By Becki Coffy
If you’re “reely” looking for a great new place for fresh fish, then “Kick Back at the Fish Shack.” Referred by a friend who stated, “That place makes a great fish sandwich,” we decided to try it for ourselves.
The owners, Michael and Elise Focarazzo, opened in August 2010 and haven’t slowed down since. Elise, who hails from the Boston area, runs the front of the house making everyone feel at home with her lovely smile and her welcoming ways. Michael, a long- time resident of Pompano Beach, created the menu and does all the cooking. Since his family has been in the fish business for over 20 years, it was a natural progression for Michael to open a local eatery that serves delicious, fresh seafood at a great price; and it seems that he knew exactly what the area was looking for in a restaurant.
The Fish Shack is decorated in quaint nautical décor and offers carry-out or dining in to local residents who already consider themselves regulars. This eatery might be small, but it packs a big punch in flavor and menu choices. Once seated, our waitress, Kim, suggested that we start with the cracked conch, which she considers the House Special and can be ordered as an appetizer or as a meal. The conch is pounded to tenderize it, dipped in a light crispy batter and served with a ‘secret sauce’ created by Chef Michael. The smooth and creamy concoction was a perfect complement to the conch. It was delicious, and, as I watched a steaming basket of conch fritters delivered to the next table, I knew what I would sample on my next visit.
My husband decided to try the special of the day and ordered the fish and chips. Big pieces of cod dipped in a beer batter and deep fried were served with a generous portion of French fries and homemade coleslaw. The slaw was thick and creamy with just a hint of sweetness and the fish was crunchy and flaky. Served with tartar sauce and malt vinegar, it was mouthwatering. We enjoyed every bite.
I chose to try something from the landlubber section of the menu just to round things out a bit. I ordered the hand battered chicken wings naked with Michael’s homemade raspberry sauce on the side. The coating on these juicy, meaty wings was a cross between a batter and a breading. The batter, which stayed on the wing with every bite, ensured that each taste was tender and crisp. The wings were served with celery sticks to finish the dish.
The menu offers eight appetizers ranging from smoked fish dip to blue point oysters from Prince Edward Island. You may want to try the Middle Neck Clams from the raw bar or select from several salads and soups. Sandwiches include cod, grouper, mahi mahi, chicken and more and are served with fries or coleslaw. Also available are several choices of fresh wraps plus hamburgers, cheeseburgers and a shrimp and scallop burger. Entrees include something for everyone from sea scallops, grouper, garlic butter shrimp (a favorite of Elise) and chicken breast to cracked conch and fried clam strips. All dinners come with a choice of two sides. Key lime pie completes the menu with soda, iced tea, beer and wine on-hand.
The Fish Shack is a little off the beaten path and you may have to hunt to find this hidden treasure, but it is worth the search. It is located at 2862 NE 17 Ave. in Pompano Beach —behind Enterprise car rental, just south of the Dairy Queen and next to BB Grocery. They are open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and are closed on Sunday. You can reach the Fish Shack at 954-586-4105. Be sure to call ahead for take- out or stop by to enjoy some delicious fresh fish and seafood right in your own backyard. Give them a try, you will not be disappointed. Until we eat again …
