Karai Crab

Name: Karai Crab
Address: 1314 S King St Ste G2, Honolulu, HI, United States, 96814
Telephone: (808) 952-6990
Price range: $31 to $50
Rating: 4.6

4.6

814 Reviews

$31 to $50

Seafood

Top Tags:

Karai Crab is a local-style seafood boil restaurant. We have a fun and spicy menu that uses locally sourced ingredients whenever possible, and we serve it with aloha.

Our seafood combos are always popular, and they can be customized with any of our house-made sauces, and with one of our four spice levels ranging from mild, all the way up to ghost pepper!

If you are looking for something different, try out BuzzFeed’s rated best chicken wings in Hawaii! We also serve lighter fare like our fresh ahi cakes or poke, vegetarian pasta, or specialty items like our cioppino or shrimp and grits. We even have a rotation of house-made desserts daily (if you have room after dinner…)

Join us for a pau hana drink and pupus during happy hour, for dinner with the family, or during our late-night happy hour with friends!

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Additional information

Dining style
Casual Dining
Cuisines
Seafood, Cajun, Creole / Cajun / Southern
Hours of operation
Dinner Mon–Thu, Sun 5:00 pm–9:00 pm Fri, Sat 5:00 pm–10:00 pm
Phone number
(808) 952-6990
Website
https://karaicrab.com/
Payment options
AMEX, Diners Club, Discover, JCB, MasterCard, Visa
Dress code
Casual Dress
Executive chef
Chef Miles Miyamoto
Private party contact
Jon Shimotsukasa: (808) 952-6990

Location
1314 S King St Ste G2, Honolulu, HI 96814
Neighborhood
Honolulu
Cross street
South King Street & Cedar Street
Parking details
Free street parking is available on King Street Monday-Friday after 6:30, Saturday after 4:00, and all day on Sunday and State holidays.We also offer validated parking in the Interstate Building parking structure for a small fee. The garage can be entered from both King and Young Street Monday-Friday, or Saturday and Sunday from King Street only.
Additional
Beer, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Delivery, Full Bar, Gender Neutral Restroom, Gluten-free Options, Non-Smoking, Takeout, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Popular dishes

Truly Mixed Bucket$12.00
A bucket of 4 Truly drinks of your choice for you to share with the whole table!
Sauteed$7.00
A mix of fresh mushrooms sautéed with your choice one of our homemade sauce and customizable spice level.
Broccoli$6.00
Fresh steamed broccoli dressed with your choice one of our homemade sauce and customizable spice level.
Shrimp & Garlic Fried Frice$10.00
Peeled shrimp sautéed in our garlic caramelized fried rice, topped with a mini fried shrimp crumble.
Kimchee Garlic Shrimp Fried Rice$10.00
Roasted garlic, bay shrimp, and kim chee sautéed fried rice topped with a mini fried shrimp crumble and extra kim chee (you can NEVER have too much kim chee!)

Appetizers

Calamari$16.00
A fried calamari steak served pupu style and seasoned with our housemade special Karai seasoning.
Cheesy Bread$8.00
French bread smothered in our Karai Special Seasoning, cheddar and jack cheeses, then broiled to perfection!
Edamame$9.00
Steamed edamame served plain, or tossed with your choice of sea salt or our housemade Poke Sauce.
French$9.00
House seasoned fries served with our housemade Karai-oli sauce for dipping!
Fried Chicken Skin Chips$6.00
Paleo chips made by deep frying chicken skin GBD (Golden Brown Delicious) and served with our house made honey garlic sauce for dipping.
Garlic Fries$10.00
GBD (Golden Brown Delicious) fries topped with our housemade Garlic Butter, Parmesan cheese, and herbs.
Honey Garlic Chicken Wings$16.00
Chicken wings fried and dressed with our popular honey garlic sauce.
Honey Garlic Shrimp$16.00
Butterflied shrimp fried and dressed with our popular honey garlic sauce.
House Salad$10.00
Mixed field greens, grape tomatoes, and cucumber served with our house made balsamic vinaigrette.
Karai Chicken Wings$16.00
Chicken wings fried and tossed with our most popular sauce made with Cajun Seasoning.
Salt & Pepper Shrimp$16.00
Whole shrimp salt and pepper seasoned and fried to perfection!
Shrimp Chips$7.00
This isn't the colorful stuff you remember as a keiki. It's better!
Sweet Potato Fries$9.00
House seasoned sweet potato fries served with our housemade Karai-oli sauce for dipping!

House Specialties

Catfish$17.00
Cornmeal fried GBD (golden brown delicious!) catfish filets served with our perfectly seasoned French fries!
Cioppino$20.00
A hearty San Francisco style fisherman's stew with crab, shrimp, clams, mussels, and fish!
Clam Linguini$17.00
Live clams sautéed with pasta and served with your choice of our House Made Karai Seasoning or Traditional White Wine, Butter, & Garlic.
Miso Sake Clams$18.00
Live clams simmered with roasted garlic and ginger in a miso sake broth.
Pan Roast$18.00
Crab meat, sausage, shrimp, and clams added to our shellfish bisque base, and served with rice.
Seafood Pasta$20.00
Linguini with shrimp, scallops, clams, and mussels served in a rich, house made tomato and fennel cream sauce.

