Joe’s Crab Shack

Joe’s Crab Shack is a casual seafood restaurant brand recognized for its relaxed, beach-themed dining experience and signature seafood boils. The company was founded in Houston, Texas in 1991 by Richard K. Park and Ed Newman. It quickly became known as a lively destination for families and groups, and its early success attracted the attention of Landry’s Restaurants, Inc., which acquired the brand in 1994. This acquisition fueled rapid national growth, with Joe’s Crab Shack expanding from a single location to more than 100 restaurants by the mid-2000s.

A notable milestone in the brand’s history came during the 2010s, when Joe’s Crab Shack reached its peak with nearly 140 locations under Ignite Restaurant Group. However, the company faced significant operational and market challenges in the years that followed, including changing consumer preferences and rising seafood costs. After Ignite filed for bankruptcy in 2017, Landry’s reacquired Joe’s Crab Shack and began a period of consolidation.

As of October 2025, Joe’s Crab Shack operates 15 restaurants across seven states. This represents a substantial reduction from its former national footprint, as the brand has closed many locations and repurposed several sites for other uses within the Landry’s portfolio. The company is not currently pursuing new development or expansion, and all real estate matters are managed by Landry’s corporate team rather than a dedicated Joe’s Crab Shack department.

Despite its smaller scale today, Joe’s Crab Shack remains a recognizable name in the seafood dining segment. Its legacy includes a history of operating large-format, high-visibility sites that have anchored retail and entertainment districts in various markets. The brand’s enduring appeal and established identity continue to make it a familiar presence, even as its focus has shifted to maintaining existing locations rather than growing its footprint.