Lemon Crab

If you’re in Hayward, CA and have a serious craving for seafood — the kind that comes smothered in buttery garlic sauce or tangy Cajun spice — then you need to make your way to Lemon Crab. Located at 24458 Mission Blvd, this local spot knows exactly how to satisfy every seafood lover’s appetite, and they do it in a setting that’s casual, trendy, and super welcoming whether you’re flying solo or bringing the whole crew.

Open Monday and Wednesday through Sunday from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM (closed Tuesdays), Lemon Crab hits that sweet spot for lunch, dinner, or even a late afternoon seafood feast. The vibe inside walks the line between laid-back and energetic — it’s one of those places where you can show up in beachwear or business casual and feel equally at home. It’s also got a bit of that “hidden gem” feel, even though locals are already catching on.

The moment you walk in, you're greeted by the aroma of garlic, lemon, and buttery spice — the kind of scent that tells you right away you’re in for something indulgent. Their menu is stacked with favorites: crab legs, shrimp, mussels, clams, lobster tails, and even combo platters if you want a bit of everything. The seasoning options let you customize your heat level, and their signature lemon butter garlic sauce is not to be skipped. If you're into bold Cajun flavors, they’ve got that too, and it packs a punch.

The seafood comes in bags, boils, or platters, depending on what you order. Everything is hot, fresh, and seasoned to perfection. You’ll find comfort food like crispy fries, corn, sausage, and rice options to round out your plate. And yes, you’ll get messy — but that’s part of the fun. Bibs, gloves, and wet wipes are all part of the Lemon Crab experience.

They also serve alcohol and beer, which makes it a great dinner spot when you want to kick back with a cold one and a tray of peel-and-eat shrimp. The vibe is fun and social, and it’s great for groups, especially if you’re sharing large seafood boils. The seating is comfy, and it doesn’t feel cramped even when it’s busy — plus, there’s plenty of free parking, both on the street and in the lot, which makes things super convenient.

For families, it’s a solid pick too. The restaurant is kid-friendly, with a casual atmosphere, high chairs, and plenty of space for strollers or younger guests. The staff is warm and quick with service, making it an easy spot for both fast lunches and long dinners.

Accessibility is another highlight. Lemon Crab is wheelchair-friendly from the entrance to the restroom and seating areas, so it’s set up for everyone to enjoy a comfortable dining experience. If you’re not in the mood to sit down and crack shells in-house, they’ve got take-out and delivery options that are smooth and reliable. The food travels well, too — even messy seafood boils show up hot, flavorful, and well-packaged.

They also take reservations, which is a nice touch for busy weekends or group outings. And whether you're paying by credit card, debit, or NFC mobile payments, checkout is quick and contactless. That’s always a bonus when your hands are covered in butter sauce and you don’t want to fumble through your wallet.

What’s cool is that Lemon Crab manages to balance speed and flavor really well. The fast service doesn’t mean shortcuts — everything still tastes fresh and thoughtfully cooked. And because it’s not a massive chain, the food feels personal. You can tell there’s a team in the back that cares about seasoning, texture, and getting it just right.