02/13/2026
Happy National Crab Rangoon Day from The Manor on Lawndale!
Today we’re celebrating one of the most beloved appetizers in American Chinese cuisine — the irresistible crab rangoon! This unofficial holiday, founded in 2009 by friends Sarah White, Kara Sweeney, and Kristin Ostrem, was created as a cheerful alternative to the Valentine’s Day blues. Set on February 13, it encourages people to gather with friends, share good food, and enjoy a little lighthearted fun.
Crab rangoon has a flavorful history, too. Though often linked to “Polynesian” menus of the mid‑20th century, the dish became widely popular in the 1950s when it appeared on the menu at Trader Vic’s — a restaurant famous for tiki‑style cuisine. From there, it spread across the country under names like crab puffs, cheese wontons, and fried crab pockets.
🦀 Whether you enjoy yours with sweet‑and‑sour sauce, plum sauce, or just as they are, today is the perfect day to savor a crispy bite and celebrate the joy of friendship.