Ironside Fish and Oyster Bar Is A Treat

Ironside Fish and Oyster Bar opened in Little Italy several years ago, but since I don't get down there too often, I hadn't eaten there, until recently.  Why did I wait so long?  The drive down was 45 minutes, not so bad.  The parking was horrible on a Wednesday afternoon, but so what, it was worth it.  Overall, it was a great experience.

First, the restaurant is gorgeous.  It's built to resemble a steamer, with trunks piled up around the perimeter.  The bathrooms have ship like portholes, a nice touch.  It's a bit noisy, with high ceilings and nothing on the floor, but we didn't care.  The food was the star.  First, everything is so fresh.  The raw fish platters were spectacular.  Oysters, mussels, shrimp, crab, lobster were so enticing, but expensive.  For $141, you can order the large platter, that serves 3-4 people.  We were there for lunch, so several of us ordered the lobster roll, on the recommendation of Debbie, who had eaten there before.  We were not disappointed.  A brioche roll was buttered and toasted, and stuffed with lobster.  I couldn't finish it.  The fries that accompanied the roll were equally delicious.  Sprinkled with malt powder (never heard of it before) they had a vinegary flavor that I just loved.  Others opted for the charred brocollini as a side dish, which was also delicious.  Carol order clam chowder thick and loaded with clams and potatoes, served with a cheddar biscuit.

Simply prepared fish is probably their most popular entree.  Salads and small plates are also popular, like smoked opah on toast, and grilled octopus.

The wait staff was friendly and knowledgeable, and refilled drinks without being asked, always with a friendly smile.

Ironside is expensive, but worth it when you want to give yourself a treat.  I can't wait to go back again!