Eats: Crawfish House in OS open to more than mudbugs

March through May are peak crawfish months on the Coast.

Perhaps you have enjoyed the mudbugs in the past at the Crawfish House and Grill in Ocean Springs.

For several years, it has been a top pick of crawfish aficionados, but now it is even bigger and better. Most important, it is now open all year long and has an expanded menu. It's not just crawfish anymore.

Some restaurants have a mellow feel, others are a bit more on edge, but the Crawfish House is just plain fun. Come with a group of friends and sit in the sun or under a big beach umbrella. The colors are bright and cheerful, and there are plenty of cold brews to choose from -- 23 on the day I visited. If you are a conservative sipper like I am, you probably will go for a Guinness. If you are not quite as gray as I am, choose a Yuengling Lager, the latest fancy of the microbrewery crowd.

Now don't get the idea this is just a late night spot for the young folks. No, far from it. Bring the kids. Heck, bring the dog, if he is well behaved and on a leash. The whole family is going to enjoy this place.

OK, time to take at look at the eats. Crawfish are the centerpiece here when they are in season. The owners of the Crawfish House were able to talk the Broome family out of their 30-year-old recipe. It has been pleasing the locals for so many years, so there is no reason in the world to change it.

The crawfish prices are based on market price and recently were $2.79 per pound for 20 pounds or more; and $3.29 per pound for less that 20 pounds.

If you are not in the mood for the famous crawfish, then take a look at the menu, posted on easy-to-read chalkboards. The selection is small but solid.

During my visit, the mahi tacos $12 got top billing. The prerequisite for anything from the sea is that it is not overcooked; the taco I had was perfectly cooked. It had a good sear but was still moist inside. Combine the well-cooked mahi with the house-made famous sauce, pico de gallo, and you've got a winner.

Another house special that may get your attention is the Tailgate Fries $10. Imagine a plate of crispy fries, lots of pulled pork, a few spicy jalapeños and another application of the famous house sauce, and you've got something that will cure any case of munchies.

The Crawfish House also serves Royal Reds, $20. These shrimp-like crustaceans, which seem to be kin more to lobster than shrimp, are served simply with drawn butter and good French bread. They are delicious. If you love to sop bread and sauce like a lot of Southerners do, this is a winner.

The Crawfish House and Grill may be this summer's top Ocean Springs attraction. Lots of good eats, cold brews, a fun crowd and famous crawfish. Who could ask for more?

This story was originally published March 10, 2016 at 8:04 PM with the headline "Eats: Crawfish House in OS open to more than mudbugs ."