If you’re familiar with the “Crabby Bill’s” seafood restaurants, you’ll be happy to know that Captain Just and Crabby Bill are related.
The Florida-based, family-owned and operated Crabby Bill’s chain has branched out.
Matt Loder, Crabby Bill’s restaurants Chief Executive Officer, and Pinchus Just opened their first Captain Just Crab House last Tuesday at 11010 30th Street across from Yuengling Brewery. The familiar location was one of the original Shells restaurants for more than 20 years.
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This new venture with its proximity to the University of South Florida has different demographics than the Crabby Bill’s Pinellas County locations.
“It’s basically the same menu but with lower prices,” said general manager Mara Shultz. There are paper cloths for the tables and bibs to protect your clothing. It’s all about enjoying the dining experience in a family atmosphere, she said.
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Crab is king at Captain Just, where the crew serves many varieties that include Dungeness, Alaskan King, Baridi, Florida Stone and Blue Crab. Baridi crab is served garlic-roasted or steamed. A one pound portion for $10 is the Tuesday special and is expected to be a customer favorite.
Smoked mahi, amberjack, salmon and tuna are combined with seasoning and a touch of mayo to make a smoked fish dip. Other starters include corn nuggets, battered onion rings, Florida alligator tail and crab cake.
Entrée items include oysters, clams, mussels, shrimp, redfish, salmon, grouper and catfish, as well as steak, chicken, pasta, wings, chowders, salads and sandwiches. Kids menu items come with one side and a drink.
Shultz has been part of the Crabby Bill’s family since 2007. She worked at the Indian Rocks Beach and St. Petersburg locations and served one year as general manager of the Tarpon Springs location before opening Captain Just Crab House.
A native of Pennsylvania, Shultz said she is thrilled with this venture and its location. “Yuengling,” said Shultz, “is the nector of the Gods.” Yuengling, America’s oldest brewery, began in Pottsville, Pa. in 1829 and is still family owned and operated. Yuengling began production at the plant on 30th Street in 1999.
Future plans at Captain Just call for outdoor seating and an oyster bar. Official grand opening will be after the first of the year Shultz said.
Hours of operation are 11 a.m.– 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and the eatery is closed on Sunday. It features weekday $1 beer specials and a happy hour from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday through Saturday.