THE SEA FIRE GRILL

Dive Into New York’s Seafood Delights

By Patricia Canole

If you’re a seafood lover, you’ve heard of Sea Fire Grill. This renowned restaurant has tantalized taste buds with its ocean-fresh delicacies and offers a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. At Sea Fire Grill the sea’s bounties take center stage.

Owned by Benjamin Prelvukaj and Benjamin Sinanaj, the same team overseeing Benjamin Steakhouse and Benjamin Prime in Manhattan, Sea Fire Grill is committed to sophisticated dining and conscientious service. Stepping into the restaurant, you’re immediately surrounded by a cordial, inviting atmosphere that perfectly complements the restaurant’s coastal-inspired cuisine.

The interior exudes a casual elegance, creating a relaxed yet sophisticated ambiance. From the lighting to the well-spaced, impeccably set tables, I knew it would be an evening of conviviality, immediately apparent by the greeting at the door to the amiable service of the pros in the dining room.  

The menu is a true celebration of the sea’s diverse offerings. From succulent lobsters and tender scallops to flaky fish and juicy shrimp, each dish is prepared with a deep respect for the ingredients’ natural flavors. The culinary team shows an unwavering commitment to sourcing only the finest and freshest seafood.  

BOUNTY OF THE SEA
One of the star attractions at Sea Fire Grill is the raw bar, where a tempting array of oysters, clams, and other raw delicacies awaits. Shucked to order, these briny beauties are the epitome of freshness, bursting with the essence of the ocean in every bite. Pair them with a crisp white wine or a zingy mignonette sauce for a truly sublime experience. 

You may begin dinner with a selection of East and West Coast Oysters with a peppercorn mignonette cocktail sauce or a bountiful colossal shrimp or jumbo crabmeat cocktail. Tuna Tartare was fresh and delicious, made from yellowfin with a citrus crème fraiche, and the Jumbo Lump Crab Cake was moist and loosely packed with an enhancement of red pepper coulis, tartar sauce, celery root remoulade. The salads are also wonderful—the Beet Salad is a winner.

Sea Fire Grill serves sustainable and seasonal seafood: the lobsters are sweet and fat, weighing in at a hearty two pounds, and stuffed with crab meat, if desired, and clarified butter. A good thick swordfish caught off Montauk was juicy and subtly blackened with seasonings, served with tartar sauce and the novelty of avocado mousse. Yellowfin Tuna cooked was amazing and came with steamed bok choy, mustard greens, and sesame-soy vinaigrette. We noted that all the accompanying vegetables are chosen to complement the main protein.  

MORE OPTIONS
For those seeking something more, the menu abounds with tempting options. The Nova Scotia Halibut, served with lemon gnocchi and beurre blanc, is a perennial favorite. The Mediterranean Branzino is a showstopper, arriving at the table with crispy skin and tender, flaky flesh that melts in your mouth.

Meat lovers need not despair, as Sea Fire Grill offers a selection of land-based dishes to complement its seafood specialties. The dry-aged Prime Ribeye is a carnivore’s delight, cooked to perfection and served with a decadent red wine reduction. And for those seeking a taste of both worlds, the Surf and Turf pairs a succulent Filet Mignon with shrimp and king crab. Don’t miss the Farm Raised Chicken expertly prepared with farro and mascarpone.  

You won’t go wrong with any of the meant-to-be-shared side dishes, which include excellent, addictive French fries, cream of spinach, fingerling potatoes with leeks and truffle cream, truffle mashed potatoes with roasted garlic and Parmesan cheese, or lobster Mac and cheese.  

SWEET SENSATIONS
A visit is not complete without indulging in one of their sumptuous, house made desserts. With its tangy custard and graham cracker crust, the New York Cheesecake is a refreshing and decadent way to conclude your meal. Or opt for the Crème Brulee or Tiramisu, both excellent choices and sure to please.

The restaurant has an extensive wine list and cocktails are always a special treat. Try the Thyme Will Tell, made with bourbon, thyme, Vermont maple syrup, and lemon (a perfect pairing for the heartier meat dishes), or Love Potion 2 & 1/3, with Absolut pear vodka, lychee, and passion fruit nectars.  

But all that glamour doesn’t mean Sea Fire Grill can’t have a little fun and give its customers a real treat. Every day, between 4 and 7 pm, the restaurant serves Happy Hour with oysters and drink specials that are sure to please. 

Of course, this popular restaurant is a beacon for seafood enthusiasts and discerning diners in a city teeming with culinary options. Its cosmopolitan vibe and modern interior create a pleasant and rewarding dining experience. Beyond the exceptional cuisine, Sea Fire Grill prides itself on its excellent service. The knowledgeable staff are well-versed in the menu offerings and are always available to provide recommendations or answer any questions.  

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, add Sea Fire Grill to your list of must-visit dining experiences—your taste buds will thank you!  

For more information on Sea Fire Grill, visit theseafiregrill.com