Whether you’re trying crab for the first time or working on your technique, taking on this crustacean as a beginner can be challenging. Once you complete the process, however, the meaty rewards are well worth the effort. Learn how to become a master crab aficionado from the how-to guide below.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Eating Crab

1. Gather Your Tools

Before you begin, it’s important to note that this process will get messy. Be prepared with plenty of napkins. Seafood restaurants will typically supply you with the proper tools to get the job done, including a crab mallet, claw cracker, knife, and picks.

2. Pull off the Legs

Separate all the legs and claws from the body with a twisting motion. You can also remove them by sticking a dull knife in the joint. If done correctly, you should be rewarded with a bit of meat coming from the legs. Try sucking the meat out of the remaining legs.

3. Crack the Claws

Once you get to the claws, pick up the hinged cracker or crab mallet to crack them open. Every crab enthusiast has their favorite tool, and it may take you a few tries to find yours. Be gentle—the last thing you want is to pick out shattered pieces of shell from the otherwise delectable meat. When the succulent meat is freed, you can dip it in melted butter, curry, or the restaurant’s special sauce for a mouthwatering treat.

4. Open up the Body

Place the body of the crab on its back and gently pry off the apron, which looks like a tab. Holding it by the now open gap in the back, carefully pull apart the top and bottom halves of the shell. Use a spoon to remove and toss the inedible lungs from the exposed cavity.

5. Split the Crab

The bottom half of the body is filled with succulent meat, and at this point, it’s easy to access. With either your hands or a knife, cut the bottom portion in half to reveal two chambers of meat. Now you can pull out the remaining meat with a pick or fork and enjoy.

Are you craving some delicious crab for dinner tonight? Dine at Lolo’s Seafood Shack of Harlem, NY, for a tantalizing taste of the Caribbean and New England. From crispy coconut shrimp and snow crab legs to spicy crawfish and broiled salmon, their menu is full of the seafood dishes you love. To ask about their chef’s specials and catch of the day, call (646) 649-3356. Browse their full menu online and book a reservation on Yelp.