Went there for wife's birthday. The gulf crab boil was excellent. Also had the gumbo was delicious. Had great service. Thomas was our waiter, and answered all our crazy questions. Cost is $$ but how do expect to get seafood to Ohio. Definitely recommend, definitely coming back! read more

The seafood was super fresh and delicious. Super messy! Went there for my BD lunch last year on a 100+ degree day, and the bar was cool and inviting. The bartender/server was really friendly and took good care of me! Kept the cocktails flowing! Best lunch evet! read more

My 5th trip to Kais and it's yet to disappoint. I called at 4:30 notifying them that a party of seven would be arriving to dine a 7:00 and was advised they did not have a reservations policy. I can understand this for regular size parties but they maybe eliminating themselves from larger parties because not everyone wants to stand around for a 1/2 hours or more waiting for a birthday celebration dinner. The waitress was friendly and attentive. My lobster was cooked to perfection. I selected the garlic butter sauce medium. The side dishes (eggs and sausage) were a perfect touch. They really should add a short dessert menu. We ended up going to another restaurant for dessert and that's money they could have earned. There are other crab boil restaurants popping up all over Columbus but Kais is the still the standard for all of them to beat. read more

Kai's Crab Boil - Seafood Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

Listen. Haven't been to Kai's in 3 months. We moved to Charlotte, NC and I didn't get to go to Kai's before we left. I'm saddened. We haven't been able to find a place with the same atmosphere and level of flavor or quality of food here in Charlotte. Maybe we'll have to try several more places, but I just came here to say that Kai's is a Columbus area gem! Don't take it for granted! read more

If you love seafood Kai's is the place to go. Order your favorite seafood and sides, then dive in. Very tasty seasoning offerings. Clean venue with prompt service. read more

My step mom has been wanting to come here. She cane once and didn't realize they were closed and the second time the wait was 2 hours. This time we strategically arrived on a Friday afternoon when they opened. This was a great plan as service was great and actually very quick once we had made up our mind on how we wanted our pot cooked. The waitress even integrated it into a standard pot so we got extra sides. Beer selection had a nice variety although not big. Place is big and open- imagine very loud when restaurant is full. The food was outstanding! We did crabs, shrimp, and mussels. It was in their sauce with the garlic and butter with a mild spice- perfect! Between the three is us nothing was left- amazing meal and can't wait to get back to visit so I can come again!! read more

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The person who takes my order said because I have not ordered here before that I must come in to pay for order in person. The mussels and shrimp boil was a mystery! There were lost of mussels without meat! Just shells nothing inside! The king Crab legs took some work and the taste was fair! Hush puppies were good! The overall It was a bit pricey for the portion size! read more

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The food, service and ambiance was top tier. I came here for my birthday dinner and we each ordered our own bag. Everything came out correct and tasted AMAZING. No complaints here. I highly recommend the mussels and the Dungeness crab as they both tasted amazing and a good quantity. We will definitely be back here. 5 stars! read more

We had a medium party set for a belated birthday celebration on a Sunday... we had a small wait, nothing too awful. We sat and were so very excited to look over the menu and order; two of us had been waiting so very long to try Kai's... and with the fabulous reviews, we were biting at the bit to be here. When our server came over, she asked if this was our first time, we all said yes. She began to explain how everything work - she spoke SO very quickly and not at all loud enough for more than two of us to be able to hear, and when asked to repeat she was clearly annoyed, and didn't fully explain it again. We placed our order and happily waited. We collectively ordered the gulf combo, pacific combos, and Cajun garlic fries. The combos come with three add ons from potato, corn, egg, or sausage - there's only one of each, so you can't share more than a bite of either one (combos are marketed to be shared). We also ordered two Kai's Ultimate Bloody Mary. They were beautiful, but very weak - not worth the price. While we were dining, a cup of ice water spilled. We had to ask for a rag, after using all of the paper napkins. We were then told that the floor would be cleaned up when they had time. They properly cleaned it after a member of our party embarrassingly offered to clean it up. While I understand that restaurant can be busy and/or under staffed, but there isn't any reason for how we were treated. So, yes... the food is over all good... the fries are amazing! But the service, and the lack of, will have me running to another place. read more

Average taste. Had a half pound headless shrimp with shell on. Tried the house flavoring. Just ok taste. Doesn't have the zing of The Boiling Crab "Rajun Cajun" flavor in Southern California and Washington DC which are my absolute favorite chain of crab boil type restaurants. Also got a side of fries. They were pretty plain but at least not soggy so rhat was good. Overall ok place, but probably won't be coming back as I was not wowed. Good prompt service though. read more

We loved our food and experience at this place. It's lively, kid friendly, and the menu is just big enough for any seafood lover to have lots of options to try. Also, if your kids are not into seafood I highly recommend the chicken tenders and french fries which were both exceptional. read more

Kai's Crab Boil - Delicious food. In a bag. Mussels, shrimp, lobster and corn drenched in garlic butter. Yes, please. - Seafood Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

The service is great, the seafood itself is good but the sauce is so salty. I got the Kai's Cajun that I remember not being as salty.

