Tucked along the rugged southern Oregon coastline, Bandon is home to one of the state’s most beloved seafood destinations. Tony’s Crab Shack sits right on the historic boardwalk at 155 1st St SE, Bandon, OR 97411, where the scent of grilled fish and ocean air greets every visitor.
Since 1989, this bright blue shack has been serving up some of the freshest, most flavorful seafood you’ll find anywhere on the Pacific Northwest coast.
What started as a humble bait and tackle shop has transformed into a legendary spot where locals and travelers alike line up for a taste of the real deal.
Forget fancy tablecloths and stuffy menus because Tony’s keeps things refreshingly simple and utterly delicious. The fish tacos here have earned a reputation that stretches far beyond Oregon, drawing seafood lovers from across the country.
Ever wonder what makes a fish taco truly legendary? Spoiler alert: it’s all about the freshness, the grill, and a whole lot of heart.
Ready to discover why this unassuming shack has foodies raving and cameras snapping?
Legendary Fish Tacos That Put Bandon on the Foodie Map
Ask anyone who’s been to Tony’s what they absolutely must try, and the answer comes back lightning fast: the fish tacos. These aren’t your average beachside tacos loaded with breading and oil.
Tony’s grills their fish to perfection, letting the natural flavors shine through with every single bite.
Freshly caught halibut or salmon gets a light seasoning before hitting the grill, creating a smoky char that pairs beautifully with crisp cabbage, tangy sauce, and soft tortillas. Each taco bursts with oceanic goodness, proving that simplicity often tastes the best.
Customers rave about the generous portions of fish tucked inside, making these tacos feel like a true coastal treasure.
Seventy-eight Google reviews specifically mention these fish tacos, calling them the best on the Oregon coast and worth every minute of the wait. One visitor described them as a fresh take on a classic, while another noted the perfectly balanced flavors that never overwhelm the star ingredient.
Whether you’re a taco purist or an adventurous eater, Tony’s version will redefine what you expect from seafood street food.
Pair your tacos with a cup of creamy clam chowder or some garlic ciabatta bread for the ultimate Bandon lunch experience by the water.
The Famous Crab Sandwich Loaded with Dungeness Goodness
If the fish tacos are the opening act, then the Famous Crab Sandwich is the headliner that steals the show every single time. Piled high with fresh Dungeness crab meat, melted Swiss cheese, crisp lettuce, and grilled sourdough bread, this sandwich has become the stuff of local legend.
Tony’s doesn’t hold back on the crab, giving you generous heaps of sweet, tender meat in every bite.
Ninety-five customer reviews highlight this sandwich as a must-try item, with many calling it the best crab sandwich they’ve ever tasted. The garlic-grilled sourdough adds a buttery crunch that perfectly complements the delicate crab, while the Swiss cheese melts into creamy perfection.
One reviewer mentioned splitting the sandwich with their spouse and still feeling satisfied, thanks to the enormous portion size.
What makes this sandwich truly special is the quality of the crab itself, sourced fresh from local waters and prepared without any unnecessary frills. Tony’s philosophy shines here: let the ingredients speak for themselves.
Some guests upgrade their meal with a cup of clam chowder or garlic ciabatta on the side, creating a feast fit for any seafood lover.
Whether you’re a first-timer or a regular, this sandwich never disappoints and always leaves you planning your next visit.
No Deep Frying Here, Just Grilled and BBQ Perfection
One of the things that sets Tony’s apart from countless other seafood joints is their commitment to healthier, more flavorful cooking methods. You won’t find deep fryers bubbling away in this kitchen because Tony’s focuses on grilling, steaming, and barbecuing their seafood instead.
This approach allows the natural flavors of the fish and shellfish to take center stage without being masked by heavy batter or grease.
Grilled fish tacos, BBQ’d oysters, steamed clams, and perfectly cooked crab all showcase this philosophy beautifully. Customers appreciate the lighter, cleaner taste that comes from these methods, with many noting how the seafood feels fresh and never overly oily.
