay. Most of my party of 7 had fried stuff. Some over breaded, some over cooked, some just right; but all of it perfectly edible. Grilled fish was slightly overdone but the orange sauce on it was delicious. Loved the local brew on draft (Intuition I think). The place is right on the ocean, so I'm assuming the overhead accounts for the inflated prices.
(3)
Thomas A.
LOVE LOVE LOVE this place. The food is always so Delicious. Its has been PACKED each Saturday I have went so you may have to wait a little while for a table. The staff is all really fun and outgoing, they dance around the restaurant every few minutes and everyone just laughs and has a god time. Prices are average but its right on he beach so that is another awesome point. 'The Shack' even bought several parking lots out front so you don't have to deal with finding a spot...even better its free. Make sure you try the Crab dip as an appetizer. At $12 its on the pricey side; but it is worth every penny!
(5)
Hunter P.
Welcome to Joe's! Oops, sorry, wrong restaurant. Got Crabs? Check. Got Steam pots? Check. Got dancing wait staff, ice cold beer and a killer beach location? Check, check and check. From playful waitresses hollering "oh noo!!! it's a Shark bite!!!!" while pouring red grenadine into a blue cocktail to the provocative labeling of the lobster bibs. This place is just fun. Been here many times so this is less of a review and more of an endorsement. I will provide some tips; Sit outside when the weather is good. Don't touch the rails ($%*&@ seagulls!) Two words: Coconut Shrimp. Be prepared to wait. Steam pots are big, and delish. Get up and dance dammit! If you have kids, get the paint your own crab. Tip your wait staff for the show as well as the service. Order the crab, duh. Wash your hands when returning from the bathroom. If you drink, don't drive (or text, for god sakes, don't text!) Crazy good crab dip is actually crazy good. Don't steal the zipper. Beach cruisers have the right a way, even if they don't there going so let 'em. Don't get a steak, okay? If you must, get the surf and turf burger. Geez why do I even bring you here? Did I mention the coconut shrimp? The dipping sauce is awesome! Buy me a t-shirt, please, please, please?
(3)
Florida S.
Food was mostly fried, few vegetarian options. Drinks were REALLY watered down and expensive. Great beach feel and atmosphere, but far from a good dining experience. Mason jars for drinks are a nice idea, but wish drinks were better.
(3)
Holli D.
Went with my fussy two year old and the wait staff was so good to him. He loved the dancing. The food was good and when my sons order was messed up they brought him extra food instead of taking it away. He loved the playground and you can't beat the view.
(4)
Leriza P.
BBQ Dungeness ;9 I love Joe's. People complain about the dancing and fuss, I think it's what makes the place fun. Loved the new mason jar drinks, yummy! If you're looking for some place quiet and intimate, you need to look elsewhere. If you're looking for something fun and laid back, something to laugh about and people watch, you found it.
(5)
Kristina H.
Holy crap i felt like i needed to be wheeled out of here after eating. The wait was crazy long and it was uber packed. But the drinks were good and the food was perfect. A little pricey but well worth it. Get the steam pots. Nothing else.
(4)
Tiffany V.
I like Joe's a lot but this one was far below par. The food was alright but the service was awful. I went here a while ago and I tipped the waiter 10% because he was simply not very good and when I left he chased after me and yelled from the door "You forgot your change". I would never go back there and I haven't been to any other Joe's since simply because that experience was so awful.
(1)
JD M.
I have to say, when I was working in Jax I really enjoyed going to this restaurant. It's always busy, has a good vibe and the staff are very friendly. However, since my last visit it has become clear that part of the appeal is eating on the beach surrounded by bikini's...lol. ;) The crab legs themselves are nothing spectacular (we have far better here in Aiken) and the meals are kind of pricey for what you get, in all honesty. It wasn't bad food, just very expensive dining for what is really just dressed up, rather ordinary seafood. The whole time my wife and I ate our meals, we talked about how we'd prefer just visiting our own local seafood place for better seafood. Hey, I calls 'em like I sees 'em. ;)
(2)
Michael M.
We ate at Joe's on Friday April 12th and will not return. It was our first and last time. The wait was said to be 15-20 minutes and was 1 hour and 21 minutes. Our waitress was Taylor and we only found out when we asked a passing waitress who was supposed to serve us since we had been sitting at the table for 15 minutes. Taylor took our order and then disappeared. We had to ask for water as no drinks were served. When our meal was brought by another waitress it was not what we ordered. We said immediately that we had not ordered fries but the onion stings as a side and that person then advised Taylor. In about 5 minutes she came out and said that the onion strings were being prepped and would be out shortly. They never came! We had to also ask for silverware which was brought after the food. We had to request ketchup for the fries..... By then we were done being patient and I spoke to Taylor and advised she would not be getting a tip and that we were very unhappy with the service. Her manager came out to apologize and offered us a free coupon for our next visit which I politely declined and said no need to waste your time we will not be back... A terrible and expensive experience.....
(1)
Rachel F.
The family of four came here in July while on vacation. It is directly on the beach and while part of the restaurant is under construction leading many to believe it's closed, once you head closer to the beach, you realize it's open. The restaurant has its own parking lot, which is wonderful, but I highly recommend arriving here earlier than 5:00 as there are large groups, limited seating due the construction. Other patrons were getting restless as were my kids after swimming, and I'm sure due to the off and on rainy weather. The day/early evening we went was half off cocktail specials. Some of them are large and a bit strong. I recommend some food in your stomach. The food is great. We got fried cheese, garlickly mussels, mahi tacos, my daughter had the Ribeye steak medium rare which was perfectly seasoned and cooked to order, and my other daughter had the KJ Pot, which was great, but I thought the scallops were burnt and small. The major complaint would be the mussel shells were broken and sharp despite how good they tasted. I was concerned I broke part of a tooth and one of the sharp shells almost went down my throat. My bairdi crab, which is my favorite, was excellent. Our waiter was mostly excellent with the exception of repeatedly correcting me on how I pronounced "Bairdi crab". Some words are pronounced differently depending on where you're from and it's asinine to be constantly (and arrogantly corrected) in front of your family. I recommend this restaurant.
(4)
Carolyn S.
Really crap!! I would not send an enemy here to eat. Cold gross food served not once, but twice... Over priced everything...crowded because??? I have no clue...I think if you are drunk and don't care and have no clue of what seafood should be ... Aimless unconcerned management ... Servers who are superb, unfortunately left holding this nasty bag... Offer of gift certificates refused...why bother, we will never return.
(1)
Shenika L.
Great drinks love the this place just small and always crowed loads of fun for first timer recommend coming during slow time like during middle of week
(3)
Jean L.
Came in on a Saturday afternoon and of course it was crowed which is to be expected. Food was decent but the conversations were better.
(3)
K A.
The waiter was great Eric, the crab balls are really good. I am not a big fan of JC,however family loves it. The prices are Normal for crabs. Fish is not the best.
(3)
Laranda L.
This place was right on the beach which is a major bonus!! The crab nachos were delicious too! I ordered the Cajun crab pot and was disappointed in the amount of food I received but for the price I guess I could kind of understand. You get small portions of crabs and shrimp and potatoes and a link of sausage. Overall this establishment was great and the servers were friendly I would definitely eat here again!
(4)
Kofi C.
After an hour wait to be seated, and another 55 minutes after placing our order for 3 of 9 plates to arrive, The fried food was served cold while the servers proceeded to dance the night away to funk tunes and country line dance songs. Over time, we sat and watched hungry and bothered by all the extras Joe's is known for without a chip or biscuit offered while we waited. This could have been fun. "The History" I come from NY and spent many years in Maryland so I'm typically not going to seek a place like Joe's Crab Shack for fresh seafood... unless highly recommend. Somehow, I have managed to avoid Joe's until this weekend's trip to Jax Beach, when a group decision brought me here. It was Saturday night and there was a music festival right outside, so it was expectedly packed. We had an hour's wait to be seated, but was lead to believe that Joe's was so much fun, it's worth the wait. "So sorry!" There was nine in our party and six were under age between 8-17. We're all seafood lovers, but this was set up to be a major fail when you arrive hungry with many children to a crowded theme restaurant during peak hours. Fortunately, the server was decent and apologized for all the issues we experienced including our checks that arrived with an extra order or two discovered, but he kindly offered to bring over the manager after bringing this to his attention. The manager cut our bill from the ridiculously overpriced to an average night out dining with the kids. Credit to Joe's, that they made it right, but I'm good with this as a one time experience and will continue to seek the one off seafood restaurants in coastal towns known for their great food without the hype. Lesson learned.
(2)
Katrice S.
While my family was visiting me, I took them to the beach for the Jax Beach Art Walk. While there we enjoyed the art of local artist, the birds on the beach, and the nice ocean breeze. Right smack dab in the middle of Jacksonville Beach is none other than Joe's Crab Shack. I haven't eaten there in a while because from what I could remember, they always left my belly feeling unsatisfied. Well the "Twos Day" sign in front of the restaurant grabbed our attention and let's just be real, it was kind of a deal we couldn't refuse. $2 bucks for some of our favorite treats?!?!? Uh, yes please! We decided we would stay for a few hurricanes and some $2 snacks to hold us over until dinner. We tried just about all of the specials. The little crab fritters were pretty tasty! They had little bits of crab and all of the yummy onion-y flavors that come with a hush puppy. I liked the dipping sauce as well. The little popcorn shrimp & fries were nothing too fancy but I guess you couldn't expect much more for $2 bucks! We also ordered one of my all time favs, fried crawfish. I would've been happy with a bucket of these :)! For a couple of bucks each, you couldn't beat this for a mid-day snack after hanging at the beach. I guess Joe's is not so bad. I would go back for the $2 deal anytime!
(3)
Arletta H.
BEST experience right on the Ocean....Crab legs with cajun spice...We had the Crab pot along with stuffed mushrooms and clam chowder. We could not have picked a better day to go.The weather was great, we sat on the patio to enjoy the Ocean breeze and sunshine. I DEFINITELY recommend this Joe's because of the food, service and location. Our meal price was less than $80 excluding the tip, not to bad.... We did have to chase the pigeons away, they're pretty bold beware! OTHERWISE Eat and drink up!
(4)
Michelle S.
I went to this location once with my husband and asked to sit outside. After a short wait, we were asked if we preferred a shady table or one with sun, as both were available. We chose shady, sat down and ordered our food. After our drinks came out, the server came over to us and said we would have to move to the sunny table because someone with a reservation had arrived and they wanted the shady table. We had already been sitting down for 10 minutes!! I asked to speak to the manager who also insisted that we move and made a scene in front of other guests, accusing us of being difficult because we "didn't even have a reservation." We said we would leave and cancel our order, then they weakly offered us a free appetizer if we stayed. Are they serious?! I will never eat at any restaurant in this chain again -- their training is clearly lacking.
(1)
Rebecca B.
Had a work party for 30+ with more than ample heads up-Planned weeks in advance. Noisy, crowded, loud, couldn't hear the person sitting next to me. Only 2 servers assigned to our party. Slow to take orders and even slower to serve. Did not receive drink ordered after hours and repeated requests; mussels app came with cold bread, only about half of mussels opened. And, no plates or bowls to share. Ill prepared mangement for a large party on a Friday night with subpar food. Server never came to take dinner order so we didn't order and went to the bar across the street. Never again.
(2)
Jen B.
So yummy a little crowded but that's expected its on the beach lots of kids here too. But overall it was so good and the view is amazing good service also
(5)
Kayla D.
I love the atmosphere and their drinks are AMAZING! However, the wait gets excessive and everything is overpriced because it's Joe's. I always go there for the crab. The few times I got shrimp it was overcooked. If you like the fun atmosphere and drinks with good crab, I'd say go! But if you're looking for some serious seafood, seek elsewhere. I still like going.
(3)
Nicholas S.
You know you like a restaurant when you become a Yelp Regular within two days... I should preface this review by saying I'm not really a seafood person so I'm basing this mostly on my friends' reactions. Firstly, the food was pretty good. I'd say maybe a little overprice for the quality, but it's definitely not bad and you get a good portion sizing. The service was really wonderful. Tracy and Katherine were extremely friendly and went above and beyond more than most waitresses. That being said, service was a little slow. We ended up being there for about a total for 2 hours. However, we did have a large group of 11 people. It's got a great location and atmosphere too! It is DIRECTLY on the beach so you can throw together your beach stuff and walk right up for lunch. It has both a beautiful porch area and indoor air conditioned dining room. Perfect for groups! HIGHLY recommend the Great Balls of Fire. Definitely our favorite part of the meal!
(4)
Meagan R.
Seriously the worse food EVER! Took my kids here yesterday to eat. I had the fish tacos, barely any meat, stale tortilla shell and DRY. My son had a kids meal that was cold and the waitress didn't come to our table for drink refills at ALL! If you want to get drunk, go here and enjoy. ...if you want to have a meal, McDonald's is better in comparison.
(1)
Ranisha J.
Great friendly staff. Placed my order and got it no later than 10 minutes. The drinks were good. Since it was breezy, we ate inside and not on the patio. Clean restaurant and bathroom. It's awesome to be able to complete your meal and walk out to hear the calming beach waves.