Entrees

The Kraken$191.00
Our updated version of a clam bake to feed the whole family (feeds 4-6 people) ! The Kraken includes: 4 LBS Snow Crab, 2 LBS Whole Shrimp, 1 LB Live Clams, 1 LB Mussels, 6 Red Potatoes, 6 pieces of Local Sweet Corn, 6 pieces of Local Pineapple Kukui Sausage. Served with your choice from our house made seasonings. No substitutions please
Snow Combo$171.00
1.25 LBS of snow crab legs added to our version of a Clam Bake that includes Whole Shrimp, Clams, Mussels, Potato, Corn, and Local Pineapple Kukui Sausage.
Cluster Combo$75.00
1 LB of Dungeness leg clusters added to our version of a Clam Bake that includes Whole Shrimp, Clams, Mussels, Potato, Corn, and Local Pineapple Kukui Sausage.
King Combo$90.00
1 LB of our king crab legs added to our version of a Clam Bake that includes Whole Shrimp, Clams, Mussels, Potato, Corn, and Local Pineapple Kukui Sausage.
Lobster Tail Combo$69.00
7-8 ounce spiny lobster tail added to our version of a Clam Bake that includes Whole Shrimp, Clams, Mussels, Potato, Corn, and Local Pineapple Kukui Sausage.
Snow Crab Legs$41.00
1.25 pounds of snow crab legs steamed and dressed with your choice of one of our famous sauces!
Dungeness Crab Clusters$45.00
1 pound of Dungeness crab leg clusters steamed and dressed with your choice of one of our famous sauces!
King Crab Legs$60.00
1 pound of king crab legs steamed and dressed with your choice of one of our famous sauces!
Lobster Tail$39.00
A 7-8 ounce spiny lobster tail steamed and dressed with your choice of one of our famous sauces!
Karai Combo$30.00
Our version of a Clam Bake that includes Whole Shrimp, Clams, Mussels, Potato, Corn, and Local Pineapple Kukui Sausage.
Live Clams$19.00
Live clams sautéed with your choice of one of our famous sauces!
Mussels$18.00
Mussels sautéed with your choice of one of our famous sauces!
No Mess Shrimp$19.00
Perfectly peeled shrimp sautéed with your choice of one of our famous sauces!
Whole Shrimp$18.00
Whole shrimp sautéed with your choice of one of our famous sauces!

Sides

1 Lb Karai Special Butter$8.00
Our Karai Special sauce for you to take home and put on EVERYTHING! Cajun seasoning added to our homemade garlic butter.
1 Lb Garlic Butter$8.00
Our homemade garlic butter for you to take home and put on EVERYTHING!
Broccoli$6.00
Fresh steamed broccoli dressed with your choice one of our homemade sauce and customizable spice level.
French Bread$3.00
French Bread Hoagie glazed with our housemade Karai butter seasoning. Serves 1 - 2.
Garlic Noodles$10.00
Our most popular side! Yakisoba noodles tossed in our housemade Garlic Butter sauce and topped with garlic chips, Parmesan cheese, and herbs.
Local Kukui Sausage$4.00
Local pineapple Portuguese sausage.
Macaroni Salad$3.00
2 scoops of our housemade macaroni salad.
A Side of Sauce$4.50
Order a side of our housemade sauce to save for later!
Sauce Sampler$10.00
Not sure which sauce to choose? No worries. Order a trio of sauces.
Steamed Potatoes$4.00
Red potatoes boiled to perfection!
White Rice$3.00
1.5 scoops of steamed Japanese short grain rice.

Desserts

Pecan Tart$7.00
3 house made mini pecan tarts served with freshly made whipped cream.
Chocolate Chip Potato Chip Cookies$6.00
The perfect marriage of sweet and savory in an updated classic. 2 big cookies so you can share with a loved one (if you want to...)

Plates

Take out only

Fried Calamari Plate$16.00
A fried calamari steak served pupu style, seasoned with our special Karai seasoning, and served with your choice of 2 sides.
Fried Catfish Plate$17.00
Cornmeal and fried GBD (golden brown delicious!) catfish filets served with your choice of 2 sides.
Live Clams Plate$17.00
Live clams sautéed with your choice of sauce and accompanied with 2 sides.
Honey Garlic Shrimp Plate$17.00
Butterflied shrimp fried and dressed with our popular honey garlic sauce then served alongside your choice of 2 sides.
Honey Garlic Wings Plate$16.00
Chicken wings fried and dressed with our popular honey garlic sauce then served alongside your choice of 2 sides.
Karai Chicken Wings Plate$16.00
Chicken wings fried and tossed with our most popular sauce made with Cajun Seasoning, then served with your choice of 2 sides.
No Mess Shrimp Plate$17.00
Perfectly peeled shrimp sautéed with your choice of sauce and accompanied by 2 sides.
Salt & Pepper Shrimp Plate$17.00
Whole shrimp salt and pepper seasoned and fried to perfection! Served with your choice of 2 sides.
Whole Shrimp Plate$17.00
Whole shrimp sautéed with your choice of sauce and accompanied by 2 sides.

