The Cowbell Union Market crab feast brings steamed blue crabs, orange crushes, and dockside energy to NE DC!
Union Market’s Only Oyster Bar Goes Full Dockside
On Thursday, May 14, Cowbell Seafood & Oyster continues its Crab & Crush night outside Union Market. As Union Market’s only oyster bar, Cowbell leans hard into Chesapeake tradition.
The team steams blue crabs on site. Reserved picnic tables put the action front and center for guests. From there, two prepaid seatings at 5:30 PM and 7:45 PM anchor a two-hour table experience. The first round of locally-sourced crabs comes included.
Pricing and Seatings for the Cowbell Union Market Crab Feast
Cowbell prices tables by party size for simplicity. Two guests get one dozen crabs for $165. Four guests get two dozen for $330, and six guests get three dozen for $495. Beyond the table package, additional crabs sell in limited quantities at $75 per half dozen, so guests should secure them in advance.
Of course, no Crab & Crush night is complete without the drinks. Fresh-squeezed orange crushes pour at $14, and ice-cold Natty Bohs go for $5. The full Cowbell menu rounds out the evening with freshly shucked oysters, Baltimore-style crab cakes, and crispy fried chicken!
Sara Quinteros and Chef Reid Shilling Behind the ‘Bell
Sara Quinteros and Chef Reid Shilling, the team behind Shilling Canning Company, deliver dockside nostalgia with serious kitchen pedigree. Cold beer, crisp wine, and pops of champagne keep the evening celebratory.
With seatings limited and prepaid, early booking is the move. To lock in a seat at the Cowbell Union Market crab feast, guests can book through the Cowbell website and follow updates on Instagram. DMV diners, crab season starts here!
The Washington Lobbyist proudly champions the chefs, operators, and neighborhood gems shaping DC’s dining scene. Reserve your table, bring your appetite, and we’ll see you at Union Market.



