Weekly reviews of crab cakes around the MD and DC area

Corner Stable

Corner Stable Crab Cake and Rib Platter Corner Stable Crab Cake and Rib Platter Crab Cake Review

The Corner Stable has been around since 1972, proudly boasting that they serve Baltimore's best ribs at their location on York Rd. in Timonium.  If you've ever been, then you know what a unique place this is.  A small, somewhat triangular, shack alongside a busy road; limited parking wherever you can find it; and horse racing decor on the inside.  It was usually dark, and what most people would consider a dive.  But look past all that and check out the line waiting to get in, sometimes overflowing outside.

Ribs is certainly what they are known for, and if you haven't been, then you are missing out.  My family has been going to the Timonium location at least once a year for a long time now.  No matter how far away we move, we still find a way back to enjoy those delicious ribs.  But, a few years ago, the restaurant was sold to new owners, and the secret rib recipe passed on.  The new owners also expanded the menu, offering Maryland's beloved crab cakes, and recently opened a second location in Columbia.  So do the crab cakes stand a chance in the shadow of their famous ribs?  Read on and find out!

Being reviewed is the colossal jumbo lump crab cake and half rack of ribs platter, which is served along with two sides.  They also have a full rack of ribs, just crab cakes, crab cake sandwich, colossal jumbo lump crab ball appetizer, and a crab melt sandwich (which might actually appear as a bonus review!).  Sandwiches are served with stable fries.  The crab cakes are 8oz in size.  The platter is not served with lemon, tartar or cocktail, so ask your server if you require any of those.

There are two locations -- York Rd in Timonium, and Guilford Rd in Columbia.  This review took place at the Columbia location.

The cake is comprised of mostly lumps of crab, with only a few of the pieces broken.  With the small amount of filler used, these cakes are certainly held together by their sheer will.  The spicing is on point, using just the right mixture and amount to accentuate the crab flavor but not take away from it.

After you've gazed upon the large heap of crab that was just placed in front of you, it's time to dig in.  Right away, you get that sweet crab flavor with a hint of bread and spice.  Good, meaty taste.  Moisture can be a problem for crab cakes that have mostly crab, but the moisture here is good.  It could use a tad bit more binding along with a hint more spice, enough to punch up the moisture a bit and make the spices a bit more pronounced.  But that is a very minor niggle.  The crab isn't as sweet as it could be, but has more than enough flavor for you to make a return visit, or to send a few via mail order to your friends to show them what they're missing!

Don't forget to try the ribs while you are there.  If you attempt the half rack and crab cake platter, make sure you come hungry!  Texas sauce on the ribs has been my favorite for years, and is still as good as the first time I've had them.

Corner Stable Menu, Reviews, Photos, Location and Info - Zomato

Additional Info

  • Restaurant Name: Corner Stable
  • Address: 8630 Guilford Rd Columbia, MD 21046
  • Neighborhood: Columbia
  • Restaurant Type: Local Chain
  • Review Date: 12/15/2011 7:21pm
  • Atmosphere: Busy
  • Item(s) Ordered: Crab Cake & Half Rack Rib Platter
  • Cooking Style: Broiled
  • Other Styles Available: Yes
  • Available by mail order?: Yes
  • Price: 25.99
  • Order Type: Combo Platter
  • Crab Content: Jumbo Lump
  • Filler: Minimal
  • Spice: Minimal
  • Overall Impression: Outstanding
  • Rating (out of 5 crabs):

    5-crab

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