Soft Drinks

Apple Juice$4.00
100% apple juice.
Apple Tea$4.50
Freshly brewed tea mixed with apple juice for a light and refreshing twist.
Choya Ume$4.00
Choya brand ume plum soda from Japan.
Choya Yuzu$4.00
Choya brand yuzu citrus soda from Japan.
Club Soda$3.00
Carbonated water.
Coke$4.00
Coca-cola.
Cranberry Juice$4.00
Cranberry juice cocktail.
Diet Coke$4.00
Diet coca-cola.
Fruit Punch$4.00
Fanta fruit punch.
Ginger Ale$4.00
Guava Juice$4.00
Hawaiian Sun guava nectar.
Guava Tea$4.50
Freshly brewed tea mixed with guava juice for a tropical twist.
Iced Tea$4.00
Unsweetened tropical iced tea.
Lemonade$3.50
Classic Minute Maid lemonade.
Lilikoi Iced Tea$4.50
Tropical iced tea sweetened with passion fruit puree.
Lilikoi Lemonade$4.00
Lemonade mixed with passion fruit puree.
Lilikoi Spritzer$3.50
Club soda mixed with passion fruit puree.
Lychee Lemonade$4.00
Lemonade mixed with lychee syrup.
Lychee Spritzer$3.50
Club soda mixed with lychee syrup.
Lychee Tea$4.50
Tropical iced tea sweetened with lychee syrup.
Mango Iced Tea$4.50
Tropical iced tea sweetened with mango puree.
Mango Lemonade$4.00
Lemonade mixed with mango fruit puree.
Mango Spritzer$3.50
Soda mixed with mango puree.
Maui Brewing Ginger Beer$4.00
All natural handcrafted Ginger Beer brewed with cane sugar, local honey, and Hawaiian ginger.
Oolong Iced Tea$4.00
Itoen oolong iced tea.
Peach Iced Tea$4.50
Tropical iced tea sweetened with peach puree.
Peach Lemonade$4.00
Lemonade mixed with peach puree.
Peach Spritzer$3.50
Club soda mixed with peach puree.
Pineapple Juice$4.00
Dole 100% pineapple juice.
Pineapple Tea$4.50
Freshly brewed tea mixed with pineapple juice for a tropical twist.
Raspberry Iced Tea$4.50
Tropical iced tea sweetened with raspberry puree.
Raspberry Lemonade$4.00
Lemonade mixed with raspberry fruit puree.
Raspberry Spritzer$3.50
Soda mixed with raspberry puree.
Root Beer$4.00
Barq's Root Beer.
Sprite$4.00
Lemon-lime soda.
Strawberry Iced Tea$4.50
Tropical iced tea sweetened with strawberry puree.
Strawberry Lemonade$4.00
Lemonade mixed with strawberry fruit puree.
Strawberry Spritzer$3.50
Soda mixed with strawberry puree.
Volcanic Bottled Water$3.00
Naturally alkaline, premium artisan water enhanced by the Earth with minerals, electrolytes, and Mana (power) from the Big Island of Hawaii.
Volcanic Sparking Water$5.00
Lava filtered water that is sustainably sourced and bottled with Aloha on the Big Island of Hawaii.
Watermelon Iced Tea$4.50
Tropical iced tea sweetened with watermelon puree.
Watermelon Lemonade$4.00
Lemonade mixed with watermelon fruit puree.
Watermelon Spritzer$3.50
Soda mixed with watermelon puree.
Watermelon-Lime Spritzer$4.00
Soda mixed with watermelon puree and unsweetened lime juice, the perfect balance of tart and sweet!

Bottled Beer

12 OZ

Bud Light$5.00
Clean and clear American light lager.
Budweiser$5.00
Medium-bodied, crisp, American-style lager.
Coors Light$5.50
Pure water from ancient aquifers, deep lakes and Rocky Mountain springs make a more refreshing beer.
Heineken$5.50
European-style lager brewed the same way since 1873.
Heineken Light$5.50
Award winning European-style lager with only 99 calories per bottle.
Kirin Ichiban$5.50
100% malt beer at its purest, Kirin Ichiban is a first pressed beer.
Miller Lite$5.50
Miller Lite, a true American Pilsner. It tastes great. It is less filling. It is the original light beer.

Hard Seltzers / Hard Lemonades / Hard Ciders

Truly Mixed Bucket$12.00
A bucket of 4 Truly drinks of your choice for you to share with the whole table!
Maui Brewing CO Drangonfruit Hard Seltzer$5.00
Spiked sparkling water with a hint of natural dragon fruit with 5% ABV, 100 cal, 0 carbs, & 1 G carbs.
Hawaii Ola Hard Cider$5.00
Hard cider, brewed on the Big Island of Hawaii, from pineapples grown in Hawaii.
Truly Raspberry Tea$3.50
The juiciness of raspberry flavor mixed with real brewed tea.
Truly Peach Tea$3.50
Classic peach iced tea mixes with refreshing hard seltzer for a party in the can.
Truly Lemon Tea$3.50
Real brewed tea and lemon flavor for that classic taste of sipping a cold iced tea in the sunshine.
Truly Strawberry Tea$3.50
Try an unexpected twist of iced tea with sweet strawberries in the mix.
Truly Mango Seltzer$3.50
Ripe, juicy mango with hints of coconut and pineapple.
Truly Black Cherry Lemonade$3.50
Slightly sweet, slightly sour black cherry, and extremely refreshing.
Truly Original Lemonade$3.50
Perfectly balanced with the sweetness of real lemonade and the refreshment of seltzer.
Truly Mango Lemonade$3.50
A tropical twist of mango mixed with juicy lemonade and refreshing seltzer.
Truly Passion Fruit Seltzer$3.50
Naturally sweet passion fruit with tropical notes of peach, coconut, pineapple & mango.
Truly Watermelon/Kiwi Seltzer$3.50
Juicy watermelon and tart, candied kiwi notes deliver tropical refreshment.

