For 2019, Hugo’s Italian Kitchen and BackBeatQue are going to be getting a lot of the attention. However, we think the secret unwritten story this year will the Lakeside Express.
The entire menu has been overhauled at Lakeside, and we think the changes are going to be openly embraced.
Tucked near GateKeeper, Lakeside Express has always been one of our secret favorite dining spots for one reason, the perch sandwich. However, for 2019, the perch will no longer be the only game in town.
Guests have the option this season to get the perch as a standalone menu option or as a sandwich. In addition there is a fried fish (cod) and chips as well as funnel cake battered shrimp. However, Cedar Point will now be offering something guests would never expect, crab cakes.
When you think of crab cakes, almost all of the ones we have ever eaten have consisted with a large smattering of breading and very little actual crab. Most are a disappointing mess of a try at a crab cake.
Cedar Point’s Chef Phil Bucco proposed the idea of serving crab cakes this season at Lakeside Express, but only under the premise that they had to be done right. With that said, Mr. Bucco has knocked it out of the park!
An order consists of two crab cakes, that get this, are 95% crab. Yes, jumbo, real crab meat. Combined with very little Texas Toast breading, Bay Seasoning, mayonnaise and onion, this is the real deal. Guests also have the choice of horseradish or Cajun spiced aioli dipping sauces, both of which are very good.
The crab cakes are made in small batches to maintain freshness and lightly browned for a little bit of crispness.
Never would we think to try a crab cake from Cedar Point; however, our minds have been permanently changed, as the Lakeside Express version are stellar and go very nicely with the aioli dipping sauces.
In addition to the crab cakes, look for Lakeside Express to also offer some pop-up menu items this season, which could include Lobster Bisque from Bay Harbor, which is absolutely outstanding!
The only con we have is the crab cakes are not included on the Cedar Point dining plan. However, the initial price point of only $10 makes these an excellent splurge item when you consider these are 100% real crab cakes. Look for that price point to rise if these gain popularity.
Fact Sheet
What: Crab Cakes
Where: Lakeside Express (Cedar Point)
Calories:
Cost: $10.00
Dining Plan: No
Pros: Real crab, very little filler. Excellent flavor and price point.
Cons: Not on dining plan.
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