(5)
Paula S.
Beautiful day and we were in area so decided to grab late lunch/early dinner. Chose to eat outside and view the beach/ocean. Loved the outdoor atmosphere! I had frozen piña colada which I thought with a touch more rum it would be fantastic but it was really good. I love spice so had the steamed shrimp ! Delicious. Cooked properly and loved the old bay seasoning along with the cocktail sauce which definitely had a kick. The hush puppies were perfect for me also. Bits of jalapeño peppers. Enjoyed it very much and thinking .... I need to go back .... Tomorrow.
(4)
Ferbs J.
The one star is for the great view on the deck. If you order anything to eat, you will be sorely disappointed. The only decent item is the mason jar rita's, which are generous and pretty tasty and strong. So, you're having a few of those, enjoying the beach breeze, and in a weak moment you are tempted by the crab buckets or steampots you see the tourists wrestling with at other tables, but DON'T DO IT. Do not waste your $$$ on the crazily overseasoned, crackly, dried out, frozen seafood that come in those buckets. If you must line your stomach, get the clam strips, or fries, which are also frozen, but won't be such an expensive disappointment. Enjoy the view, get sunburned and drunk, but don't eat.
(1)
Danielle F.
Arrived after a Florida sky cry. Kids played on the playground while we waited for a booth. The playground fixture is broken and tied off with bungee cords and ropes in some areas. Okay okay play at your own risk I get but that is a little too risky for me. Autumn was our server and she was courteous and quick. She explained that the storm had caused some issues with the POS system and things were running a little hectic. We ordered the bisque and a double dip. Both arrived and were warm. We needed another round of chips because the portion was really small & they didn't have that crisp freshness that new chips should have. Kids had a pizza with broccoli which apparently he enjoyed because it was gone in less than 15 minutes & a steam pot. My husband ordered the Biard BBq style and I had it steamed. We had to wait a bit for someone to bring us utensils, plates, etc. Biard is touted as this rare catch and only here for a limited time. It really was just the beefier version of a snow crab but with a heftier$. Everything was good as usual. Kids ordered the rice Krispy to decorate and a smores for the table. I usually have the Key Lime but opted to share the smores instead. It could be really nice but the cake was frosty inside and the marshmallows were warm and not toasted & it was covered with Hershey syrup. Next time I would just order the sauce on the side and the marshmallows extra toasted because who doesn't love a smore?!?!
(4)
DJ J.
Ate there last night with my wife. It was next door to our hotel so we walked over to check it out. I had never been to Joe's but my wife had. 45 minute wait to get an indoor seat so we opted to sit outside at the bar. Kyle, the bartender was very nice and attentive but needed help back there as he was too busy for a one man show taking care of the bar and some tables. We started off with peel and eat shrimp which was good but not worth $18. I had the Dungeness Crab Pot and my wife had the Bairdi Crab Pot. We shared and both were very tasty. Overall it was a good experience, Kyle did an awesome job taking care of us considering going he was in the weeds. The food was good but a little over priced and not worth 5 stars.
(4)
Sharon S.
My daughter wanted to go to Joe's for beachside dining and I reluctantly agreed. I recalled going a while back and was just not impressed. However, I really did want to eat while watching the ocean because it was just so darn pretty outside. The waitstaff was extremely friendly and we received our meals shortly after placing our orders. Impressive considering the crowd they had. I find that ordering crab legs from places such as this is a total ripoff and refuse to do so. Especially when I can go to a local seafood market, purchase three times as many of them for the price I would pay at Joe's, prepare them at home, and eat as sloppy as I want in the privacy of my own home. Therefore, I ordered a platter, which included crab stuffed shrimp, A fried fillet (which reminded me of a Gordon's patty) and a crab-cake. The meal was good, but I personally feel it was overpriced for the quantity of food. I was also not so impressed with my cocktail, the Mason Jar Margarita. Me loves a good cocktail, but this one was way off. With the beautiful weather we are now experiencing, I will definitely be returning to the Beach for seafood dining. However, I do not intend to be a frequent Joe's patron. Sure it's a fun and friendly place, but there is so much better at the Beach to experience.
(3)
Nyla S.
Their Great Balls of Fire are definitely in my top 3 favorite foods! Cream cheese, Crab, shrimp and jalapeño fried in a ball and served with perfection. The calamari was shaky but the service and other food made up for it.
(5)
Brian H.
Went to Joe's crabshack for my birthday. It was a Saturday afternoon, we called ahead and they did not take reservations however they would let you call 30 minutes ahead of time for seating. So that's what we did and we arrived within 30 minutes and we were seated immediately. Our server, Brian, was very attentive polite and knowledgeable of the menu. We ordered an appetizer of the lobster nachos. They were delicious with a little bit of a kick! And the portion was huge. As well as the price, $11.95 I think.. We had a coupon for a free Classic Steampot with the purchase of any other steam pot so that what we did. My dear got the Classic and I got the Orleans. Our server warned me that the Orleans was spicier than before. And man was he right, my lips were on fire. But it was delicious, over a pound of crawfish, boiled shrimp, sausage and potatoes and corn. I was stuffed. She loved her pot as well with crab legs and shrimp and corn and sausage. It was all cooked fresh and perfectly. I love Joe's crabshack, I wish we could get out here more often. Only reason for a four star is it's very expensive.
(4)
B M.
Very poor customer service. 3:45 on a Saturday. Tables empty and you put me on a wait. Then the hostess takes her sweet time clearing a table. And to boot you sit a party that came in after us and I'm still waiting. REALLY!!!!! No thanks You should be ashamed Walked out taking my business elsewhere
(1)
Tess B.
Yes, it's a chain. Yes, they pump up the music and dance on occasion. They give you bibs, complete with funny title. (My husband was "Big Shrimpin'" and I was "Hot legs, great tail".) Your silverware comes in a bucket, as does a roll of paper towels. Classy? No. Gimmicky? Probably. Fun? Yes. I had a good time at Joe's! My husband loves Joe's Crab Shack and hadn't been to one since 2008 or so. I'd compare this place to "The Crab Pot", a chain in the Seattle area- but with nicer prices and a less classy ambiance. Food- just as good. On a nice day, SIT OUTSIDE! The view is wonderful, the inside is dark and gloomy compared to the shaded bar area or under the umbrellas on the patio. It's worth risking the pigeons and flies. Their pots are pretty large, worth the price I would say. I wish they would quarter their potatoes- but that's not enough to ruin it for me. We had the KJ, it was very flavorful. I had the first properly cooked mussel I've ever had! The scallops were done well, and the crab was too. Re: seasoning- lots of buttah and gahlic. There is a lunch menu (prices valid till 3 pm), in the back of the menu near desserts. Cheaper, definitely worth looking at if you didn't just come for the pot. I had a fried chicken salad, it was pretty good but I think that their oil could've benefited from a change, the breading was a little fishy tasting. Hush puppies, meh, standard. I can't give you an opinion on the bacon because I'm allergic, so I had it without. I would have liked more corn and avocado in the salad, more green greens and less hearts/iceberg. But I digress. The shark bite is their signature drink- I gave it a try, and would call it almost like an adult kool-aid. It comes with a shark to play with, and a red vial that you get to dump in the drink yourself. Worth 9 bux? Almost- just for the fun factor. Overall, 4/5. Solid place, no drink specials- but they're supposedly starting a happy hour soon! Fingers crossed. They also have a club you can join online- they were out of paper forms.
(4)
Keely P.
Ok this visit was terrible! The clams were WAY overcooked, almost burned & chewy as a rubberband-just gross..food took forever, we were told there was only 1 cook and the restsurant was packed! Also,the bolied shrimp were just wierd..almost undecooked AND my sons chicken tenders were overcooked, he wouldnt touch them..really bad experience today!
(1)
Paul T.
I would like to start off and say that I would give this restaurant zero stars if I could with this review. But the service here was very laxed and the employees seemed to enjoy dancing more than speaking to the customers. Kyle the server was terrible and treated us as if it was a chore to serve the table. I will never come here again!!!
(1)
Ross H.
Us locals don't go here...just sayin' that's all you need to know!!
(1)
Candy K.
The weather was nice so I wanted to eat outside somewhere with a great view. Joe's Crab Shack on the beach seemed like a good idea. We sat outside at the high top bar tables because if you sit at one of the regular bench tables the railing almost completely blocks your view of the beach. We ordered the steam pot of snow crab and a side of hush puppies. For $3.29 I was expecting more then THREE hush puppies. They were tasty, but I wouldn't say they were worth over $1 a piece! Unfortunately it was the main dish that fell flat. We got our pot but had no bucket for shells, no forks for the coleslaw and no butter for dipping. Our meal got a bit cold while waiting for someone to bring each missing piece, in 3 separate trips. When we finally got everything and dove in, there were 3 very sad looking clusters. Only one of them had all its legs. One had the smallest claw I've ever seen. There was barely any meat in any of the legs and when we could finally find some meat it would only come out in mutilated little chunks. I didn't get one good solid piece out of any of them and I'm pretty good at cracking crab! It was truly the saddest pot of crab I have ever had. Throughout the entire dinner I was battling some very large flies. Two were drowning in my beer before I left. Then for half the dinner a pidgeon was perched right about my head on a post and I was convinced every butt wiggle was going to result in a face full of pidgeon poop. Thankfully that didn't happen. I have been to many different Joe's Crab Shacks and usually really enjoy their crab, but the one in Jax Beach was really disappointing and I don't think I'd be going there again.
(2)
Shanna P.
The food here today was fantastic, hot when delivered, and super fresh. I really enjoyed it. However, being seated next to one of the waitresses who was here on her day off was atrocious. I guess she was in here on her day off or something but a large amount of waiters/waitresses stopped by her table next to mine to talk with her. I could hear her talking crap about people in here and it was very unprofessional. For me, the atmosphere of the place where I'm eating is very important for the mood I'm in to eat my food. And the fact that one of their own waitresses was just running her mouth about the customers was a big reason I gave the experience here a 3/5. I'll be coming back for the food though!
(3)
Naomi E.
Patrick our server was great. Food was good. The only thing I didn't like was the playground area for the kids. Its a bit run down with sharp edges. That needs to be fixed ASAP. That's a drs visit waiting to happen. Not a fun thing to do while on vacation that's for sure.
(4)
Andreina T.
Food was OK. Nothing out of this world. The one thing that they are seriously lacking is cleanness. We ate outside and it was very disgusting. The old wooden tables were filthy. Bugs and birds eating the leftovers on the table and the floor. Restrooms were dirty as well. It makes me not want to come back.
(2)
Gerrald L.
The food was pretty good, not much food though mostly shells,few crab claws with a bit of meat a piece of corn and potatoes for around $28 I gave it 4 stars mainly based on the good favor. This location seemed a little dirty. And you better like it loud because they blast the music way to loud.
It was okay. Let's just say. Sat down at bar at a dirty table. Weren't noticed for a LONG time to get tat table cleaned. Then she cleaned it, took our order. Took a veryyyyy long time to get our food. It was okay. Not incredible.
(2)
Linda W.
This was our last time here. Lunchtime Friday, place is pretty quiet. Sat outside. Ordered the lobster and crab pot, special occasion day..... You know what a boneless, skinless chicken breast is like when it's cooked until it is dry and shreddy? Kind of sawdusty? That was my lobster and crab legs. No pulling out the sweet, succulent claw, instead scrape the shreds out of the claw and wonder how the hello anyone could overheat lobster to that point. First time in my life I stopped eating a lobster and left it untouched. Our waiter summoned the manager, who proceeded to explain to us that the lobsters are frozen and I would not be happy with another one, so he would have more crab bought out. His response sounded so well rehearsed that it was obvious that this was a common occurrence. Including the hokey reference "to not p***ing me off like he angers his wife all the time". Correct response to a complaint like mine would have been "I am so sorry Ma'am, may I have another prepared for you?" Instead, he chose to treat me like I am an idiot or like I was trying to get something for nothing. We paid our bill and left that sawdust lobster sitting on the table. Our server was excellent. We were seated quickly.
(1)
Chris S.
If you're in Jacksonville Beach from out of town and end up here for dinner, we need to chat. There's wonderful local seafood places with excellent food. The food here is you're average chain food and if you're a regular at Applebees, Chilis, Friday's, etc, you'll love Joe's. Meanwhile, you're in an area surrounded by great places to eat: enjoy local seafood rather than going to a place like this. I'd try Palm Valley Fish Camp. Meanwhile, you can come here for the fact that Joe's is on the beach, offers a fun, family atmosphere and is the touristy thing to do. If you like Red Lobster, the food here is a notch above that, but don't expect the fresh, local flare you'll get at smaller restaurants. This is average, chain food. And, if that's what you enjoy, you'll love this place.
(3)
Gizelle A.
Good to ok food but consistently poor service. They do a lot more dancing than serving. Tough to get the attention of waiters even when it's pretty much empty. They allow smoking outside :-( gross. I'd come here once in a very while for a drink and small appetizer but would never come for an actual full meal.
(2)
Alison L.
Tracy is hilarious and made our large group feel welcome. If it weren't for the super friendly service, I would probably give this place one less star... I ordered the crab cake salad the first time I went (yes, I went two days in a row) and was not too happy with it. It was a bed of romaine lettuce pieces with some corn and beans thrown on top. It didn't come out with the chipotle caesar dressing at first, and even that wasn't all that great. The crab cake was big, but nothing to balance out the poor salad construction. The menu featured a picture of what it was supposed to look like and it was like comparing McD's big mac photo with what you actually get... The salad actually looked lifeless in comparison to the photo. I know this isn't a place to get a salad, but they shouldn't put a picture of the salad on the menu if it's actually a pale version of it. The next day, I ordered a 1 1/4 lb queen crab legs and received six legs in total. I've received more legs at Red Lobster for cheaper. Don't invest in the crab legs because it's not enough food for what you're paying from my experience with crab houses. Their Twosday deals seem good though. Super convenient location on the beach!
(3)
Robert B.
We waited over an hour for our food and when it arrived, it was cold. Worst waitress and horrible food - not cheap either. There were 5 of us, and none of us could eat much of our food. They offered us a discount coupon for next time, but there is no way we would ever go back there.
(1)
Kayla N.
One star for the breezy outside seating. That's it. The service was slow. The food was absolute horrible and TINY for what you're paying! The mussels were rubbery, the crab boil was tasteless and measly. When we brought up our concerns with the manager he just said "thanks for letting me know" - never apologized or even corrected the check. I mean, I guess we should have known what we were getting into but we've had dinner here at this location a few years ago and it was delicious. Definitely gone down hill since then. Which is a shame because we planned to spend a lot of money here. Never again!
(1)
Haeyon L.
We visited on our spring break trip to Jacksonville Beach, FL. It's right next to the beach and parking lot so it's in a very convenient location. The food is really good and decently priced for the amount you get. My boyfriend and I split a single serving steamer and it was more than enough food. I suggest heading over on Tuesday for their TwosDay deal! Lots of cheap fried food and oysters. Tracy and Kathryn, our waitresses were both awesome. Recommend! Also, try not to sit outside at the large group table if it's sunny outside. Several people in our group came out with sunburns!
(4)
Bryan W.
I have always wanted to eat here at this chain but had never had the chance. When I finally did I had high expectations, and I was not let down one bit. This place is very pricey considering the market, but you get what you pay for. The menu makes it very easy to see and pick what to eat. They have meals for 2 people. The staff frequently entertain guest by dancing and singing along to tunes ! Also, there is a trash can in middle of table to disgard all your shells etc.... Eating at Joes is quite a pleasant experience ! I hope to be back again very soon!
(5)
Tony T.
Used to be one of my favorite establishments but last night was one of worst dining experiences I have ever had. The tall manager with the gray hair was a miserable person and took all of the fun out of Joe's. No more dancing?!?! The staffs dancing is what makes Joe's Crab Shack one of the most exhilarating dining experiences in North American. On top of that, the service was extremely slow and the server didn't bring us any tools or butter with our steam pots. My sausage was also under cooked!!!!!!!!! This gray haired manager is destroying Joe's Crab Shack in jax beach. The server also deliberately threw my friends jacket on the ground outside of the establishment when he accidentally left it at our table. I am extremely saddened by this horrible turn that Joe's in jax beach has made. My Saturday nights will never be the same. I will not be returning and will be taking my business to red lobster !!!!
(1)
Todd W.
had a bad experience here today and will be the last time that we will spend our money here....my wife ordered the lobster pot....Lobster and the crab was overcooked, to the point of asking our waiter for a new lobster....manager came out and gave us an obviously canned response of "well that is how we do it with frozen lobster and you will most likely not like the next one either....".....REALLY?? So they knowingly serve subpar food for extreme high prices and when the customer is not satisfied, a canned response is warranted....Also had the fireballs, which in the past, lived up to their name....but today, they were most like whimpy balls....if corporate is reading this, take my suggestion....spend more money on fresh food and less on commercials trying to glorify your crap....
(1)
Nathan B.
Average rating for average food and experience. About what was expected- food good but not great. Service ok. For some inexplicable reason, they have the staff dance to random songs. I can't think what management must be trying to accomplish by inflicting this on their employees. It adds nothing to the dining experience and the look on the faces of the staff shows they aren't big fans either.
(3)
Ed D.
If you like dry clams and dry frozen lobster Joe's is the place to go. Only dry clams I ever had!
(1)
SamiRoxi S.
We're Joes Crab Shack fans...but this one..stay away! We recently moved from San Francisco to Jax Beach, as we frequently ate at Joes at the Fishmen's Wharf..thinking every Joes was the same...exceptinal service, food and drinks..we we're extremely wrong. As we head into the restaurant, the weather starts to turn from sunny to stormy, windy rain. We get inside and get asked if we'd like to sit outside as this storm is about to happen (NO THANKS), not only am I going to get rained on...(it's covered, but wind carries rain) there are visible flys everywhere. We sit inside and is greeted by our server who we see once or twice during our whole time there. We order the shrimp bucket for appetizers and the clasic steam pot for entree. No complaits on the shrimp bucket...but our steam pot seemed like it was sitting out for a while before getting delived to our table...we got it cold. Litterly eating cold crabs and the missing server...and the hostesses (2) who were pointing and laughing at costumers, there's no way I'm going back..time to find another crab shack!
(1)
Reggie L.
Gimmicky tourist trap. The prices were outrageous. $30+ for crab legs?!? The burger described and pictured that I ordered was a hand pressed patty, but when it arrived at my table it was a frozen patty similar to the ones you find at walmart. Now, you can buy 12 frozen burgers for $10, this one from joes costs $11. I asked for cheese and for the onion rings and shrimp to be placed on the side instead of on the burger. When it arrived I received a bun and a burger. It was well done (as any frozen patty will be) even though I ordered it mid-rare. The cheese they brought to the table after I reminded them was cold and shredded cheddar. I sent the meal back and didn't order anything else. My wife didn't finish her meal and my two kids ordered the kids buckets. The crab legs were edible but how can you mess up crab legs? Here's the kicker. For an adult and two kids to eat it cost us $72. $72!!!!!!! Please explain why 4 sections of crab legs, 8 shrimp, potatoes and corn should cost $72? These crab must have been featured on deadliest catch or something because they sure did cost $72. Please stay away from here or demand quality food when you go. Jax has plenty of local restaurants that offer very good food. I dropped everyone off at the hotel and went to five guys for a real burger. I got two patties, cheese, and tomatoes with all the toppings I ordered and it was $5.
(1)
Caleb S.
Took forever to sit 6 people outside because we have a child. The staff was extremely slow. The food was more expensive than what it was worth!
(2)
M M.
First class group! Steven the manager was so generous to help us with our event Flip Your Wig to benefit The Donna Foundation and women living with breast cancer. Awesome view, great good, and super friendly staff. Well done Joe's. You have a customer for life.
(5)
Keira S.
I don't recommend ordering the crab steampot. My sister and I ordered the king crab steampot to share. On the menu, it shows at least half a dozen crab legs so we thought we would have enough. It was supposed to come with potatoes and an ear of corn, too. When the order got to our table, it was clear that it was not going to be enough since there was only 3 legs in the pot and 3 little red potatoes. The cost of the pot was $35.99 and we were still hungry. The picture on the menu was misleading. The potatoes were mushy, the corn was bland, and the shrimp were not de-veined. I can't even log into their website to issue a formal complaint because it's so slow. We've had better seafood elsewhere - like Singleton's or Red Lobster. Plus, later, we found out we were double charged by our server and had to go through the bank to clear it up. We won't be returning.
(2)
Justin V.
My wife and I stopped here on our way to Orlando and it quickly became the talk of our trip. The crab and lobster we ordered were cooked perfectly! The crab dip was sooooo good and the clams were cooked perfect as well. My wife and I cannot talk about this place enough and just found out there's one in Rochester not but 2 hours away from us. We will definitely travel up there for that sometime!
(5)
Peter M.
Meh. Overpriced and overrated tourist trap. the Jacksonville location is conveniently located on the Atlantic where the soiled brown waters of the St. Johns rives pukes out a brown clown just to the north. Still, it's on the beach, if that's your thing...
(2)
Chris L.
Spent 100$ on ice cold flavorless food. Spent 100$ on waitress dances. Service was friendly sure. Food was absolute garbage price. Will not be back.
(1)
Robert H.
Joe's is an okay chain restaurant. It's always packed, always loud, and very "fun". Their food is average and is pretty expensive. I prefer finding "local" seafood joints.
(3)
Khristopher B.
There are two major advantages of going to this particular Joe's. First, if you're the dining outside type, this location has a great view of the Atlantic Ocean. You are literally 30 yards from the water. You have to find that perfect day outside where it's not too cold and not too windy. But if you find it and eat your food outside, it's the closest you can get to paradise in Jacksonville. The other major advantage is that the wait staff (even if deep down they hate it) is always high energy and happy to serve you. They're always dancing and coming to your table to make sure you have everything. I've gone to this Joe's at least three times and I've never had bad service. The waitress has had personality and spunk and has always earned my tip. But here's the major flaw to this Joe's and perhaps all the ones in the country. The food is good, but it's extremely overpriced. I could understand the prices if this Joe's was in Kearney, Nebraska, but we're close to seafood in Florida. It should not cost as much for shrimp and fish and clams along the eastern shore board.
(3)
Andrea H.
Food so so. Frozen fish... I've had much better. Had to send food back came to table cold....
(1)
Luke M.
Not sure what all the gripes were. This isn't a fancy restaurant but how fancy can you expect when you are eating big messy buckets of seafood? This was right up my alley. Not too expensive, friendly staff, great seafood.
(4)
Amiee H.
I ordered more drinks than food. I wasn't super happy with either things that I ordered. Food: 1) Crab nachos: Just ok, wasn't that great. Too many chips and not enough of the crab stuff. Drinks: 1) Pineapple mojito: I was seriously super disappointed with this drink! I LOVE mojitos, but this ruined mojitos for me forever! It was so bland and tasteless. I couldn't taste the pineapple and I would taste the alcohol! It seriously tasted like watered down 7UP. HORRIBLE! I have never sent anything back before, but I definitely sent this drink back. The second time they made it for me, it tasted a LITTLE better, but still kinda sucked, it just sucked less. 2) Margarita: tasted better than the pineapple mojito, but still wasn't great. I tasted more of the alcohol...so I guess that's good. Service: Our waitress is super nice but it still doesn't make up how horrible the meal and drinks were. Ambiance: This is a chain, so the decor is the same between all the stores. Very beach and kid friendly. Price: Too much for ok food and awful drinks! Overall: Probably not going to go back to another Joe's until I forget about this horrible experience.
(2)
Lacey C.
I'm gonna keep it family-friendly, here. But wow. Um, this place is crazy-nuts. The music was loud, tacky (and not in a good way), and the staff dance. A lot. I asked our server and she said "four times an hour." I quickly determined the place was trying way too hard and went to the bartender for assistance. I plead the fifth on our bar tab, but will confess I was bullied into ordering something called a "Shark Bait" in which grenadine was poured into my neon-blue liquor from a tiny shark-shaped shot glass. Our server shouted "Everyone out of the water!" People took pictures. I again, entreated our bartender for assistance. The food was ho hum and pricey. Go if you must.
(1)
Kerri B.
Busy place, so there's always a long wait from my experience, but the food was amazing- as usual!
(4)
Dave S.
You're a tourist from Ohio and you're looking for some "good fried seafood". Well, you found it. They folks at Joe's can fry up some "good seafood". As a matter-of-fact they can fry up just about anything. Caught a mullet from the pier? They'll probably fry it and dance around your table in a conga line. They also serve non-fried seafood like Alaskan crab legs and muscles shipped in from some distant shore. When the kitchen orders back up, the waitresses participate in a bizarre ritual in which they line dance like an aerobics class. Mildly entertaining and also serves to take your mind off your grumbling stomach. Joe's Crab Shack is a chain with many coastal sea-side locations like Kansas City and Minneapolis. There's a big outdoor deck on the beach but you can't eat on it. They seem more interested in selling alcohol than focusing on serving great seafood.
(2)
Brian H.
Blackened redfish was great and so was the service and view. Best ocean front dining experience in Jax Beach.
(5)
Kim S.
Normally I would avoid chain restaurants whenever possible, but I have to give Joe's Crab Shack at Jacksonville Beach my full approval! The staff is friendly, the outdoor seating and view are exceptional, and I've never had a bad "steam pot" (crab legs, potatoes, corn, shrimp and sausage). The crab from this Joe's in particular is always quite good. My personal favorite is the "Sunset Fire-Grilled". Way way yummy. While we were waiting for a table, we enjoyed some drinks at the outdoor bar. The bartender was friendly and the beverages were good. I ordered a "mason jar" beverage with dinner (new "summer" drinks) but probably wouldn't order one again. It was really really tiny for the price. My only complaint is this time around, our app and entree came out at the same time. Boooo. The Manager came by and offered to re-do our entree, but we said that wouldn't be necessary. Would have been nice if our app had been comped, but this is the first time something like this had ever happened at this Joe's. Overall, I always have a fun night out at Joe's. Great for those looking for some solid crab legs or to have a little fun, too.
