My favorite spots for seafood in the DMV
Because fall is for seafood!
Okay people, we’re more than halfway through fall. I know this is a time for pumpkin soup and apple pies, but it is also the season for seafood. Yes seafood, you read that right!
It’s a common misconception that summer is the best time to eat seafood. But this is wrong! Let me tell you something, the best time to eat seafood is in the fall.
You see, during this time, when the water gets colder the fish becomes less active. Their metabolism slows down because they aren’t swimming as much as they used to. And when their metabolism slows they stop moving, so they fatten up. And instead of eating a mushy piece of seafood, my friends, now you are going to get a firmer piece, almost as if you were eating meat.
As for the flavor, well that is better in the fall too. You see, in warmer waters the fish keep all their blood inside their internal organs. However, all this changes when you have cold water because the blood spreads to the rest of their body—And blood is the key to flavor people! The blood flavors the fish and makes it taste more briny, sweet and gives you all the tasty umami flavors you think of when it comes to seafood.
And last but not least, some of the fish and shellfish (like my favorite, Maryland Blue crab), are eating more to prepare for a long winter’s rest…so your crabs will have more meat in the fall. Who doesn’t like more crab?!
Seafood in the fall is amazing and it will taste amazing wherever you are in the world. But, some of the best seafood you can get this season comes from the Chesapeake Bay in Maryland, Washington D.C., and Virginia. Okay I know I’m biased because Maryland is my home state…but trust me, there’s a reason why Maryland is known for its seafood!
So this weekend instead of going to a pumpkin patch or apple farm (although I always support going to your local farmers), come to Maryland or Washington D.C. and order a beautiful piece of seafood—mussels, oysters, crabs whatever you like! Not only will you enjoy an amazing meal, but you’ll also be supporting the local fishermen and fisherwomen who work very hard to not only take care of these creatures from the ocean, but also the ocean itself.
And next week, why not serve some oysters before your Thanksgiving meal…or crabs as the centerpiece??
I’ve listed below my favorite places I love going to for seafood. I’ve been going to these spots for years, and trust me people, every single one of these owners knows what they’re doing.
And if you can’t visit Maryland, Washington, or Virginia, don’t worry! Even though you can’t enjoy seafood from the Chesapeake Bay doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy it in season! Just go to your local fishmonger, ask them what’s in season, and then cook a meal for your family, friends, and neighbors using the beautiful piece of seafood you bought. I have plenty of seafood recipes on my other Substack, Longer Tables, if you need any inspiration…
Whether you go out to eat at a restaurant or you stay at home and cook, just remember, when it comes to seafood, the best thing you can do is keep it simple. You don’t need any sauce—just lemon, salt and boom (or skip the lemon and the salt…boom!).
Let’s do this!
