I first visited Legal Sea Foods in 1996 while traveling through Rhode Island on business. The restaurant was newly opened in Warwick, Rhode Island, and I was completely sold on the chain based on that visit. I continue to frequent the Warwick location a few times a year when I fly into the Providence airport and have never been disappointed. With 30-plus restaurants up and down the Eastern seaboard, the Massachusetts-based chain draws an interminable supply of after-work professionals and tourists.

The look varies somewhat from establishment to establishment but, unlike most locations, the DC restaurant departs from the nautical theme. We entered through the bar, an area that felt comfortable and companionable. The dining area was very open with high ceilings and limited artwork. Families with small children were eating at several tables, while other groups appeared to be the predictable after-work crowd. A few couples were dining, and since the atmospehere is not particularly romantic, one assumes they come for the fresh seafood.

My dining companion and I, guests of the restaurant, were seated immediately and greeted by a waiter in training who was friendly and knowledgeable. When paired with his coach, the service was exceptional. Soon after, rolls and butter appeared at our table. The rolls, wonderfully chewy crust with a warm, soft middle, are a constant throughout the chain and are first rate!

We ordered soups to begin the meal. I tried the Maryland Cream of Crab, a soup I enjoyed at other Legal Sea Foods. The presentation included pouring the bisque over fresh crab meat tableside. The soup had a delicate crab flavor and the crisp fresh parsley was a nice addition. However, I like my soup hot and this bowl was served lukewarm.

The New England Clam Chowder was very tasty and contained an ample amount of tender clams, as well as nicely cooked potatoes in a creamy, savory chowder. This award-winning recipe has been served at every Presidential inauguration since 1981 and it is easy to see why.

For our entrees we both decided to stick with the “tried and true” seafood and again Legal did not disappoint with regard to the freshness and quality.

For my entrée I chose the Cajun Spice Swordfish with sautéed spinach and mashed potatoes. The swordfish, a beautiful center cut, was cooked perfectly, although the Cajun seasoning was a little mellow. The potatoes were perfectly mashed and delicious with just the right amount of butter, salt, and pepper. The sautéed spinach, although not listed on the menu, was highly recommended by our waiter. With a touch of garlic, the spinach was perhaps the best I have had. The fresh coleslaw was creamy, tangy, and delicious.

My dining companion ordered the Wasabi Panko Crusted Haddock with jasmine rice and steamed snap peas. The haddock, also cooked perfectly, could have used more wasabi. The jasmine rice had a lovely ginger essence and the snap peas were appropriately crisp.

For dessert we decided on the special, Bananas Foster. The bananas were firm and sweet but the butter and brown sugar were over caramelized and had a distinct burnt flavor and aroma which was a bit overpowering. There was an abundance of sauce but a limited amount of bananas and ice cream. Next time we will opt for the Boston Cream Pie which drew rave reviews from the table to our right!

Legal Sea Foods
704 7th Street NW
Washington, DC 20001
202-347-0007
www.legalseafoods.com