Thanksgiving is synonymous with turkey, stuffing, and all the traditional sides for millions across the U.S. In the South, however, the holiday spread often features an additional delight—crab. This year, a number of Mississippi Gulf Coast casinos are showcasing limitless crab legs on their Thanksgiving buffets.

After a spike in prices due to the COVID-19 pandemic that initially removed crab legs from casino offerings, the beloved crustaceans are making a joyful comeback on buffet tables this season. (Image: Shutterstock)

The Times-Picayune and New Orleans Advocate have put together a guide highlighting Mississippi Gulf Coast casinos that will be serving crab legs as part of their Thanksgiving feasts.

Buffet Pricing and Offerings

Prices for these lavish spread range from $48.99 at Treasure Bay Casino in Biloxi, which includes lobster, to $79.95 per person at the Silver Slipper in Bay St. Louis, featuring Dungeness, blue, and Jonah crab. Treasure Bay’s non-crab buffet is priced at a more accessible $26.99.

Other participating casinos include Boomtown Biloxi and Hollywood Casino Bay St. Louis, each offering a Thanksgiving crab leg buffet priced at $49.99.

Shifting Trends in Crab Availability

All-you-can-eat crab leg options were once commonplace at Mississippi and Louisiana Gulf Coast casinos. However, as prices surged over recent years, availability has decreased. Currently, crab leg buffets command higher prices. For example, while the Beau Rivage’s Thanksgiving buffet does not feature crab, it offers a complete turkey dinner for $32.99. The Island View Casino in Gulfport provides a bargain at $29, including traditional Thanksgiving dishes alongside St. Louis ribs, Gulf shrimp, and catfish.

Bucketing at Biloxi’s Palace Casino offers a buffet priced at $45 ($43 with a rewards card), which includes a Thanksgiving menu augmented by prime rib, boiled shrimp, and smoked baked ham.

Diving into Crab Varieties

If you’ve ever wondered about the differences between various types of crab, the Angry Crab Shack, present across the nation, provides insights. Dungeness crab, characterized by its brownish-purple hue and found along the coast from Alaska to Mexico, boasts sweet and tender pink meat.

Meanwhile, king crab, often referred to as Alaskan king, can weigh as much as 25 pounds and features tender, white meat with a delicate taste. However, only about 25% of a king crab’s mass is edible, primarily from the legs and claws.

Stone crab is another sought-after delicacy that is appreciated for its sweet flavor and firm texture. Snow crab, also known as rock or spider crab, is found in the Atlantic Ocean and prefers deeper waters, offering a sweet, mildly briny flavor.

Lastly, blue crabs, which turn red upon cooking, are available off the East Coast and deliver a sweet, buttery taste.

Choosing the Best Crab

So, which type of crab reigns supreme? The Angry Crab Shack states, “Ultimately, the best crab is the one that is fresh, well-prepared, and matches your palate. The quality of the meat and the skill of the chef significantly impact the experience. Crab enthusiasts often have strong preferences regarding their favorite variety, leading to lively debates at the dinner table.”