Oceancrat The Boiling Seafood

If you’re looking for a dining experience that is as much about the “event” as it is about the food, Oceancrat The Boiling Seafood in Maple Shade is your destination. Located on South Church Road, this isn’t your typical quiet seafood house. It’s a high-energy, bibs-on, hands-in destination where the tables are lined with paper and the air is thick with the scent of garlic butter and Cajun spice.

The history of Oceancrat is a story of local growth. Owners Chef Steve Lin and his wife Brenda—who also manage the popular Megu Sushi locations in the area—originally opened Oceancrat in Mount Laurel before relocating to this larger, livelier Maple Shade spot in 2020. They’ve successfully brought a festive, nautical-themed “party” atmosphere to South Jersey, complete with anchor decor and a spacious interior designed for large groups and celebratory messes.

Features & Highlights

The main attraction is the Louisiana Cajun-style seafood boil. You don’t just order a dish; you build a bucket. You choose your catch—ranging from Snow Crab legs and Dungeness clusters to King Crab, lobster tail, and crawfish—pick your seasoning (Cajun, Lemon Pepper, Old Bay, or the “Oceancrat Special” which mixes them all), and set your spice level from mild to “extra hot.”

But the features go beyond the bag. The menu is packed with “Boiling House” staples like Garlic Noodles, Fried Catfish baskets, and Po’ Boys. For those who want the full experience, the Special Buckets (like the Oceancrat Lover) come loaded with sausage, corn, potatoes, and even fried rice and hush puppies.

Details can change — check the site or socials for the latest menus, hours, and events.