EATS
TALE OF TWO
CALAMARI The classic dish could satisfy on its own, but these locals chefs have added their own flair and flavor to an ocean favorite. By Molly Wilson
Banana Pepper Calamari Calamari Vilano THE CONCH HOUSE
When we decided to feature calamari in this column, it didn’t take much research to figure out that The Conch House is a local favorite for the dish. Just browse Instagram a little and you’ll find it everywhere. #NoFilter. And one bite told us why there’s so much local love given. The uber-fresh, hand-cut calamari hardly needs anything on it, but since The Conch House chefs are generous, they coat and fry it in a spicy seasoned flour – a little onion, garlic, and blackening spice knock it up a notch. Alongside the calamari is a bowl of sautéed banana peppers and roasted red peppers in a key lime butter wine sauce. Take note: the peppers could be a meal of their own. The calamari is simple but perfectly seasoned and perfectly breaded for a classic take on a classic appetizer.
We’re a town that knows its seafood and there are a few marine staples that you can find on nearly any menu in the city. Calamari is one of them. Few things can beat just a simple calamari dish, but all calamari dishes are not created equal. Sometimes chefs take it above and beyond. One such chef is Chip Richard of Cap’s on the Water. Chef Chip’s Calamari Vilano is first breaded in rice flour and deep-fried. After the frier, the calamari is drizzled with the restaurant’s signature Vilano sauce (a slightly sweet, definitely delicious Thai chili concoction) and a spicy chili garlic sauce that gives it some heat. After the sauces, the calamari is topped with black olives and placed on a bed of spinach that has itself been introduced to the deep fryer. After a sprinkling of Asiago, you won’t want to share.
The cult following of the dish is no surprise to us and we’re pretty sure we count ourselves new loyal fans. You may just find it on our Instagram.
The Calamari Vilano may not be what you’d expect when ordering the dish, but it will be a welcome jaunt off the beaten culinary path.
57 Comares Avenue (904) 829-8646
STOP BY
THE ARCADE AT SARBEZ 102
CAP'S ON THE WATER
4325 Myrtle Street (904) 824-8794
If you’ve ever been into the gourmet grilled cheese paradise that is Sarbez, you won’t be surprised that owner Ryan Kunsch has added an extensive arcade to his space. The project started with Pacman, skeeball, pool, and air hockey – “Those four games,” says Ryan, “I view as essential to a game room.” But the rest, keeping in line with the eclectic atmosphere of the spot, deviate from the norm. The arcade boasts Ataxx, Gyruss (an updated version of the classic Galaga), Ghosts and Goblins (one of the most challenging arcade games of all time). There are also three pinball machines, a jukebox, and a photo booth. So if you’re longing for a little nostalgia, grab a beer and some quarters and start a game. www.facebook.com/theplanetsarbez www.STAUGUSTINESOCIAL.com