On the hunt to try some of Baltimore's best crab cakes, I'm late to the party for Kocos. However, better late than never. Given Koco's crab cake platter during their dinner service will set you back about $50, I've been hesitant to spend that amount of money for just one 8oz. crab cake. So I decided to give them a try during their lunch hours where you can get a 6oz. crab cake platter for about $30. I ordered in advance and popped into the brightly colored, tropical themed restaurant which was bustling on a Friday afternoon. My pickup was quick and the service was nice. I of course had to sneak a few fries while on my ride home, and they were perfectly crisp and well seasoned. Once I made it home I dived into the beautifully broiled crab cake and I immediately understood why Koco's is know as one of best crab cakes in the area. Full of lump crab meat, seasoned to perfection, and not wet in the center. All things I consider in a good crab cake. Now that I've had a taste of Koco's I'll definitely be saving a few coins to splurge a little for a crab cake. read more

Koco's Pub - 6oz. Lunch crab cake platter - Pubs Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

We arrived within 20 minutes of opening on a Saturday and the place was already pretty full. We were seated immediately but they only had high tables and bar seating remaining so I definitely recommend having reservations if you want to guarantee a table. They are known for their crab cakes and rightfully so! It was huge and delicious. There were no fillers so you get to taste the freshness of the crab itself and it was quite filling. Staff was very welcoming and attentive. Despite being a pub, it felt quite homey. read more

Koco's Pub - Original Crab Cake Platter - Pubs Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

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Koco's pub came on a strong recommendation for some friends; so I was excited to check them out on a Friday evening. The bar is very vibrant and full of energy and color; they definitely nailed the aesthetic of walking into a beach front bar. Outside of the color and decor, I'd consider this a pretty 'no frills' bar. Definitely not a dive - but a very casual, come as you are kind of spot. Disclaimer: I'm not a fan of crab, so I didn't try their famous crabcakes. I had a few other dishes including their fried fish platter, jerk wings, and honey old bay wings. All the food was solid, not amazing, but good. My dad and brother both really enjoyed their crabcake entrees - so that's what you should be ordering if you pay Koco's a visit. Our server was really great; she was friendly, welcoming, attentive, and fast. She even told us the story of how the bar took on the name 'Koco's'; got to love little connection moments like that. As a con, the kitchen did close at 9ish that Friday so definitely plan to get here on the earlier side if you're looking for a meal. The bar did stay open later than 9p, but most guests and the staff cleaning crew were shutting things down around then. I think it would have felt a little awkward to stay past 9ish. Overall I had a good experience; I'd gladly go back if invited but wouldn't plan a trip here myself. Pro tip: Make a reservation ahead of time, especially on weekends. They are well known for those crabcakes and it can get pretty crowded. read more

Expensive but so worth it!!! Each 11oz crab cake is pretty much entirely crab and it is absolutely seasoned to perfection!! I definitely recommend coming here but you should make an a reservation or just do carry out. Take your seafood lover friends here! read more

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Traveled 3 hours in Thursday evening traffic with a friend after work to finally try this place after hearing so many good things. We made reservations about 3 weeks in advance since we heard it was pretty small. Parking was actually easy, which was a nice surprise. Our waitress was very nice and attentive throughout the night. We started with the crab dip, which was just okay to me -- I was expecting a little more crab meat. The crab cake itself was a really nice size and definitely filling; I couldn't even finish it all. It had good lump crab meat, but I personally would have liked a little more seasoning/flavor. Overall, it was a good experience. I'd go back if I lived closer, but I don't think I'd make another special trip just for it. read more

Koco's Pub - Creamy Crab Dip - Pubs Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

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Delicious crab cake and friendly service. Visited Koco's for the famous crab cake and definitely worth it. Staff are friendly. read more

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Awesome event perfect. They don't take orders over the phone. Placed order online and in less than 10 minutes I received an alert that my order was ready. When I arrived I parked one the side residential street. Entered thru a side door. I was greeted by the ladies at the counter. Gave them my name and my order was ready. It was about 430 in the afternoon. The dining room was not crowded at all. Music was playing but, not very load. I was asked did I need silverware and I said yes. I got to my car and checked my bag. No tarter or cocktail sauce in the bag. I wasn't offered any at the counter. I would think that when spending $51.00 for an 11 ounce crab cake with no sides that at least you would be offered cocktail and/or tarter sauce. I sent my grandson back in to get both. He received it with no problem. When I arrived home I was anxious to find out what all the hype was about. I opened the container. I decided to eat the lettuce, tomato and pickle 1st. I didn't bother to eat the crackers that came with it. When I cut into it.....nothing but, real lump crab. Once tasting it I was impressed. Definitely, good quality crab. Now for me I like a little more seasoning but, other than that it was delicious for sure. It wasn't huge as some other places but, 10 on quality. I would purchase again but, because of the price it is not something I would be able to purchase often. read more

