From one west coast to another, Beverly Hills to Jeddah to be exact, comes a unique interpretation of modern Asian cuisine – packed with fresh flavours, artful presentation, and an impressive family story.
Crustacean is fusion dining in every bite, focusing primarily on Vietnamese flavours, with herbs and spices flown directly from Vietnam, Thailand, and the US.
The latest spot to open in Jeddah’s Yacht Club and Marina, Crustacean is the brainchild of MasterChef Helene An, a Vietnamese who masterfully bridges the gap between western and Asian palates – and who has long been heralded as the “Mother of Fusion Cuisine” and was recognised by the Smithsonian Museum with a Pioneer Award in Culinary Arts.
The Location, Ambiance & Interiors
Since its inception in 1991 in San Francisco, Crustacean has epitomised excellence in culinary innovation. Its Jeddah outpost marks the brand’s international debut, affirming An’s enduring legacy. And still to this day, An continues to steer the family business alongside her five daughters.
Crustacean Jeddah overlooks the marina and its docked yachts. Its outdoor terrace is perfect for nights when humidity is low and the breeze is just right. The restaurant’s interior is reminiscent of classic Beverly Hills splendour, with velvety dining chairs and a sleek neutral colour palette.
Stepping into the space, one immediately notices the small touches that honour Asian culture, like the glass-covered koi pond winding through the room. Groups of diners quickly fill up the restaurant, creating the perfect Thursday night ambience.
We are welcomed warmly by the team and our waiter, Marlo, is full of knowledge and anecdotes. We are invited to start our dining experience with a signature mocktail, so I settle on the Ying & Yang, a refreshing, creamy blend of homemade coconut and lychee mix, yuzu, and charcoal dust.
The Food
The food menu includes all the acclaimed items from the famed Beverly Hills venue. Head chef Thanh Nguyen spent months in LA ahead of the opening, learning to perfect all 47 menu items from MasterChef An herself.
Marked by small portions that are perfect for sharing, Crustacean’s flavours are fresh and clean – think hints of kefir lime and Thai basil delicately balanced with infusions of garlic and ginger.
We start with the Tuna Cigars, quite literally presented to us in a cigar box. The dish itself is anything but smoky though – the fresh lime garnished appetiser is the perfect way to start the meal.
We continue with the An Sum Family Tree (An Sum being a play on dim sum), featuring a selection of five starters meant to symbolise An’s five daughters. It’s the perfect sharing starter for two and includes: Vietnamese Satay, Tuna Tiato, Wild Mushroom Wontons, Tempura Organic Chicken, and Steamed Shrimp & Lobster Dumplings. On to the Karate Salad, an unexpected plate that features kohlrabi turnips, crispy potatoes, black truffle, and garlic blossom.
However, the real twist is the Hearts of Palm Crispy Calamari, a perfectly executed vegan take on calamari rings (we honestly could not tell the difference)! The main event is An’s Famous Vegan Garlic Noodles – the dish that catapulted An’s success. It’s featured under a special section of the menu – From The Legendary Secret Kitchen – and well, they mean it in the most literal sense.
The Need-to-Know
Other than the open main kitchen, the restaurant features a smaller closed off “secret kitchen” with access restricted to only two people: the head chef and her assistant.
There chef Thanh cooks up MasterChef An’s most coveted recipes, with a small window connecting both kitchens where finished dishes pass through. The famously trademarked Garlic Noodles noodles feature roasted garlic and An’s secret sauce – hands down the best noodles I’ve ever had. The concept is so simple, yet the flavours are rich and complex. Choose the vegan option or opt for the pair with freshly grilled jumbo prawns for a satiating combo.
For dessert? More noodles please.
Book your table here
@crustacean_sa
Jeddah Yacht Club & Marina, Ash Shati, Jeddah 23613
