A New Auburn Sea-Sation: Happy Crab

By Emerson Folker, City of Auburn Economic Development

Nestled in the heart of Downtown Auburn, a culinary gem awaits those seeking a truly unforgettable dining experience. Happy Crab, a seafood haven that has captured the hearts and palates of locals and visitors alike, offers a unique blend of flavors, ambiance, and unparalleled service.

Lily Wu, the owner of Happy Crab, is excited to call Auburn her new home for the very first Happy Crab. She worked hard to open her first restaurant, Xian Noodles, back in 2013. “I worked for 10 years, saving all my money, working for others, and had to move 11 times during that period. A lot happened in that first 10 years, it wasn’t easy.”

With Happy Crab now open, it makes it her fourth restaurant to date, and she dreams to open even more. She attributes her impressive growth to her patron’s satisfaction. “I don’t do any ads, it’s all from word of mouth.” Wu stated. When asked “Why Auburn?” Wu answered “(Auburn) reminds me of home, I grew up in a small village and Auburn gave me the same warm, welcoming feel.”

The moment you step into Happy Crab, you’re enveloped in a vibrant atmosphere. The aroma of simmering seafood, mingled with the tantalizing scent of spices, fills the air. The restaurant’s sleek, modern design, coupled with warm, inviting lighting, creates a perfect backdrop for a memorable meal.

The menu at Happy Crab is a seafood lover’s dream, offering a wide array of dishes that cater to every palate. One of their signature offerings is “Lucky Seven”, a mouthwatering concoction of succulent shrimp, snow crab legs, lobster, Dungeness crab, mussels, and sausage all tossed in a perfectly spicy Cajun sauce (don’t worry, you can choose your preferred spice level!). The seafood is cooked to perfection, tender and juicy, with a mild spicy kick that dances on the taste buds.

“Auburn reminds me of home, I grew up in a small village and Auburn gave me the same warm, welcoming feel.” - Lily Wu, Owner of Happy Crab

For those who prefer a milder flavor profile, the Savory Seafood Wild Rice is a delightful alternative. The delicate balance of fish, spices, and wild rice complement each other so well. Each bite is a symphony of flavors, with the tender salmon, plump shrimp, and juicy scallops harmonizing perfectly with the savory rice.

One item on their menu that makes Happy Crab unique is their signature noodles. The chefs at Happy Crab come in each day, making everything from scratch, which includes the meticulous process of hand pulling all their noodles for that day. You can taste the freshness in every bite. They also offer a variety of other seafood delights, such as seared cod, crispy calamari, and juicy crawfish, and much, much more. Happy Crab is also proud to serve both gluten free and vegetarian options. Their produce and seafood are all locally and sustainably sourced.

Happy Crab is open for lunch and dinner, every day of the week. For those seeking a quick and affordable lunch, Happy Crab offers a special lunch menu featuring a variety of seafood dishes at unbeatable prices. Dinner service offers family style meals that are affordable, fun, and most of all, delicious. Whether you’re a seafood connoisseur or simply looking for a tasty meal, Happy Crab is the place to be.

Beyond its delicious food and inviting atmosphere, Happy Crab has become a beloved gathering place for the community. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a casual meal with friends and family, the restaurant’s warm and welcoming ambiance makes it the perfect spot to create lasting memories.

As you savor each bite of your meal, you can’t help but appreciate the care and passion that goes into every dish. Happy Crab is more than just a restaurant; it’s a destination where you can indulge your senses and experience the true joy of dining.

Lily Wu and her staff are excited to share their vision with you - Happy Crab is located at 22 A St SW and is open Monday through Saturday from 11A a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. You can visit them online at www.happycrab.com

Featured Article in Auburn Magazine Winter 2025