(4)
Jan J.
This was my first visit, and boy was I glad we did! I was scared that we might not be able to enjoy this place because when I called to find out how long we would have to wait to be seated, we were initially told 2 and half hours!!! Of course it didn't help that it was the 4th of July, but around 10 PM I heard from the hostess' mouth words that were music to my ears: "We can seat you RIGHT NOW." The decor reminded me of a restaurant I frequented back in New York called Famous Dave's. Their food was really good too. My family absolutely LOVED Joe's and would definitely come back again when the opportunity presents itself. We shared a really good appetizer. My wife had the Bean Town Bake steampot which came with 1 pound of crab legs, a smoked sausage, shrimp and 2, count 'em, 2 WHOLE LOBSTERS! My oldest son had the Captain's catch, my daughter had the kids' steampot, and the my youngest boy had the popcorn shrimp. Yours truly had a platter called "The Big Hook Up, it had "great balls of fire, fish and chips, coconut shrimp, crab stuffed shrimp, hush puppies and coleslaw." They wasn't kidding about this being the BIG hook up! Everybody thought their food was nothing short of spectacular & excellent! This place is like Red Lobster on steroids! It's just that good! Anyone wondering where to find a great seafood place, look no further than Joe's Crab Shack!!! Also I really enjoyed the dancing by the staff. I have never personally experienced seeing wait staff get up and start dancing. I also found quite humorous how people s birthday are celebrated there. I learned that they make the birthday boy or girl is dressed up kind of like a rooster and then parades around the ENTIRE restaurant! I'm glad it wasn't my birthday! :)
(5)
Tyrone F.
Fun times
(5)
Amanda G.
Worst service I ever had at this joes. I have been going to joes all over the east cost and this one has the worst employees ever! When someone double charges you for things that you never ordered and you waitress is drunk or high the whole time and doesn't put in your order at all until you complain I would never go back here. To spend $40 on a steam pot that was cold when I got it. The manager Jen did nothing for us. What a waste of money!!
(1)
Jack B.
We went to Joe's Saturday night, and yes, it was crowded, we had a 2 hour wait at 8:50 PM, but it was not terribly bad, we waited in the playground area, and let the kids run around. We were originally slated to sit outside, but the rains chased us inside. The manager there was fantastic, he cleared a place for our 11 inside and did the best he could to make the accomodations as good as possible. The reason for the 2 stars was his great save, but had we had to sit in the rain, the service would be a 1. Our food came out cold, and by 10:30 all we wanted to do was have some dinner. So plan on long waits, poor service, cold food for the most part. The manager will do what he can, but he cannot do it all. For my birthday, this year, I received a $25 gift card for Joe's from my family. Either they do not know me well enough, or they don't like me. Sheesh!
(2)
R F.
Food was good. Server was on point. Everyone was friendly. Very crowded. Parking was difficult.
(4)
Francesca T.
Awful from beginning to end. For our 13th Wedding Anniversary we thought we would try a different restaurant and what a mistake. Tried to look at the drink menu but it was too sticky to move the pages. Table was dirty, no silverware. Just a mess. Our server: horrible, forgetful, had to wait and remind about everything. Entrees came a few minutes after our app by a different server. She never checked on us, had to get someone else several times. Waited 20 minutes for a ramekin of 4 burnt beyond recognition hush puppies. Had to remind twice for a drink order. Too busy goofing off and dancing to serve properly. Cold food then nuked to rubber. A $44.99 overcooked rubber steampot, more like microwaved pot. $12 for 6 pre-frozen baked clams..what a rip off!! Told our server we were extremely unhappy, she just grabbed our debit card and left. Then spoke to a manager, Beth, and told her of our problems, again no reaction, just nodded and walked away. We walked away too, we will never be back to this overpriced, dirty restaurant. Spent the rest of our Anniversary with indigestion..thanks!!
(1)
Shunell A.
I went here on a Friday night (7pm) with a group of 7 for a friends Birthday and this place was PACKED! The hostesses were friendly but there was a 1hr 45min wait time which is horrible, but we all waited by the bar and ordered drinks. The bartenders made good drinks and weren't rude, however they weren't very conversational either. The drinks were pricy avg $10 each. When our table was available our server WAS AMAZING! Very friendly and attentive considering how busy it was I was impressed! I ordered the Chipotle Burger with fries and a Mudslide [alcoholic milkshake] and that was THE BEST BURGER I'VE EVER HAD! Words can't describe how good juicy and PERFECT that burger was! YUMMMM! I really liked the fact that the entire waiting staff helps eachother out... they all go together and did the "Cupid Shuffle" dance with the B-Day girl and did the traditional "I got Crabs" skit. Granted our wait time was bananas it was well worth it! I can't wait to go back, plus its right on the beach! Fresh food Friendly staff and rustic/casual atmosphere! I'd give 5 stars if the wait time was better (45 min would have been more practical). Give Joe's a try next time your out at the beach [wear stretch pants to hide the "food baby" your bound to have!]
(4)
Jennifer V.
My parents from Wisconsin were down to visit this week. They had never been to a Joe's, and wanted to try one. We went there on a monday night. We go up to the host and he didn't even acknowledge us, he just sat talking to another employee until we said something. He told us it was a fifteen minute wait, which was fine- Until other patrons started coming in and getting sat immediately. We went up and said something, and were sat. Our waiter was decent, we all ordered crab, but our food was delivered and we had to wait ten minutes for him to go dance with the other waiters before he brought us our utensils or butter. By the time we got it, the food was cold. I understand that their little dance routines are part of the experience eating there, but more than half of the tables were covered in dirty dishes, and you would think that the customers eating would come before that. We were all pretty disappointed in our experience, and it was really expensive for the amount of food you got. I recommend finding a local seafood restaurant in the area, and staying away from this Joe's.
(1)
Tammy K.
Great dinner right on the beach, eat in your swim suit, don't even have to get dressed up for dinner, Fun place,,,
(5)
Caitlin C.
Whoa, whoa, whoa. I met some friends here for dinner and i loved it so much i came back for lunch on the way to the airport. Sure, it's kitschy, but go for lunch on a weekday (when it's not so packed) and sit out on the deck, and you can almost ignore the kitsch. I, however, appreciate some good crab with a side of kitsch and I can handle dancing waitstaff, etc. when the seafood's this good.
(5)
Gabriel S.
I have to say I love seafood and been Joe crab shack numerous occasion back home but this one wasn't oh so GREAT not bad either though. GREAT location right on the beach very entertaining, great management was cold, waitress-waiter was good the food wasn't all that GREAT as far as season and length of the cooking as the lobster meat was tuff the crabs was good but they was hardly season
(4)
Franklin B.
The most recent visit was a bit of a let-down. On a Thursday they were crowded, they didn't expect it, short-staffed. Took me 15 minutes to get a beer, after begging. The tardy seafood pot was missing the sausage-duh, same for the table next, had to beg. And pricey as always. The manager apologized. If he had given me a beer I wouldn't be fussy. I'm still searching for the great seafood joint in Jax.
(3)
Michael S.
Great location. Loved how we walked right from the beach and got a table outside. Fam all had crab and I had the Snapper. Fun place but the dancing is annoying and ties up the busy servers.
(3)
Ally F.
The calamari appetizer is a pretty darn good size, I don't think I've gotten this much... ever. We sat outside, it was sort of cold (didn't think that one through.... night time with beach winds coming in). There was a lot of singing and dancing on the staff's part, we were looking for a way to wind down the night and this wasn't exactly what we were looking for but if you're... drunk, it would be fun. Some of the drinks were of a good strength, but the ones with the souvenir mason jar were definitely weak and overpriced. Like... ten bucks. You can get a pallet of mason jars for three dollars. Anyways the appetizers we had were above average, the service was great though the theatrics were over the top, some of the drinks were strong but some were weak. Equal pros and cons here.
(3)
Adam B.
As nice as it was to come in from the beach and cool off, the slow, inattentive service and kitchen mistakes made this a regrettable visit. Our server even said she would get our drinks, but had to dance first. If I wanted unentertaining singing/dancing, I would go to Johnny Rocket's. (And I never want that.) maybe the kitchen staff also was dancing while my hamburger passed from the Medium I had ordered to a well-done briquette. The onion strings were bland and dry. The only non-Miller/Bud/Corona beer they had was Blue Moon, and their 22-oz glass was about 3 ounces short. ( maybe the head dissapated during a dance number). My mistake for not holding out for a genuine seafood place.
(1)
Brian Y.
Delightful and filling! WOW! Thats is the seafood I have been lookig for. Fresh, Hot, quick and good. Even better was the service. Angie was a great server. Very impressed. I don't be taken back when you walk in to the resturant and you dont smell fish. Thats because they are the cleanest place to eat seafood. Thank you.
(4)
Mark D.
The deck is perfect for a late summer evening. The food left much to be desired. It is a good place for drinks, though. And the service is good. Our server last Saturday was wonderful, she busted her ass for us. The servers all get together to dance sometimes. It's a good beach restaurant.
(3)
Jenn S.
not a fan -- chain restaurants are a no go in my book normally. this falls under that category. no go. ive been to joes once & thats all it took for me to know id never be going back. the atmosphere was annoying. too much was going on. i couldnt concentrate on my food. c'mon now. dancing & singing and who knows what else. the food was alright. theres MUCH better seafood around here. bypass joes -- theyre overpriced for what theyre offering you. id rather drive into mayport & buy seafood and cook it myself rather than go to joes.
(2)
John R.
First visit. Crunchy and coconut shrimp delicious and tender. Had food within 10 minutes of entering.
(4)
Leslye P.
Food was ok. But you really go here for the location - right on the beach!! Beautiful and i love the outdoor seating. But today, while we were finishing our lunch, the manger had our car towed from the Joes crab shack parking lot. I understand that mistakes can happen, but he wasn't nice and we never got an apology. There was no "let's comp your lunch." or "here's a gift card so you can come back." Fortunately, (since they had JUST towed it, they were able to call and get the truck to turn around and come back. But-- we had to wait 40 minutes for all that to happen. Aside from me personally, The manager was so upset because a lot of people were using his lot early in the morning (before Joe's was open) to be at the beach for a charity run. So as soon as Joe's opened, they were PACKED with people from the charity event. Why, if your restaurant can't handle the number of people you have, are you towing the cars from the charity that is suppling you all this business??? Just as a business decision, he should have left the parking lot alone and concentrated on getting the customers served. (There was a 50 minute wait when we were leaving.)
(1)
Ramón Y.
Good place to eat. A little loud but good food.
(4)
Shelley T.
We ate there twice in two days. I've almost never seen such a happy smile on my boyfriend's face than what those buckets and a beachfront patio made. I have experienced birthdays and other fun Joe's Crab Shack adventures, but this was the first time my boyfriend had been to one, and you deserve all five stars for making him so damned happy! :) *I think it was all the staff breaking out into dancing*
(5)
Barbara V.
I go there because my daughter works there. The atmosphere is fun. The crab nachos were pretty good. The clam chowder soup was real good. A lot of stuff is fried but you can order steamed. They are very busy. Great location on the beach. The servers dance every 30 to 45 minutes which is fun to watch.
(3)
Britani C.
went there to get a pot of snow crab legs and they ran out of crabs completely. i would have been fine with that if the waitress had told me they ran out before i ordered an appetizer. not happy.
(3)
Arjan S.
I loved it--the food was great and the service was even better. We had Britanny serving us at the bar and she took real good care of us.
(4)
Scott S.
The food was just average, but expensive. We ordered a couple of their "famous" steampots. Two crab clusters and a small order of shrimp or clams for around $30? You can do much better for seafood in Florida. The location was great, right on the beach, and the service was excellent. I certainly wouldn't go back for dinner, maybe for drinks and appetizers.
(2)
Sandy H.
We went on Mother's day only a 20 minute wait on a table. Food was slow, but it was very busy, waitress was very good, and the food was GREAT!!! We shared a steampot with snowcrab, shrimp, mussels, sausage, potatoes, and corn. They let you share these, most resturants will not let you share one meal, but we asked and they do. And it is right on the beach.
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Dinner Parking : Private Lot Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Touristy Noise Level : Loud Alcohol : Full Bar Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : No Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : Yes Caters : No
Carl B.
Reviews seem a little harsh but could be seasonality driven. We were here on a nice day in Dec - good service and food/pricing were in line for the Joe's chain. Best part of the restaurant was the amazing ocean-side view of Dolphins at play - also, wait-staff very versed with Gluten-free needs Would recommend giving it a shot for a premiere view (or if you are a Joe's fan)
(3)Lisa H.
A few weeks ago not long after eating lunch here I got very sick and had to be hospitalized for food poisoning. I can not say that it absolutely came from here however I honestly feel that it did and from what my doctors told me. I can not prove it. Their corporate office wouldn't even reimburse me for my $35 meal because it would be admitting to guilt which they will not do, so their customer service sucks as well as their food. Mediocre food, snobby servers who rarely check on you and don't bring out what you asked for to begin with, very overpriced!! Beware!! I won't be going back. I have been here many times and not for great food but because it is the only place to eat outside if you are lucky enough to get a booth and see the ocean. After this experience, I won't be going back.
