Crawmama’s Brings Coastal Flavors to Northern Alabama

Last week, a trio of judges was welcomed warmly by Charlotte Webb, owner of Crawmama’s. They dove into an impressive 14oz ribeye served on grilled rice accompanied by bay shrimp.

It’s surprising, yet worthwhile, that a restaurant located about 350 miles from the Gulf Coast can capture such vibrant flavors.

“I’m really excited and thankful for the nomination,” Webb shared. Her restaurant is nestled in the picturesque area of Sparkling Lake Guntersville. “Everything we serve is something I would feed my family. We strive to source as much as possible from Alabama, and it’s just the best.” She paused, adding, “I feel really blessed to live here.”

Crawmama’s has recently been recognized as Bama’s Best Surf & Turf, a title that comes with both pride and accolades. Iceling Walding, assistant director for Alabama, remarked on the significance of this honor, indicating that it not only highlights the restaurant but also emphasizes the state’s Agricultural Branding Program, which has been promoting local proteins like beef, pork, and chicken since 2019. The recent partnership with the Alabama Gulf Seafood Promotion has further spotlighted the state’s culinary treasures.

“We represent Alabama’s farmers and fishermen, but many diners appreciate the delicious offerings of our members at restaurants,” Walding noted. “We’re grateful to shine a light on local establishments and are particularly proud to honor Charlotte and her team at Crawmama’s, which has such a unique family-oriented vibe.” She added, “Crawmama is as close to the beach as you can get here in northern Alabama.”

Webb’s culinary journey began over 40 years ago, when she started selling fresh shrimp and oysters from Bon Secour. Since then, she has expanded her restaurant to accommodate 300 guests after starting out with just a 12-seat oyster bar. The venue is also known for its entertainment, hosting musicians to entertain diners of all ages.

Webb’s daughter, Kathryn Baucom, was her steadfast partner until her unexpected passing in 2023, which deepened Webb’s resolve to uphold not just their culinary legacy but also the love they shared for food. She remains dedicated to offering delicious seafood to her community while embracing her cherished role as “Chachi” to her grandchildren, Lois and Gray.

“For 40 years, we’ve been blessed here,” Webb reflected. “As long as I’m able, I plan to continue. Then it will be theirs.” The public has actively participated in nominating what they consider Bama’s best surf & turf via social media, narrowing down the contenders to four finalists.

The judges sampled these contenders from August 20th to 21st, visiting various locations in South Alabama and eventually heading north to Crawmama’s. The panel included Fred Hunter of Simply Southern TV, Shelby Easterling, a Barbour County farmer, and Chelsea Gieselmann, an influencer and chef.

Gieselmann complimented the ribeye, saying, “The beef tasted like beef. That’s one of the highest praises I can give.” Easterling appreciated the straightforward flavors of the beef and shrimp, mentioning that her metal steak plate brought back fond memories of steakhouses. “Even with the coastal vibe, I felt like I was in my old steakhouse,” she said. “There’s definitely something for everyone at Crawmama’s.”

That includes a play area for kids, like Cloverby Corner, which features a sandbox and a playground on the restaurant’s covered outdoor patio. “They had me with the sandbox,” Hunter joked. “I have a young grandchild, and Charlotte has created a space where families can enjoy a date night while still keeping an eye on their kids.”

“And a delicious meal? That’s a win in my book,” he added.