During stone crab season, which begins on October 15 every year and lasts until May 15, hungry visitors can dine on fresh-from-the-boat stone crab claws at several eateries throughout the Anna Maria Island, Longboat Key and Bradenton area – from the uber casual to swanky chic.
 
The sweet, tasty stone crab meat is harvested during the seven-month season, providing a delectable delight that can be enjoyed chilled (with mustard sauce) or steamed (with melted butter and lemon). About three million pounds of stone crabs are harvested each year to keep up with popular demand.
 
Area restaurants that serve the delicious seafood treat include the Beachhouse and Sandbar on Anna Maria Island, Star Fish Company and Seafood Shack in Cortez and, of course, Moore’s Stone Crab Restaurant on Longboat Key.
 
For visitors who prefer to fix their own claws in the comfort of the vacation rental or other accommodations with kitchen facilities, Moore’s Stone Crab Restaurant is the best option. Moore’s offers a full retail market on-site and will also ship fresh stone crab claws via next day air if travelers wish to send them home. And their website provides step-by-step instruction (just three simple steps) to cracking and enjoying this succulent shellfish on your own.