Bottled Wine

750 Ml

House Sparkling Wine$21.00
This fine White wine, with a bright pale yellow color, presents an intense aroma of fresh citrus fruits, expression of herbs and hints of flower petals. Delicate, elegant, small bubbles caress the palate leaving a dry, smooth aftertaste.
House Pinot Grigio$21.00
Aromas of citrus, melon, and pear highlight the crisp flavor of light-to-medium bodied wine. Pairs well with seafood and spicy food.
House Chardonnay$24.00
Notes of fresh apple, pear and peach enriched by toasty, buttery tones. This Chardonnay is an ideal match for any seafood or poultry dish.
House White Zinfandel$21.00
Notes of watermelon, strawberry, and white nectarine move to a silky texture and refreshing finish.
House Pinot Noir$21.00
Fresh berries and cherry-like aromas, enriched by toasty oak flavors. This wine has a smooth medium body finish and mild tannins.
House Merlot$21.00
Fresh, cherry-like aromas, with hints of tobacco and herbal spice. Medium-bodied, with a smooth texture and soft tannins.
House Cabernet Sauvignon$21.00
Fresh, cherry aromas, with hints of herbal spice. Medium-bodied, with a smooth texture and soft tannins with lingering flavors of cherries and plums.
Maui Ulupalakua Winery White Blend$30.00
Vibrant nose packed with honeysuckle and pomelo. Flavors of Asian pear and nectarine finishing with bright acidity.
Maui Ulupalakua Winery Red Blend$30.00
Exciting aromas of fresh berries mingle with hints of vanilla and white pepper. The lush and skillfully balanced palate flows beautifully into a bright, juicy finish.
Hess Monterey Shirtail Creek Vineyard Chardonnay, 2018$40.00
A touch tropical, bright with balanced acidity that lets the signature lemon-lime and touch of apple flavors of Monterey shine through.
Hess Lake County Shirtail Ranch Rosé Blend, 2016$40.00
Vibrant with a burst of fresh, red berry aromatics. Racy acidity, full of strawberries and hints of orange citrus that lead to a mouthwatering finish. The perfectly balanced acidity makes this wine a wonderful compliment to many foods and warm weather dining!
Hess Lake County Shirtail Ranch Pinot Noir, 2016$50.00
Big, luscious mouthfeel, followed by layers of cinnamon, cherry and raspberry fruits. Hints of vanilla and beautifully soft tannins highlight the deep cherry jam and vanilla evident in this intense, darkly colored Pinot.
Maui Ulupalakua Winery Lokelani Sparkling Brut Rosé$35.00
Effervescent nose of fresh strawberries and orange blossom. Flavors of toasted almond and citrus energetically create an ideal balance that is zippy and ready to celebrate!
Domaine Carneros Carneros Burt Champagne Blend 2015$90.00
Aromas of white flowers, apple pie, and citrus peel are enhanced with notes of toast and vanilla. Elegantly structured, round and flavorful with a signature long, creamy finish. Founded by the Taittinger family of Champagne, Domaine Carneros sparkling wines express their noble French heritage.

Draft Pints

16 oz. Dine in only

Maui Pau Hana Pilsner$6.50
European Pilsner malt offers sweetness balanced by a spicy hop profile.
Karai Blonde Ale Pint$5.50
Clean, crisp, with a touch of sweetness from the honey malt, mild fruit and spice from the German hop aromatics.
Kona Fire Rock Pale Ale$6.50
A copper-colored ale made from roasted malts and a selection of premium hops.
Kona Lavaman Red Ale$6.50
An amber ale with a subtle chocolate malt flavor that's balanced by our delicate blend of Pacific Northwest hops.
Koko Brown Ale Pint$6.50
Brewed with real toasted coconut, savor the mahogany color and smooth, roasty malt taste that highlights a nutty, toffee flavor and aroma.
Kona Hanalei IPA$6.50
An easy-drinking, sessionable beer that combines the hoppy aroma of an IPA with a tropical Hawaiian twist.

Glass Wines

Dine in only

House Chardonnay$7.00
Notes of fresh apple, pear and peach enriched by toasty, buttery tones. This Chardonnay is an ideal match for any seafood or poultry dish.
House Pinot Grigio$7.00
Aromas of citrus, melon, and pear highlight the crisp flavor of light-to-medium bodied wine. Pairs well with seafood and spicy food.
House Sparkling Wine Glass$7.00
This fine White wine, with a bright pale yellow color, presents an intense aroma of fresh citrus fruits, expression of herbs and hints of flower petals. Delicate, elegant, small bubbles caress the palate leaving a dry, smooth aftertaste.
House White Zinfandel$7.00
Notes of watermelon, strawberry, and white nectarine move to a silky texture and refreshing finish.
House Pinot Noir$7.00
Fresh berries and cherry-like aromas, enriched by toasty oak flavors. This wine has a smooth medium body finish and mild tannins.
House Merlot$7.00
Fresh, cherry-like aromas, with hints of tobacco and herbal spice. Medium-bodied, with a smooth texture and soft tannins.
House Cabernet Sauvignon$7.00
Fresh, cherry aromas, with hints of herbal spice. Medium-bodied, with a smooth texture and soft tannins with lingering flavors of cherries and plums.
Maui Ulupalakua White Blend$9.00
Vibrant nose packed with honeysuckle and pomelo. Flavors of Asian pear and nectarine finishing with bright acidity.
Maui Ulupalakua Red Blend$9.00
Exciting aromas of fresh berries mingle with hints of vanilla and white pepper. The lush and skillfully balanced palate flows beautifully into a bright, juicy finish.
Hess Monterey Shirtail Creek Vineyard Chardonnay, 2018$12.00
A touch tropical, bright with balanced acidity that lets the signature lemon-lime and touch of apple flavors of Monterey shine through.
Hess Lake County Shirtail Ranch Rosé Blend, 2016$12.00
Vibrant with a burst of fresh, red berry aromatics. Racy acidity, full of strawberries and hints of orange citrus that lead to a mouthwatering finish. The perfectly balanced acidity makes this wine a wonderful compliment to many foods and warm weather dining!
Hess Lake County Shirtail Ranch Pinot Noir, 2016$14.00
Big, luscious mouthfeel, followed by layers of cinnamon, cherry and raspberry fruits. Hints of vanilla and beautifully soft tannins highlight the deep cherry jam and vanilla evident in this intense, darkly colored Pinot.