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Omg, the food and service was awesome! Please make reservations because the place is not big. Overall everything was fantastic! Chef's Kiss on the crabcakes! read more

The food was great! The crab cake was wonderful, soft and flavorful. We forgot to order a gluten free crab cake but our waiter, Sebastian, was able to get us a gf crab cake which someone ordered and then cancelled. That's great! Yes, it was luck, but he tried and would you look at that! We got it! I couldn't even tell that it was gluten free. We also noticed that they are very careful to make sure no cross contamination happens. The one reason this restaurant doesn't have 5 stars is because its cleanliness around the place wasn't great. read more

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I've heard great things about Koco's Pub and wanted to try it for myself. My friend and I stopped by for a late dinner. We ordered the crab cakes of course, salmon blt with fries and a guava margarita. Kocos owes me nothing. The bartender made my drink perfect. The crab cakes are popular with reason. The salmon blt was juicy and simple. Fries crispy and a decent portion. The bar is well lit with a moderate noise level. The bathrooms are clean and all the staff were friendly. Positive dining experience all around and I would for sure return. read more

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Amazing services woudl definatly recommend would go again was a great experience and amazing quality .

Sorry, Koco's Pub - we just weren't fans... We had heard about their crabcakes and were highly recommended in checking them out - we decided to do a carryout order while in the area, in which they text you when your order is ready (which is pretty convenient)! We ordered: +the Creamy Crab Dip - probably the worst crab dips ever; came with 2 large sliced baguette bread, topped with some melted cheese; the dip itself was just not good - it had an off taste to it, more cream cheese than crab, and was not fresh - it was inedible, as it made you literally gag; the bread itself was tasty, as it was buttery and cheesy, however it was useless without the dip! +the 'Double' Crab Cake Platter - came with french fries, coleslaw, lettuce, and a sliced tomato ; unfortunately, the crab cake itself was super bland and had absolute no flavor to it; it also contained some shells +an iced tea - we had requested sweet tea, but the individual in the front must have 'misheard'; we received the unsweetened version The biggest gripe was that they only had Cholula hot sauce - crazy! Staff were friendly, and the place was packed to the brim, with both patrons who were dining in and for those who were picking up. There is limited street parking, but patrons can also park in the Safeway parking lot down a couple of blocks into their overflow area. No dice, Koco's. +bland crabcakes +worst crab dip ever +inaccurate orders +street parking available read more

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Let's dive right in -- this trip was all about the crab cakes. I consider myself a connoisseur of delicious crab cakes. I've had them everywhere there is to have them, and somehow I'm just now discovering Koco's. Well, let me tell you -- this is the winning spot. There are a lot of good, even great, crab cakes around town, but Koco's is 100% in a league of its own. I usually enjoy my crab cake with crackers, maybe a little bread on the side. Not here. Skip the bread. Skip the filler. This crab cake stands all by itself. Outrageously delicious. Off the scale. The kind of crab cake that makes you stop talking for a minute because you're too busy appreciating what just happened. And it's not just the food. From the second you walk in, you're treated kindly -- not only by the staff, but even by the folks sitting down enjoying their meals. The whole place just has that great local, welcoming feel. I also can't leave out the French fries. They are off the charts too. A true 3/8 straight-cut fry -- not those crispy coated carnival/stadium fries that seem to be taking over everywhere these days. Real fries. Done right. There is no better crab cake to be had. If you're going to go big, go hungry. You will leave HAPPY!!!!!!! read more

Roaming points north and hungry, Koco's showed up on my radar. Glad it did and we were lucky to get Kelsey as our server! Great gal and excellent service, she gave perfect recommendations both for drinks and entrees. Our table shared the Koconut Shrimp appetizer and I had a cup of the cream of crab. The shrimp were massive and coconutty crisp. The raspberry jalapeño dipping sauce slaps! My cream of crab soup was delicious with enough crab to tease the palate. The crab cake platter was so filling. 11oz. was all crab and zero filler! Oh man, again I couldn't finish lol indeed defeated. No complaints and drinks stayed flowing! Crushes so refreshing. Space was definitely filled with locals and nearly everyone came for the cake. Parking in the area is limited and dining tables can be reserved so call ahead. Bar tops only around the bar. read more