One reviewer mentioned the crab cakes had a perfect texture precisely because they weren’t deep fried, making them a standout dish.
The grilling process also adds a subtle smokiness that enhances the oceanic sweetness of the seafood, creating layers of flavor that keep people coming back. Whether you’re watching your diet or simply prefer the taste of grilled seafood, Tony’s delivers on both fronts.
The kitchen staff knows exactly how to cook each type of fish to perfection, ensuring every bite is tender, juicy, and full of flavor.
This no-frying approach is a refreshing change and a big reason why Tony’s has built such a strong, award-winning reputation over the decades.
Casual Boardwalk Vibe with Outdoor Seating and Ocean Breezes
Step into Tony’s and you’ll immediately feel the laid-back, authentic vibe that makes this place so special. The setting is rustic and informal, with a bright blue exterior that’s become an iconic sight along the Bandon Boardwalk.
Inside, you’ll find a few cozy tables, but most guests prefer the ample outdoor seating where they can soak up the ocean views and salty air.
Picnic tables line the boardwalk, offering front-row seats to the stunning Pacific coastline and the lively atmosphere of Bandon’s waterfront. Customers describe the location as romantic, charming, and perfect for a casual lunch or dinner with family and friends.
One reviewer mentioned how the outdoor seating area was clean, inviting, and ideal for enjoying a meal while watching the waves roll in.
The casual, no-frills approach extends to the service style as well, with guests ordering at the counter and having their food brought out to them. This self-service setup keeps things moving quickly, even during busy lunch rushes.
Dogs are welcome at the outdoor tables, making Tony’s a popular stop for travelers exploring the Oregon coast with their furry companions.
Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or settling in for a leisurely meal, the boardwalk atmosphere adds an extra layer of enjoyment to every visit.
Cook Your Catch Service for the Ultimate Fresh Experience
Here’s something you don’t see every day: Tony’s offers a unique service where you can bring in your own freshly caught Dungeness crab and have the pros cook and clean it for you. For just a couple of dollars, the skilled team will boil and prepare your catch, saving you the mess and effort while ensuring perfect results.
This service has become a favorite among locals and visitors who love crabbing in the rich waters around Bandon.
Many guests take advantage of this option after a successful morning out on the water, turning their DIY seafood adventure into a delicious, hassle-free meal. One reviewer mentioned catching their own crab and paying Tony’s to prepare it, calling the experience authentic and rewarding.
The staff knows exactly how to handle fresh crab, cooking it to tender perfection and cleaning it with expert precision.
This cook-your-catch service reflects Tony’s roots as a bait and tackle shop, where they’ve always been about helping people enjoy the ocean’s bounty. It’s a fun, interactive way to connect with the local fishing culture and enjoy the freshest seafood imaginable.
Even if you don’t catch your own crab, knowing this service exists adds to the charm and authenticity of Tony’s.
It’s just one more reason why this spot feels like a true local’s secret, even though the word is definitely out.
Award-Winning Reputation Built Since 1989
For over three decades, Tony’s has been dishing out top-quality seafood and earning rave reviews from locals, travelers, and food critics alike. Since opening in 1989, the restaurant has built an award-winning reputation as one of the best seafood spots on the entire Oregon coast.
With a 4.5-star rating on Google and nearly 2,800 reviews, the numbers speak for themselves.
Customers consistently praise the freshness, flavor, and generous portions, with many calling Tony’s a must-visit destination in Bandon. The restaurant’s commitment to serving real-deal Oregon coast seafood has earned them loyal fans who return year after year, sometimes traveling from out of state just for a taste.
One reviewer from South Dakota mentioned making Tony’s their first stop every time they visit Oregon, highlighting the restaurant’s far-reaching appeal.
