Business Details
10 Years
experience
Your Premier Seafood Dining Experience in Wells-next-the-Sea
Established in 2016, Wells Crab House is a family-run seafood restaurant offering an intimate dining experience with 14 tables. Our philosophy centres on sourcing the freshest local and seasonal ingredients, partnering directly with Norfolk fishermen and suppliers like Andy Frary and Arthur Howell. Our menu features innovative seafood dishes inspired by global cuisines, complemented by a curated selection of wines and gins. We prioritise sustainability and freshness, ensuring every dish reflects our commitment to quality.Our team creates a welcoming atmosphere where guests can enjoy expertly prepared seafood platters and unique culinary fusions. We also host private events for up to 40 guests, providing a personalised service for special occasions. Our takeaway, Hook, serves seafood rolls and platters with a dog-friendly outdoor space. With card-secured reservations and a focus on customer satisfaction, we aim to deliver memorable dining experiences rooted in Norfolk's coastal heritage.
Services
Seafood Restaurant
Takeaway
Event Venue
Wine Matching
Gin Selection
Details
- Year established: 2016
Highlights and features
- We source seafood directly from local Norfolk fishermen like Andy Frary
- Our menu features unique global seafood fusions developed by passionate chefs
- We offer a curated wine matching service with Norfolk vineyard selections
- We host intimate private events with personalised service for up to 40 guests
- Our takeaway provides fresh seafood rolls in a dog-friendly licensed space
Services
Seafood Restaurant
Our 14-table restaurant serves innovative seafood dishes using daily catches from local Norfolk fishermen. Menus change seasonally to showcase fresh ingredients like crabs from Andy Frary and oysters from the Southerland Family. The intimate setting provides a relaxed atmosphere for enjoying culinary fusions inspired by global cuisines.
Private Events
We host exclusive events for up to 40 guests in our dedicated function space. Our team provides full-service coordination for weddings and special occasions, including tailored menus and wine pairings. The venue combines coastal charm with professional service for memorable celebrations.
Wine Matching
Our sommeliers offer expert wine pairing guidance with every seafood dish. The extensive list features five Norfolk wines from award-winning vineyards like Winbirri and Burn Valley. Guests can sample wines by the glass (125ml) or bottle to complement their dining experience.
Takeaway Service
Our takeaway outlet at 14 Freeman Street serves seafood rolls, platters, and salads Tuesday-Saturday. The menu focuses on fresh, casual dining options with outdoor seating available. This licensed venue welcomes dogs (excluding the main restaurant) for a relaxed coastal experience.
Gin Selection
We offer 35 Norfolk-sourced gins, including two exclusive Black Shuck varieties. The collection features local distillers like Barsham and Adnams, served with premium tonics and garnishes. Our knowledgeable staff provides tasting notes and pairing suggestions for an enhanced gin experience.
People
Kelly Dougal
Co-Owner
Co-founder of Wells Crab House, Kelly works hands-on to create memorable dining experiences. She manages front-of-house operations and event coordination, ensuring every guest receives warm, personal service.
Scott Dougal
Co-Owner
Co-founder Scott oversees kitchen operations and menu development. With a passion for global seafood cuisines, he creates innovative dishes that blend Norfolk ingredients with international culinary influences.
Questions
How do I make a reservation at Wells Crab House?
Book via our website using ResDiary or call 01328 710456. Card details are required to secure bookings, with deposits applied after 15 minutes of cancellation time.
Does the menu change regularly?
Yes, our menu updates seasonally to feature the freshest local seafood. Check our website monthly for new dishes inspired by daily catches and seasonal ingredients.
Can I host a private event at the restaurant?
Yes, we accommodate events for up to 40 guests. Our team provides full-service coordination for weddings and special occasions with custom menus and wine pairings.
Is the restaurant dog-friendly?
Dogs are welcome at our takeaway venue (Hook) but not in the main restaurant. Certified guide dogs are permitted in all areas.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept all major credit and debit cards through our secure Stripe PCI system. Payments can be made online during booking or in-person at the venue.
Reviews (4)
Brian Whitton
Nov 29, 2021
Report
Wow, Lunch yesterday was a truly fabulous eating experience. The staff were very professional, friendly and gave us excellent service throughout the meal. The food matched the service in excellence and our mussel starter was the best mussels I have ever eaten. Our main courses were also outstanding and the crab platter was incredible. Thank you to all involved for a memorable lunch. Would recommend Crab House to everyone and undoubtedly we will be back.
Famousaj
Nov 16, 2021
Report
Really fresh seafood, nice atmosphere and the service was excellent. A bit pricey, but worth it. Bookings are highly recommended at the weekend. The sticky toffee pudding was an absolute delight.
Tracey & Aggie Epic Adventure
Oct 25, 2021
Report
What a fabulous meal..wow thanks Kelly I am currently walking the entire UK coast path for charity MIND and was gifted an incredibly fresh tasty meal..wow fully recommend simply delicious. Presentation amazing staff lovely cafe spotless and decor lovely thanks so very much.
Cara-Jane Hunter
Oct 18, 2021
Report
Outstanding restaurant, fabulous service, super charming and helpful. Special gluten and dairy free menu! Best seafood we've ever had. Perfect ambiance. Book well in advance, this is a well known secret gem! Can't wait to return!
