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 Intro
Dining on the
waterfront is something tourists anticipate and
on , fine dining on the waterfront is
rare, indeed. Straight Wharf has a prime location
with its beautiful restaurant adjacent to the
HyLine ferry dock. In addition to the elegant
interior restaurant there is an attractive and
more casual deck, fair weather permitting it is
a treasure. This restaurant is upscale in every
way, including the price which averages among
the highest of those we are reviewing. For a special
evening, it offers much that is unique. The popular
and noisy bar off to the right of the restaurant
caters to a very different group and does not
interfere with the serenity and elegance of the
main restaurant.
Ambiance  |
Several
beautiful oil paintings, some by local artists,
are carefully placed around the room. The high ceiling
rafters are draped with bold blue and gold flowing
banners. The elegant windows, half with views of
the harbor, along with the ever present carousel
white pony and striking flower arrangements, create
a setting that is impressive. For parties of two,
tables by the windows facing the water are ideal.
The deck is also festive, and puts you almost on
the water, the one distraction being ice cream eaters
who wander on the walk way directly in front of
the deck.
Food |
The
meal began with great bread served with their landmark,
smoked bluefish pate. Bluefish is rarely served
in restaurants, since it is caught so frequently
on the Island, but the smoked bluefish pate is delicious.
The popular lobster bisque was served in a bowl
with piping hot, rich broth poured over small pieces
of lobster. It was a real treat. The smoked salmon,
served over watercress salad with a touch of caviar
was also excellent. The entrees we sampled were
Maryland soft shell Crab and four delicately prepared
lamb chops, both delicious choices. Vegetables are
so underplayed one isn't aware they are included;
they are definitely not featured. A banana pistachio
dessert combination was interesting.
Other Observations:
Parties
of eight to ten are often observed at this elegant
restaurant as well as choice tables for two or
four. In previous summers we have dined on the
deck with friends on a hot summer's evening and
enjoyed the more informal setting. The Wine Stewart
who greeted your table in the past was not present
the night of our visit but the formal service
such as replacing silverware from a linen lined
tray and crumbing of the table before dessert
remains. The prices have risen this year, the
general tone seems a little more relaxed, but
the overall excellence continues.
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