By: Marc Kent
“Let’s hook up” is a slogan at Rack…from Manager Dave Simes to wait person Mandy to their back up staff…they provide suggestions and assistance galore! Carlene, Jomar and this reviewer were amazed at the variety of the standard menu.
We had starters of fresh oysters (blue points, komamatos and umamis) crisp cool taste, accented by vinegar and cocktail sauces…delicious. Oysters Rockefeller and Ipswich clams, shells and cheese, BBQ ribs, wood grilled octopus and tuna tar tar are listed in addition to wonderful fish tacos and fine cold half shell clams plus a great grilled artichoke – all delightful.
We sampled a most delicious New England clam chowder – a rich and unusual taste. A huge soft shell crab, off menu, was a true winner – crispy and full flavored. While we were not in favor of the Creole style calamari due to the coating, we were applauding the scallops, nicely braised and served with creamed corn, tarragon and shitake! We tried a side of Creole beans and rice…it was great! Don’t miss it or the fine fish sliders.
Their sauce “Loo-ey” arrived atop a Maryland crab cake – an excellent blend of quality crab and a dash of filler – a nice size portion. There was a gentle taste of conch ceviche, but a bit overpowered by the mixture of citrus, peppers ,onions, cilantro, celery and jalapeno.
There are 6 salads, 7 sides and 4 items from the Pecan Wood Grill – we chose the daily special – grilled salmon, a good size fish steak, perfectly done. We had a large side of grilled brussel sprouts – a fine combination with the salmon.
The entrée listing offers shrimp with grits, Idaho trout, pan fried fish, roasted Murry’s chicken, spiced ahi tuna and an oyster po’boy.
For dessert, we sampled a full, deep flavored key lime pie then carrot cake a la mode, finally a super rich chocolate brownie also a la mode. All were great tasting!
Racks has a full bar plus a kid’s menu plus daily specials in addition to the standard menu changed seasonally. Open 7 days from 11:30AM to 10PM on weekdays – and until 11PM on Friday and Saturday. Seating 125 inside and 40 outside. Racks Fish House/Oyster Bar is located at 5 SE 2nd Avenue in Delray Beach (561-450-6718). This is an upbeat restaurant, we suggest you…Go and Enjoy!