Beginnings: Tempting Appetizers
Legal Sea Foods is a name synonymous with quality seafood and a legacy that stretches back decades. From its humble beginnings as a fish market in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the restaurant chain has become a beloved institution, known for its commitment to sourcing the freshest catches and preparing them with skill and care. Nestled in the vibrant community of Somerville, the Legal Sea Foods location offers a taste of this culinary heritage, inviting diners to savor the flavors of the ocean in a warm and inviting atmosphere. This article will embark on a journey through the Legal Sea Foods Somerville menu, exploring its diverse offerings and highlighting the dishes that make it a true seafood destination. Prepare to whet your appetite as we uncover the delights that await.
Before diving into the main courses, the appetizer section of the Legal Sea Foods Somerville menu provides a tempting array of options designed to awaken the palate and set the stage for a memorable meal. From classic New England fare to globally inspired flavors, there’s something to please every taste. A standout, of course, is the legendary Clam Chowder. Legal Sea Foods offers both the creamy New England Clam Chowder, a rich and comforting classic, and the tomato-based Manhattan Clam Chowder, a lighter and tangier alternative. Each spoonful is a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to using fresh, high-quality clams and perfectly balanced seasonings.
Another appetizer that consistently earns rave reviews is the Crab Cake. These aren’t your average crab cakes. They are prepared with succulent jumbo lump crab meat, minimally bound together to let the natural sweetness of the crab shine through. They are often pan-seared to a golden brown perfection, creating a crispy exterior that yields to a tender and flavorful interior. Served with a complementary sauce, often a tangy remoulade or a creamy aioli, the crab cakes are a must-try for any seafood lover.
Depending on the season and availability, the raw bar selections can be particularly enticing. Freshly shucked oysters, sourced from various coastal regions, offer a taste of the ocean’s bounty. Each oyster boasts a unique flavor profile, reflecting the specific waters from which it was harvested. Served with traditional accompaniments such as mignonette sauce, horseradish, and lemon wedges, the oysters provide a refreshing and sophisticated start to any meal.
Other notable appetizers include crispy calamari, lightly battered and fried to a golden brown, served with a spicy marinara sauce; and the classic shrimp cocktail, featuring plump and juicy shrimp served with a zesty cocktail sauce. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting, refreshing, or a little bit indulgent, the appetizer section of the Legal Sea Foods Somerville menu has something to satisfy your cravings.
Main Attraction: The Seafood Extravaganza
The heart of the Legal Sea Foods Somerville menu lies in its impressive selection of seafood entrees. This is where the restaurant’s commitment to freshness and quality truly shines. From grilled fish to fried delights, lobster feasts to pasta creations, the menu offers a wide variety of ways to enjoy the fruits of the sea.
For those who appreciate the simplicity of grilled or broiled fish, the menu typically features a selection of fresh catches, such as salmon, swordfish, tuna, and cod. Each fish is cooked to perfection, retaining its natural moisture and flavor. The grilling or broiling process imparts a subtle smoky char, enhancing the overall taste. Diners can often choose their preferred sauce or accompaniment, such as a lemon-butter sauce, a balsamic glaze, or a simple drizzle of olive oil.
If you’re in the mood for something crispy and satisfying, the fried seafood options are sure to please. The classic fish and chips, featuring flaky white fish battered and fried to a golden brown, served with crispy french fries and tartar sauce, is a perennial favorite. Fried clams, another New England staple, offer a delightful combination of textures and flavors. Lightly battered and fried until golden and crispy, the clams are served with tartar sauce and lemon wedges.
Lobster lovers will find plenty to celebrate on the Legal Sea Foods Somerville menu. The classic steamed lobster, served whole with drawn butter, is a quintessential New England experience. The lobster roll, featuring succulent lobster meat tossed with mayonnaise and served on a toasted bun, is a lighter but equally satisfying option. For a more indulgent treat, consider the lobster mac and cheese, featuring creamy macaroni and cheese topped with generous chunks of lobster meat.
Seafood pasta dishes offer a delightful fusion of Italian and seafood flavors. Linguine with clams, featuring tender clams sautéed with garlic, olive oil, and white wine, is a classic choice. Shrimp scampi, featuring plump shrimp sautéed in garlic butter sauce and served over pasta, is another popular option.
In addition to these standard offerings, the Legal Sea Foods Somerville menu often features specialty dishes that showcase the chef’s creativity and the freshest seasonal ingredients. These dishes may include pan-seared scallops with risotto, grilled octopus with roasted vegetables, or seafood paella, a flavorful rice dish packed with shrimp, clams, mussels, and chorizo. These special dishes are always worth checking out for a unique and memorable dining experience.
Beyond the Sea: Other Choices
While Legal Sea Foods is renowned for its seafood, the Somerville location also caters to diners who prefer land-based fare. Though seafood is the star, the menu thoughtfully includes non-seafood options. This ensures that everyone in your party can find something to enjoy.