Draft Pitchers

64 oz. Dine in only

Maui Pau Hana Pilsner$16.00
European Pilsner malt offers sweetness balanced by a spicy hop profile.
Karai Blonde Ale Pitcher$15.00
Clean, crisp, with a touch of sweetness from the honey malt, mild fruit and spice from the German hop aromatics.
Koko Brown Ale Pitcher$16.00
Brewed with real toasted coconut, savor the mahogany color and smooth, roasty malt taste that highlights a nutty, toffee flavor and aroma.
Kona Brewing Company Fire Rock Pale Ale$16.00
A copper-colored ale made from roasted malts and a selection of premium hops.
Kona Brewing Company Lavaman Red Ale$16.00
An amber ale with a subtle chocolate malt flavor that's balanced by our delicate blend of Pacific Northwest hops.
Kona Brewing Company Hanalei IPA$16.00
An easy-drinking, sessionable beer that combines the hoppy aroma of an IPA with a tropical Hawaiian twist.

Cocktails

Dine in only

Blue Hawaii$10.00
A classic tropical cocktail with rum, pineapple juice, and that all famous Blue Curacao!
Bourbon Tea$10.00
Jim Beam Bourbon is infused inhouse with sweet, delicious lychee, then mixed into the perfect ratio with our tropical tea for a thirst-quenching knockout!
Cassis Cocktail$10.00
A Karai original cocktail with strawberry puree, cassis, and a splash of wine for a fun and fruity treat!
Choya Fizz$10.00
The ultimate thirst-quenching cocktail marrying Choya Umeshu with just the right amount of soda to give it a kick! (+ strawberry, mango, or lilikoi, watermelon, raspberry, yuzu, or ume for just $1 more!).
Haku Lei$10.00
Suntory Haku Vodka is perfectly mixed with pineapple and coconut flavors in this tropical cocktail!
Karai (Shot)$6.00
For those who live life on the wild side and like it a little "Karai" or hot! Karai's signature shot mixes tequila infused inhouse with peppers and lime, sweet mango, and is finished with a Tajin rim! (Not a fan of shots, ask for it on the rocks).
Karai Mary$10.00
Pau Maui Vodka is mixed with Tabasco and classic Mary flavors, and finished with our signature Karai Crab Boil Old Bay Rim. (We love it hot and spicy, but this drink can be customized to your liking.)
Karai Mule$10.00
Our take on the classic Moscow Mule using your choice of either Maui Pau Vodka or Choya Umeshu, mixed with ginger beer (+ strawberry, mango, raspberry, watermelon, or lilikoi for just $1 more!).
Karai-Tai$10.00
Karai's version of the famous Mai Tai with Kauai Koloa rum and lilikoi for a sweet/tart kick!
Lanikai Lychee$10.00
Named after one of our most famous beaches, this cocktail is even better than Sex-On-The-Beach! Kauai Koloa Coconut Rum and lychee liqueur mix with pineapple and cranberry juices, for a cocktail that is sinfully satisfying!
Long Island Iced Tea$10.00
The original POWERFUL cocktail with everything but the kitchen sink in it... (be careful, not for the faint of heart!).
Old Fashioned$10.00
Old school and new school agree this whisky/bourbon cocktail will always be hip!
Palolo Punch$10.00
An adult lemonade mixed with Maui Pau Vodka (+ strawberry, mango, lilikoi, raspberry, or watermelon for just $1 more!).
Roku Tonic (Japanese G&t)$10.00
Suntory Roku Gin is mixed with Choya Yuzu soda for a light and refreshing upgrade to this traditional cocktail!
Spiked Watermelon-Lime Spritzer$10.00
This is the grownup version of our refreshing spritzer. We add just the right amount of local Fid Street Gin to give it a sophisticated twist!
Toki Highball$10.00
Suntory Toki Japanese Whisky mixes with soda and flavored with your choice of lilikoi, strawberry, watermelon, raspberry, or mango (+ yuzu or ume for just $1 more!).

