After a 30-minute wait in the lobby, which was cramped with other waiting patrons, the Bonefish Grill hostess seated us at a table for two lit warmly by a votive candle.
Tables were jammed in every which way, making for a crowded, almost uncomfortable dining area.
Bread began our meal, a French-style loaf served warm, crispy on the outside, soft and doughy on the inside, with olive oil and herbs.
We decided on the Bang Bang Shrimp based on a friend?s recommendation, and it did not disappoint.
The small gulf shrimp were fresh, tender and tossed in a spicy cream sauce with an Asian flair. A breaded coating gave the shrimp a crispy outer layer. A generous portion of them came stacked on top of a fresh bed of lettuce.
The simple taste of the battered and fried calamari we ordered complemented the bursts of flavor from the shrimp.
Served steaming hot, the crunchy squid came with a spicy marinara sauce and a thin, sweet Thai sauce.
My piece of Atlantic salmon was almost big enough for two. The pink, flaky salmon was drizzled with a lemon butter sauce, a bit heavy on the lemon.
Garlic mashed potatoes were served perfectly whipped and full of flavor, but the chopped carrots, drenched in cinnamon, brown sugar and a brandy glaze, were very sweet and sugary and did not complement the rest of the meal.
My date chose the special, a surf-and-turf consisting of tender filet and a small crabcake made of all lump crab meat.
The filet, seared to perfection, had a pink center, making for a juicy and flavorful entree.
The steamed vegetable medley of yellow squash, broccoli and green beans accompanying the dish was fresh and succulent.
Our waitress was attentive and helpful, explaining flavors and ingredients whenever we asked. We left with two doggie bags, full stomachs and smiles.
If you go
Bonefish Grill
10906 Boulevard Circle, Owings Mills
www.bonefishgrill.com; 410-654-5500
» Who you?ll see: Everyone from single 30-somethings to families with small children
» What you?ll drink: Water or red wine
» What you?ll eat: Tender, juicy fish with loads of flavor
» What you?ll pay: $60 for two (with appetizers)
