I think that the first time visitor will be impressed and satisfied. Living in LA, you sometimes get jaded by the glitz and glamour. I've seen a few celebrities there from time to time but the real attraction for me is the food. They have outstanding Vientamese food! While overpriced, the food is very, very good. The decor is also quite imaginative - glass covered koi pond that you walk over as you enter the restaurant.
I was so impressed with Crustacean's food, service and ambiance. We sampled a little of everything. Everything was fresh and delicious. Their Dumpling Trio, garlic noodles (to die for), roasted lobster, Royal tiger prawns, and even something as simple as their Jasmine rice sauteed with garlic was amazing. We had a great time, and it was really neat to walk over their lighted stream with exotic fish. It was well worth the money, but is on the expensive side, so beware. A great place to go for a special occasion.
I ate at this restaurant 3 times in one month. I love their crabs and garlic noodles. My husband ordered the fish but didnt like it. The waiter took the food and offered my husband a different dish. When we paid the bill, they didnt charge us for the fish. Our over all experience was really good. I can't wait to go back to this restaurant again. For those who are curious about this place.. I think it's worth a TRY. Hope your experience is as good as ours.
Went for dinner at Crustacian last night and it sucked. Very disappointed. I always see pictures of movie stars coming and going so I thought I would give it a try. Plus it was my birthday. The food lacked flavor and was over priced. The appetizers were disappointing too. I had to ask for chili sauce to spice up my dish and still tasted lousy. I only had one bite and left it. In most restaurants, when a waiter notices a customer not touching their food, they ask what's wrong and even will take that item off of the bill. Neither happened in my case. We had Randall as a waiter and he had an attitude problem. Thumbs down for Crustacian.
Crustacean certainly takes the cake when it comes to Vietnamese food. Going to the restaurant is not only a culinary delight, but you also get to experience the decor - the Koi fishes in the floor aquarium - watch your step!
The food is excellent and the service is one of the best I've experienced. You have not tasted good Vietnamese cuisine if you don't go to Crustacean. It is worth every single dollar!
First of all, this place is amazing from the minute you walk in the door. There is an aquarium on the floor. With a name like Crustacean you know they specialize in Seafood. And it is really good and fresh. They are famous for the "Drunken Crab" but the Tiger Prawns are fantastic. They also serve beef, salads and more. The prices are very high, but worth it for a special evening.
For starters, this is a very upscale restaurant, so it is pricey. But it is a great example for an 'L.A.' dining experience from its asian fusion cuisine to the unique aquarium beneath your feet.
PROS: Garlic noodles and the crab
CONS: can be stuffy, but I think its part of their 'thing'
Crustacean is very elegant. Diners are well-dressed. Food is first class. Food is high priced, but well worth it! We go there at least twice a year for special occasions -- without the kids! They waiters are very professional and are happy to make menu suggestions. Valet parking right out front of the restaurant.
PROS: Superb food and service
CONS: Expensive
This restaurant is beautifully decorated, has ambiance and definitely romantic but rather pricey. The garlic noodles are delicious, as well as the crab but the portions are really small. Also the seating area is a little to close for comfort for me, its ok when youre on a date but you dont want to be on a date with the table next to you. Great place to spend a birthday or anniversary for adults definitely not for the kiddies.
PROS: Valet Parking
CONS: Long wait to be seated