What 814 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

4.6

4.6 based on all time ratings

4.6Food
4.6Service
4.3Ambience
4.3Value

Noise • Moderate

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RR
RichR
New York Area
15 reviews
vip
5.0
15 reviews
Dined on January 29, 2022
overall5food5service5ambience3
Great food. Excellent calamari. Was pleasantly surprised. Would highly recommend
SF
SheilaF
Phoenix
46 reviews
vip
3.0
46 reviews
Dined on January 3, 2022
overall3food3service4ambience2
Thought it was pretty overpriced for quality of seafood. $90 for 2 King Crab legs that just didn’t seem that fresh. Shrimp were over cooked and somewhat rubbery. Potatoes were flavorless, probably not boiled with seafood but boiled in water and seasoned. Corn cobs had a more authentic flavor. Garlic noodles were good though. $120 for two pre tax, well let’s just say it is not a good value.
OT
OpenTable Diner
Hawaii
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on January 1, 2022
overall5food5service5ambience5
Our favorite crab spot
JP
JenniferP
Edmonton
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on January 1, 2022
overall5food5service4ambience4
Great place, lots of choices. Try the chocolate chip potato chips cookies, great mix of sweet and salty
GB
GinaB
Philadelphia
3 reviews
5.0
3 reviews
Dined on December 31, 2021
overall5food5service5ambience5
The food was exceptional to say the least !!! A must to eat there for sure, you won’t be dissatisfied! ENJOY!!
OT
OpenTable Diner
San Francisco
8 reviews
5.0
8 reviews
Dined on December 30, 2021
overall5food5service5ambience5
The location is kind of hidden you could easily past by it and not know it. The interior is not fancy just common tables and chairs. However the food by far is absolutely amazing and on point. Everything we had was prepared to perfection. I had read many positive reviews about this place and they were definitely right on point. Plan to visit again before leaving next week. Amazing food and service!
RM
RichM
San Francisco
12 reviews
vip
5.0
12 reviews
Dined on December 29, 2021
overall5food5service5ambience3
Always a treat - our favorite regular dining option in town. Will be back again soon!
OT
OpenTable Diner
Charlotte
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on December 28, 2021
overall5food5service5ambience4
Order the calamari which was very good and the
K
Kyoko
1 review
1.0
1 review
Dined on December 26, 2021
overall1food1service1ambience1
one of the most disappointing dining experiences in a long time. Ordered lobster tail, sautéed mushrooms, shrimp fried rice + a glass of house wine Cost: USD90 for one person Location: non-descriptive industrial area, next to a park with a full of homeless people Service: non existence Food was very salty, and portions were very small. As for the lobster tail, there was so little meat to eat covered by a full of strong sauce that you didn't taste any lobster. Despite asking to eliminate garlic in the fried rice, it came with so many garlic pieces that I was unable to sleep in the evening with unpleasant after taste. Lobster was advertised on OpenTable menu as USD39, but I was charged USD48, as well as the fried rice for USD12, instead of USD10. The waiting staff claimed they didn't know who put up the wrong pricing on OpenTable, even though this restaurant uses the platform for taking reservations. I only noticed the different prices when I asked for the check. Not only the food quality was substandard, I felt deceived and cheated for what I had paid for.
OT
OpenTable Diner
Denver
4 reviews
3.0
4 reviews
Dined on December 25, 2021
overall3food3service5ambience3
I made a reservation for 6pm, but arrived early and was seated immediately following hostess checking our vaccine cards/ID. Food came out quickly. Drinks and Garlic noodles came out first. Tasted like top ramen with Parmesan, garlic, scallions added. It was ok. We ordered our own combo with dungeness crab, sausage, no mess shrimp, potatoes and corn. We have never been before, so I asked what is the most popular sauce, and we took the suggestion for the karai house sauce. The crab was not sweet and taste like it had been frozen and over cooked. The sauce was not flavorful. I used the gloves given to mixed our meal in the bowl that was provided, but it did not help. Friendly staff, clean bathroom.
R
Royce
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on December 24, 2021
overall5food5service5ambience5
This is our first time at Karai Crab's new location in S. King St. We used to be regulars when it was located next to Hausten. There was no drop in quality or service. Same great taste that will forever cement it's status as the best seafood boil place on the island. Each staff member was so courteous. From greeter to the server and to the cashier. No matter who it was from, they were all great.
OT
OpenTable Diner
Cincinnati
14 reviews
vip
5.0
14 reviews
Dined on December 24, 2021
overall5food5service5ambience4
King crab legs were great, shrimp chips interesting and calamari-the BEST we have ever had!!
OT
OpenTable Diner
Dallas
6 reviews
vip
5.0
6 reviews
Dined on December 23, 2021
overall5food5service5ambience4
A hidden gem! We had a great experience. Staff were very hospitable and went above and beyond to make sure our dinner was unforgettable. Highly recommend if you're looking for crab and other seafood options.
J
James
1 review
2.0
1 review
Dined on December 21, 2021
overall2food3service2ambience1
Not baby friendly. No diaper changing table in the restroom. The food is costly as well and not very fresh. The clams were not washed well. I ate sands all the time during the meal
JK
JulieKW
Alabama
36 reviews
vip
4.0
36 reviews
Dined on December 20, 2021
overall4food4service5ambience4
Vacation dinner. Crab was very good. Appetizers could use some work. We appreciated the cook preparing plain butter noodles for our picky kid.
LL
LatishaL
Las Vegas
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on December 19, 2021
overall5food5service5ambience5
Food was amazing. Definitely visiting again. Great staff.
S
Solo
Los Angeles
2 reviews
4.0
2 reviews
Dined on December 17, 2021
overall4food5service5ambience4
The flavor of the food was amazing I totally recommend the “Garlic Noodles “!
JJ
JJNK
Denver
6 reviews
3.0
6 reviews
Dined on December 17, 2021
overall3food4service5ambience5
While the food tasted delicious, the amount of money that you pay for the amount of food they give you, in most cases, is ridiculous. The worst I would say is the eight dollar glass of sake that comes out in less than a shot size. I understand there is inflation at this time, but it seemed a bit over the top. Service was good. Ambience is good. Ease of parking along with access to the restaurant is all fine. They seem to have a nice selection of Japanese whiskeys, yet even though we enjoyed the food we ate (most of us…my husband complained of stomach issues that evening and said the seafood was not fresh), we will never go back again.
