Tucked away in a small plaza above Albany Post Road in Montrose sits Crabcake, a new gourmet seafood shack launched in June by longtime Westchester chef Ronald Campanaro.
If you’re not looking for Crabcake, you just might miss it. Those who frequently travel the route know that in recent years, the space has been home to a handful of concepts: a Mexican-Italian cafe, a fried chicken eatery, a burger joint. Despite that, Campanaro, who was formerly head chef at Boe @ 324 in White Plains and owned the new-defunct Taste restaurant in Buchanan, thinks his newest venture has staying power.
There’s a pair of tables on the outside front patio for warmer months. Inside, red booths are joined by dark tables and wooden chairs. Large-screen televisions typically show ESPN or other sporting events. The small staff is friendly and attentive.
I ordered a lobster roll that was both buttery and delicious, while the bread was crisp and not at all soggy. Still, know that you’ll pay for the quality, with the sandwich alone running $21.
An equally tasty burger piled with lettuce tomato, and Vermont cheddar cheese was thick, and juicy. Neither came with a side, so you’ll need to order the hand-cut fries or the Mexican street corn separately. A fennel-apple slaw with hints of dill was an unexpected delight, made even more enjoyable by a few drops of Sriracha.
There’s also a kids menu, complete with grilled cheese and hot dogs, along with daily specials. Steamed buckets include a lobster clambake and red Russian king crab legs.
Campanaro has big plans for his newest venture, aiming to secure a liquor license early next year to complete his vision for the restaurant. He also recently acquired a food truck that he hopes to roll out next summer, offering the same sort of seafood fare. “We have a lot of plans,” Campanaro says. “It just takes time.”
Crabcake Restaurant
2081 Albany Post Rd
Montrose
914.219.8822
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