The Chesapeake Bay Blue Crab is a native to Virginia’s River Realm, and it is most widely known to be enjoyed steamed in its hard shell with a little Old Bay, butter, and maybe some vinegar, but around here we have another way we like to dine on this shellfish.

Every summer, the Blue Crab goes through a molting process in which they shed their hard outer shell; leaving behind a soft shell that can be fried to perfection for a delicious sandwich or platter.

In Virginia’s River Realm, our chefs & restaurants have taken the softshell beyond the sandwich, giving you a unique way to try this local delicacy. Here are some of our favorite places to dine on the best soft shell crabs in the River Realm: