Joe's Crab Shack Opening Monday

will officially open its doors Monday, but from Thursday through Saturday, the restaurant staff will get the swing of things by serving family and friends by invitation only.

The days before opening, known as "mock service" days, give employees a dry run to practice for grand opening.

"Everybody's excited when a new restaurant opens," general manager Craig Hawkins of Federal Hill said.

Hawkins, who has been with the company for eight months, raved about one of most popular dishes Thursday.

"We're known for our steam pots," Hawkins said.

The steam pots, jam packed with snow crabs, king crabs, corn and smoked sausage, are generally acknowledged to be crowd favorites, Hawkins said.

Hawkins added he's ready to give his voice a break now that training is over.

"It's good to go," Hawkins said of the opening.

A ribbon cutting will mark the grand opening Monday, with doors opening at 11 a.m.

The restaurant is located at 3414 Merchant Blvd. in Abingdon at the .

The first 100 guests will get vouchers for a free Snow Crab bucket every month for a year.

Other special offers in honor of the opening include bounce-back cupons to be given away through Jan. 26 that will be valid the next time a customer pays a visit.

Those making donations to No Kid Hungry will get free Key Lime Pie for a $1 donation, free Crab Nachos for a $5 donation and a free Classic Steampot for $10 donation.

Once an hour staff members show off their dance moves and invite guests to get in a festive spirit.