Makenna Fuller
Google
I feel a little bad leaving a review that leans so negative. Historically, I really only leave reviews for places that are 5-star places to me because I like to be affirming, but trying to leave more reviews across the board these days and so was bound to run into one that didn’t exceed expectations at some point…
I wanted to like Fish Shop so badly! Right away, you walk in and the atmosphere and vibes are just so good in my opinion. They did a great job with the aesthetic and decor, so that’s my one main praise for this new spot.
Unfortunately, that’s pretty much where the praise ends. The portions were pretty small (I’m thinking about the lobster toast in particular, one of their most talked about items from what I can tell) and the food ranged from just okay to pretty bad. I want to point out that some of this is “in the tastebuds of the beholder,” however this was dish after dish for us.
The lobster toast was a bit of a letdown when compared to some of the positive reviews I saw before going (although I also saw my fair share of negative reviews, just not specific to this dish). The clam chowder (not pictured) was the real flop for us though, and we each only had one bite. I’ve never left a dish so untouched at a restaurant, ever. I’m not sure if it was a fluke or what, but the flavor was off or just way too salty or something. Couldn’t do it. (And I feel the need to offer a disclaimer that I am really not so picky and will eat most anything. And at the very least, I’m going to finish a meal to get my money’s worth!) Lastly, we got the honey pie, and I don’t know. It wasn’t for me, but that might just be personal preference.
Final note on Fish Shop is that while it’s a really cute space, it’s also a really tight space. To the point where servers have very limited room to move around, and at one point, someone accidentally dropped something that broke right on my seat (a little scary, but not mad or hurt). Not exactly sure what the fix is there, but would recommend not sitting at the side of the bar closest to the main floor due to its positioning with “traffic.”
All this to say, I’m really hoping it’s just that they’re still working out the kinks, and that once they’re more situated, it will be a place people will love across the board. Not sure I’ll be one to revisit when there are so many other great spots, but rooting for them nonetheless!