Noshing in the Midwest: Sea Salt

After college, Tony had a roommate named Jon Blood. Jon worked at Coastal Seafood and routinely brought home fresh fish for home-made sushi. I wish I had Jon Blood for a roommate. And so will you, once you visit his seasonal restaurant Sea Salt at Minnehaha Park in Minneapolis.

When I say "seasonal," I don't mean that as a buzz word for the latest farm-to-table/locavore way. I mean they are only open for one season, and that season is now. Jon brings his expertise and love for all things ocean to Sea Salt's causal yet impeccable menu. It changes daily, of course, but you can almost always count on a selection of fish tacos, oysters on the half shell, and crab cake sandwiches.

On our recent visit, the park was also holding a Swedish festival, so it was particularly busy. Add to that the fact that we have gotten about 4 1/2 hours of decent weather so far this summer, and you're looking at a hefty wait. Getting a table in the cute patio directly in front of the restaurant involves a lot of stalking and glaring at customers with empty plates in front of them. There is actually quite a bit of seating, if you don't mind taking your $13 dish to a picnic table, which to tell the truth, I do mind.

We lucked out Sunday and managed to land a table, before the previous occupants had a chance to grab their purses, so we were able to enjoy our food in relative comfort.

I am a big fan of fish tacos so I chose the grilled tilapia tacos. Served simply in doubled up corn tortillas (you'll need both, it's messy) with raw onions, cilantro and a flavorful, if not spicy, salsa, these tacos were exactly what I had hoped they would be. The fish was delicate and full of flavor, allowed to shine with out too many additions. Along with a Cripin Honey (my new love) it was the perfect light summer meal.

Tony opted for the Fried Shrimp Po' Boy, which was fantastic. The cornmeal coating on the shrimp was crunchy and dry, not the oily mess it can sometimes be. The shrimp had no seasoning on them, which again allowed them to be their true shrimpy selves. It was a big serving, and a better value than my tacos, but both of us were more than content with our meals. Add to that the waterfalls crashing just feet away, and it's a lovely way to spend a summer evening.