Arrrg, sometimes, much like a young Melville, you can hear that inevitable call of the sea. Granted, whereas he was searching for giant white whale, you scurvy land lovers are probably just in the mood for a little lobster, or maybe some stone crabs. Still, you can feel it in the pits of your stomach, matey. It’s the kind of urge that can only be satisfied with a culinary feast at one of the plentiful seaside joints around town. With so many choices, it can be hard to shuck the right oyster, so to speak, but not to worry. We’ve got you covered. Just peruse this handy guide and don’t forget to put on a bib when you visit these surfside restaurants.
Monty’s:This place is probably best right after work. Their happy hours are to die for and the surf is much better than the turf. If you are looking for economical seaside cuisine with the possibility of a live band or two, this place is where you want to go. With two locations on the water, Monty’s makes it easy to indulge in an atmosphere conducive to eating a fresh meal right from the sea.
Monty's: 300 Alton Rd. Miami Beach; 305-672-1148.
Shuckers: Just off the causeway, this place has been around for what seems like forever. Discreetly tucked behind a Best Western, this restaurant on the bay is a regular for boaters and seafood lovers alike. You could drive there, but that would ruin the experience. Just pull up in some sort of watercraft, tie it up at the dock and order the fried calamari for a taste sensation like no other.
Shuckers Bar & Grill: 1819 79st. Cswy;Miami Beach; 305-866-1570.
Joe’s Stone Crab: For fine dining of the saltwater persuasion, there is no better destination than this South Beach gem. The place regularly sees a bevy of celebrities and locals alike vying for a taste of the culinary crustacean creations. Everyone from Matt Damon to Amelia Earheart have enjoyed dining at this establishment and you will no doubt feel the same way after sampling this historical seafood sensation.
Joe's Stone Crab: 11 Washington Ave, Miami Beach; 305-673-0365; www.joesstonecrab.com.
Garcia’s on the River: Owned an operated by the father and son team of Esteban and Este Garcia, this place is the best location to take the whole family. With economical prices and indoor and outdoor seating, this place will satisfy without leaving a big whole in your wallet. We recommend the Lemon-Flavored Grilled Grouper as an entrée. It’s so yum.
Garcia's Seafood & Grille: 398 NW North River Dr., Miami; 305-375-0765.
Capt Jim’s on Biscayne: Captain Jim Hanson's Seafood Market and Restaurant is not only a great place to dine in, but at this Miami marketplace you can also take home and fry up whatever Capt. Jim happened to catch that day. Also very reasonable on the purse strings, here you can find stone crabs or native fish like grouper and yellowtail at half the price of Joe’s Stone Crab.
Captain Jim Hanson's Seafood Market and Restaurant: 12950 W Dixie Hwy. North Miami; 305-892-281.
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