By Jake Reed
With three oceans in its midst, the U.S. has no shortage of famous seafood restaurants, whether you are looking for fish, shellfish or both. Some of the more famous ones have a rich history, while others are derived from a chef's creativity. What they all have in common is that they provide a fine dining experience.
Grand Central Oyster Bar
Located in New York in Midtown East by the Grand Central Station, the Grand Central Oyster Bar has served quality seafood since 1913. As the name implies, this is the place to indulge on oysters from the both the East and West Coasts. The actual restaurant is located under ground and gives visitors a "subterranean" feel. It is not limited to just oysters however, as the menu contains loads of seafood entrees, including clam chowder and lobster.
Grand Central Terminal
89 E. 42nd Street
New York, NY 10017
(212) 490-6650
www.oysterbarny.com
Ray's Boathouse
Known for its northwestern approach to preparing seafood, Ray's Boathouse is one of Seattle's finest restaurants. Executive Chef Peter Birk is so devoted to providing his customers with the freshest seafood, he hand picks it. Guests will also get acquainted with a bay side view of Olympic Mountains over Puget Sound. There's also a wine list 700 bottles strong.
Ray's Boathouse
6049 Seaview Avenue NW
Seattle, WA 98107
(206) 789-3770
www.rays.com
K-Paul's Louisiana Kitchen
K-Paul's is the brainchild of chef Paul Prudhomme. Started in 1978 as a modest 62-seat restaurant, it has since become the talk of New Orlean's historic French Quarter. Some of the more popular dishes include gumbo, fried oysters and Cajun style jambalaya. Given its popularity, reservations are recommended.
K-Paul's Louisiana Kitchen
416 Chartres Street (in between Conti and St. Louis Streets)
New Orleans, LA 70130
(504) 596-2530
www.kpauls.com
L20
L20 was opened in 2008 in the Lincoln Park neighborhood of Chicago. Chef Laurent Gras and his partner Richard Melman teamed up to bring a new taste to Chicago's already established restaurant community. Guests can choose from an a la carte menu or opt for a more intimate dinner with a sit down four-course meal. The flavors draw from elements of both French and Japanese cuisines.
L20
2300 Lincoln Park West
Chicago, IL 60614
(773) 868-0002
www.l2orestaurant.com
Joe's Stone Crab Restaurant
Joe's Stone Crab Restaurant has been a part of Miami's dining scene since 1913. The restaurant is still "in the family" as well. Maine lobster, key lime pie, and jumbo stone crabs as are just some of the favorites enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.
Joe's Stone Crab Restaurant
11 Washington Avenue
Miami beach, FL 33139
(800) 780-CRAB
www.joesstonecrab.com
About the Author:
Jake Reed began his freelance writing career in 2002. His work has been published in the "Seoul Times," "Star News," the "Diplomacy Journal" and on various websites. Reed holds a bachelor's degree in political science and philosophy from the University of California at San Diego.
