Shrimp Boat Grille

After a long hiatus where our schedules collided and kept us from getting together our gang of eight finally pinned down a Great Escape date that worked for all of us. We had some lost time to make up for and boy did we hit a winner with Shrimp Boat Grille.

Several years ago I'd been to Shrimp Boat Grille at it's original location on Lumsden and Kings and although we liked the food we didn't hurry back because the atmosphere was kind of dark and eventually it fell off our radar. But we were delighted to see their beautiful new location on Bloomingdale Avenue. The decor is lovely, warm and bright with a separate bar area that was lit with cozy blue lights meant to draw you in. Business was booming on this Friday night and the restaurant was packed. Our waitress Haley was friendly and efficient and we were treated to entertainment provided by the very talented Ron Cunningham who I learned is there every Friday evening. The music was just right for dining and thankfully not so loud that we couldn't converse.

Hubby had Shrimp Marinara over Linguini, a generous portion and one he declared very satisfying (he liked it!)

I had Grilled Mahi topped with Shrimp and Lemon Beurre Blanc Sauce and switched out the Cilantro Rice for the more sensible veggie side (yes I'm dieting again). It was absolutely delicious and I would order it again.

Both Kathy and Hollie had Seared Salmon A La Meunierepan topped with Spinach over Cilantro-Lime Rice - but Hollie switched out the Salmon for Mahi. I like when restaurants are flexible enough to make these adjustments. The presentation was beautiful and I'm told very tasty indeed.

Cheryl & Ken opted for Coconut Shrimp, Panko Coated and served with Pina Colada Sauce and a side. I have to say they were the biggest shrimp I'd ever seen! The serving was so large doggie bags were needed. Yum, lunch tomorrow.

All around us I could see nothing but smiling satisfied faces.

Shrimp Boat Grille offers a Four Course Tasting Menu on Saturday Nights and I'd like to give that a try some time. Owner/Chef Al Paone Sr. and his son Al Paone Jr. are offering an exciting menu. I recommend this restaurant and can't wait to return soon.

The dessert menu was tempting but we had planned dessert and coffee at our house and after that very satisfying meal we needed the drive time to digest. We indulged in a Publix Cheesecake with Fresh Strawberries and Whipped Cream, served up with a side of laughter while we listened to Fleetwood Mac.

1020 Bloomingdale Avenue, Valrico, FL, 33596

http://shrimpboatgrille.com/