It’s “Lobster Blowout” at HARPOON HANNA’S!
There’s absolutely nothing disappointing about this particular annual event; each November this Ocean City Maryland icon restaurant, Harpoon Hanna’s, offers a special, month long special – a “Lobster Blowout”. Two evenings each week (Wednesday and Thursday) fresh, whole Maine lobsters are offered at half price! The other evening we decided to check out this well-advertised deal. First off, even at the early hour of 5 pm the large parking lot was full. However, upon entering, we discovered that much of that 
was due to the normal “Happy Hour” crowd; we were seated in the dining area immediately and very comfortably. Menus were provided although we already knew what this evening was all about. All that I can say is “WOW”! The ‘bugs’ served were perfectly prepared…steamed just right, and, with the addition of a couple of tiny slits in the claw we were able to dismember this tempting crustacean with ease and less mess (well almost – they do have the ubiquitous 
lobster bib available in case of a mishap)! And, melted butter does still drip from time to time! A choice of two sides is offered: Baked Potato, Cole Slaw, Mac & Cheese, Applesauce (the good kind) or Vegetable of the Day. After gobbling all these goodies we should have quit but the limited yet attractive selections on dessert menu proved too tempting; out came a slice of Key Lime pie to share. It was tasty but small; really all that we needed! Everything was good – really good! Attentive without being intrusive, our server, Chris was a real pro. Also, it appeared that by the time we left, many others were enjoying this special evening! This offering, as mentioned earlier is available Wednesdays and Thursdays throughout the month – except Thanksgiving Day, when another, more traditional special is offered!
Visit http://harpoonhannasrestaurant.com for information on all that this grand eatery has to offer!
To enlarge any photo, just “click”!
CAPTAIN’S TABLE at the Marriott – It’s BACK!
Captain’s Table Restaurant. From friends we had leaned that this Ocean City Maryland icon had returned after a nearly four year hiatus and was now better than ever! We had to investigate and see if it lived up to the slogan, “A locals favorite for over 55 years”!
We arrived early and had our choice of seating, though soon after, as the restaurant quickly filled we still felt as if we were ‘private’. The décor is lovely and spare yet surprisingly warm, giving one a sense of ‘instant peace’. Our waiter, Mark, after introducing himself, rapidly produced a couple of gigantic menus along with a recitation of the restaurant’s unique history – still family owned and operated; still the original attention to detail and of course, still great food! For the appetizer we decided to share the smoked fishplate – a lovely presentation of salmon and smoked trout on crackers topped with a dab of crème fraiche, caviar, minced red onion and capers! Delightful! Our entrée’s arrived soon after; my companion choosing the lamb chops with green beans and I, the fresh halibut topped with crab imperial accompanied by ‘a starch’; in my case a huge, well cooked sweet potato. Both excellent. Note here – the bread is house made and very good! If there is any critique at all – the lovely green beans were undercooked. We’ve found this method of preparation at quite a few fine dining establishments so it just must be our ‘plebian’ taste! The portions were huge – leaving room for only one dessert to share; a lovely trio of fresh fruit sorbet; including mango, raspberry and strawberry/watermelon. A perfect ending to an excellent meal!
The NEW, old Captain’s Table is now located in the very new Courtyard by Marriott hotel at 1500 Baltimore Avenue (15th Street to us locals) – just a half block off of the famed Boardwalk in Downtown Ocean City. It is open 7 days a week for breakfast, lunch and dinner. (The breakfast menu looked scrumptious with many old favorites including Eggs Chesapeake and Jumbo Lump Crab Hash. They even serve a Malted Belgian Waffle, one of my favorites!)
For an evening out with good food, in lovely surroundings with excellent service you may want to visit and see for yourself why it’s known as “A locals favorite for over 55 years” – the Captain’s Table.
For more information visit the website at http://www.captainstableoc.com.
To enlarge any photo, just “click”!
