Joe’s Crab Shack offers a variety of favorites from all parts of the sea and shore. From its extensive menu, guests can choose from buckets of seasonal seafood, fried shrimp platters and fish dishes, as well as options from the “mainland” that include steak, sandwiches, and chicken. Guests can indulge in over-sized and creative cocktails, such as the Shark Bite which is playfully garnished with a shark toy.
Since its inception, Joe’s popularity has stemmed not only from its menu, but also its retail store. With various pieces of merchandise for purchase, including the ever-popular tie-dye T-shirt with the phrase “Peace, Love and Crabs,” Joe’s has become synonymous with the word “fun.” Unforgettable moments await at our Louisville location and across the nation!
Many customers praised the attentive and friendly service from various staff members, highlighting specific servers who enhanced their dining experience.
Food Quality
Feedback on food quality was mixed; while some dishes were enjoyed, others were criticized for being overcooked or lacking flavor.
Atmosphere
The restaurant's location and ambiance received positive remarks, particularly the beautiful river views and lively atmosphere.
Pricing Concerns
Several reviews mentioned that the food was overpriced relative to its quality, leading to disappointment among some customers.
Cleanliness Issues
There were reports of cleanliness problems, particularly with dirty dishes left on tables and restroom conditions.
MM
Maryann M.
1 day ago
5.0
My husband and I recently took a quick trip to Louisville, KY and enjoyed some delicious fresh shrimp for dinner at Joe's Crab Shack. The atmosphere was casual and fun, and the scenic waterfront view was lovely, especially at sunset. But it was our waiter, Rick, who really made the early evening so special. He was attentive, efficient, good humored, and fun! He treated us as valued customers, even knowing that we were merely tourists from Maine on a weekend whirlwind tour of Louisville. He made great suggestions, aND saw to it that we were served quickly because we had Louisville Orchestra tickets. Rick checked with us multiple times to be sure we were well taken care of, and his lighthearted and funny dialogue had us grinning and wishing we did not need to leave so soon. We do hope to return to Louisville again, and Joe's Crab Shack will be a spot we will definitely visit, with the hope that Rick will once again be our competent and dedicated server.
HW
Heaven Williams
5 days ago
5.0
First timers! Service and food was great! Our waitress was Erin and she made sure we were well taken care of! 10/10
CC
Chloe Cuzzupe
6 days ago
5.0
Came in this past weekend and had an amazing experience. Erin was our server she was amazing! She was so attentive and personable. The food was great too!
PH
Paige Hughes
Nov 17, 2025
2.0
Drove 2 hrs to visit cuz they closed ours in Indy. Haven't been in almost 2 years. They removed mussels from menu and I was heartbroken. But atleast I can still get my garlic crab legs & melted butter! So i just stuck with my old reliable queen crab bucket (which is now $70). Imagine the horror when the waitress came out with plastic bags, that she cut open, dumped onto a plate and the whole thing was covered in what looked like orange vomit. It was dripping with some kind of sauce. Garlic? Im assuming? Y is it so thick? And orange?? Ugh. Im so upset that Joe's has decided to slum it with the rest of the disgusting "crab boil" restaurants. I can get that slop here in Indy. Didn't even attempt to ask for melted butter because I was covered from head to toe n the thick orange "pea soup". I was literally using the roll of paper towels to sop it off my plate and wipe off my potatoes. Where did the nice, clean, steamed net bag go and the handy bucket that I could cover with a plate & would keep my extra legs & taters warm while I devoured the first cluster??
When asked if I wanted to make the trip again this weekend, nah- Im good... So disappointed Joes.
LS
Lead Smart
Oct 25, 2025
3.0
We used to go to Joes Crab Shack a lot in Virginia so we were excited to try it here. The crab and shrimp dip was great but everything f else was not good. We had the mahi and it was dry and just didn’t have a great flavor. My husband broiled platter. He thought it was average. The apple dessert was not good, was too sweet. Great view of the river but the table between us and the view was empty but stacked with dirty dishes. Not only did it never get cleaned up while we were there but servers would add more dirty dishes to it. That’s a shame. I would not go back here. We had others tell us they are nearby and it was the best meal ever. Too bad we picked here.
The attire at Joe's Crab Shack is casual, making it a relaxed dining experience.
What payment options are accepted at Joe's Crab Shack?
Joe's Crab Shack accepts American Express, Cash, Check, Diners Club, Discover, Mastercard, Travelers Check, and Visa.
Where is Joe's Crab Shack located and in which neighborhood?
Joe's Crab Shack is located at 131 River Rd, Louisville, KY 40202, in the Downtown neighborhood.
What nearby attractions can I visit before or after dining at Joe's Crab Shack?
Nearby attractions include Waterfront Park Place, The Great Lawn park, and River Walk hiking trail, perfect for outdoor activities before or after your meal.
Is parking available near Joe's Crab Shack?
Yes, nearby parking options include Witherspoon Garage and Humana Waterside, making it convenient for visitors to park when dining.
Are there entertainment venues near Joe's Crab Shack?
Yes, Water By The Bridge and The Great Lawn both serve as venues for concerts and events, ideal for visitors to catch a show after dining.