When you think of Captain D’s, the first thing that comes to mind is probably their batter-dipped fish fillets, crispy butterfly shrimp, and satisfying seafood platters. But for those in the know, the Captain D’s Appetizers and Add-Ons Menu is where the real flavor journey begins. Whether you’re craving crispy mozzarella sticks, spicy jalapeño poppers, or a full-sized Captain’s Ultimate Appetizer combo, these small bites pack big taste.
Designed for those who want to start strong or build a custom feast, Captain D’s offers a variety of appetizers, extras, and dipping sauces that complement any main meal or satisfy solo snacking cravings. Plus, with classic Southern sides, sweet dessert add-ons, and sauce options that go beyond the basics, there’s no limit to how you can personalize your plate.
Below is a categorized look at the top appetizers, seafood add-ons, chicken extras, and everything in between.
🧀 Mozzarella Sticks
Details
Description
Serving Size
8 pieces
Includes
Breaded mozzarella sticks, sometimes paired with marinara sauce
Texture
Crispy on the outside, gooey cheese inside
Best Paired With
Ranch, marinara, or D’s Dippin’ Sauce
Mozzarella Sticks are one of the most popular non-seafood options on the menu. Perfectly fried and delightfully cheesy, they work well as a snack or side dish to any fish or chicken entrée.
🌶️ Jalapeño Poppers
Details
Description
Filling
Cream cheese or cheddar, depending on location
Shell
Crispy, golden-brown coating
Flavor Profile
Spicy, creamy, crispy
Dip Suggestions
Ranch or honey mustard
Jalapeño Poppers add a spicy kick to your order. These cheesy-filled chili peppers are a bold way to start your meal.
🍤 Popcorn Shrimp
Details
Description
Portion
Snack-sized box or part of combo
Texture
Lightly breaded, crispy
Flavor
Mild seafood with crunch
Dip Suggestions
Cocktail sauce, tartar sauce
These bite-sized shrimp are great as a mini-meal, appetizer, or protein-packed add-on. Always freshly fried and fun to share.
🐚 Clam Strips
Details
Description
Type
Breaded strips of clam meat
Portion
Sold separately or in appetizer combos
Recommended With
Tartar sauce or malt vinegar
Crispy, chewy, and flavorful, clam strips bring a unique seafood texture that breaks the fried fish routine.
🦐 Butterfly Shrimp (Add-On)
Details
Description
Serving Size
6 to 15 pieces
Texture
Crispy breaded tail-on shrimp
Common Uses
Appetizer, combo upgrade, or platter add-on
If you’re looking for more shrimp variety, these large tail-on versions are golden-fried and full of crunch.
⚓ Captain’s Ultimate Appetizer
Includes
Clam Strips, Popcorn Shrimp, Butterfly Shrimp
Purpose
Shareable sampler
Great For
Groups, families, or seafood lovers who want it all
This appetizer combo brings together three of Captain D’s best seafood bites in one ultimate platter.
🍗 Add-On Chicken Tenders
Quantity
2 pieces
Type
Hand-breaded, Southern-style
Sauce Pairings
Honey mustard, ranch, sweet and sour
Perfect for non-seafood eaters, these crispy chicken tenders are seasoned to perfection and hand-breaded.
🐟 Add-On Fish Fillets
Portion
1 or 2 pieces
Type
Batter-dipped fish
Use
Add to any meal or side plate
You can never go wrong with adding more Captain D’s signature fish to your plate.
🦀 Add-On Crab Shells
Serving
2 stuffed crab shells
Flavor
Savory, breadcrumb-based crab stuffing
Perfect With
Fish & Shrimp combos, seafood platters
These stuffed crab shells bring texture, flavor, and just the right amount of indulgence.
🧇 Hush Puppies (Add-On or Side)
Count
6 pieces
Style
Classic Southern cornmeal hush puppies
Taste
Slightly sweet, deep-fried, golden brown
They’re crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside — and no Captain D’s meal is complete without them.
Classic Sides & Sweet Desserts
Besides appetizers and extras, you’ll want to round out your meal with a side dish or dessert option:
🧀 Loaded Baked Potato
A fluffy baked potato loaded with cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, and often served with sour cream on the side.
🍰 Oreo Cheesecake
A rich, creamy slice of The Cheesecake Factory Bakery® Oreo Cheesecake, made with real Oreo cookie pieces.
🍩 Funnel Cake Stix
Crispy, sugary funnel cake sticks, served golden brown and dusted with powdered sugar — a sweet carnival treat to finish your meal.
Dipping Sauces at Captain D’s
Captain D’s offers a diverse selection of sauces — each designed to complement specific appetizers, but customizable based on your taste.
Sauce Name
Best For
D’s Dippin’ Sauce
Popcorn shrimp, mozzarella sticks
Cocktail Sauce
Shrimp, clam strips
Tartar Sauce
Fried fish, crab shells
Sweet & Sour Sauce
Chicken tenders, jalapeño poppers
Honey Mustard
Chicken, mozzarella sticks
Ranch
Jalapeño poppers, mozzarella sticks
Malt Vinegar
Fries, hush puppies, fish fillets
Mix and match to explore different flavors — and don’t hesitate to ask for extra cups of your favorite sauces.
How to Check Prices and Availability
Since pricing varies by location, here’s how to see what’s available at your nearest Captain D’s:
It includes clam strips, butterfly shrimp, and popcorn shrimp in a shareable combo.
3. Can I add fish or chicken to any order?
Yes, you can add 1–2 fish fillets or 2 chicken tenders as extras.
4. Are hush puppies included with appetizers?
Not always — they’re available as an add-on or side item.
5. Are sauces free at Captain D’s?
Yes, sauces are included, and you can usually ask for multiple varieties.
6. Which sauce goes best with mozzarella sticks?
Most people prefer ranch or marinara sauce.
7. Is the Oreo Cheesecake from The Cheesecake Factory?
Yes, it’s sourced from The Cheesecake Factory Bakery®.
8. Are appetizers available all day?
Generally, yes — but check your location for specific availability.
9. Do prices vary by state?
Yes. Prices depend on your local store and may vary by city or region.
10. What’s the spiciest appetizer at Captain D’s?
Jalapeño poppers are the spiciest appetizer currently offered.
11. Can I customize dipping sauces?
Yes, you can choose your sauce when ordering online or in-store.
12. How many pieces come with butterfly shrimp?
Portions vary from 6 to 15 pieces depending on if it’s a combo or add-on.
13. Do combo meals include appetizers?
Only certain combo upgrades include appetizers. Most are sold separately.
14. Are crab shells real crab?
They are stuffed crab shells with a savory breadcrumb and crab-flavored filling.
15. Is there a vegetarian appetizer at Captain D’s?
Mozzarella sticks are the main vegetarian-friendly option.
Final Thoughts
Don’t overlook the power of a great appetizer to kick off your seafood feast. Whether you’re sharing mozzarella sticks with the family or upgrading your combo with clam strips and stuffed crab shells, the Captain D’s Appetizers and Add-Ons Menu gives you full control over your plate — and your cravings.
Want the best Captain D’s experience? Combine your favorite platter, a bold appetizer, and a sweet dessert. It’s the perfect meal trio.