CATCH 54 – Lunch, a whole new way!
Several weeks ago we happened upon the CATCH 54 Restaurant located just off Rt. 54 in Fenwick Island. It was a serendipitous experience…we had been looking for another place – close in name but I believe offering a far different experience. After negotiating a somewhat hazardous (don’t try crossing against traffic on a holiday weekend) entrance we landed in a generous parking lot out side this true dockside eatery. The building itself is rambling but the doorways are well marked. In summertime some tables are truly located just steps from the water. Inside, a long, narrow room open to the dock with sliding doors presented our choice of inviting tables and stools. Upstairs, windows offering 
water view more tables were available. Our arrival right at opening time for lunch (11:30 am) gave us first pick. Our table view included pontoon boats bobbing as many gleeful, end-of-summer seafarers were boarding. Menus were presented promptly and after a quick view, presented a dilemma – what to select! Although abbreviated for lunch service the choice descriptions were out of the ordinary. Finally asking the server for a recommendation we chose to share an order of the fried oysters as an appetizer. OK, we love oysters and living here seaside we have them 
as often as possible. Frankly, this is the first time in our experience the beloved bivalve became a vehicle for three excellent sauces. The perfectly prepared nuggets were lightly sauced with new but complimentary flavors. It was hard to determine the exact sauce origins; I can only say they were terrific! Our sandwiches arrived shortly thereafter – although somewhat pricey the lobster roll accompanied by homemade potato chips was top notch – large chunks of lobster claw (the most flavorful) lightly bound together with FRESH mayo on a grilled, buttered roll! A generous serving! My companion had ordered the ‘fish of the day’ sandwich. Again, 
two thick fillets of lightly breaded, perfectly cooked fish made the sandwich more than just ‘lunch’. Amazingly, my companion claimed he had the courage to attempt dessert after this already luscious feast. The ‘three chocolate’ cake seemed to fill the bill. Although forgoing more than a bite I can attest that it was one of the best ever tasted – tender, bitter, rich, but with the exact degree of sweetness to end this wholly delightful luncheon experience.
It was learned that Catch 54 is also open for dinner year round and is but one of a series of five local eateries owned by the same folks. Visit http://www.sodelconcepts.com to learn more.
To enlarge any photo, just ‘click’.
CACTUS CAFE…Ole!
Our destination last Saturday evening was the Cactus Café located in a small strip mall on Rt. 54 in Fenwick Island – really just a few short miles beyond the MD – DE line from Ocean City, Maryland. It is conveniently located just a block before the new Harris Teeter market traveling west. While there we discovered that this a father-son venture, father owns the other, sister Cactus Café restaurant located on Rt. 113 in Selbyville.
No matter, having previously tried the other, we found the Fenwick location superior in both color, style – and flavor!
This place is fun – once inside it is colorful and cozy yet strangely one didn’t feel 
crowded although it was a busy evening with a cheerful crowd. To begin, there is a tiny bar from which we were offered the almost Mexican national drink – a Margarita! And, although we declined the offer our other beverage selections appeared almost instantly. Throughout our visit the service was excellent.
For our meal, we began with the ubiquitous basket of tasty tortilla chips and freshly prepared salsa – no jarred version here! Bits of bright green fresh cilantro and minced onion showed throughout a spicy but mild tomato rough purée. We discovered an extensive menu – with many seafood-based choices however I was looking forward to the beef. Soon our entrees arrived and I was confronted with that ‘beef’ – a huge mound of tender steak, sautéed onion and green bell pepper…my fajita base! The traditional accompaniments consisted of warm, soft flour tortillas, sour cream, 
lettuce, and refried beans with a superior tasting, and large portion of fresh guacamole! My companion had chosen the lightly sauced, bacon-wrapped, grilled shrimp – there were 10 large and tender beauties! It was served with black beans and rice. Be warned – the portions are very generous! To finish our ‘south of the border’ feast and although they offer “fried ice cream”, we settled for sharing a nice serving of Chambord (raspberry) liqueur flavored cheesecake. Very nice! Choosing to dine early this night it was only when we were leaving that the evenings live entertainment began and so our exit was accompanied by the soft strumming of a guitar. We’ll be back – with a larger appetite and a plan to stay later! The exact address is 4 West Fenwick Station, Fenwick Island, DE 19944. For further information you may phone 302-436-4492.