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Claws and Effect Spectacular family-run diner in one of Baltimore's more hipstery neighborhoods that's been in operation since 1985. This once formerly Zagat-rated restaurant was also named the #1 crab cake in the Maryland by Barstool sports. They also sell an average of 2k crab cakes a day--which is a lot of friggin' crab! The Good: *Great service by the staff *They do take reservations, but only by phone from what I can tell. The only reason I know is because that was the first thing we were asked when we walked in. *Craft brews on-tap *A lot of times a place can get hyped up as "the best," only for you to be let down once you get there. This is not one of those places. The crab cake was superlative and had a nice crunchy exterior and a nice moist interior with great fresh crab flavor. It's not cheap, but YOLO. *My Texas Burger was maybe the best burger I've had all year; juicy, fresh, and gigantic, this burger put me in a food coma. *Cream of Crab Soup was also excellent. Creamy, luscious, and highlighted the flavor of the crab. The Meh: *No outdoor dining *Street Parking was sparse on a random weekday early afternoon, but at least it's free. *No outdoor dining The Ugly: *The price on the crab cakes are outrageous and fluctuate with the market, but it was fucking delicious and worth every penny. So, let those words be your guide. Conclusion: Fantastic restaurant with great service and scrumptious food. Get the crab cake! read more

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Been seeing a lot of reviews of this place, specifically for their crab cakes, and decided to try it. Was impressed and will return. Parking can be tricky as there is no dedicated parking area, instead there's off the street parking in a residential area. The establishment itself is small; however, we were greeted promptly and seated for a party of 2. The waiter was friendly and attentive. The food came out hot and good. Definitely recommend the lump crab meat and the cream of crab soup as both were delish. The half and half soup was good too. read more

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Honestly the best crab cake you can get in the country! I brought my parents here when they came to visit and they absolutely loved it. The servers were friendly and the ambiance was great. read more

Koco's Pub - 11 oz. Broiled Crab Cake Platter - Pubs Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

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Very warm and friendly restaurant and staff. Incredible food and exceptional service from Sebas.

We drove a long ways just for these crab cakes. I have not found any other place that's better. This is our 2nd time here and it was worth the trip! Service was excellent. We will be back and highly recommended! Thank you! read more

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Vibrant with plenty of regulars and new customers, Koco's Pub does not disappoint. The night colored interior with colorful menus and accolades along the walls adds to the vibe of the restaurant. Upon arrival I was informed about the recommendation for a reservation. It wasn't helpful since I was walking in but there was no issue putting my name of the list. They have bar seating and standard dining seating and the bar is not first come first served - the reservations were abundant so there was a bit of a wait. We thoroughly enjoyed our drinks and food. The rum punch is made well. The rum punch for two is a stronger version of the single rum punch and comes in the parrot cups. The individual cocktail is great too. We started with the half and half soup - half cream of crab, half Maryland crab - it was tasty. The bowl was hot and the seasoning was good. The Salmon BLT sandwich was filling. The bacon was crisp and added a nice touch. For the side we enjoyed the onion rings which were a good size and tasted fresh. The star of the evening was the crab cake for sure. Full of flavor and chunks of crab meat, it was truly worth the wait. The fries were hot and crispy and the cole slaw is pretty good. We received good service, the bartenders are friendly and attentive. I would for sure go back. read more

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I have heard for years that this was one of the best places in Baltimore for crab cakes, but I never took the time to check it out for myself. After seeing a review recently on TikTok, and seeing this listed again as one of the top 10 places in Baltimore for crab cakes I was ready to try it. My sister and I stopped through on Friday evening during peak dinner time. The only down side was there was nowhere to wait indoors until our table was ready. There was only a bench outside and a picnic table with a bench on the side of the building. Luckily, the weather wasn't too uncomfortable, and we did not have to wait very long (approx 10 minutes). Once inside, the magic happened. Very, very small and intimate seating (you could literally touch the folks seated next to you), however somehow, the staff makes it work so you don't feel crowded. We had the cream of crab soup, and the crab cake platter. Whew Chile!!! Let me tell you, this place definitely lived up to the hype. Big ole lumps of crab meat in every bite of the crab soup. Loved it! And the crab cake platter was just more of that delicious jumbo lump crab meat. It was well seasoned, and not overdone. The coleslaw was delicious, the fries were crispy, and it was a nice touch to have a little old bay on the tomato. I was stuffed and could only eat half of my platter, so I loved having left overs as well. The Hershey's gold chocolates were a sweet ending to a lovely meal. Will definitely be back for a repeat. read more

