Seafood Sam’s is a local bargain favorite. We asked the clerk at the corner drug store for a suggestion and she recommended Seafood Sams. She assured us that they always have the freshest seafood. Luckily for us, this seasonal restaurant was still open, it closes right after Thanksgiving and doesn’t reopen until spring.
Don’t expect atmospheric dining, it isn’t romantic or classy. It is one step up from the seafood shacks we have along the shore in Connecticut. It looked more like the local fast-food joint than a good seafood restaurant. How deceiving looks can be.
There is an extensive menu on overhead signs. It is overwhelming for a first timer. We had to step back to read all the signs and let people pass us and place their orders. We finally decided on the calamari special and broiled scallop dinner. You have the choice of one starch, baked potatoes, rice pilaf or French fries, and coleslaw. They serve beer, so Al ordered a Michelob Ultra, and I got an iced tea. Our feast cost us $21.79. You pay and are given a number and told to take a seat. Make sure you stop and pick up your silverware, napkins, and condiments.
While we were waiting for our number to be called, I scooped out the tables around us. There were lots of seniors and families--mostly locals by the look of them. Plenty of nautical décor and a giant lobster set the mood. The tables have green Formica tops, and so do the booths. The staff is constantly out among the tables, keeping things neat and clean. I was very impressed with the cleanliness of not only the restaurant but the restroom as well.
After a short wait, our number is called, and Al went to get our food. It is served on cardboard plates. The scallops were divine--so delicate and fresh, with crispy and very spicy crumbs on top. The scallops were so good, they even overcame the overwhelming flavor of the crumbs. The calamari was excellent--tender with a slightly too-heavy coating, no elastic bands here. The baked potato was cooked perfectly and served with butter and sour cream. The coleslaw was extra good--very crunchy with lots of celery seeds. The only weak spot was very pedestrian French fries.
There is a glass atrium with seating, as well as outdoor dining in the warmer weather. Seafood Sam’s offers a lot of bang for your buck. The Hooligans ate dinner at the hotel. There is a lot to be said for peace and quiet too. To check out their menu and get at $2 coupon for their shirt or hat, go to
www.seafoodsams.com.