Kai's really knows what it means to pack flavor in a seafood boil. I typically order 1 lb of their kai's cajun shrimp (with shell) since it's easy to peel and eat. Eating at Kai's is a full on experience. You wear your bib, your gloves, and try not to make a mess in the process of peeling your seafood. Their combos are a pretty good deal, especially if you share amongst a group of 2-3 people. This place is probably the best seafood boil restaurant in Cbus right now. read more

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I was a lot of food. Had the shrimp with corn and sausage. Really good. The Kai's spice is nice and tasty. I didn't want too much heat so I got it mild and was glad I did. The andouille sausage had a nice flavor and heat. The ear of corn was nice and tender. The fries were really good too. Over all, a must visit if your hankering for a New England style seafood boil. read more

Kai's Crab Boil - Had a pound of shrimp with an andouille sausage and corn and fries. - Seafood Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

First time trying seafood dishes here. I love the one we ordered with cajun sauce, or is everything going well with cajun sauce in general the portion is not as big as I expected tho. read more

Kai's Crab Boil - Crab legs with Cajun sauce - Seafood Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

The Staff n Food was Amazing. The staff was thorough in explaining the menu. I was impressed that not only did are server check on us to if we were doing well but also different wait staff. The Food was solid; I didn't care for the hush puppies.The atmosphere was also pleasant to be in.FYI if you check in there u get a complimentary add on. I will definitely be going back read more

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Delicious and fun way to fill your tummy, albeit more than a bit messy but so very worth it. You will be provided with bibs, gloves and utensils to crack the shells and make your way to the meaty goodness. Some like it hot and I certainly would recommend that option as it helps to balance the natural sweetest of the crab. Go big or go home! read more

Kai's Crab Boil - Kai's boil - Seafood Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

Seafood lovers round up! This spot is for you! Located in a strip center with plenty of parking outfront. Walked in, checked in at the hostess stand and it was an hour wait. They took our name and phone number to text us when the table was ready. We saw an opening at the bar and decided to eat there rather than waiting on an official table. So glad we did. We had the best bar tender/server! Made our experience all the better. Ordered a cocktail while we waited for our food. Served a paper table lining along with a bucket, disposable gloves and bibs along with utensils. I ordered the Pacific combo that came with shrimp, head off please and I can peel, along with king crab legs. With the combo came 3 of 4 side options - corn, egg, sausage, potato. I got corn, sausage and potato. I ordered medium heat and cajun style. The food came out pretty quickly, ...just in time for me to finish off my cocktail. The food came in a bag, steaming with warmth. Yes! I had prepped my bib in advanced and picked out my utensils which the backwards scissor was mind blowing. Those who have used it before know what I am talking about. I got one potato and a sliver of a sausage along with a small quarter of a corn. Don't worry because the rest of the bag was seafood!!! I ate until I couldn't possibly eat anymore. I would recommend the cajun style. It was spicy yet sweet. I could definitely taste the sugar that was added to it. Maybe the secret ingredient that keeps people coming back. Sugar can definitely play tricks on your mind. It had me memorized to say the least. I was extremely satisfied and then we got the bill. Bam, by the pound. $$ ...just remember that. Worth every penny. Fresh seafood and a very clean restaurant. They have a hand washing station near the center of the restaurant for you to use instead of heading to the restroom. Genius! I am glad I got to experience Kai's and sorry I haven't come earlier. read more

Kai's Crab Boil - Tools necessary for maximum enjoyment - Seafood Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

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Loved it! Their Cajun butter sauce is amazing. Get the shrimps deveined, tail off. Soooo good

This is my first time here I was worried that it would be too pricey especially since I'm usually alone! they had a great deal it was like $12 for me to get everything that I wanted and it was so delicious read more

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Jordan T. ! was a great server ! came for my birthday and he was amazing with her work and made my dinner so worth it! definitely coming again read more

