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We take a look inside Raithwaite Sandsend’s newest opening – The Crab Shack

Expect freshly caught fish, contemporary crab cakes and a relaxed rustic setting. Introducing this new haven for seafood lovers that is set to make waves in Whitby.

Written by High Life North

Published 14.06.2022

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What better way to enjoy the sunshine than being by the coast?

Raithwaite Sandsend has got us covered. Nestled between the Yorkshire coastline and the North York Moors, the restored 19^th century estate filled with sprawling woodlands has now opened a new foodie pop-up just in time for summer.

Introducing… The Crab Shack. Expect a delicious menu filled with fresh-from-the-boat fish and seafood, all prepared with seasonal and locally sourced ingredients grown onsite in Raithwaite’s very own forest garden.

The new Crab Shack serves us all our traditional seaside favourites including proper fish and chips and the freshest of crab sandwiches sourced from Whitby’s trusted harbour fishermen with a side of mushy pies and triple-cooked chips – we can guarantee that you’ll really taste the difference.

But The Crab Shack also brings us some new delicious fish dishes that’ll really tickle your taste buds. From Thai crab cakes, salt and chilli calamari and just-caught mackerel served Korean-style, here you’ll find a contemporary twist to our all-time British favourites. Why not pop into Raithwaite’s luxurious bar, which is just a stone’s throw away, to wash down all your scrumptious seafood with a wide range of soft drinks, beers, wine and spirits from across the world.

Oh, and don’t worry Raithwaite Sandsend hasn’t forgotten about you vegans and vegetarians, there’s a tasty bhaji burger, vegetarian options and a specials board on the menu, all curated by their team of highly experienced chefs.

What could be more delicious than enjoying a wide variety of fish dishes in the fresh air in the gorgeous award-winning grounds of the 100-acre Raithwaite estate? You’ll have a whale of a time as you tuck into your quality fish al fresco seated around some relaxed and natural wooden trestle tables in the Crab Shack’s rustic outdoor eating area. Plus, your four-legged friends are welcome to come along, too.

Or, if you prefer to grab a bite to go, head down to Sandsend beach – that’s just a five-minute walk away – for a perfect setting for a meal with stunning sea views. The Crab Shack has really rocked the boat when it comes to serving Whitby fish and chips.

The Crab Shack is the newest foodie edition to the hotel’s updated offering, which has been undergoing a quiet transformation over the last couple of years, as a new team ensures sustainability is at the heart of the business. In recognition of the incredible progress, Raithwaite Sandsend was recently recognised as the UK’s most sustainable hotel at The Cateys – a prestigious industry award – marking a significant milestone.

The hotel has also just created the UK’s first hotel forest garden, in partnership with Sapling Spirits, and introduced organic polytunnels and no-dig beds, creating an edible landscape – including fruits, herbs, vegetables and spices – to sustainably feed the hotel’s kitchen year-round.

‘We’re so excited to bring and introduce a new food offering to Sandsend,’ says Ollie Hunter, food, drink and sustainability director. ‘We aim to celebrate the delicious seasonal seafood available via our brilliant local suppliers, which we’re lucky to have on our doorstep. We matchmake our suppliers’ produce with our own organic produce that we’re growing in our gardens, to create a tasty new menu for Whitby residents and visitors alike to both enjoy.’