With over 100 miles of coastline, Georgia is a powerhouse in the seafood scene. Everything from deep sea fish to juicy crustaceans are caught right here in the Peach State. However, you don’t have to travel to the coast to savor them. Situated just north of downtown Atlanta, Smyrna, Georgia, is an up-and-coming suburb that offers some of the finest seafood dining in the state. The next time you’re in the mood for a taste of the ocean, visit these Smyrna seafood establishments.
Mezza Luna
Image via Flickr by maxim.krayushkin
Don’t let Mezza Luna’s name fool you into thinking it’s just another ho-hum Italian restaurant. The brainchild of former executive chefs and co-owners Luigi Tartaglione and Tony Strangolagalli, Mezza Luna is Italian cuisine at its finest, sourcing only local ingredients and preparing each dish entirely in-house. The pasta is the star of the menu, but it’s the options packed with fresh seafood that put this restaurant on another level.
For something that’s more familiar to your palate, try the pescatore, loaded with little neck clams, calamari, shrimp, and mussels with your choice of fettuccine or risotto. Salmon and flounder are some other tasty options, but the tagliatelle al cartoccio with mussels, calamari, and squid ink is definitely worth a try.
Chef La’s Fish Fry
With a centralized Smyrna hotel, you’re also in close proximity to another area favorite, Chef La’s Fish Fry. This husband-and-wife restaurant offers a blend of the finest seafood ingredients and a passion for creating culinary masterpieces that will melt your taste buds. Half seafood restaurant and half soul food restaurant, Chef La’s serves up delicious, deep-fried portions of catfish, whiting, and tilapia. Paired with homemade classics such as mac and cheese, collard greens, cheese grits, and sweet potato fries, these entrees might leave you needing a nap afterward, but your mouth and stomach will appreciate the gesture.
Mariscos Las Islitas
Spanish for „seafood from the little islands,” Mariscos Las Islitas is the perfect place to dine if you can’t decide between food from south of the border or seafood. Start your experience here with the tantalizingly delicious ceviche, made from fresh fish, lime, onion, and tomatoes. It’s a welcome break from the traditional chips and salsa appetizer and gets you ready for the main course.
Once you’ve had your fair share of ceviche, the menu can get a bit dizzying with all of the choices, but no matter which one you choose, you’re in for a treat. Choose from seafood soups, fish filets, and fish tacos, or something with more Mexican flair, such as the paella or shrimp empanadas.
The Juicy Crab
The Juicy Crab is a locally owned seafood chain that offers the full experience of a Cajun seafood boil. Inspired by New Orleans-style seafood recipes, the Juicy Crab specializes in steamed crawfish, crabs, shrimp, and mussels with the obligatory side of steamed corn. Pair it with hush puppies, oysters, and popcorn shrimp for the ultimate seafood meal.
Whether you’re in the mood for fresh seafood or a delectable fried option, Smyrna has a seemingly endless number of restaurants to satisfy your cravings. Just make sure to bring your appetite and a loose pair of pants.
alinaf