By Paul Bonnette
Are you in the mood for a relaxing meal in a tropical atmosphere overlooking beautiful Grand Lagoon? Look no further than Deckhand Social located in Pirates Cove Marina for a coastal themed restaurant with a variety of cuisine to fit even the pickiest palate. Whether your’re craving the freshest seafood or the juiciest steak, Deckhand Social has it all, and the atmosphere is well… hard to beat.
Arriving at Deckhand Social only seems to add to the experience as the sights and sounds of a working boatyard are all around as if welcoming you and your crew on board to begin your culinary journey. The restaurant is newly renovated to reflect a the coastal relaxed vibe. It is not an exaggeration to say that this place has something for every member of the family. The restaurant not only overlooks the passing boats and ships inside the lagoon but also boasts a dockside pool and tiki bar designed to allow guests to let their cares float away while observing famous Florida sunsets. The pool deck and Tiki hut transform during football season into the perfect place to gather to cheer your team on while watching the big screen with special football menu items and of course, drink specials to soothe your spirits when your team fumbles. During the busier summer season, it’s also not uncommon to witness the occasional passing mermaid splashing about in the lagoon style pool.
Although much can be said about the tropical atmosphere, tasteful nautical décor and even the amenities this restaurant offers, the food is what steals the show. They have a wide range of appetizers to keep you snacking on, including Tuna Dip, Crab Cakes, Baked Oysters, and Corn Nuggets which we thoroughly enjoyed. The main course delivered by our exceptional server, who always managed to have a bright smile each time we spoke (despite my seemingly constant requests for honey mustard and ranch for my French fries) was one of the highlights of the experience. The main courses range in variety from Fettucine Alfredo with Chicken or Shrimp, Flatbread Pizza, Key West Mahi, Bone-in Ribeye and of course their famous Mama’s Chicken topped with Cream Gravy and your choice for sides including Sweet Potato Souffle’, Cheese Grits, Collard Greens, Pasta Salad, or Brussel Sprouts.
My verdict? All of it looked amazing, but the Cheeseburger and Blackened Fish Sandwich I tried was exceptional and I highly recommend both. I can also assure you that I will be heading back on board The Deckhand Social very soon to try the numerous other menu items they have on offer.
The Deckhand Social is currently open Wednesday -Friday from noon until 8 p.m. (9 p.m. on Fridays) and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. on Saturday and until 7 p.m. on Sunday with Brunch specials on Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. You can find them at 3901 Thomas Dr in the Pirates Cove Marina or for those who happen to be out enjoying our beautiful bay and gulf, pull in to Pirates Cove Marina for complimentary Boat Parking.
Check out everything The Deckhand Social has to offer at www.thedeckhandsocial.com.
