Last night, my wife and I decided to try Seaboy for the first time. To set expectations, this is a…read morepremium restaurant with prices to match, so I naturally judge the food, service, and overall experience by a different standard than I would a quick burger or wing spot.
Seaboy absolutely delivered.
From the outside, the building is understated and looks more like it belongs near the beach at Oak Island. Once you step inside, however, it is clean, classy, well-appointed, and charmingly coastal without being overly themed or tacky. It feels like the premium restaurant it is.
We didn't make reservations because we arrived at 4:30 on a Friday and never expected the place to be completely slammed that early. Jackie, the hostess, took our name and phone number and promised to call as soon as something opened at the bar. Since there wasn't much room to wait inside, she encouraged us to relax in our car. Sure enough, about 15 minutes later, she called and made sure we got the first two available seats.
Samantha, the bartender, was both an excellent server and a talented mixologist. She was friendly, welcoming, and attentive, somehow keeping up with all the drinks for the dining room without allowing anyone at the bar to feel ignored. I told her I wasn't much of a drinker but gave her the name of a liquor I enjoy. She created her own cocktail for me, and it was a solid 10 out of 10. Could I walk in and order that exact drink again? Probably not. Would I trust her to surprise me again in a heartbeat? Absolutely.
My wife started with a shrimp appetizer that she said may have been the best shrimp she has ever eaten. I had the Caesar salad, which was the only part of the meal that was merely okay. It was beautifully presented, generously portioned, properly dressed, and topped with excellent cheese. Unfortunately, the dressing lacked the bold, savory punch I expect from a great Caesar.
Our entrées, however, were phenomenal. I ordered the swordfish, and it was so good that my wife essentially took it over because she liked it even more than the seafood pasta special she had ordered. Fortunately, her rich, cheesy seafood creation was outstanding, so I was perfectly happy with the trade. I polished off her meal, then finished whatever swordfish she left behind!
We ended with the deconstructed Key lime pie. It was flavorful and enjoyable, although, like the Caesar, I felt it could have used just a little more refinement.
At one point, the chef and owner came out to the bar, shook our hands, introduced himself, and thanked us for coming. He stayed for a little friendly conversation, which was a genuinely nice and personal touch.
Those minor critiques aside, the service, food quality, atmosphere, and hospitality were all excellent. Seaboy has immediately become one of our favorite choices for a premium meal, and the overall experience was absolutely five out of five.
We will definitely be back soon.
To those about to nosh, we salute you!
