Fish in the West Village

image from nymag

        For all of my seafood fanatics and/or New Englanders craving a delicious meal, this one is for you. Fish is a small, always-packed restaurant on Bleecker between Jones and 7th Ave, whose catchy slogan is "Sex, Drugs, and Lobster Roll." Through the small window, you'll see a mini fish market complete with fresh fish laid upon ice, which is available for purchase. Further inside this 'sea-shack,' there is a raw bar whose chef enthusiastically shucks oysters day and night. Creating a maritime ambiance, the walls are covered with buoys and seaside photos; each tiny table has massive cans of Old Bay Seasoning, coarse sea salt, and Tobasco sauce, adding to the nautical vibe.

image from yelp

       If you're able to drop some cash on this delectable seafood, I recommend the widely popular Chilean sea bass, lobster macaroni and cheese, and fried oysters. However, I'm concerned with the amazing bargain you'll find nowhere else in New York City: the Down East Lobster Feast. The price of this succulent dinner varies depending on the day, but it ranges from $18-21 dollars per feast. If that doesn't impress you, the second feast is priced at only $12-15. Sounds a bit expensive, but for what you get, it's definitely worth it. Each feast consists of a whole lobster (1 1/4 lbs.) fresh from Maine, fries, corn on the cob, and 4-5 steamer clams. For just $30 dollars, you and a friend can fine dine for about half the usual price. The lobsters are huge and undeniably fresh, the steamers are juicy and tender, and if you're a fan of cocktail sauce, you must request a side of it because it is spicy and tangy with the perfect amount of lemon and horseradish. Just remember to take your lobster bib off after your meal, or suffer the consequences of strange looks (like I did).