Billy's Stone Crab Restaurant - Hollywood - TravBuddy

Billy's is the northern Miami region take off on Joe's Stone Crab House down in South Beach. Yes, they have fresh stone crabs in season. Sure they're good, but not great, and certainly not worth the rip off prices they charge. The best thing about the place is sitting on the back deck along the boats eating very casually. The indoor restaurant is always over crowded, with a maitre 'd (in a tux or suit) who clearly makes his living on bribes to be seated. I understand and accept the concept, but everything about the place reeks of a big hussle. The service is poor and rushed. The place is noisy and very touristy. And the prices are too high for what you get. They don't have all that much to be so proud or stuffy about, except a reputation as one of only two regional crab houses. Go for the crabs, but do it in the afternoon or casual evening in shorts and sit outdoors.