This place brings back memories! When I was 22 (a long, long time ago) I helped open this raw bar and it was quite the youthful experience! The owners at the time, Ben, Dale and Jennifer, were great and the fun never stopped. For the next little while I learned how to shuck oysters like a pro, steam seafood to perfection, make "Whale Juice", purple coleslaw and lobster bisque. After that experience you'd think I'd be a better cook! Oh well! Anyway, it was a crazy, wild time in my life so this place holds some fond memories for me.
Nostalgia has drawn me back here to this beachside comfort food over the years but I admit to having been less than thrilled with their food the last two times I stopped in. Not that the tourists would notice because the food is still good, it just wasn't what it once was. This trip however I was more than thrilled to see that they've had a revival of sorts. Everything from the Whale Fries to the Key West sandwich to the steamers was just like it use to be - GREAT!
The hardest part about being there is deciding which of my favorites to order on this visit; Ipswich clams, the Key West or The Whale sandwich, lobster bisque or rock shrimp. Usually I just start with one of their awesome Bloody Mary's until I can make up my mind. I have to admit it's much better being on this side of the bar. So the next time you're on the southeast coast of Florida and in the mood for comfort food do it Florida style have comfort seafood at The Whale's Rib.
1 comment:
Sounds like a great little local hang. The best kind.
Post a Comment