A classic: The Chimneys.
Beautiful setting under live oaks on the beach. This is the second iteration of this well known restaurant…the first, like much of this area, was destroyed by hurricane Katrina. While the original house was replaced with a”new” building, it retains its home like ambiance. A large alfresco area on the “front porch is a great place to while away the hours. The view toward the Gulf is truly idyllic.
The fare is classic Southern Gulf Coast seafood but turf options are also offered. We started with the local garlic butter sauteed blue crab claws which were as expected, outstanding. Mains included a green salad which was pretty standard but we were soon on to the real experience here….fish and seafood. Choices included the Trout 1640…..paneed fried and topped with lump crabmeat and shrimp in an incredible cream sauce….must have been the dash of Pernod…delicious.
I’m not sure if it’s the breading used that makes the fried seafood from the Gulf of Mexico so special or it’s the unique flavors imparted by the Gulf…..think about the impact of the Mississippi River which enters west of here, but the flavors are special. Others had the red fish…..excellent and not always easy to find on menus but it sounds like the fish has made a comeback in recent years. Wines were a nice Pinot Noir from the Central Coast and a Sonoma Cabernet Sauvignon.
Dessert was a selection from the kitchen which was a nice finish to a memorable food experience.
Service was expertly delivered.