Koco's Pub - Crab cake platter--jumbo lump crab cake with fries, tomato, lettuce and cole slaw - Pubs Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

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Listen.... this was our first stop of the crab crawl tour hubby's birthday and it served! The only downfall was there was no open reservations for the weekend so we ordered to go. Let me tell you, the young lady who was training the other young lady ! She was so kind and patient with her and I love seeing that. I ordered the 2 crab cakes and 2 sides. Man, they were absolutely delicious and worth every penny! The next crab stop has competition because they got a 10 from us. Just go. The to go wait time wasn't bad and they text you when your order is ready. Will be sure to come back when in Baltimore and make reservations before flying in. read more

Koco's Pub - Baltimore's Best Jumbo Lump Crabcake 11oz./ x2 meal. It is as good as it looks. No fillers - Pubs Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

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Amazing! Best crab cake I've ever had. Every bit worth the 3 hour drive. The amount of crab was incredible. Definitely make reservations well in advance. We took a chance and got very lucky. Thankful we got a table. The coleslaw is a perfect side. Took some uncooked cakes home to make at home. A must go to! read more

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The staff were so nice and the crab cake was MEATY. Probably the meatiest crab cake I ever had. They have also won a bunch of awards and been open since 1985! The ambiance is so cute and they have a statue of a bird in the door. I would come back!! :) I will say I did not expect market price to be $41 for a single crab cake so definitely be prepared for that market price to slap you! read more

Koco's Pub - Pubs Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

Walked into Koco's Pub thinking my family of 4 would grab a quick bite. Walked out (slowly) questioning every crab cake I've ever had. This thing was massive--less crab cake and more crab commitment. Every bite was packed with crab, not filler, and by the end I was googling whether it's legal to marry seafood in Maryland. The inside was giving colorful Caribbean vibes, only thing missing was a beach view and breeze. The staff (and patrons) were super friendly with our girls (5 and 3) and chill, not giving the annoying waiter banter or pretentious attitude which is wild because with crab cakes this good, they could be snobby and I'd still thank them. But no--just good vibes and great food. Honestly, if this is what Baltimore hospitality tastes like, I might never leave. read more

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While visiting Baltimore my friend took me to Koco's because he said it was the best around. I was a little skeptical but I can honestly say it was the best crab cake I've had in a long time. It was full of crab and barely any filler. It was seasoned to perfection and delicious. The service was friendly and fast. I went on a Tuesday night and it was crowded but I was told on the weekends there is normally a line outside to get in. I will be going here every time I'm in the area. read more

Koco's Pub - 11 oz. Broiled Crab Cake Platter - Pubs Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

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This place has been on my list for some time and I was able to check it out during a solo date with myself before picking up kids from practice. This was a great treat of self care as it was impromptu where I had extra time on my schedule . You can't miss the bright yellow exterior. Since I was solo and I was not aware of the need for reservations but, I was able to grab a solo seat at the bar. The restaurant is quite quaint so I can see why reservations are so important. I ordered a jr crab cake, cream of crab soup and a margarita from the bar. Everything I ordered was delicious and the staff were even better. Parking is very tight in the area so you will definitely have to be on the lookout. I will definitely be back as this place is a true Baltimore gem . read more

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Arguably among the best crab cakes in Maryland. Admittedly I've had them to go a couple of times (so I can't speak the service or ambiance) and their hours can be spotty, but they make a fabulous crab cake. That much is for sure. read more

Best crabcakes in Baltimore... maybe even Maryland. 11 ounce crabcake all lump crabmeat.. what's not to like? Also love that you can choose between caesar or fries. Been here twice now - had to take my parents. Everyone approved Service is friendly and fast. It's a cute small place that gets SUPER busy so plan accordingly! read more

Koco's Pub - Crabcake - Pubs Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

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Everytime we're in town we have to come here. Massive full of crab, they do it right, here. Ordered wings too those were really good and hit the spot. I haven't found a solid wing here in Baltimore. Service was great and ambience is good for lunch and dinner. You can't go wrong. read more