(1)Bill C.
It is what it is. Go for the atmosphere and the pretty upbeat waitresses. Food is only okay. Most of my party of 7 had fried stuff. Some over breaded, some over cooked, some just right; but all of it perfectly edible. Grilled fish was slightly overdone but the orange sauce on it was delicious. Loved the local brew on draft (Intuition I think). The place is right on the ocean, so I'm assuming the overhead accounts for the inflated prices.
(3)Thomas A.
LOVE LOVE LOVE this place. The food is always so Delicious. Its has been PACKED each Saturday I have went so you may have to wait a little while for a table. The staff is all really fun and outgoing, they dance around the restaurant every few minutes and everyone just laughs and has a god time. Prices are average but its right on he beach so that is another awesome point. 'The Shack' even bought several parking lots out front so you don't have to deal with finding a spot...even better its free. Make sure you try the Crab dip as an appetizer. At $12 its on the pricey side; but it is worth every penny!
(5)Hunter P.
Welcome to Joe's! Oops, sorry, wrong restaurant. Got Crabs? Check. Got Steam pots? Check. Got dancing wait staff, ice cold beer and a killer beach location? Check, check and check. From playful waitresses hollering "oh noo!!! it's a Shark bite!!!!" while pouring red grenadine into a blue cocktail to the provocative labeling of the lobster bibs. This place is just fun. Been here many times so this is less of a review and more of an endorsement. I will provide some tips; Sit outside when the weather is good. Don't touch the rails ($%*&@ seagulls!) Two words: Coconut Shrimp. Be prepared to wait. Steam pots are big, and delish. Get up and dance dammit! If you have kids, get the paint your own crab. Tip your wait staff for the show as well as the service. Order the crab, duh. Wash your hands when returning from the bathroom. If you drink, don't drive (or text, for god sakes, don't text!) Crazy good crab dip is actually crazy good. Don't steal the zipper. Beach cruisers have the right a way, even if they don't there going so let 'em. Don't get a steak, okay? If you must, get the surf and turf burger. Geez why do I even bring you here? Did I mention the coconut shrimp? The dipping sauce is awesome! Buy me a t-shirt, please, please, please?
(3)Florida S.
Food was mostly fried, few vegetarian options. Drinks were REALLY watered down and expensive. Great beach feel and atmosphere, but far from a good dining experience. Mason jars for drinks are a nice idea, but wish drinks were better.
(3)Holli D.
Went with my fussy two year old and the wait staff was so good to him. He loved the dancing. The food was good and when my sons order was messed up they brought him extra food instead of taking it away. He loved the playground and you can't beat the view.
(4)Leriza P.
BBQ Dungeness ;9 I love Joe's. People complain about the dancing and fuss, I think it's what makes the place fun. Loved the new mason jar drinks, yummy! If you're looking for some place quiet and intimate, you need to look elsewhere. If you're looking for something fun and laid back, something to laugh about and people watch, you found it.
(5)Kristina H.
Holy crap i felt like i needed to be wheeled out of here after eating. The wait was crazy long and it was uber packed. But the drinks were good and the food was perfect. A little pricey but well worth it. Get the steam pots. Nothing else.
(4)Tiffany V.
I like Joe's a lot but this one was far below par. The food was alright but the service was awful. I went here a while ago and I tipped the waiter 10% because he was simply not very good and when I left he chased after me and yelled from the door "You forgot your change". I would never go back there and I haven't been to any other Joe's since simply because that experience was so awful.
(1)JD M.
I have to say, when I was working in Jax I really enjoyed going to this restaurant. It's always busy, has a good vibe and the staff are very friendly. However, since my last visit it has become clear that part of the appeal is eating on the beach surrounded by bikini's...lol. ;) The crab legs themselves are nothing spectacular (we have far better here in Aiken) and the meals are kind of pricey for what you get, in all honesty. It wasn't bad food, just very expensive dining for what is really just dressed up, rather ordinary seafood. The whole time my wife and I ate our meals, we talked about how we'd prefer just visiting our own local seafood place for better seafood. Hey, I calls 'em like I sees 'em. ;)
(2)Michael M.
We ate at Joe's on Friday April 12th and will not return. It was our first and last time. The wait was said to be 15-20 minutes and was 1 hour and 21 minutes. Our waitress was Taylor and we only found out when we asked a passing waitress who was supposed to serve us since we had been sitting at the table for 15 minutes. Taylor took our order and then disappeared. We had to ask for water as no drinks were served. When our meal was brought by another waitress it was not what we ordered. We said immediately that we had not ordered fries but the onion stings as a side and that person then advised Taylor. In about 5 minutes she came out and said that the onion strings were being prepped and would be out shortly. They never came! We had to also ask for silverware which was brought after the food. We had to request ketchup for the fries..... By then we were done being patient and I spoke to Taylor and advised she would not be getting a tip and that we were very unhappy with the service. Her manager came out to apologize and offered us a free coupon for our next visit which I politely declined and said no need to waste your time we will not be back... A terrible and expensive experience.....
(1)Rachel F.
The family of four came here in July while on vacation. It is directly on the beach and while part of the restaurant is under construction leading many to believe it's closed, once you head closer to the beach, you realize it's open. The restaurant has its own parking lot, which is wonderful, but I highly recommend arriving here earlier than 5:00 as there are large groups, limited seating due the construction. Other patrons were getting restless as were my kids after swimming, and I'm sure due to the off and on rainy weather. The day/early evening we went was half off cocktail specials. Some of them are large and a bit strong. I recommend some food in your stomach. The food is great. We got fried cheese, garlickly mussels, mahi tacos, my daughter had the Ribeye steak medium rare which was perfectly seasoned and cooked to order, and my other daughter had the KJ Pot, which was great, but I thought the scallops were burnt and small. The major complaint would be the mussel shells were broken and sharp despite how good they tasted. I was concerned I broke part of a tooth and one of the sharp shells almost went down my throat. My bairdi crab, which is my favorite, was excellent. Our waiter was mostly excellent with the exception of repeatedly correcting me on how I pronounced "Bairdi crab". Some words are pronounced differently depending on where you're from and it's asinine to be constantly (and arrogantly corrected) in front of your family. I recommend this restaurant.
(4)Carolyn S.
Really crap!! I would not send an enemy here to eat. Cold gross food served not once, but twice... Over priced everything...crowded because??? I have no clue...I think if you are drunk and don't care and have no clue of what seafood should be ... Aimless unconcerned management ... Servers who are superb, unfortunately left holding this nasty bag... Offer of gift certificates refused...why bother, we will never return.
(1)Shenika L.
Great drinks love the this place just small and always crowed loads of fun for first timer recommend coming during slow time like during middle of week
(3)Jean L.
Came in on a Saturday afternoon and of course it was crowed which is to be expected. Food was decent but the conversations were better.
(3)K A.
The waiter was great Eric, the crab balls are really good. I am not a big fan of JC,however family loves it. The prices are Normal for crabs. Fish is not the best.
(3)Laranda L.
This place was right on the beach which is a major bonus!! The crab nachos were delicious too! I ordered the Cajun crab pot and was disappointed in the amount of food I received but for the price I guess I could kind of understand. You get small portions of crabs and shrimp and potatoes and a link of sausage. Overall this establishment was great and the servers were friendly I would definitely eat here again!
(4)Kofi C.
After an hour wait to be seated, and another 55 minutes after placing our order for 3 of 9 plates to arrive, The fried food was served cold while the servers proceeded to dance the night away to funk tunes and country line dance songs. Over time, we sat and watched hungry and bothered by all the extras Joe's is known for without a chip or biscuit offered while we waited. This could have been fun. "The History" I come from NY and spent many years in Maryland so I'm typically not going to seek a place like Joe's Crab Shack for fresh seafood... unless highly recommend. Somehow, I have managed to avoid Joe's until this weekend's trip to Jax Beach, when a group decision brought me here. It was Saturday night and there was a music festival right outside, so it was expectedly packed. We had an hour's wait to be seated, but was lead to believe that Joe's was so much fun, it's worth the wait. "So sorry!" There was nine in our party and six were under age between 8-17. We're all seafood lovers, but this was set up to be a major fail when you arrive hungry with many children to a crowded theme restaurant during peak hours. Fortunately, the server was decent and apologized for all the issues we experienced including our checks that arrived with an extra order or two discovered, but he kindly offered to bring over the manager after bringing this to his attention. The manager cut our bill from the ridiculously overpriced to an average night out dining with the kids. Credit to Joe's, that they made it right, but I'm good with this as a one time experience and will continue to seek the one off seafood restaurants in coastal towns known for their great food without the hype. Lesson learned.
(2)Katrice S.
While my family was visiting me, I took them to the beach for the Jax Beach Art Walk. While there we enjoyed the art of local artist, the birds on the beach, and the nice ocean breeze. Right smack dab in the middle of Jacksonville Beach is none other than Joe's Crab Shack. I haven't eaten there in a while because from what I could remember, they always left my belly feeling unsatisfied. Well the "Twos Day" sign in front of the restaurant grabbed our attention and let's just be real, it was kind of a deal we couldn't refuse. $2 bucks for some of our favorite treats?!?!? Uh, yes please! We decided we would stay for a few hurricanes and some $2 snacks to hold us over until dinner. We tried just about all of the specials. The little crab fritters were pretty tasty! They had little bits of crab and all of the yummy onion-y flavors that come with a hush puppy. I liked the dipping sauce as well. The little popcorn shrimp & fries were nothing too fancy but I guess you couldn't expect much more for $2 bucks! We also ordered one of my all time favs, fried crawfish. I would've been happy with a bucket of these :)! For a couple of bucks each, you couldn't beat this for a mid-day snack after hanging at the beach. I guess Joe's is not so bad. I would go back for the $2 deal anytime!
(3)Arletta H.
BEST experience right on the Ocean....Crab legs with cajun spice...We had the Crab pot along with stuffed mushrooms and clam chowder. We could not have picked a better day to go.The weather was great, we sat on the patio to enjoy the Ocean breeze and sunshine. I DEFINITELY recommend this Joe's because of the food, service and location. Our meal price was less than $80 excluding the tip, not to bad.... We did have to chase the pigeons away, they're pretty bold beware! OTHERWISE Eat and drink up!
(4)Michelle S.
I went to this location once with my husband and asked to sit outside. After a short wait, we were asked if we preferred a shady table or one with sun, as both were available. We chose shady, sat down and ordered our food. After our drinks came out, the server came over to us and said we would have to move to the sunny table because someone with a reservation had arrived and they wanted the shady table. We had already been sitting down for 10 minutes!! I asked to speak to the manager who also insisted that we move and made a scene in front of other guests, accusing us of being difficult because we "didn't even have a reservation." We said we would leave and cancel our order, then they weakly offered us a free appetizer if we stayed. Are they serious?! I will never eat at any restaurant in this chain again -- their training is clearly lacking.
(1)Rebecca B.
Had a work party for 30+ with more than ample heads up-Planned weeks in advance. Noisy, crowded, loud, couldn't hear the person sitting next to me. Only 2 servers assigned to our party. Slow to take orders and even slower to serve. Did not receive drink ordered after hours and repeated requests; mussels app came with cold bread, only about half of mussels opened. And, no plates or bowls to share. Ill prepared mangement for a large party on a Friday night with subpar food. Server never came to take dinner order so we didn't order and went to the bar across the street. Never again.
(2)Jen B.
So yummy a little crowded but that's expected its on the beach lots of kids here too. But overall it was so good and the view is amazing good service also
(5)Kayla D.
I love the atmosphere and their drinks are AMAZING! However, the wait gets excessive and everything is overpriced because it's Joe's. I always go there for the crab. The few times I got shrimp it was overcooked. If you like the fun atmosphere and drinks with good crab, I'd say go! But if you're looking for some serious seafood, seek elsewhere. I still like going.
(3)Nicholas S.
You know you like a restaurant when you become a Yelp Regular within two days... I should preface this review by saying I'm not really a seafood person so I'm basing this mostly on my friends' reactions. Firstly, the food was pretty good. I'd say maybe a little overprice for the quality, but it's definitely not bad and you get a good portion sizing. The service was really wonderful. Tracy and Katherine were extremely friendly and went above and beyond more than most waitresses. That being said, service was a little slow. We ended up being there for about a total for 2 hours. However, we did have a large group of 11 people. It's got a great location and atmosphere too! It is DIRECTLY on the beach so you can throw together your beach stuff and walk right up for lunch. It has both a beautiful porch area and indoor air conditioned dining room. Perfect for groups! HIGHLY recommend the Great Balls of Fire. Definitely our favorite part of the meal!
(4)Meagan R.
Seriously the worse food EVER! Took my kids here yesterday to eat. I had the fish tacos, barely any meat, stale tortilla shell and DRY. My son had a kids meal that was cold and the waitress didn't come to our table for drink refills at ALL! If you want to get drunk, go here and enjoy. ...if you want to have a meal, McDonald's is better in comparison.