J
Joey
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on December 14, 2021
overall5food5service5ambience4
They had the best seafood! The Karai Combo is perfect for one person. We also had separate orders of the Snow Crab Legs and Mussels. We tried the Lemon Pepper, Karai Special and Ginger&Scallion sauce and they were all tasty. The Cayenne level has a bit of a kick but manageable. They were also able to accommodate us early, and we had great service :)
OT
OpenTable Diner
Dallas
1 review
3.0
1 review
Dined on December 14, 2021
overall3food3service5ambience4
Ordered king crab combo. Crab was slightly over cooked and boil was salty
DW
DaunW
Hawaii
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on December 14, 2021
overall5food5service5ambience5
Great food and friendly staff! Recommend that you try it if you haven’t been there.
S
Shijuro
Atlantic City
14 reviews
vip
5.0
14 reviews
Dined on December 11, 2021
overall5food5service5ambience5
Really tasty food, unique take on appetizers, and the best servers ever. Wonderful experience beginning to delicious cookie end.
OT
OpenTable Diner
1 review
3.0
1 review
Dined on December 11, 2021
overall3food4service3ambience3
They kicked us out of our table after 1 hr to accommodate incoming guests, we had 4 small kids… food was good tho.- the waiter also lacks logic when it comes to masks
FJ
FoodJunkie
Houston
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on December 10, 2021
overall5food5service5ambience5
This place is wonderful!! I'm from the south were we do cajun crab boils all the time. I can say this spot did not disappoint. I had the snow crab legs with the Kari special sauce a Cayenne heat levelwith corn and three dipping sauces. I should have gone for the habenero heat level as I like my crabs spicy. The one thing that differs is Kapari doesn't steam the corn with the crab legs. It was served separately without seasoning. There was enough seasoning in the crab bowl for me to season the corn. I enjoyed my dining experience. I may return before I leave to try the garlic noodles, it's the most ordered side dish. I also had an order of shrimp chips. They were delicious. Try this spot if you want a great crab boil experience while visiting Hawaii.
PJ
PJMfoodie
Calgary
166 reviews
vip
4.0
166 reviews
Dined on December 8, 2021
overall4food4service5ambience4
We chose to come here to get seafood away from the tourists in Waikiki. I’d call this place a neighbourhood gem. At first, upon entry, it looked cafeteria-like. But we were early. The place filled right up (covid protocols in place so good distancing between tables) and the ambiance picked right up. The staff are very well trained. Attentive, no mistakes, offer recommendations… all good! We enjoyed cioppino, miso sake clams, mussels and more. Highly recommended.
OT
OpenTable Diner
Phoenix
8 reviews
5.0
8 reviews
Dined on December 7, 2021
overall5food5service5ambience5
Karai Crab had great crab legs in garlic butter sauce (complete with bib).
W
Wendy
San Francisco
70 reviews
vip
4.0
70 reviews
Dined on December 6, 2021
overall4food4service5ambience3
Loved the sauces for dipping the crab into. Best sweet potato fries of my life… Appreciated the great customer service to ensure every dish was to our liking.
AA
AdamA
Salt Lake City
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on December 5, 2021
overall5food5service5ambience4
This is one of the best! Great people, great food, and garlic! Mmmmmm!
OT
OpenTable Diner
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on December 3, 2021
overall5food5service5ambience5
If you love crabs like I do, this is the place for you! I’ve been here at least 5-6 times, and I always look forward to the next time! King crab is good, but snow crab is easier to eat. My friend and I each had an order of snow crab—it’s a luxury to be full on crab! I always get my crab with their special sauce, though the crab is good even without any sauce. Honey garlic shrimps are good. Potatoes dipped in their sauce are SO good! Mushrooms are good, too. Everything is good here!!! People are friendly. Service is fast. I’m super happy every time I come here!!!
OT
OpenTable Diner
Las Vegas
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on December 2, 2021
overall5food5service5ambience5
Excellent food! Excellent customer service!
SH
SelinaH
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on November 26, 2021
overall5food5service5ambience5
This was my 1st time visiting this establishment. I did enjoy the food, and those cookies, ( both chocolate chips and lemon cookies) are very good. I recommend getting both.
OT
OpenTable Diner
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on November 23, 2021
overall5food5service5ambience5
We were visiting from Chicago and this is the only restaurant reservation we made for our trip based on the reviews. It did not disappoint! We shared the Kona Crab with the Karai seasoning and shrimp garlic fried rice. The crab was so fresh, sweet and the spices complimented the taste perfectly. The fried rice was excellent and tons of garlic. Only regret was not bringing mints and having to wear our masks afterwards. Our server was very attentive, welcoming and polite. We will definitely be back!
OT
OpenTable Diner
Nashville
4 reviews
vip
5.0
4 reviews
Dined on November 22, 2021
overall5food5service5ambience4
A wonderful night with delicious food and great service. Got the Kraken and all left with full stomachs!
OT
OpenTable Diner
San Francisco
10 reviews
4.0
10 reviews
Dined on November 20, 2021
overall4food4service4ambience4
Good food and service. It’s a little bit expensive but overall a good experience
OT
OpenTable Diner
1 review
3.0
1 review
Dined on November 12, 2021
overall3food2service3ambience3
Food was not great as we expected.
PR
PauoaRes
Hawaii
40 reviews
vip
5.0
40 reviews
Dined on November 12, 2021
overall5food5service5ambience5
We wanted crab and boy, did we get crab: dungeness legs. Also got some chioppino-like stew, garlic shrimp, a couple of orders of garlic noodles, cajun broccoli, garlic mushrooms, and surprised to see ricotta lemon cookies which were also terrific
OT
OpenTable Diner
Cleveland
4 reviews
vip
4.0
4 reviews
Dined on November 10, 2021
overall4food5service5ambience4
Very sad with new location, but food delicious
m
moniquel
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on November 10, 2021
overall5food5service5ambience5
The food is fabulous , especially the shrimp and calamari
OT
OpenTable Diner
Hawaii
1 review
5.0
1 review
Dined on November 10, 2021
overall5food5service5ambience5
This place is absolutely amazing!!!!! The service and food were out of this world! If your here visiting this place is a must!!!!
OT
OpenTable Diner
Hawaii
2 reviews
5.0
2 reviews
Dined on November 7, 2021
overall5food5service5ambience5
Everything was amazing. Would go back again