To enlarge any photo, just “click”.
The HOBBIT Restaurant – Welcome to a new, old friend!
Large lumps of really fresh, sweet crab meat bound together with little but imagination make up the very special crab cakes for which this fine eatery has long been known! Got your attention? The HOBBIT is back! Now located at the end, bay side, at 81st Street and Coastal Highway beneath the new Rivendell 
condominium project, this new incarnation is nothing if not fabulous. Stopping by early one evening recently we were overwhelmed first with the attractive décor…brown and tan tones combined with crisp white napery and sparkling crystal set the backdrop for the 
magnificent 12’ tall windows overlooking the inland bay…where the surrounding views are really spectacular – especially at sunset. The other nearly overwhelming feature is the food – the freshness and quality of the ingredients and the careful preparation. 
Tender Bibb lettuce with roasted beets and creamy feta along with a plate of excellent Clams Casino made up our first course. Then came the second course – The Veal Pistachio – an old favorite rendition of tender scallops of veal, Madeira wine, mushrooms, and fresh cream with fresh-shelled pistachios sprinkled about is again presented on the new menu and is delicious. My companion’s crab cakes, 
described above, were outstanding – he was willing to share a bite but not too much! And, this companion, being a life long java maven commented that the coffee was the best he’s had in a long, long time, in fact, exceptional. From the list of accompanying vegetables – a la carte, we selected the squash – which was tender, lightly seasoned and good. Alas, due to the generous size of our entrée’s 
we were ‘forced’ to share a dessert and what a dessert it was! Homemade Strawberry Shortcake – a towering confection made in-house with FRESH strawberries, real whipped cream and the most light and flavorful of ‘cake’, surely a triumph of the season appropriately celebrating the return of the Hobbit to Ocean City 
Maryland. We cannot forget to mention the really fine service we received – from the greeting upon arrival until our departure the friendly and efficient Hobbit staff (many from the old restaurant) helped make our visit just perfect!!!
The restaurant opens at 5 pm and we suggest reservations – the telephone number is 410-524-8100.
Note: To enlarge any photo, just “click”!
MARLIN MOON GRILLE…all promises kept!
Word of mouth had promised an outstanding meal and on a recent Saturday evening we found that all promises were kept! Located on the eastbound lane of Ocean Gateway (Rt. 50) just before the bridge into Ocean City MD sits the Marlin Moon Grille. It’s not hard to find with the large highway sign marking the entrance to the Francis Scott Key Motel…follow the lane until you see the large converted mansion house ahead. Upon entering the front door from the large parking area which surrounds the house we were immediately taken to one of the two generous dining areas both of 
which also offer a sit down bar. The décor reflects the name – marlin flags adorn the ceilings throughout. Our server promptly appeared offering menus while reciting the evening specials. We selected two special appetizers – the gumbo – deep and rich with flavor and spice and the Scallops Beau Ville – three perfectly cooked scallops temptingly sauced and cooked in their own shell. For our 
entrées we chose the seafood combo from the recited specials and the Chicken Rockefeller from the regular menu. The combo, along with the jumbo grilled shrimp and PERFECT fried oysters contained a crab cake of excellent quality and flavor and revealed a ping-pong ball sized lump of fresh crabmeat – the largest I have ever encountered! Delicious! Sadly, as frequently happens the 
chicken breast was on the dry side – although it was generous and wonderfully wrapped, stuffed and seasoned. Both however were generously accompanied by the signature REAL mashed potatoes – fabulous! Again, too full to enjoy dessert we shared a slice of cake – chocolate with vanilla buttercream frosting – very nice. Although we arrived 
somewhat early, the restaurant quickly filled and there was an overall air of conviviality yet table conversation remained easy. Most noticed though was the overall low level of lighting which was finally confirmed when the check was presented…the pen had a built-in flashlight! As a side note – at a nearby table a martini was ordered…with extra olives. Please see the photo…Marlin Moon Grille is definitely a restaurant where all promises are kept!!! For more information including a view of the tempting menu visit the website at www.marlinmoongrille.com. Reservations recommended!