(1)Ranisha J.
Great friendly staff. Placed my order and got it no later than 10 minutes. The drinks were good. Since it was breezy, we ate inside and not on the patio. Clean restaurant and bathroom. It's awesome to be able to complete your meal and walk out to hear the calming beach waves.
(5)Paula S.
Beautiful day and we were in area so decided to grab late lunch/early dinner. Chose to eat outside and view the beach/ocean. Loved the outdoor atmosphere! I had frozen piña colada which I thought with a touch more rum it would be fantastic but it was really good. I love spice so had the steamed shrimp ! Delicious. Cooked properly and loved the old bay seasoning along with the cocktail sauce which definitely had a kick. The hush puppies were perfect for me also. Bits of jalapeño peppers. Enjoyed it very much and thinking .... I need to go back .... Tomorrow.
(4)Ferbs J.
The one star is for the great view on the deck. If you order anything to eat, you will be sorely disappointed. The only decent item is the mason jar rita's, which are generous and pretty tasty and strong. So, you're having a few of those, enjoying the beach breeze, and in a weak moment you are tempted by the crab buckets or steampots you see the tourists wrestling with at other tables, but DON'T DO IT. Do not waste your $$$ on the crazily overseasoned, crackly, dried out, frozen seafood that come in those buckets. If you must line your stomach, get the clam strips, or fries, which are also frozen, but won't be such an expensive disappointment. Enjoy the view, get sunburned and drunk, but don't eat.
(1)Danielle F.
Arrived after a Florida sky cry. Kids played on the playground while we waited for a booth. The playground fixture is broken and tied off with bungee cords and ropes in some areas. Okay okay play at your own risk I get but that is a little too risky for me. Autumn was our server and she was courteous and quick. She explained that the storm had caused some issues with the POS system and things were running a little hectic. We ordered the bisque and a double dip. Both arrived and were warm. We needed another round of chips because the portion was really small & they didn't have that crisp freshness that new chips should have. Kids had a pizza with broccoli which apparently he enjoyed because it was gone in less than 15 minutes & a steam pot. My husband ordered the Biard BBq style and I had it steamed. We had to wait a bit for someone to bring us utensils, plates, etc. Biard is touted as this rare catch and only here for a limited time. It really was just the beefier version of a snow crab but with a heftier$. Everything was good as usual. Kids ordered the rice Krispy to decorate and a smores for the table. I usually have the Key Lime but opted to share the smores instead. It could be really nice but the cake was frosty inside and the marshmallows were warm and not toasted & it was covered with Hershey syrup. Next time I would just order the sauce on the side and the marshmallows extra toasted because who doesn't love a smore?!?!
(4)DJ J.
Ate there last night with my wife. It was next door to our hotel so we walked over to check it out. I had never been to Joe's but my wife had. 45 minute wait to get an indoor seat so we opted to sit outside at the bar. Kyle, the bartender was very nice and attentive but needed help back there as he was too busy for a one man show taking care of the bar and some tables. We started off with peel and eat shrimp which was good but not worth $18. I had the Dungeness Crab Pot and my wife had the Bairdi Crab Pot. We shared and both were very tasty. Overall it was a good experience, Kyle did an awesome job taking care of us considering going he was in the weeds. The food was good but a little over priced and not worth 5 stars.
(4)Sharon S.
My daughter wanted to go to Joe's for beachside dining and I reluctantly agreed. I recalled going a while back and was just not impressed. However, I really did want to eat while watching the ocean because it was just so darn pretty outside. The waitstaff was extremely friendly and we received our meals shortly after placing our orders. Impressive considering the crowd they had. I find that ordering crab legs from places such as this is a total ripoff and refuse to do so. Especially when I can go to a local seafood market, purchase three times as many of them for the price I would pay at Joe's, prepare them at home, and eat as sloppy as I want in the privacy of my own home. Therefore, I ordered a platter, which included crab stuffed shrimp, A fried fillet (which reminded me of a Gordon's patty) and a crab-cake. The meal was good, but I personally feel it was overpriced for the quantity of food. I was also not so impressed with my cocktail, the Mason Jar Margarita. Me loves a good cocktail, but this one was way off. With the beautiful weather we are now experiencing, I will definitely be returning to the Beach for seafood dining. However, I do not intend to be a frequent Joe's patron. Sure it's a fun and friendly place, but there is so much better at the Beach to experience.
(3)Nyla S.
Their Great Balls of Fire are definitely in my top 3 favorite foods! Cream cheese, Crab, shrimp and jalapeño fried in a ball and served with perfection. The calamari was shaky but the service and other food made up for it.
(5)Brian H.
Went to Joe's crabshack for my birthday. It was a Saturday afternoon, we called ahead and they did not take reservations however they would let you call 30 minutes ahead of time for seating. So that's what we did and we arrived within 30 minutes and we were seated immediately. Our server, Brian, was very attentive polite and knowledgeable of the menu. We ordered an appetizer of the lobster nachos. They were delicious with a little bit of a kick! And the portion was huge. As well as the price, $11.95 I think.. We had a coupon for a free Classic Steampot with the purchase of any other steam pot so that what we did. My dear got the Classic and I got the Orleans. Our server warned me that the Orleans was spicier than before. And man was he right, my lips were on fire. But it was delicious, over a pound of crawfish, boiled shrimp, sausage and potatoes and corn. I was stuffed. She loved her pot as well with crab legs and shrimp and corn and sausage. It was all cooked fresh and perfectly. I love Joe's crabshack, I wish we could get out here more often. Only reason for a four star is it's very expensive.
(4)B M.
Very poor customer service. 3:45 on a Saturday. Tables empty and you put me on a wait. Then the hostess takes her sweet time clearing a table. And to boot you sit a party that came in after us and I'm still waiting. REALLY!!!!! No thanks You should be ashamed Walked out taking my business elsewhere
(1)Tess B.
Yes, it's a chain. Yes, they pump up the music and dance on occasion. They give you bibs, complete with funny title. (My husband was "Big Shrimpin'" and I was "Hot legs, great tail".) Your silverware comes in a bucket, as does a roll of paper towels. Classy? No. Gimmicky? Probably. Fun? Yes. I had a good time at Joe's! My husband loves Joe's Crab Shack and hadn't been to one since 2008 or so. I'd compare this place to "The Crab Pot", a chain in the Seattle area- but with nicer prices and a less classy ambiance. Food- just as good. On a nice day, SIT OUTSIDE! The view is wonderful, the inside is dark and gloomy compared to the shaded bar area or under the umbrellas on the patio. It's worth risking the pigeons and flies. Their pots are pretty large, worth the price I would say. I wish they would quarter their potatoes- but that's not enough to ruin it for me. We had the KJ, it was very flavorful. I had the first properly cooked mussel I've ever had! The scallops were done well, and the crab was too. Re: seasoning- lots of buttah and gahlic. There is a lunch menu (prices valid till 3 pm), in the back of the menu near desserts. Cheaper, definitely worth looking at if you didn't just come for the pot. I had a fried chicken salad, it was pretty good but I think that their oil could've benefited from a change, the breading was a little fishy tasting. Hush puppies, meh, standard. I can't give you an opinion on the bacon because I'm allergic, so I had it without. I would have liked more corn and avocado in the salad, more green greens and less hearts/iceberg. But I digress. The shark bite is their signature drink- I gave it a try, and would call it almost like an adult kool-aid. It comes with a shark to play with, and a red vial that you get to dump in the drink yourself. Worth 9 bux? Almost- just for the fun factor. Overall, 4/5. Solid place, no drink specials- but they're supposedly starting a happy hour soon! Fingers crossed. They also have a club you can join online- they were out of paper forms.
(4)Keely P.
Ok this visit was terrible! The clams were WAY overcooked, almost burned & chewy as a rubberband-just gross..food took forever, we were told there was only 1 cook and the restsurant was packed! Also,the bolied shrimp were just wierd..almost undecooked AND my sons chicken tenders were overcooked, he wouldnt touch them..really bad experience today!
(1)Paul T.
I would like to start off and say that I would give this restaurant zero stars if I could with this review. But the service here was very laxed and the employees seemed to enjoy dancing more than speaking to the customers. Kyle the server was terrible and treated us as if it was a chore to serve the table. I will never come here again!!!
(1)Ross H.
Us locals don't go here...just sayin' that's all you need to know!!
(1)Candy K.
The weather was nice so I wanted to eat outside somewhere with a great view. Joe's Crab Shack on the beach seemed like a good idea. We sat outside at the high top bar tables because if you sit at one of the regular bench tables the railing almost completely blocks your view of the beach. We ordered the steam pot of snow crab and a side of hush puppies. For $3.29 I was expecting more then THREE hush puppies. They were tasty, but I wouldn't say they were worth over $1 a piece! Unfortunately it was the main dish that fell flat. We got our pot but had no bucket for shells, no forks for the coleslaw and no butter for dipping. Our meal got a bit cold while waiting for someone to bring each missing piece, in 3 separate trips. When we finally got everything and dove in, there were 3 very sad looking clusters. Only one of them had all its legs. One had the smallest claw I've ever seen. There was barely any meat in any of the legs and when we could finally find some meat it would only come out in mutilated little chunks. I didn't get one good solid piece out of any of them and I'm pretty good at cracking crab! It was truly the saddest pot of crab I have ever had. Throughout the entire dinner I was battling some very large flies. Two were drowning in my beer before I left. Then for half the dinner a pidgeon was perched right about my head on a post and I was convinced every butt wiggle was going to result in a face full of pidgeon poop. Thankfully that didn't happen. I have been to many different Joe's Crab Shacks and usually really enjoy their crab, but the one in Jax Beach was really disappointing and I don't think I'd be going there again.
(2)Shanna P.
The food here today was fantastic, hot when delivered, and super fresh. I really enjoyed it. However, being seated next to one of the waitresses who was here on her day off was atrocious. I guess she was in here on her day off or something but a large amount of waiters/waitresses stopped by her table next to mine to talk with her. I could hear her talking crap about people in here and it was very unprofessional. For me, the atmosphere of the place where I'm eating is very important for the mood I'm in to eat my food. And the fact that one of their own waitresses was just running her mouth about the customers was a big reason I gave the experience here a 3/5. I'll be coming back for the food though!
(3)Naomi E.
Patrick our server was great. Food was good. The only thing I didn't like was the playground area for the kids. Its a bit run down with sharp edges. That needs to be fixed ASAP. That's a drs visit waiting to happen. Not a fun thing to do while on vacation that's for sure.
(4)Andreina T.
Food was OK. Nothing out of this world. The one thing that they are seriously lacking is cleanness. We ate outside and it was very disgusting. The old wooden tables were filthy. Bugs and birds eating the leftovers on the table and the floor. Restrooms were dirty as well. It makes me not want to come back.
(2)Gerrald L.
The food was pretty good, not much food though mostly shells,few crab claws with a bit of meat a piece of corn and potatoes for around $28 I gave it 4 stars mainly based on the good favor. This location seemed a little dirty. And you better like it loud because they blast the music way to loud.
(4)Constance H.
We were the only people there, so it would be very noticeable if the service was bad because we were the only people to serve. My husband and I shared the bucket of shrimp as an appetizer which wasn't bad. Not to hard to mess up either. My entrée was the a Joe's classic steam pot. It included a dungeoness crab, sweet snow crab, shrimp, corn on cob, 2 potatoes, and sausage. It was delicious! My hubby had the popcorn shrimp and the bucket of queen crab. He enjoyed his as well and ate all of his meal. We will definitely go there again, although it was overpriced. We ended up spending a little over a hundred for both of us including the tip, but it was during happy hour and we bought 3 dollar drink specials.
(4)Tanya B.
It was okay. Let's just say. Sat down at bar at a dirty table. Weren't noticed for a LONG time to get tat table cleaned. Then she cleaned it, took our order. Took a veryyyyy long time to get our food. It was okay. Not incredible.
(2)Linda W.
This was our last time here. Lunchtime Friday, place is pretty quiet. Sat outside. Ordered the lobster and crab pot, special occasion day..... You know what a boneless, skinless chicken breast is like when it's cooked until it is dry and shreddy? Kind of sawdusty? That was my lobster and crab legs. No pulling out the sweet, succulent claw, instead scrape the shreds out of the claw and wonder how the hello anyone could overheat lobster to that point. First time in my life I stopped eating a lobster and left it untouched. Our waiter summoned the manager, who proceeded to explain to us that the lobsters are frozen and I would not be happy with another one, so he would have more crab bought out. His response sounded so well rehearsed that it was obvious that this was a common occurrence. Including the hokey reference "to not p***ing me off like he angers his wife all the time". Correct response to a complaint like mine would have been "I am so sorry Ma'am, may I have another prepared for you?" Instead, he chose to treat me like I am an idiot or like I was trying to get something for nothing. We paid our bill and left that sawdust lobster sitting on the table. Our server was excellent. We were seated quickly.
(1)Chris S.