A great seafood find in Columbus...!!!! Best King Crab leg boil around; definitely number 1 in my book! Great and quick service...so easy to get in and enjoy a good meal. The service is impeccable & Emily is the Greatest...!!!!!!! Her attention to detail and ability to connect with customers is refreshing. When you dine at Kai's it feels like they go above and beyond to provide you with a perfect experience; they even remembered my favorite drink and menu selections after just my 1st visit. They always make me feel welcome and at home! Love it when you find a place that stands out from the rest...!!!! read more

Kai's Crab Boil has exceptional seafood.  The flavoring included a spicey option with Old Bay: very much a Louisiana delight.  The ladies kept the refills going.  I took the in-laws and they enjoyed the experience.  I can tell you that the food is more than enough even for a rather insatiable appetite as mine.  Normally, I choose all-you-can eat options, but it was unnecessary here.  You will have to make reservations as the seating is limited and popular. read more

Man!! This was great. Drives up from Dayton. Got here at 4pm on a Saturday. No waiting! 15 mins later, there was a line waiting to be seated. Order in steps: Type of seafood, how hot you want it, flavor you want, and how many items you want to include. (Potato, Boiled egg, sausage, corn (al e carte $1 each) IMPORTANT!! shrimp comes in the bag if you get a combo. 35 pieces!!! Thankfully my husband didn't order a combo so we split the shrimp. 35 pieces each plus seafood and potato's is A LOT OF FOOD. Choose wisely!! We still paid $92 total. It was worth it!! Only suggestion--- don't try to pick up the slippery glass with greasy gloves on. Owner: Styrofoam cups would be a better option read more

An interesting place that my group loved. Why only three stars? Read on. First impression wasn't the best. Disorganized front desk. Not an impressive setting. We knew the cost of the place was high and that was OK. But you expect a better first impression. Server was excellent! Explained things perfectly. Drink service was a little slow. Lobster prices are ungodly. You can get lobster cheaper at the Refectory. Crab prices are high also. They explained that it was due to the freshness of the seafood. The food is brought to you in plastic bags. Not very appetizing. They bring tools to the table. The tools are in various states of ability: some are nearly broken. If you ask for cutlery/ utensils it is plastic. The food? Everyone in our group of six thought the food, seasoning, and freshness was top notch! Great recreation of a costal seafood extravaganza! Mucho enjoyment! Recs? 1. Make the place look nicer. 2. Serve in a large bowl or something other than a "garbage" bag. 3. Have metal utensils. read more

Easy concept: pick a meat, sauce, heat, extras, enjoy! This place was great! Very causal, lots of families and on Friday it gets pretty busy around 6pm. A messy endeavor so they give you bibs and gloves but there's also a hand washing station outside of the bathrooms but in the restaurant for your use. I have yet to try all the sauces but I got a pound of shrimp with half "kajun" and half garlic butter set at hot. We also tried the hottest level, which is one level above "hot", and it was great! Not too hot at all if you have a good heat tolerance and it had good flavor behind the heat as well! read more

Kai's Crab Boil - Kajun/Garlic Butter Head on Hot Shrimp with one potato and one piece of corn. Filled me up! - Seafood Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

This was such an incredible dining experience. The COVID protocols were top notch and the customer service was amazing. This was my first time here and I will absolutely be back soon. I am a native of Maryland and a former resident of Louisiana, so I know great seafood. I can't believe this place exists in the middle of Ohio! read more

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My family (party of 4) made reservations on a Sunday at the opening. We walked into a socially distanced space and were quickly seated. Our drinks and food came out quickly. Every sip and bite of food was delicious. From the moment I called to place the reservation until we said goodbye the service was 5 star. Each person ordered a side of potato, egg, sausage, and corn. We opened our bags to discover it was a single piece of each item. Half a corn cob, one small potato, an average size boiled egg, and a half-sliced sausage. This was a surprise due to the cost of the meal. We expected a bit more. I understand covid19 has reduced business and costs must be cut. Potatoes and corn are inexpensive. This meal was not a value. So I'm subtracting 1 STAR. read more

just get the crab boil that's why they socialize in anyway my bf got the garlic noodles but didn't really like them but everything else was great and there's nearby dessert so it's a great location read more

Wow. SO MUCH TO SHARE YOU DONT HAVE TO BE SHELLFISH, lmao. I took my mom here with a friend and we couldn't have had more fun! Super delicious and simple. Life the different selection of spice to any dish. The crab legs are the best part in my Opinion but the shrimp and muscles were fresh as can be. I'd say come on in and try it! @thebenrl read more