Chicken dishes may include grilled chicken breast with roasted vegetables, chicken piccata with lemon-caper sauce, or chicken parmesan with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. Steak options typically feature a grilled sirloin or a New York strip steak, cooked to your desired temperature and served with a choice of sides.
For vegetarian diners, the menu may offer options such as vegetable pasta primavera, grilled portobello mushroom with balsamic glaze, or a vegetarian burger. While the seafood options are undoubtedly the main draw, these non-seafood alternatives provide a welcome variety and ensure that everyone can find a satisfying meal at Legal Sea Foods Somerville.
Complementary Flavors: Sides and Accompaniments
No meal is complete without the perfect side dishes, and the Legal Sea Foods Somerville menu offers a variety of options to complement your entree. Classic choices include mashed potatoes, creamy and comforting; rice pilaf, a flavorful and aromatic accompaniment; and a selection of fresh vegetables, such as steamed broccoli, grilled asparagus, or roasted carrots.
Coleslaw, a creamy and tangy salad made with shredded cabbage and carrots, is a popular choice for pairing with fried seafood. Seasonal sides may include corn on the cob in the summer, roasted Brussels sprouts in the fall, or sweet potato fries during the holiday season.
When choosing your side dishes, consider the flavors of your entree. For example, grilled fish pairs well with steamed vegetables or rice pilaf, while fried seafood is often enjoyed with coleslaw and french fries. The staff at Legal Sea Foods Somerville is always happy to offer recommendations and help you create the perfect combination of flavors.
Refreshing Indulgence: Drinks and Desserts
The drinks menu at Legal Sea Foods Somerville offers a wide variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to quench your thirst and complement your meal. Signature cocktails, crafted with fresh ingredients and premium spirits, are a popular choice. Local craft beers, showcasing the vibrant brewing scene in Massachusetts, are also available on tap.
Wine pairings are carefully selected to enhance the flavors of the seafood dishes. Crisp white wines, such as Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Grigio, pair well with lighter seafood, while bolder white wines, such as Chardonnay, can stand up to richer dishes like lobster mac and cheese. Red wines, such as Pinot Noir and Merlot, can be paired with grilled or pan-seared fish.
To conclude your meal on a sweet note, the dessert menu features a selection of classic and contemporary desserts. Key lime pie, with its tangy and refreshing flavor, is a perennial favorite. Chocolate cake, rich and decadent, is perfect for satisfying your chocolate cravings. Other popular desserts may include cheesecake, apple pie, or ice cream.
Consider pairing your dessert with a dessert wine, a port, or a coffee for the perfect ending to your Legal Sea Foods Somerville experience.
Events and Specials: Something Extra
Legal Sea Foods Somerville often features special menus and promotions throughout the year. Lunch menus offer a selection of lighter and more affordable dishes, perfect for a midday meal. Happy hour menus may feature discounted appetizers and drinks, providing a great way to unwind after work.
Seasonal menus showcase the freshest ingredients of the season, offering unique and innovative dishes. Holiday menus, such as those offered during Thanksgiving and Christmas, provide festive and delicious options for celebrating special occasions.
Be sure to check the Legal Sea Foods website or call the Somerville location to learn about the latest specials and promotions.
A Local Gem: The Somerville Ambiance
The Legal Sea Foods Somerville location is more than just a restaurant; it’s a part of the community. The restaurant’s atmosphere is warm and inviting, creating a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience. The decor is nautical-themed, with touches of maritime history.
The Somerville location has comfortable seating arrangements. Depending on the season, there may be outdoor seating. The wait staff is known to be polite and well-trained, and the restaurant is kept immaculately clean.
Visiting Legal Sea Foods Somerville: The Practicalities
Legal Sea Foods Somerville is conveniently located at Assembly Row, making it easily accessible by car or public transportation. The address is Assembly Row, Somerville, MA. You can find the exact contact number and hours of operation by searching on the internet.
Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak hours. You can make a reservation online through the Legal Sea Foods website or by calling the Somerville location directly. Parking is available in the Assembly Row parking garage. The website address is available by searching on the internet.
A Seafood Destination: Final Thoughts
The Legal Sea Foods Somerville menu offers a deep dive into the world of seafood, showcasing the freshest catches and the most innovative preparations. From classic New England dishes to globally inspired creations, there’s something to satisfy every palate. With its commitment to quality, freshness, and exceptional service, Legal Sea Foods Somerville is a true seafood destination. So, gather your friends and family and embark on a culinary adventure at Legal Sea Foods Somerville. You won’t be disappointed. It is a menu that caters to different desires, a restaurant with high cleanliness and fantastic food, Legal Sea Foods Somerville is a place you want to keep coming back to!
