Red Lobster has officially relaunched its popular Crabfest promotion. The refreshed menu now features an innovative Seafood Boil option alongside its classic crab offerings. This return is the brand’s biggest summer rollout and marks a bold push following its recent restructuring.
New Seafood Boil Takes Center Stage
This year, Crabfest introduces two distinct boil experiences served in shake-and-serve bags. The first, called the Mariner’s Boil, includes a Maine lobster tail, a dozen shrimp, snow crab legs, corn on the cob, and seasoned red potatoes. The second option, known as the Sailor’s Boil, is a simpler combination of shrimp, smoked sausage, corn, and red potatoes.
Each boil is paired with a sauce of the customer’s choice. Diners can select from Roasted Garlic Butter, Cajun Butter, or Old Bay seasoning. Prices vary slightly by region, but most locations offer the meals starting around $30.99.
“Our new Seafood Boils bring fun and flavor straight to the table,” said Nichole Robillard, Red Lobster’s Chief Marketing Officer. “Whether you’re a longtime Red Lobster lover or participating in Crabfest for the first time, we’ve got something to bring everyone joy.”
Crab-Filled Creativity Across the Menu
In addition to the Seafood Boils, the Crabfest lineup is stacked with new and returning dishes that showcase crab in inventive ways. Crabby Stuffed Mushrooms offer a rich, savory crab stuffing, baked until golden. Side dishes such as Crab-Topped Asparagus and Crab-Topped Potato elevate simple ingredients with generous portions of lump crab meat. Entrée favorites like Steak Oscar and Salmon Oscar also return to the seasonal menu, both finished with lump crab and a creamy signature sauce.
Red Lobster’s popular “Crab Your Way” entrée is also back, giving customers the chance to customize a full pound of crab legs served over crispy potatoes. Guests can choose between Snow Crab or upgrade to Bairdi Crab for an additional cost. Sauce options now include a new Old Bay & Parmesan flavor, expanding beyond the traditional butter-based choices.
Summer Sips to Complement the Feast
To complement the hearty seafood offerings, Red Lobster has also launched three limited-edition summer cocktails. The “Purple Haze by Dre & Snoop” combines tropical gin with pear, lemonade, and a gold sparkle for visual flair. The “Passion Star Spritz” blends Tito’s Vodka with passionfruit and sparkling wine, garnished with fresh starfruit. Meanwhile, the “Starry Eyed Surprise” uses Patron Silver, guava, blue curaçao, and lemon-lime soda to create a refreshing, colorful drink.
According to Food & Wine, these vibrant cocktails reflect the brand’s efforts to match the festive spirit of the seasonal menu with summer-inspired flavors.
Strategic Revival Amid Bankruptcy Exit
Red Lobster re-emerged from Chapter 11 bankruptcy in September 2024, following a turbulent financial period. The company reported a $76 million loss in 2023 and closed dozens of underperforming locations. Now under new leadership with CEO Damola Adamolekun, the brand is working to rebuild trust and momentum through focused promotions like Crabfest.
Fox News has noted the new Seafood Boil as one of several innovations being rolled out post-bankruptcy in an attempt to modernize the menu and reengage customers.
Crabfest is available from June 23 through September 14 at participating Red Lobster locations nationwide. The company encourages fans to enjoy the limited-time offerings before summer ends.