——————————————-

• AMBIENCE *

I think the ambience is my favorite thing about Claws…it’s got that local haunt type of flavor, where the staff would probably know you by name and anticipate what you’re going to order. The walls, covered w/ raw lumber, are “graffitied” w/ the exultations and shoutouts of many enthusiastic diners, as well as w/ signed polaroids of giddy gourmands.

The pirate theme’s been embraced fully to create an atmosphere that’s casual and festive. If cajun food’s what you’re craving, this place is perfect for casual dates, b-day parties, game-watching (flat-screen TV’s everywhere), and for chillin’ out w/ friends for absolutely no reason at all.

——————————————-

• SERVICE *

All of the waitresses were friendly, efficient, and adorable. My glass of refreshing strawberry iced tea (w/ REAL strawberries inside, thinly sliced; perfect sweetness) was always full.

I don’t like when the servers are TOO eager, as you might’ve experienced before at Cheesecake Factory or some similar place, where they check up on you too frequently, at times, w/ that veneer of enthusiasm…I don’t know about you, but it tires me out. You won’t experience that at Claws…they’re friendly, but laid back, so you can relax and enjoy your meal and your company.

——————————————-

• FOOD *

I tried the:

- STRAWBERRY ICED TEA (you HAVE to try this!! Heard the peach iced tea was great, too)

- GUMBO (balanced, mild flavors; hearty, but not heavy…like healthy comfort food…ate every last drop!)

- SHIPWRECK (assortment of breaded and deep-fried mussels, calamari, shrimp, and clams…generously-sized seafood, but wished the batter was seasoned and lighter in texture)

- CRAWFISH (comes boiled in a bag w/ corn, potatoes, crawfish, w/ Old Bay seasoning(?). The table’s lined w/ paper to absorb the liquid from inside the bag, and once the waitress bibs you, you can get down and attack that crawfish. These cute crustaceans look like mini-lobsters, and as w/ similar types of shellfish, it takes some work to get to the flesh, so if you’re a lazy eater, like I am, go w/ a friend who’ll do the work for you, or just order something that’s easier to eat)

- CAJUN FRIES (moderately spicy…can’t have just one)

- STRAWBERRY ICE CREAM (sweet and creamy finish to an otherwise savory meal)

——————————————-

• LOCATION *

Claws Restaurant is conveniently located close to the 22 fwy on Brookhurst Ave., just south of Chapman Ave. in an expansive shopping center w/ plenty of parking. If you’re coming in from Brookhurst, look for El Pollo Loco and Jumpa Thai at the entrance.