Everyone has their own interpretation of what qualifies as a “cult classic.” Yet, to us, a single, unmistakable flavor that defines an entire region and its culinary tradition earns that badge. Chesapeake Bay seasoning, more commonly referred to as Old Bay by many, is one such staple. This blend is inextricably tied to East Coast seafood, and it even lends its name to a renowned coastal area.
When we learned that Utz had started producing “Crab Chips” fashioned after this seasoning, we were disappointed that they weren’t readily accessible in our area. Yet, Costco picking them up changed the game entirely. Even better, we could buy them in bulk. Now that we finally secured a bag, we’re ready to determine whether they measure up or if they tarnish the Chesapeake Bay legacy.
Our Official Sporked Review
Pros — To our eyes, these chips come close to perfection. true to Utz’s reputation, they’re incredibly crisp, light, and intact as full chips. More impressively, the homage to Chesapeake Bay flavors is remarkably well executed. It isn’t an exact clone of Old Bay, but it’s the closest approximation we’ll likely encounter until a formal collaboration allows Utz to access that proprietary blend. If Goldfish can carry the flavor, surely it could work for classic potato chips too, right?
All kidding aside, Utz genuinely honors the cherished flavor profile. The spice level lands just right, delivering a gentle kick that nudges the palate without overpowering it. Onion salt and celery salt stand out prominently, and the saltiness feels proudly bold—exactly the hallmark of a bravely seasoned mix.
Cons — You know a product is strong when the only gripe is that it’s so widely available. Honestly, we don’t have any other issues. We simply hope more Old Bay fans like us get the chance to try them soon. If there were a nitpick, we might have preferred an even stronger emphasis on the “crab” motif—perhaps a hint of shrimp-chip energy. But that idea might not appeal to everyone, so it hardly counts as a true flaw.