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This place is outstanding!!! We had crab, shrimp, corn, potatoes, eggs and cornbread. The seafood tasted fresh and was perfectly cooked. While the potatoes were yummy I'm not sure they are worth $1 each. Corn on the cob- worth it! Also the cornbread is really great, for sure order some. We did the Kai seasoning and lemon pepper. Both were delicious but I really enjoyed the Kai. You can add heat, we didn't this time because of the kids but we certainly will next time. I want to try everything on the menu! read more

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Great decor inside, spacious, large and modern. Staff is very friendly with a lot of recommendations. The seafood boil is a bit oily and on the greasier end...seafood itself was better than other boils I've been to around Columbus but couldn't eat too much. Butter heavy as well and on the pricier end but would encourage at least giving them a try as some may appreciate a heavy, spicy seafood boil. Plenty of parking, would probably be better to come with a party so you can order a whole bunch and share read more

Delicious! We had a server named Kaya (not sure on spelling) who was lovely as well. The seafood comes out in a big bag and you can choose to dump it out on the paper on the table (traditional style) or you can eat it in a bit tidier fashion. Likewise, you can use the gloves provided or just go at it. They provide cracking tools and everything you need, plus have a full bar. Everything was really yummy! It's definitely pricey but we are pretty far from a coast and it's good seafood, and it's a great treat. Everyone in our group had a wonderful time. read more

Pacific boil, with lemon garlic and medium spice. -Spicy after taste not during, if your looking for something with a little kick I recommend their signature kajun heat level. Overall as a person that loves a good boil having had them in Texas and even a really good spot in Cleveland I was disappointed in the lack of flavour of everything really. The fries had a entire clove of garlic chopped on it with some garlic powder and the slushie pitcher was just meehh. I was totally over it when the "Noodles" arrived ..it's literally spaghetti with garlic butter on it. "Hawaiian rolls" are like the generic version of real Hawaiian roles so they tasted straight out the bag. Ok spot, but if your a foodie or just really like seafood, Id try elsewhere. DO NOT ORDER " Do not ask for any of following: Dry rubs as a side seasoning , they don't allow you to order it. Old Bay-they have none Paprika-they don't use it. read more

The pictures of a bag of seafood do not do this food justice! If you need a seafood fix, don't hesitate to check this place out. We met a friend here and each for the pacific combo which came with crab legs and shrimp, for an extra two dollars you can get the shrimp peeled and the head removed (worth it). We added corn and a the sausage as well. You pay market price for what you want and it's not cheap, but it is fresh and delicious. Not pictured are the Cajun fries that were incredible and didn't last long. This is a must have seafood spot in Columbus. read more

Kai's Crab Boil - Crab legs - Seafood Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

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In my opinion this is the best seafood boil place we have here in Columbus, Ohio it is very well seasoned and a great value for the price read more

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WAY too salty. They gave me two three cups of butter to mix in but still super salty. Lee's seafood boil flavor is way better in my opinion Price is not as good as Lee's as well read more

Yooooo this place is great! Had it for the first time about a week ago and was impressed. I literally just came to eat here and they were amazing. I grabbed a bag to go with head on shrimp, sausage, and corn. I'm in love with the corn in the Kai kajuan sauce. I literally could eat that all day everyday. My friend had the crab legs and they were good as well. Could have been cooked in the seasoning a little longer. But the shrimp did not disappoint at all. I will like to sit down one day and eat there. The place is always packed but it flows well. I would not take kids there because it can get expensive. But hey if you have the money to splurge go ahead. The atmosphere is live and cool. Definitely will recommend this place for a date or just to go and eat or chill. read more

Kai's Crab Boil - Inside - Seafood Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

Visiting from LA where we have our share of cajun seafood places. The wait was a typical 40 minutes on a Friday night. The hostess and servers were nice and helpful. The food did take a while to come out. Ordered the head on shrimp, corn and garlic noodles. Kai's seasoning with a medium spice level. Although the seafood was seasoned, it lacked cajun flavor. The garlic noodles were too bland for my taste buds. I also ordered a lemonade and a water. The bonus is they serve drinks in like a 32oz cup so you don't need to request a refill. The water tasted like it had chlorine or something in it...but maybe that's an Ohio thing idk...tasted funny to me. read more

Kai's Crab Boil - Seafood Near Me - Columbus, Ohio

Do it. We get the one with pound crab and pound shrimp with the Cajun spices. Beer is cold. It has declined a bit recently, but still good. read more