Note: To enlarge any photo, just “click”.
FRESCO’S of Ocean City MD – “the celebration kind”!
On a long, narrow Atlantic coastal barrier island it’s not difficult to find “waterfront” dining at every level. However for really fine dining – the celebration kind, FRESCO’S holds a special place. Situated bay side at 82nd Street and Coastal Highway the entrance to this restaurant is easy to find and having entered the large private parking area one knows they have arrived. The restaurant is large yet a feeling of 
intimacy is maintained by area table placement. Nearby and a few steps up there is a large comfortable bar area. Classical décor in tones of ivory is the theme, a perfect foil for the magnificent bayside views enjoyed through the large windows walls on two sides. Also available is outdoor dining service adjacent to the water during the warmer 
months. Of the recited specials we ordered the crab lump and ham sauté on toast for two as an appetizer. For entrees the horseradish-encrusted rack of lamb along with the regular menu item entrée of two crab cakes served us well with enough remaining to “take along”. For dessert – again a 
tempting list recited by our waiter – we selected a luscious cannoli to share. The food is fresh and well prepared with a creative flair. Worth mentioning too is the bread course…the generous bowl of flavorful olive oil with cloves of roasted garlic is served alongside the warm, golden crusted yet soft centered, yeasty scented rolls can spell trouble…we all know that we must 
leave room for the meal ahead however sometimes the temptation overwhelms us! So, be warned!
Fresco’s has a delightful website where the restaurant history may be read along with a regular menu…this may be seen at www.ocfrescos.com. Reservations are recommended and may be made by phoning 410.524.02002. We were also told that on weeknight’s including Sunday there is a three-course dining special available at the fixed price of $35.00, Saturday’s not included.
Note: To enlarge any photo just “click”.
REFLECTIONS – A most romantic place!
Leaving a seasoned diner with the lasting impression that “all is very well” is a somewhat daunting task for a hotel restaurant. Yet, REFLECTIONS, located within the Holiday Inn at 67th Street & Coastal Highway – oceanside, achieves this and more. Upon entering this eatery from the generous parking area the seduction begins; first with the personal attention with which you are greeted and the discreet table 
placement throughout the area, it is intimate. The menus provided are enticing in their offerings – not large but covering the dining desires of almost anyone. We selected the special of broiled rockfish with fresh pear chutney and the salmon with a glaze of burgundy cream sauce. Our first course though consisted of soup – a lovely, fresh chicken Florentine in a clear broth and the Seafood Sampler – oysters, bacon 
wrapped shrimp and crab stuffed mushroom caps. Worth mentioning too are the rolls; hot, yeasty and covered with a signature honey, poppy seed glaze served with a dollop of fresh butter. The house salad served was also a hit – very cold and crunchy with a variety of fresh vegetables including asparagus. 
With all of this perfection, one would think that the entrees when served could be anticlimactic…not so, the aforementioned fish selections were generous, perfectly seasoned and well prepared. The sides, potato and fresh cooked vegetables are worth mentioning. This diner has never experienced a mixed vegetable medley so extensive in variety and so tasty. Sadly, 
there was no room remaining to sample dessert although again a tempting variety was offered -visually so seductive. Our service throughout the evening was the best we’ve ever had! Reflections restaurant in Ocean City MD is a most romantic place indeed and one that we will visit again. For a listing of menu items offered you may visit the website at www.ocmdhotels.com/reflections/ or phone 410-524-5252 for reservations.