Safety precautions

Cleaning & sanitizing
- Surfaces sanitized between seatings
- Digital, disposable or sanitized menu provided
- Sanitizer or wipes provided for customers
- Contactless payment available
Physical distancing
- Limited number of seated diners
- Distancing maintained in common areas
- Extra space between tables

Protective equipment
- Waitstaff wear masks
- Diners must wear masks unless eating or drinking
Screening
- Sick staff prohibited in the workplace
- Proof of vaccination required to dine indoors
- Contact tracing information collected

FAQs

You can order delivery directly from Karai Crab using the Order Online button. Karai Crab also offers takeout which you can order by calling the restaurant at (808) 952-6990.

Karai Crab is rated 4.6 stars by 814 OpenTable diners.

Not available on OpenTable

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Order delivery or takeout

Takeout

(808) 952-6990

Other options

Order online

Additional information

Cross street
South King Street & Cedar Street
Neighborhood
Honolulu
Hours of operation
Dinner Mon–Thu, Sun 5:00 pm–9:00 pm Fri, Sat 5:00 pm–10:00 pm
Cuisines
Seafood, Cajun, Creole / Cajun / Southern
Dining style
Casual Dining
Dress code
Casual Dress
Parking details
Free street parking is available on King Street Monday-Friday after 6:30, Saturday after 4:00, and all day on Sunday and State holidays.We also offer validated parking in the Interstate Building parking structure for a small fee. The garage can be entered from both King and Young Street Monday-Friday, or Saturday and Sunday from King Street only.
Payment options
AMEX, Diners Club, Discover, JCB, MasterCard, Visa
Executive chef
Chef Miles Miyamoto
Additional
Beer, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Delivery, Full Bar, Gender Neutral Restroom, Gluten-free Options, Non-Smoking, Takeout, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Website
https://karaicrab.com/
Phone number
(808) 952-6990
Private party contact
Jon Shimotsukasa: (808) 952-6990

Karai Crab

Not available on OpenTable

Order delivery or takeout

Takeout

Other options

Additional information

Snow Crab Legs

King Crab Legs

Calamari

Daily Specials

Truly Mixed Bucket$12.00

Sauteed$7.00

Broccoli$6.00

Shrimp & Garlic Fried Frice$10.00

Kimchee Garlic Shrimp Fried Rice$10.00

Appetizers

Calamari$16.00

Cheesy Bread$8.00

Edamame$9.00

French$9.00

Fried Chicken Skin Chips$6.00

Garlic Fries$10.00

Honey Garlic Chicken Wings$16.00

Honey Garlic Shrimp$16.00

House Salad$10.00

Karai Chicken Wings$16.00

Salt & Pepper Shrimp$16.00

Shrimp Chips$7.00

Sweet Potato Fries$9.00

House Specialties

Catfish$17.00

Cioppino$20.00

Clam Linguini$17.00

Miso Sake Clams$18.00

Pan Roast$18.00

Seafood Pasta$20.00

Entrees

The Kraken$191.00

Snow Combo$171.00

Cluster Combo$75.00

King Combo$90.00

Lobster Tail Combo$69.00

Snow Crab Legs$41.00

Dungeness Crab Clusters$45.00

King Crab Legs$60.00

Lobster Tail$39.00

Karai Combo$30.00

Live Clams$19.00

Mussels$18.00

No Mess Shrimp$19.00

Whole Shrimp$18.00

Sides

1 Lb Karai Special Butter$8.00

1 Lb Garlic Butter$8.00

Broccoli$6.00

French Bread$3.00

Garlic Noodles$10.00

Local Kukui Sausage$4.00

Macaroni Salad$3.00

A Side of Sauce$4.50

Sauce Sampler$10.00

Steamed Potatoes$4.00

White Rice$3.00

Desserts

Pecan Tart$7.00

Chocolate Chip Potato Chip Cookies$6.00

Plates

Fried Calamari Plate$16.00

Fried Catfish Plate$17.00

Live Clams Plate$17.00

Honey Garlic Shrimp Plate$17.00

Honey Garlic Wings Plate$16.00

Karai Chicken Wings Plate$16.00

No Mess Shrimp Plate$17.00

Salt & Pepper Shrimp Plate$17.00

Whole Shrimp Plate$17.00

Soft Drinks

Apple Juice$4.00

Apple Tea$4.50

Choya Ume$4.00