Pan-seared scallops from New Bedford, Mass., ($28) were also deserving of an honor roll position. Tender and succulent, they brought back memories of happy visits along the New England coast. Scallops just don’t get much better than these. An amazingly mild but zesty horseradish cream sauce was quite good.
A mainstay of Birmingham’s fine dining scene since 2002, Ocean continues to satisfy discriminating tastes with some of the finest seafood preparation this side of Davy Jones’ locker. Alabamians know and love their seafood and have taken this trendy restaurant to heart as a purveyor of fresh, fine fish and related items.
The atmosphere is upscale if a bit stark and noisy. Tables are close together to accommodate more diners. The sea theme is evident in extensive use of shades of aquamarine and turquoise throughout. Subdued lighting contributes to a dark, bottom-of-the-sea feeling. There is no fishy fragrance despite the tanks and display counters of fresh fish and such.
Read the complete critique from Alabama Live.