If you're in Jacksonville Beach from out of town and end up here for dinner, we need to chat. There's wonderful local seafood places with excellent food. The food here is you're average chain food and if you're a regular at Applebees, Chilis, Friday's, etc, you'll love Joe's. Meanwhile, you're in an area surrounded by great places to eat: enjoy local seafood rather than going to a place like this. I'd try Palm Valley Fish Camp. Meanwhile, you can come here for the fact that Joe's is on the beach, offers a fun, family atmosphere and is the touristy thing to do. If you like Red Lobster, the food here is a notch above that, but don't expect the fresh, local flare you'll get at smaller restaurants. This is average, chain food. And, if that's what you enjoy, you'll love this place.
(3)Gizelle A.
Good to ok food but consistently poor service. They do a lot more dancing than serving. Tough to get the attention of waiters even when it's pretty much empty. They allow smoking outside :-( gross. I'd come here once in a very while for a drink and small appetizer but would never come for an actual full meal.
(2)Alison L.
Tracy is hilarious and made our large group feel welcome. If it weren't for the super friendly service, I would probably give this place one less star... I ordered the crab cake salad the first time I went (yes, I went two days in a row) and was not too happy with it. It was a bed of romaine lettuce pieces with some corn and beans thrown on top. It didn't come out with the chipotle caesar dressing at first, and even that wasn't all that great. The crab cake was big, but nothing to balance out the poor salad construction. The menu featured a picture of what it was supposed to look like and it was like comparing McD's big mac photo with what you actually get... The salad actually looked lifeless in comparison to the photo. I know this isn't a place to get a salad, but they shouldn't put a picture of the salad on the menu if it's actually a pale version of it. The next day, I ordered a 1 1/4 lb queen crab legs and received six legs in total. I've received more legs at Red Lobster for cheaper. Don't invest in the crab legs because it's not enough food for what you're paying from my experience with crab houses. Their Twosday deals seem good though. Super convenient location on the beach!
(3)Robert B.
We waited over an hour for our food and when it arrived, it was cold. Worst waitress and horrible food - not cheap either. There were 5 of us, and none of us could eat much of our food. They offered us a discount coupon for next time, but there is no way we would ever go back there.
(1)Kayla N.
One star for the breezy outside seating. That's it. The service was slow. The food was absolute horrible and TINY for what you're paying! The mussels were rubbery, the crab boil was tasteless and measly. When we brought up our concerns with the manager he just said "thanks for letting me know" - never apologized or even corrected the check. I mean, I guess we should have known what we were getting into but we've had dinner here at this location a few years ago and it was delicious. Definitely gone down hill since then. Which is a shame because we planned to spend a lot of money here. Never again!
(1)Haeyon L.
We visited on our spring break trip to Jacksonville Beach, FL. It's right next to the beach and parking lot so it's in a very convenient location. The food is really good and decently priced for the amount you get. My boyfriend and I split a single serving steamer and it was more than enough food. I suggest heading over on Tuesday for their TwosDay deal! Lots of cheap fried food and oysters. Tracy and Kathryn, our waitresses were both awesome. Recommend! Also, try not to sit outside at the large group table if it's sunny outside. Several people in our group came out with sunburns!
(4)Bryan W.
I have always wanted to eat here at this chain but had never had the chance. When I finally did I had high expectations, and I was not let down one bit. This place is very pricey considering the market, but you get what you pay for. The menu makes it very easy to see and pick what to eat. They have meals for 2 people. The staff frequently entertain guest by dancing and singing along to tunes ! Also, there is a trash can in middle of table to disgard all your shells etc.... Eating at Joes is quite a pleasant experience ! I hope to be back again very soon!
(5)Tony T.
Used to be one of my favorite establishments but last night was one of worst dining experiences I have ever had. The tall manager with the gray hair was a miserable person and took all of the fun out of Joe's. No more dancing?!?! The staffs dancing is what makes Joe's Crab Shack one of the most exhilarating dining experiences in North American. On top of that, the service was extremely slow and the server didn't bring us any tools or butter with our steam pots. My sausage was also under cooked!!!!!!!!! This gray haired manager is destroying Joe's Crab Shack in jax beach. The server also deliberately threw my friends jacket on the ground outside of the establishment when he accidentally left it at our table. I am extremely saddened by this horrible turn that Joe's in jax beach has made. My Saturday nights will never be the same. I will not be returning and will be taking my business to red lobster !!!!
(1)Todd W.
had a bad experience here today and will be the last time that we will spend our money here....my wife ordered the lobster pot....Lobster and the crab was overcooked, to the point of asking our waiter for a new lobster....manager came out and gave us an obviously canned response of "well that is how we do it with frozen lobster and you will most likely not like the next one either....".....REALLY?? So they knowingly serve subpar food for extreme high prices and when the customer is not satisfied, a canned response is warranted....Also had the fireballs, which in the past, lived up to their name....but today, they were most like whimpy balls....if corporate is reading this, take my suggestion....spend more money on fresh food and less on commercials trying to glorify your crap....
(1)Nathan B.
Average rating for average food and experience. About what was expected- food good but not great. Service ok. For some inexplicable reason, they have the staff dance to random songs. I can't think what management must be trying to accomplish by inflicting this on their employees. It adds nothing to the dining experience and the look on the faces of the staff shows they aren't big fans either.
(3)Ed D.
If you like dry clams and dry frozen lobster Joe's is the place to go. Only dry clams I ever had!
(1)SamiRoxi S.
We're Joes Crab Shack fans...but this one..stay away! We recently moved from San Francisco to Jax Beach, as we frequently ate at Joes at the Fishmen's Wharf..thinking every Joes was the same...exceptinal service, food and drinks..we we're extremely wrong. As we head into the restaurant, the weather starts to turn from sunny to stormy, windy rain. We get inside and get asked if we'd like to sit outside as this storm is about to happen (NO THANKS), not only am I going to get rained on...(it's covered, but wind carries rain) there are visible flys everywhere. We sit inside and is greeted by our server who we see once or twice during our whole time there. We order the shrimp bucket for appetizers and the clasic steam pot for entree. No complaits on the shrimp bucket...but our steam pot seemed like it was sitting out for a while before getting delived to our table...we got it cold. Litterly eating cold crabs and the missing server...and the hostesses (2) who were pointing and laughing at costumers, there's no way I'm going back..time to find another crab shack!
(1)Reggie L.
Gimmicky tourist trap. The prices were outrageous. $30+ for crab legs?!? The burger described and pictured that I ordered was a hand pressed patty, but when it arrived at my table it was a frozen patty similar to the ones you find at walmart. Now, you can buy 12 frozen burgers for $10, this one from joes costs $11. I asked for cheese and for the onion rings and shrimp to be placed on the side instead of on the burger. When it arrived I received a bun and a burger. It was well done (as any frozen patty will be) even though I ordered it mid-rare. The cheese they brought to the table after I reminded them was cold and shredded cheddar. I sent the meal back and didn't order anything else. My wife didn't finish her meal and my two kids ordered the kids buckets. The crab legs were edible but how can you mess up crab legs? Here's the kicker. For an adult and two kids to eat it cost us $72. $72!!!!!!! Please explain why 4 sections of crab legs, 8 shrimp, potatoes and corn should cost $72? These crab must have been featured on deadliest catch or something because they sure did cost $72. Please stay away from here or demand quality food when you go. Jax has plenty of local restaurants that offer very good food. I dropped everyone off at the hotel and went to five guys for a real burger. I got two patties, cheese, and tomatoes with all the toppings I ordered and it was $5.
(1)Caleb S.
Took forever to sit 6 people outside because we have a child. The staff was extremely slow. The food was more expensive than what it was worth!
(2)M M.
First class group! Steven the manager was so generous to help us with our event Flip Your Wig to benefit The Donna Foundation and women living with breast cancer. Awesome view, great good, and super friendly staff. Well done Joe's. You have a customer for life.
(5)Keira S.
I don't recommend ordering the crab steampot. My sister and I ordered the king crab steampot to share. On the menu, it shows at least half a dozen crab legs so we thought we would have enough. It was supposed to come with potatoes and an ear of corn, too. When the order got to our table, it was clear that it was not going to be enough since there was only 3 legs in the pot and 3 little red potatoes. The cost of the pot was $35.99 and we were still hungry. The picture on the menu was misleading. The potatoes were mushy, the corn was bland, and the shrimp were not de-veined. I can't even log into their website to issue a formal complaint because it's so slow. We've had better seafood elsewhere - like Singleton's or Red Lobster. Plus, later, we found out we were double charged by our server and had to go through the bank to clear it up. We won't be returning.
(2)Justin V.
My wife and I stopped here on our way to Orlando and it quickly became the talk of our trip. The crab and lobster we ordered were cooked perfectly! The crab dip was sooooo good and the clams were cooked perfect as well. My wife and I cannot talk about this place enough and just found out there's one in Rochester not but 2 hours away from us. We will definitely travel up there for that sometime!
(5)Peter M.
Meh. Overpriced and overrated tourist trap. the Jacksonville location is conveniently located on the Atlantic where the soiled brown waters of the St. Johns rives pukes out a brown clown just to the north. Still, it's on the beach, if that's your thing...
(2)Chris L.
Spent 100$ on ice cold flavorless food. Spent 100$ on waitress dances. Service was friendly sure. Food was absolute garbage price. Will not be back.
(1)Robert H.
Joe's is an okay chain restaurant. It's always packed, always loud, and very "fun". Their food is average and is pretty expensive. I prefer finding "local" seafood joints.
(3)Khristopher B.
There are two major advantages of going to this particular Joe's. First, if you're the dining outside type, this location has a great view of the Atlantic Ocean. You are literally 30 yards from the water. You have to find that perfect day outside where it's not too cold and not too windy. But if you find it and eat your food outside, it's the closest you can get to paradise in Jacksonville. The other major advantage is that the wait staff (even if deep down they hate it) is always high energy and happy to serve you. They're always dancing and coming to your table to make sure you have everything. I've gone to this Joe's at least three times and I've never had bad service. The waitress has had personality and spunk and has always earned my tip. But here's the major flaw to this Joe's and perhaps all the ones in the country. The food is good, but it's extremely overpriced. I could understand the prices if this Joe's was in Kearney, Nebraska, but we're close to seafood in Florida. It should not cost as much for shrimp and fish and clams along the eastern shore board.
(3)Andrea H.
Food so so. Frozen fish... I've had much better. Had to send food back came to table cold....
(1)Luke M.
Not sure what all the gripes were. This isn't a fancy restaurant but how fancy can you expect when you are eating big messy buckets of seafood? This was right up my alley. Not too expensive, friendly staff, great seafood.
(4)Amiee H.
I ordered more drinks than food. I wasn't super happy with either things that I ordered. Food: 1) Crab nachos: Just ok, wasn't that great. Too many chips and not enough of the crab stuff. Drinks: 1) Pineapple mojito: I was seriously super disappointed with this drink! I LOVE mojitos, but this ruined mojitos for me forever! It was so bland and tasteless. I couldn't taste the pineapple and I would taste the alcohol! It seriously tasted like watered down 7UP. HORRIBLE! I have never sent anything back before, but I definitely sent this drink back. The second time they made it for me, it tasted a LITTLE better, but still kinda sucked, it just sucked less. 2) Margarita: tasted better than the pineapple mojito, but still wasn't great. I tasted more of the alcohol...so I guess that's good. Service: Our waitress is super nice but it still doesn't make up how horrible the meal and drinks were. Ambiance: This is a chain, so the decor is the same between all the stores. Very beach and kid friendly. Price: Too much for ok food and awful drinks! Overall: Probably not going to go back to another Joe's until I forget about this horrible experience.
(2)Lacey C.
I'm gonna keep it family-friendly, here. But wow. Um, this place is crazy-nuts. The music was loud, tacky (and not in a good way), and the staff dance. A lot. I asked our server and she said "four times an hour." I quickly determined the place was trying way too hard and went to the bartender for assistance. I plead the fifth on our bar tab, but will confess I was bullied into ordering something called a "Shark Bait" in which grenadine was poured into my neon-blue liquor from a tiny shark-shaped shot glass. Our server shouted "Everyone out of the water!" People took pictures. I again, entreated our bartender for assistance. The food was ho hum and pricey. Go if you must.
(1)Kerri B.
Busy place, so there's always a long wait from my experience, but the food was amazing- as usual!
(4)Dave S.
You're a tourist from Ohio and you're looking for some "good fried seafood". Well, you found it. They folks at Joe's can fry up some "good seafood". As a matter-of-fact they can fry up just about anything. Caught a mullet from the pier? They'll probably fry it and dance around your table in a conga line. They also serve non-fried seafood like Alaskan crab legs and muscles shipped in from some distant shore. When the kitchen orders back up, the waitresses participate in a bizarre ritual in which they line dance like an aerobics class. Mildly entertaining and also serves to take your mind off your grumbling stomach. Joe's Crab Shack is a chain with many coastal sea-side locations like Kansas City and Minneapolis. There's a big outdoor deck on the beach but you can't eat on it. They seem more interested in selling alcohol than focusing on serving great seafood.