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Tuesday 3/25/25 I had heard a lot about these being the best crab cakes from people in my life and from MrChimetime on TikTok. Today I'm finally putting that statement to the test. My mom and I ordered online and got the double crab platter (2x 11oz) $75, so we could both have our own crab cake. She also got the koconut fried shrimp, which I was able to sample. Also great thing I ordered for takeout because it was PACKED inside. The service was pretty good. The lady who was taking care of me was very kind and friendly, and she made sure everything was all set and good for me. - These are the best crab cakes I've had and it's not close. They have very little to no "filling" like mayo & breading, it's just a whole bunch of crab. - Not too much to say about the fries: they're just basic unseasoned fries. - I sampled my mom's koconut shrimp and it was solid. It comes with a special spicy raspberry sauce that was cool but didn't really do much for the experience. My mom did enjoy the shrimp, tho. These are the best crab cakes I've had, and I will be back for more. read more

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Yes--the crab cakes are delicious! If it's just 2 people definitely share the crab cake platter since it comes with fries and coleslaw. It's a huge crab cake! You can order the crab cake only too! They do get busy so reservations may be needed--we sat at the bar since most seating had reservations for the lunch rush! The service was great and all staff super friendly! The atmosphere was super fun! Parking we just parked up the street and was super easy! read more

Koco's Pub - Pubs Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

10/10! I highly recommend this place for crab cakes. They are huge and all crab meat. They are market price but well worth the price. I tried this restaurant while visiting Baltimore. I told others that I had visited this establishment, and they all agreed that it's the best place to get crab cakes in the city. I tried the steamed shrimp with onions as an appetizer. They were good but nothing special. I was given a glass in honor of their 40th Anniversary; however, I left it on the table when leaving then restaurant. read more

Koco's Pub - Steamed Shrimp - Pubs Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

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Such a cool location. Great restaurant situated in the middle of a neighborhood. The place is absolutely spotless. You could eat off the restroom floors. Service was great and attentive by multiple people. I get the hype over the crabcake. If not the best crab cake in Maryland, it has to be top five. Pretty hard to beat. 11oz softball size crab cake. Don't miss this spot! read more

Koco's Pub - Half & half. Amazing! - Pubs Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

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Stopped into Koco's for lunch and honestly, while I expected a bigger space, what they lack in size they make up for with HUGE personality and amazing service. Every single staff member was so warm and friendly -- you truly feel welcome the moment you walk in. I even ended up having a great convo with the person sitting next to me (which is rare these days!), so the good energy here is contagious. We ordered the crab dip and crab cakes -- both were phenomenal. One little detail that really stood out: they serve your meal with a thick, seasoned slice of tomato. I've never seen that before, but it was actually so good and added a fresh, flavorful touch! Special shoutout to Brittany behind the bar -- her drinks were on point and perfectly made. Already looking forward to my next visit. If you're craving great food, chill vibes, and genuinely kind people -- this place is it. read more

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I'm a crab cake fanatic. This place has THE best crabcakes. Hands down. Large and delicious. I see why this place has been around for decades. read more

I have to admit this is my current favorite crab cake in the state of Maryland. Koco's is a pub for sure that offers some amazing food. Unfortunately I got there late in the evening before the kitchen closed and was rather hungry but the pound of steam shrimp was tender, juicy, hot, and seasoned well with the crab seasoning. They bring you a chilled glass for your bottled beer which was a nice touch. Overall I was here mainly for the crab cake. It does not disappoint and took everything for me to not order two. Large chunks of lump crab meat, almost no filler, broiled to perfection, and built like a softball. Yeah pictures don't do it justice and clearly I didn't wait to eat. There are two entrances (bar & restaurant) and parking is limited to the street. The restaurant gives a beach style vibe with a large bar to serve your beverages. It stays quite packed from the three times I've visited now. Overall the crab cake is a 5 of 5 for me The total experience 4.2 of 5 Please go try these guys out and judge for yourself. read more

Koco's Pub - Pubs Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

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If you're searching for a true Baltimore crab cake, Koco's Pub is the spot. Their famous 11 oz. crab cake is unreal -- loaded with jumbo lump crab meat, barely any filler, and seasoned just right so the flavor of the crab is the star. Every bite is rich, fresh, and perfectly cooked. You can taste the quality. The vibe is everything you want in a neighborhood bar -- relaxed, welcoming, and full of character. The staff is super friendly and makes you feel at home from the moment you walk in. Portions are generous, the food comes out hot, and the experience feels authentic and unpretentious. Hands down one of the best crab cakes in Baltimore. Worth the visit every time. read more

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The crabcake is delicious. They've earned an A+ on taste. The service is ok not great. They are not very friendly. Operating in an urban area and lacked diversity amongst the staff was concerning, for me. Definitely something to work on. read more

Amazing crabcakes! Went there on a rainy afternoon around 4p and it was an hour wait to be seated (that's how you know it's good), so we ordered to go. It was still delicious after a 30-min drive! read more