Quick Bites: Shrimp Sampler
There are thousands of species of shrimp, but the ones we eat here – mostly caught fresh off the Florida Keys – are mostly of the pink variety. There are also rock shrimp (thank you Mesa Mar) as well as brown and white varieties. Our principal advice is to eat those that have been de-shelled, which means their digestive track has been removed. And, of course, always go fresh versus farmed
AROMAS DEL PERU
Aromas del Peru’s chupe de camarones ($23) is the kind of dish that demands a second spoon – though whether you share or not is another story. The broth is thick but not too heavy, soaking up the sweetness of the shrimp while Peruvian corn and rice add texture. Fresh cheese and egg blend into the mix, adding richness; a hint of black mint at the end keeps it balanced. A generous portion, but no promises on leftovers.
1930 Ponce de Leon
aromasperu.com
MESAMAR
MesaMar Seafood Table’s rock shrimp ($26) is comfort food with a twist. Golden, crispy bites of shrimp rest on a bed of fresh greens that add a light, refreshing contrast to the creamy house-made sauce, subtly infused with ponzu and mushroom. The shrimp’s crunch gives way to tender, juicy bites, soaking up the flavorful sauce. This is one of those dishes that has you leaning across the table, insisting, “You’ve got to try this.”
264 Miracle Mile
mesamar.com
SEA GRILL
The relaxed ambience of Sea Grill’s outdoor dining sets the perfect mood for their incredible Shrimp Saganaki, which we’ll be sure to try again. This classic Greek dish comes with three juicy jumbo shrimp coated in a garlicky and flavorful tomato sauce and mixed with small chunks of feta cheese. We had ours as an appetizer ($27), but those who just can’t get enough can order it as an entrée ($46) served with potatoes and veggies.
4250 Salzedo St.
SAWA
One of the joys of eating at Sawa is their outdoor setting in the Shops at Merrick Park. Another is their extensive Asian menu, which they somehow melded seamlessly with Middle Eastern choices. Among their shrimp dishes is the shrimp tempura ($19.49), in which five of the large and plump crustaceans are deep fried in a tempura batter and served with a gochujang sauce that has just the right mix of sweet tart and heat.
360 San Lorenzo Ave.
sawarestaurant.com
SHAHS OF KABOB
Shahs of Kabob’s large plate with shrimp ($19) is delightfully savory. Six shrimp are marinated, cooked, and coated with a mouthwatering blend of buttery herbs and spices that enhance every bite. Served with a healthy helping of rice and salad, the dish is well-balanced and packed with flavor. Make sure to dip the shrimp in the vinaigrette for a citrus tang that complements the richness of the prawn.
2624 Ponce de Leon
shahsofkabob.com
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