(2)Brian H.
Blackened redfish was great and so was the service and view. Best ocean front dining experience in Jax Beach.
(5)Kim S.
Normally I would avoid chain restaurants whenever possible, but I have to give Joe's Crab Shack at Jacksonville Beach my full approval! The staff is friendly, the outdoor seating and view are exceptional, and I've never had a bad "steam pot" (crab legs, potatoes, corn, shrimp and sausage). The crab from this Joe's in particular is always quite good. My personal favorite is the "Sunset Fire-Grilled". Way way yummy. While we were waiting for a table, we enjoyed some drinks at the outdoor bar. The bartender was friendly and the beverages were good. I ordered a "mason jar" beverage with dinner (new "summer" drinks) but probably wouldn't order one again. It was really really tiny for the price. My only complaint is this time around, our app and entree came out at the same time. Boooo. The Manager came by and offered to re-do our entree, but we said that wouldn't be necessary. Would have been nice if our app had been comped, but this is the first time something like this had ever happened at this Joe's. Overall, I always have a fun night out at Joe's. Great for those looking for some solid crab legs or to have a little fun, too.
(4)Jan J.
This was my first visit, and boy was I glad we did! I was scared that we might not be able to enjoy this place because when I called to find out how long we would have to wait to be seated, we were initially told 2 and half hours!!! Of course it didn't help that it was the 4th of July, but around 10 PM I heard from the hostess' mouth words that were music to my ears: "We can seat you RIGHT NOW." The decor reminded me of a restaurant I frequented back in New York called Famous Dave's. Their food was really good too. My family absolutely LOVED Joe's and would definitely come back again when the opportunity presents itself. We shared a really good appetizer. My wife had the Bean Town Bake steampot which came with 1 pound of crab legs, a smoked sausage, shrimp and 2, count 'em, 2 WHOLE LOBSTERS! My oldest son had the Captain's catch, my daughter had the kids' steampot, and the my youngest boy had the popcorn shrimp. Yours truly had a platter called "The Big Hook Up, it had "great balls of fire, fish and chips, coconut shrimp, crab stuffed shrimp, hush puppies and coleslaw." They wasn't kidding about this being the BIG hook up! Everybody thought their food was nothing short of spectacular & excellent! This place is like Red Lobster on steroids! It's just that good! Anyone wondering where to find a great seafood place, look no further than Joe's Crab Shack!!! Also I really enjoyed the dancing by the staff. I have never personally experienced seeing wait staff get up and start dancing. I also found quite humorous how people s birthday are celebrated there. I learned that they make the birthday boy or girl is dressed up kind of like a rooster and then parades around the ENTIRE restaurant! I'm glad it wasn't my birthday! :)
(5)Tyrone F.
Fun times
(5)Amanda G.
Worst service I ever had at this joes. I have been going to joes all over the east cost and this one has the worst employees ever! When someone double charges you for things that you never ordered and you waitress is drunk or high the whole time and doesn't put in your order at all until you complain I would never go back here. To spend $40 on a steam pot that was cold when I got it. The manager Jen did nothing for us. What a waste of money!!
(1)Jack B.
We went to Joe's Saturday night, and yes, it was crowded, we had a 2 hour wait at 8:50 PM, but it was not terribly bad, we waited in the playground area, and let the kids run around. We were originally slated to sit outside, but the rains chased us inside. The manager there was fantastic, he cleared a place for our 11 inside and did the best he could to make the accomodations as good as possible. The reason for the 2 stars was his great save, but had we had to sit in the rain, the service would be a 1. Our food came out cold, and by 10:30 all we wanted to do was have some dinner. So plan on long waits, poor service, cold food for the most part. The manager will do what he can, but he cannot do it all. For my birthday, this year, I received a $25 gift card for Joe's from my family. Either they do not know me well enough, or they don't like me. Sheesh!
(2)R F.
Food was good. Server was on point. Everyone was friendly. Very crowded. Parking was difficult.
(4)Francesca T.
Awful from beginning to end. For our 13th Wedding Anniversary we thought we would try a different restaurant and what a mistake. Tried to look at the drink menu but it was too sticky to move the pages. Table was dirty, no silverware. Just a mess. Our server: horrible, forgetful, had to wait and remind about everything. Entrees came a few minutes after our app by a different server. She never checked on us, had to get someone else several times. Waited 20 minutes for a ramekin of 4 burnt beyond recognition hush puppies. Had to remind twice for a drink order. Too busy goofing off and dancing to serve properly. Cold food then nuked to rubber. A $44.99 overcooked rubber steampot, more like microwaved pot. $12 for 6 pre-frozen baked clams..what a rip off!! Told our server we were extremely unhappy, she just grabbed our debit card and left. Then spoke to a manager, Beth, and told her of our problems, again no reaction, just nodded and walked away. We walked away too, we will never be back to this overpriced, dirty restaurant. Spent the rest of our Anniversary with indigestion..thanks!!
(1)Shunell A.
I went here on a Friday night (7pm) with a group of 7 for a friends Birthday and this place was PACKED! The hostesses were friendly but there was a 1hr 45min wait time which is horrible, but we all waited by the bar and ordered drinks. The bartenders made good drinks and weren't rude, however they weren't very conversational either. The drinks were pricy avg $10 each. When our table was available our server WAS AMAZING! Very friendly and attentive considering how busy it was I was impressed! I ordered the Chipotle Burger with fries and a Mudslide [alcoholic milkshake] and that was THE BEST BURGER I'VE EVER HAD! Words can't describe how good juicy and PERFECT that burger was! YUMMMM! I really liked the fact that the entire waiting staff helps eachother out... they all go together and did the "Cupid Shuffle" dance with the B-Day girl and did the traditional "I got Crabs" skit. Granted our wait time was bananas it was well worth it! I can't wait to go back, plus its right on the beach! Fresh food Friendly staff and rustic/casual atmosphere! I'd give 5 stars if the wait time was better (45 min would have been more practical). Give Joe's a try next time your out at the beach [wear stretch pants to hide the "food baby" your bound to have!]
(4)Jennifer V.
My parents from Wisconsin were down to visit this week. They had never been to a Joe's, and wanted to try one. We went there on a monday night. We go up to the host and he didn't even acknowledge us, he just sat talking to another employee until we said something. He told us it was a fifteen minute wait, which was fine- Until other patrons started coming in and getting sat immediately. We went up and said something, and were sat. Our waiter was decent, we all ordered crab, but our food was delivered and we had to wait ten minutes for him to go dance with the other waiters before he brought us our utensils or butter. By the time we got it, the food was cold. I understand that their little dance routines are part of the experience eating there, but more than half of the tables were covered in dirty dishes, and you would think that the customers eating would come before that. We were all pretty disappointed in our experience, and it was really expensive for the amount of food you got. I recommend finding a local seafood restaurant in the area, and staying away from this Joe's.
(1)Tammy K.
Great dinner right on the beach, eat in your swim suit, don't even have to get dressed up for dinner, Fun place,,,
(5)Caitlin C.
Whoa, whoa, whoa. I met some friends here for dinner and i loved it so much i came back for lunch on the way to the airport. Sure, it's kitschy, but go for lunch on a weekday (when it's not so packed) and sit out on the deck, and you can almost ignore the kitsch. I, however, appreciate some good crab with a side of kitsch and I can handle dancing waitstaff, etc. when the seafood's this good.
(5)Gabriel S.
I have to say I love seafood and been Joe crab shack numerous occasion back home but this one wasn't oh so GREAT not bad either though. GREAT location right on the beach very entertaining, great management was cold, waitress-waiter was good the food wasn't all that GREAT as far as season and length of the cooking as the lobster meat was tuff the crabs was good but they was hardly season
(4)Franklin B.
The most recent visit was a bit of a let-down. On a Thursday they were crowded, they didn't expect it, short-staffed. Took me 15 minutes to get a beer, after begging. The tardy seafood pot was missing the sausage-duh, same for the table next, had to beg. And pricey as always. The manager apologized. If he had given me a beer I wouldn't be fussy. I'm still searching for the great seafood joint in Jax.
(3)Michael S.
Great location. Loved how we walked right from the beach and got a table outside. Fam all had crab and I had the Snapper. Fun place but the dancing is annoying and ties up the busy servers.
(3)Ally F.
The calamari appetizer is a pretty darn good size, I don't think I've gotten this much... ever. We sat outside, it was sort of cold (didn't think that one through.... night time with beach winds coming in). There was a lot of singing and dancing on the staff's part, we were looking for a way to wind down the night and this wasn't exactly what we were looking for but if you're... drunk, it would be fun. Some of the drinks were of a good strength, but the ones with the souvenir mason jar were definitely weak and overpriced. Like... ten bucks. You can get a pallet of mason jars for three dollars. Anyways the appetizers we had were above average, the service was great though the theatrics were over the top, some of the drinks were strong but some were weak. Equal pros and cons here.
(3)Adam B.
As nice as it was to come in from the beach and cool off, the slow, inattentive service and kitchen mistakes made this a regrettable visit. Our server even said she would get our drinks, but had to dance first. If I wanted unentertaining singing/dancing, I would go to Johnny Rocket's. (And I never want that.) maybe the kitchen staff also was dancing while my hamburger passed from the Medium I had ordered to a well-done briquette. The onion strings were bland and dry. The only non-Miller/Bud/Corona beer they had was Blue Moon, and their 22-oz glass was about 3 ounces short. ( maybe the head dissapated during a dance number). My mistake for not holding out for a genuine seafood place.
(1)Brian Y.
Delightful and filling! WOW! Thats is the seafood I have been lookig for. Fresh, Hot, quick and good. Even better was the service. Angie was a great server. Very impressed. I don't be taken back when you walk in to the resturant and you dont smell fish. Thats because they are the cleanest place to eat seafood. Thank you.
(4)Mark D.
The deck is perfect for a late summer evening. The food left much to be desired. It is a good place for drinks, though. And the service is good. Our server last Saturday was wonderful, she busted her ass for us. The servers all get together to dance sometimes. It's a good beach restaurant.
(3)Jenn S.
not a fan -- chain restaurants are a no go in my book normally. this falls under that category. no go. ive been to joes once & thats all it took for me to know id never be going back. the atmosphere was annoying. too much was going on. i couldnt concentrate on my food. c'mon now. dancing & singing and who knows what else. the food was alright. theres MUCH better seafood around here. bypass joes -- theyre overpriced for what theyre offering you. id rather drive into mayport & buy seafood and cook it myself rather than go to joes.
(2)John R.
First visit. Crunchy and coconut shrimp delicious and tender. Had food within 10 minutes of entering.
(4)Leslye P.
Food was ok. But you really go here for the location - right on the beach!! Beautiful and i love the outdoor seating. But today, while we were finishing our lunch, the manger had our car towed from the Joes crab shack parking lot. I understand that mistakes can happen, but he wasn't nice and we never got an apology. There was no "let's comp your lunch." or "here's a gift card so you can come back." Fortunately, (since they had JUST towed it, they were able to call and get the truck to turn around and come back. But-- we had to wait 40 minutes for all that to happen. Aside from me personally, The manager was so upset because a lot of people were using his lot early in the morning (before Joe's was open) to be at the beach for a charity run. So as soon as Joe's opened, they were PACKED with people from the charity event. Why, if your restaurant can't handle the number of people you have, are you towing the cars from the charity that is suppling you all this business??? Just as a business decision, he should have left the parking lot alone and concentrated on getting the customers served. (There was a 50 minute wait when we were leaving.)
(1)Ramón Y.
Good place to eat. A little loud but good food.
(4)Shelley T.
We ate there twice in two days. I've almost never seen such a happy smile on my boyfriend's face than what those buckets and a beachfront patio made. I have experienced birthdays and other fun Joe's Crab Shack adventures, but this was the first time my boyfriend had been to one, and you deserve all five stars for making him so damned happy! :) *I think it was all the staff breaking out into dancing*
(5)Barbara V.
I go there because my daughter works there. The atmosphere is fun. The crab nachos were pretty good. The clam chowder soup was real good. A lot of stuff is fried but you can order steamed. They are very busy. Great location on the beach. The servers dance every 30 to 45 minutes which is fun to watch.
(3)Britani C.
went there to get a pot of snow crab legs and they ran out of crabs completely. i would have been fine with that if the waitress had told me they ran out before i ordered an appetizer. not happy.
(3)Arjan S.
I loved it--the food was great and the service was even better. We had Britanny serving us at the bar and she took real good care of us.
(4)Scott S.
The food was just average, but expensive. We ordered a couple of their "famous" steampots. Two crab clusters and a small order of shrimp or clams for around $30? You can do much better for seafood in Florida. The location was great, right on the beach, and the service was excellent. I certainly wouldn't go back for dinner, maybe for drinks and appetizers.
(2)Sandy H.
We went on Mother's day only a 20 minute wait on a table. Food was slow, but it was very busy, waitress was very good, and the food was GREAT!!! We shared a steampot with snowcrab, shrimp, mussels, sausage, potatoes, and corn. They let you share these, most resturants will not let you share one meal, but we asked and they do. And it is right on the beach.
(5)