The awards and accolades aren’t just about the food; they also reflect the friendly service, clean facilities, and welcoming atmosphere that make every visit memorable. Tony’s has managed to maintain its quality and charm even as it has grown in popularity, a rare feat in the restaurant world.
The team takes pride in their work, and it shows in every dish they serve.
When a restaurant has been thriving for over thirty years, you know they’re doing something right, and Tony’s continues to set the standard for coastal seafood dining.
More Than Just Tacos with a Menu Full of Coastal Favorites
While the fish tacos and crab sandwich steal most of the spotlight, Tony’s menu offers a whole lineup of coastal favorites that deserve equal attention. Creamy clam chowder tops the list, with 195 customer mentions praising its rich, flavorful broth and generous chunks of clam.
Cioppino, a hearty seafood stew, has earned 13 mentions and rave reviews for its bold, tomato-based flavor packed with fresh fish and shellfish.
Oyster shooters, lobster rolls, smoked salmon sandwiches, halibut sandwiches, and crab cakes all make regular appearances on the menu, each prepared with the same attention to freshness and quality. One guest raved about the seasonal smoked salmon sandwich with cranberry sauce and cream cheese on ciabatta, calling it fantastic and noting the enormous portion of fish.
Another customer couldn’t stop talking about the crab cakes, describing them as the best they’d ever had in the entire United States.
The menu also includes options like shrimp sandwiches, seafood combos with crab and clams, and broiled oysters that showcase the variety of Pacific Northwest seafood. Each dish is designed to let the natural flavors shine, with minimal fuss and maximum taste.
Whether you’re in the mood for something light or a full seafood feast, Tony’s has you covered.
With so many delicious options, you’ll want to visit multiple times to try everything this legendary shack has to offer.
Speedy Service Despite the Long Lines and Lunchtime Rush
One of the most common sights at Tony’s is the line of eager customers stretching out the door, especially during peak lunch hours between noon and one. But here’s the good news: that line moves fast, thanks to the efficient, experienced team working behind the counter.
Multiple reviewers mention waiting longer in line than they did for their actual food, a testament to the kitchen’s speed and organization.
You order at the counter, grab a seat at one of the picnic tables, and before you know it, your food arrives hot, fresh, and ready to devour. The staff keeps things moving smoothly even during the busiest times, ensuring that everyone gets served without sacrificing quality.
One guest noted how the service was speedy and the staff was very kind, making the wait feel worthwhile.
The quick turnaround is especially impressive considering the restaurant’s popularity and the fact that everything is made to order using fresh ingredients. Tony’s has perfected the art of balancing speed with quality, a rare combination in the restaurant world.
Even first-time visitors are pleasantly surprised by how quickly they go from ordering to eating.
So don’t let the line intimidate you; it’s a sign of great food ahead, and you’ll be enjoying your legendary fish tacos sooner than you think.
Generous Portions That Make Every Dollar Count
Seafood on the coast doesn’t always come cheap, and Tony’s pricing reflects the premium quality and freshness of their ingredients. However, customers consistently note that the generous portions make every dollar feel well spent.
Reviewers mention being shocked by the amount of fish piled into their tacos and sandwiches, with one saying the restaurant does not skimp on portions of fish whatsoever.
The Famous Crab Sandwich, for example, comes loaded with so much Dungeness crab that many guests split it between two people and still feel satisfied. The seafood combos, while pricey, offer substantial servings of crab, clams, and shrimp that can easily feed a hungry appetite.
One customer mentioned paying thirty dollars for a shrimp crab sandwich with chowder and feeling it was worth the cost given the quality and quantity.
The portions also reflect Tony’s commitment to giving customers the real deal, with no skimping or cutting corners. When you order a crab cake, you get a massive, flavorful patty that one reviewer described as big enough that one would have been plenty.
The same goes for the oysters, which are large, juicy, and incredibly fresh.
While Tony’s isn’t the cheapest meal on the coast, the value comes through in the quality, freshness, and sheer abundance of seafood on your plate.
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