Fresh In-House Soft Shell Crab

There is so much to love about spring in the Lowcountry, and soft-shell crabs are at the top of our list! As the water temperature warms up during the spring months, crabs begin molting their old exoskeletons and remain “soft” until their new shells start to harden over the coming days. This brief period of softness is what makes soft-shell crabs such a delicacy, as it allows the entire crustacean to be eaten without the need to shell it to reach the meat. The culinary term “soft-shell crab” refers to crabs that have just undergone this molting process, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish that is a true delight for seafood lovers.

The soft-shell crab season typically begins in late March and continues through early June, offering a limited window to enjoy this seasonal delicacy. During this time, our in-house shedding operation comes to life, with more than 10,000 delicious crabs ready to be served throughout the season. This commitment to freshness and quality ensures that every dish featuring our soft-shell crabs is a memorable culinary experience.

Soft-shell crabs can be prepared in various ways to highlight their unique texture and flavor. At Hudson’s, our chefs create a range of dishes that showcase the versatility of this seasonal delicacy. Whether they are lightly fried to a crispy perfection, sautéed with fresh herbs and garlic, or grilled to bring out their natural sweetness, our soft-shell crab dishes are designed to delight the senses. Each preparation method emphasizes the tenderness of the crab while adding complementary flavors that enhance the overall dining experience.

At Hudson’s, we take pride in being the only restaurant on Hilton Head Island with an in-house shedding operation. This unique feature enables us to serve soft-shell crabs with a level of softness and freshness that is unmatched. It also provides our guests with the opportunity to watch and learn more about the fascinating process of crab shedding. Our state-of-the-art system allows us to keep live crabs in our tanks, where a special pump system draws in saltwater from the creek. We monitor the crabs 24 hours a day until they emerge from their shells. Once they have molted, we separate them and prepare them for our guests, ensuring that they receive the freshest soft-shell crabs available on Hilton Head Island.

In addition to the culinary appeal of our soft-shell crabs, the shedding operation itself is a point of interest for many of our guests. We invite diners to visit our restaurant and see firsthand how we care for and monitor the crabs during the molting process. This unique opportunity to learn about the lifecycle of crabs and the meticulous care involved in their preparation adds an educational and engaging element to the dining experience at Hudson’s.

Our commitment to providing the freshest soft-shell crabs extends beyond just the shedding operation. We also prioritize sustainable practices to ensure the health and vitality of our local waters. By supporting sustainable fishing and crabbing practices, we help preserve the delicate balance of the Lowcountry ecosystem, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the bounty of our waters.

The arrival of spring and the start of soft-shell crab season are highly anticipated events at Hudson’s. Our dedication to quality, freshness, and sustainability makes us the premier destination for soft-shell crabs on Hilton Head Island. We invite you to stop by from late March to early June to try some of these amazing seasonal delicacies and to witness our in-house shedding operation in action. Whether you’re a longtime fan of soft-shell crabs or trying them for the first time, we guarantee an unforgettable dining experience that celebrates the best of Lowcountry seafood.

So come on down to Hudson’s Seafood House on the Docks, where the freshest soft-shell crabs are waiting for you. Enjoy the taste of spring and experience the unique flavors and textures that only freshly shed crabs can provide. We look forward to serving you and sharing the incredible journey of soft-shell crabs from our tanks to your plate.