Captain D’s, the nation’s leading fast-casual seafood chain, has unveiled its 2026 Lenten lineup, headlined by a new texture-focused innovation: Crispy Crunchy Shrimp. Announced on Monday, February 9, 2026, the limited-time offering features butterfly shrimp coated in crushed wontons for an extra “shatter” crunch.
The new item is available now through April 5 at participating locations nationwide, anchoring the brand’s seasonal menu alongside returning favorites like the Seafood Gumbo and Fried Oysters.
The Menu: Wonton Crunch & Sweet Heat
The star of the show is the Crispy Crunchy Shrimp, which departs from traditional breading by using a coating of flaky, crushed wontons. This preparation is designed to pair specifically with Captain D’s Sweet & Sour Sauce, a cult-favorite condiment that the brand brought back permanently last year due to high customer demand.
“Every Lent, we see an increase in guests seeking out seafood—which has been our wheelhouse for over 55 years,” said Jonathan Muhtar, Chief Marketing Officer of Captain D’s. “We’re proud to introduce our delicious Crispy Crunchy Shrimp during this season as the perfect complement to our beloved Sweet & Sour Sauce.”
Value Deals and Platters
Captain D’s is aggressively targeting the value-conscious consumer this season with a $5.99 Full Meal Deal. The promotion includes:
- 4 Pieces of Crispy Crunchy Shrimp
- 1 Piece of Batter Dipped Fish
- Hush Puppies
- Choice of One Side
- Sweet & Sour Dipping Sauce
For those with larger appetites, the new shrimp is also available in an 8-Piece Meal (which includes 2 pieces of fish) and as part of the Ultimate Seafood Platter. The brand has also introduced a new Rich Chocolate Cake to round out the meal.
Why It Matters
The Lenten season (Q1) is the “Super Bowl” for the quick-service seafood industry, with chains like Popeyes, Wendy’s, and Arby’s all vying for the attention of consumers observing the Friday meat fast. Captain D’s strategy highlights two critical trends for 2026:
- Texture Innovation: By moving beyond standard breadcrumbs to a “wonton” coating, Captain D’s is differentiating its product with a sensory attribute—”crunch”—that performs well in marketing and social media.
- Aggressive Value: The $5.99 price point for a protein-heavy meal (shrimp and fish) positions the brand as a price leader in a market where many competitors have crossed the $7-$8 threshold for similar combos.
FAQs
What is Captain D’s new shrimp for Lent 2026?
It is called Crispy Crunchy Shrimp. It features butterfly shrimp coated in crushed wontons for a lighter, crispier texture.
How much is the new shrimp meal?
The 5-piece Crispy Crunchy Shrimp Meal, which also includes one piece of fish and sides, is priced at $5.99.
Is the Sweet & Sour sauce spicy?
Captain D’s Sweet & Sour sauce is generally described as tangy with notes of pineapple and horseradish, offering a zesty kick rather than intense heat.
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