Okay, I know what you’re thinking. This is a coveted category. And before you jump in the car and head down to Maryland, think about this. I’m talkin’ colossal-sized pieces of crab (the size of your thumb) with very little to no filler. Okay, now imagine incredible flavor that actually lets you savor each bite of heavenly shellfish gems. Flavor that doesn’t coat your tongue in Old Bay seasoning or leave you feeling like you just had a celery, pepper and breadcrumb cake.

Now, I know where to get great crab cakes in this city any season. But when I experienced the crab cakes at Joe Pesce (1113 Walnut Street) recently, I nearly fell off my chair. In a word? Succulent. The sweet meat is done simplistically with a lemon wedge and some seasoned breadcrumbs on top. They’re not overdone, underdone or mushy. You get two large sized love mounds for only $25.00 which is more than fairly priced. You’ll also get a small size of pretty veggies (carrots, squash & zucchini). I got full on just one and took the other one home, which made a sandwich from the Gods the following day.

I’ve been to The Palm, McCormick & Schmick’s, I’ve been to Smith & Wollensky’s and Bookbinders… and they are all okay, but hey — I’m sorry Joe’s cakes of bliss really do beat all others hands down, in my opinion. The only other near competition would be the crab cakes I had recently at Chops on City Ave.

Don’t take my word for it, when you are through licking your monitor (see pic), visit Joe Pesce for yourself. I’m sure you won’t be disappointed. They totally rock.

Reservations are suggested & they take all sorts of plastic. Call 215-829-4400 or visit www.joepesce.net

Joe Pesce
1113 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
(215) 829-4400
www.joepesce.net