DANCING CRAB TOKYO — Restaurant in Tokyo

By far the worst dining experience we’ve had in Tokyo — and that says a lot.

We came to this seafood restaurant expecting a solid meal and decent service. What we got instead was bland food, rude staff, and an experience that honestly felt like we were intruding on their private time.

First red flag? The place had just opened and was nearly empty, yet they seated us at the worst possible table—smack in the middle of the walkway, right where the staff and customers pass by. So many other empty tables, yet we got placed in the “traffic zone.”

We ordered the boiling shrimp—it was flavorless, limp, and borderline raw. No spices, no sauce, nothing. The fish and chips came out drenched in oil—so greasy it splashed when you touched it—and just as tasteless. The mac & cheese? Served cold, and to our surprise, contained pork, which was not mentioned anywhere on the menu or receipt. We don’t eat pork, and when we told them, they just took the plate and still charged us for it. No apology. No care.

Then came the real highlight: the service. Or more like… the performance.

After bringing the bill, the waitress didn’t bother showing it to us. She just said, “Give me your card and follow me to the cashier,” like I was being processed at a DMV. No explanation, no itemization—just a silent message of “pay and get out.”

I went to the restroom after paying, while my wife stayed at the table to collect our things. And here’s where it turned from bad to ridiculous.

Despite the restaurant still being empty, the waitresses suddenly formed a semi-circle around her, bowing nonstop and repeating “Arigatou gozaimasu, arigatou gozaimasu” like they were trying to summon a spirit. It felt less like gratitude and more like a polite but aggressive eviction ritual. Honestly, it was like they were saying: “Please leave. You’ve served your purpose. Go now.”

By the time I came out, I was stunned to find my wife sitting outside on the waiting chairs, holding all our bags, looking like she’d just been kicked out of a hotel lobby. I felt like I had missed the dramatic ending to a terrible play.

Oh, and just to add salt to the wound: I asked the waitress earlier if they had tacos—clearly listed on the menu—and she said “No.” At that point, it was clear they just wanted us out, not to serve us.

Only later did I check the Google reviews—and surprise, I’m not alone. Many others have called out the same rude, passive-aggressive staff and flavorless food.

Bottom line? The food was bland and oily. The service was cold and unwelcoming. The vibe was awkward and rushed. Easily the worst restaurant experience we’ve had in Tokyo. If you enjoy bad food and feeling unwanted, this place is perfect for you. Otherwise, avoid it like...

I doubt this place has an experienced restaurant manager. The food is not good. The pasta has no sauce or seasoning at all. It's just plain cooked pasta, with nothing on it. I tried to call all day, to ask if we could bring our own birthday cake. 18 calls and the line was busy every time. I asked the waiter if the telephone was connected, he admitted it's left off the hook. We were aggressively told by the manager, that we could not eat our cake there, because of Covid. No reasoning or explanation. So I apologized and explained that had tried to call. Two tables over, another group gets a birthday cake, and song. So we asked if we could order the same cake, since bringing your own cake isn't allowed. "That cake is not sold here, The customers brought it themselves". I asked what's the system for bringing a cake. "It's ¥1,680 cake-fee. I agreed and said that's fine, I don't mind paying that. The waiter came back a few minutes later and said, the manager said no. LOL... OK then, np. I didn't want to ruin the Birthday party by making a scene. Next was the last order time. They took last orders 1.5 hours before they close. Or at least we thought. It turns out that they are closing an hour earlier, but hadn't bothered to update Google or their Homepage. Both had the wrong time. We understand how difficult Covid has been, but a restaurant needs to do the minimum for the guests. So we enjoyed our dinner in spite of the terrible service. Honestly, don't waste your time here, when Tokyo has so many better...

I’ve been wanting to try this place for years and decided to do it even though some reviews were iffy. I’m so glad we went!!!! The evening was fabulous!

Food - we did the 6000¥ course x3. The crab legs were giant and fresh! The course also included chicken, scallops on the shell, shrimp, corn and pasta - all in a flavorful sauce. We also had a bucket of steamed shrimp which was served with a tasty, creamy horseradish sauce. The meal was served by opening a steaming bag and literally dumping the contents on our paper-covered table. No utensils - just grub and gloved hands! It was a fun way to eat! The restaurant has a set of sinks for hand washing.

While the food was great, the service was phenomenal! Our server, Hinano, went above and beyond in her attentiveness and friendliness. Even better - she totally spoiled our 2-year old granddaughter by letting her dance with the crew and just really doting on her. My granddaughter felt so special throughout the night!

Atmosphere was colorful and welcoming. A bottle of wine was reasonably priced (I think 3000¥). Location in Shinjuku was ideal with plenty of sightseeing near the restaurant.

Everyone should try this place at least once! It...