“The stew was one of the most challenging recipes to perfect. It took about 3 years. I was adamant that a proper cioppino, bouillabaisse, fish stew is the hallmark of a great seafood restaurant. In fact, I think it is the ultimate litmus test of any seafood menu. The problem with most stews is twofold: the base is too thick making the tomatoes too overpowering, and secondly the stew sits in a pot all day. Our stew overcomes these limitations by balancing equal amounts of plum tomatoes and tomatillos in the base. The tomatillos lighten the weight of the base and provide a piquant flair to the dish. And, in the restaurant, each stew is cooked to order, so the proteins do not overcook. Saffron, Hungarian sweet paprika and the cooking technique are what make this dish.”

-Local Ocean Seafoods founder, Laura Anderson

Chef Charlie Branford, who helped open Local Ocean in 2005, originally made this dish for his sisters after they got back from the Amazon. The key to this dish is seasoning the fish with lime juice, salt and pepper prior to cooking. The base is a coconut milk and green curry. The scent of it is intoxicating.

This sandwich celebrates Oregon’s special fisheries, featuring Dungeness crabmeat and pink shrimp, served in the style of a lobster roll, with chopped celery, onions, bell peppers, and topped with zingy Huichol hot sauce, all served on a toasted hoagie. It has quickly become a favorite among Local Ocean regulars. The fact that it all comes together quickly and easily makes it perfect for a quick mid-week meal.

Local Ocean's classic Dungeness Crab Cakes and tartar sauce.