Q: I’ve heard there’s a North Carolina crab shortage. Is that true? I sure hope not. I love crab.
Tom: I’m right there with you. I had to do some digging on this one. Although it may not be currently noticeable at restaurants and seafood counters in the state, there is real concern about North Carolina’s blue crab population. According to the state’s latest blue crab management update, commercial harvests totaled 15.8 million pounds in 2025, down 17.2 percent from 2024 and roughly half the state’s long-term average. Harvest figures alone don’t measure population size, but state surveys also show continued low numbers of juvenile crabs. The state’s last accepted benchmark assessment, completed in 2018, found that the population was too small and crabs were being harvested at an unsustainable rate. As DEQ explained earlier this year, a 2023 update raised modeling concerns and wasn’t used for management decisions. A new assessment is heading into independent scientific review November 3–5. Reviewers will evaluate whether its data, methods, and conclusions are sound enough to guide fisheries management. Results are expected by late 2026 and will inform the state’s review of its blue crab management plan. If the assessment confirms overfishing or shows the stock isn’t meeting sustainability goals, possible measures could include longer seasonal closures reducing the time crabbers can harvest, harvest bushel limits, restrictions on crab trawling, and/or additional protections for female and egg-bearing crabs. This could impact availability and prices. I hope this can be easily corrected. I’m really looking forward to chef Vince Giancarlo’s spaghetti with blue crabs when Lady Funari finally opens.

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Q: I’m not much for Halloween, but I am fascinated with Día de los Muertos. Where should I go this weekend?
Tom: You do have some very nice options, including at the recent Michelin: American South Bib Gourmand recipient The Story of Mi Cariño. The place has been decorated with themed altars, ceiling centerpiece and decorated entrance, along with various specialty cocktails and complementary tequila and mezcal tastings. Similarly, Hermanita, inside El Malo Tacos in Plaza Midwood is currently themed out for its Noche Eterna seasonal popup with specialty cocktails. Also, the Smith Corners location of Azteca is specifically promoting Noche de Brujas & Día de los Muertos decorations and special cocktails. Salud! Que el recuerdo de nuestros seres queridos viva siempre.

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