↑ Part 1                     Part 2 ↓

Season 3 Episode 12

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Joe's Crab Shack feat. Sandy Rose

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In this episode of Fine Dining: The Search for the Most Mediocre Restaurant in America:

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○ Part 1: Joe’s Crab Shack has been serving seafood and sass since 1991 — but who is Joe? In this week’s episode, I dig deep into the murky origins of this kitschy crustacean-themed chain, uncovering mystery, missteps, and marketing that somehow works. From accidentally boozed-up babies to scandalous decorations and trans fat deception, Joe’s has made some serious waves. Plus, I’m joined by longtime friend and podcast voice Sandy Rose to question whether you can truly trust a restaurant that sells shirts saying “I’ve Got Crabs.”

Is Joe’s just a goofy seafood joint? Or a case study in chaotic chain dining gone rogue?

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○ Part 2: After diving into the shady past of Joe’s Crab Shack, it was finally time to eat. In this episode, I head to the Disney-adjacent location with friend and podcast voiceover contributor Sandy Rose to see if the crab still holds up. From shockingly great coconut shrimp to a fish filet that straight-up betrayed us, we cover every bite, every bathroom handle, and every s’more-stained moment in our quest to determine if Joe’s is truly the perfectly mediocre restaurant.

Is Joe’s Crab Shack a crustacean celebration? Or just chaos in a cowboy hat?

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Location: Garden Grove, CA

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Michael's Score:                                     7.70

Sandy's Score:                                     7.48

Tchotchke of Mediocrity Score:       7.59

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Host: Michael Ornelas

Guest Hosts: Sandy Rose

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Music by: James McEnelly

Theme Song by: Gabe Alvarez

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Segment Transitions Voice by: Sandy Rose