How to Host a Miami-Style Stone Crab Party

How to Host a Miami-Style Stone Crab Party

If you want to throw a spectacular Miami-style stone crab party with the best seaside fare, you need the right ingredients. It all starts with fresh-caught stone crab, but to truly make it a celebration, you need the perfect food and drink pairings to go with it.

Stone Crab Claws: Things to Consider

First, let’s talk stone crab. It’s important to note that Florida stone crab aficionados prefer larger crab claws.

stone crab dinner party

Let’s face it, stone crab is an expensive delicacy. Larger stone crab claws are the result of Florida’s sustainable stone crab fishing laws. (As if you needed any more reason to back sustainable fishing practices, this is one we can all get behind.) 

Stone crab claws are a delicious, protein-rich food, and a great source of minerals such as magnesium and selenium. Once cracked, stone crabs are large juicy pieces of meat that will have your mouth watering.  This is the ideal centerpiece for your party menu.

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Can’t Forget the Stone Crab Dipping Sauce

But don’t forget! The perfect stone crab needs to have the perfect dip.

Holy Crab’s homemade mustard sauce or warm melted garlic butter are two of our favorites. Stone Crab dipping sauce likely tastes good on other foods, but there is no better combination than a tangy dipping sauce and a meaty jumbo stone crab claw. Over the years, Floridians have perfected this combination. If you haven’t had stone crab and think you don’t like mustard sauce, the first stone crab dip is likely to put those doubts to rest. 

stone crab side

Let’s move on to drinks. Stone crab’s smooth bite and soft texture pair perfectly with most types of white wine.

Here are some of the top recommendations we suggest: 

  • Round Pond Estate Sauvignon Blanc Rutherford, California – notes of juicy citrus and white flowers characterize this wine. 
  • Banfi La Pettegola Vermentino, Toscana, Italy – light and bright with notes of green apple, apricot, and grapefruit, with a racy acidity
  • Droughin Vaudon Chablis, Burgundy, France – notes of apple, citrus, and white peach. 
  • Champagne – the best pairing hands down for Stone Crabs

If none of these options are available, have no fear. Stone crab will pair beautifully with any white wine that you choose. And don’t be afraid to branch out if your party calls for something on the wild side! Who says you can’t enjoy Holy Crab with vibrant reds, bright cocktails, or even a cold brew?

stone crab wine

Next, let’s get into starters and sides. Nothing compliments a good seafood dinner like clam chowder.  Sprinkle some finely diced pieces of bacon on top and get the conversation going amongst your party. 

  • Salad: Chopped or Caesar, your choice. In our opinion, stick with the King, Caesar that is.
  • Creamed Spinach: Not only will you get your healthy dose of greens, but this dish is also delicious. Even those at your gathering who typically shy away from spinach will enjoy this crisp, light, easy to eat side. Tip: you can find frozen spinach dip at your local grocer and it takes minutes to prep.
  • Mac-n-Cheese: Oh, our childhood favorite. Want to give it a little extra kick – Lobster Mac-n-Cheese will do the trick.
  • Other easy to prep items – grilled tomatoes, hash browns, street corn, and asparagus.
stone crab sides

Perfect Desserts After Stone Crab Feast

After your guests have had their fill of stone crab, it’s time for dessert!

For a true Miami seaside cookout, there is only one dessert that will do: The Almighty Key Lime Pie! This tangy, creamy classic brings the full South Florida Stone Crab dining experience to a full circle.

key lime pie

Let’s party!