Note: To enlarge any photo, just “click”.
LIQUID ASSETS…feeds the spirit too!
What more can one say about an eatery where the food is terrific, the service is perfect, and the ambiance is both upscale yet very comfortable? Located on the southbound side along Coastal Highway at 94th Street in Ocean City Maryland sits one of the best (in my opinion) places to dine on the whole island – and it’s open year round! Liquid Assets is 
the resulting evolution of the adjacent, up scale restaurant, formerly Nebula, and the Wine and Martini Bar , Liquid Assets, with a package goods shop thrown in. Retaining that name was a good idea although the assets have grown to include a very accomplished chef and his staff who now offer a menu that calls for determined deliberation when 
viewed by the diner! Its varied offerings, wine country in style, are seasonal, fresh and served with more than just the “food on a plate” attitude of so many places these days. Yet the portions are generous. On this chilly pre-Christmas day during the lunch hour my companion and I decided to split the Antipasto as an appetizer. Out came a huge array of 
tempting items; meats, cheese and exotic veggies including some excellent grilled bread – the remainder of which is pictured here (and went home with me). For our entrees – my companion had the Slow Braised Carolina Barbeque (pulled pork) topped with homemade chipotle slaw and fries; these were remarked as being “extra crispy” and very tasty. My choice was the Oyster Pie – loaded with large, perfectly cooked oysters, an mélange of root vegetables 
including chunks of fingerling potatoes, carrots, parsnips and roasted garlic doused with a lovely sauce and topped with a huge, flaky biscuit. When our server asked if we wanted dessert we had to decline in spite of the very tempting selection that included the famed L.A. Bread Pudding and Apple Empanada. Liquid Assets is a special place…it’s a place that feeds more than the body, on any visit it will feed your spirit too! Open for lunch and dinner daily. For further information visit the website at www.ocliquidassets.com or telephone 410-524-7037.
Note: To enlarge any photo…just click.
Fausto’s, Ristorante Antipasti – Fine Italian food!
There are currently three Fausto’s locations in Ocean City Maryland but in no way could this fine restaurant be considered a chain, each is unique, yet all remain true to serving really fine Italian food with style. This night we choose to dine with friends at Fausto’s, Ristoranti Antipasti, the original location, at 31st Street along Philadelphia Ave, bayside. Arriving just minutes late for a somewhat early reservation we found the restaurant already busy…yet were seated immediately and treated very well, as if we were the only diners. The décor was warm and soothing, yet somewhat elegant…very clean. After choosing our meals from the select menu (no meatballs here!) a parade of well prepared and well presented dishes shortly followed. The smoked fish appetizer was stupendous…with three types
of fish accompanied by red onion, capers and a lovely goat cheese. The Pasta e Fagioli (Italian bean soup) was a big hit with our sometimes “-picky” companion. The salad course brought several cold and crispy, well dressed Caesars and two mixed green salads with light vinaigrette – (we were four}. Entrees again were fantastic…shrimp (big) over FRESH pasta with a light oil, garlic and wine sauce. A veal dish (special of the evening) was well presented and my Linguine Viva Napoli con Vongole 
Veraci (Clams and pasta) was filled with sweet and tender Calico clams in shell…perfect. If there was a problem…it was with the bread – no tooth, little flavor – that was served with the requisite dish of olive oil and roasted garlic. Wait service was perfect throughout until time for dessert when it slowed to a crawl. The coffee was said to be perfect from a couple of long time coffee critics! All in all it was a great experience…a bit pricey but well worth it. Can’t wait to try the other two Fausto’s…especially the new Bistro (where brick oven pizza and panini is served) at 12th Street at the Boardwalk! For more information visit the website at www.ristoranteantipasti.com or phone 410-289-4588.
Note: to enlarge, just “click” on any photo.
