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Brevard Eatz
The Shack Seafood Restaurant in Palm Bay
The Finest Of Old Florida’s
River Restaurant Flair & Taste
By Charlene Hemmle
After 45 years of restaurant service at the same location
The Shack has not lost any of it’s steam. In fact, they
are one of the most endeared places to dine by locals and
visitors alike. The snowbirds look forward to revisiting the
restaurant each year and it’s a place that gave MY grandparents
fond memories of a wonderful seaside meal. The view
of the Indian River is not only spectacular and the setting serene
but the freshly prepared food is what creates delicious
memories and keeps folks coming back.
As The Shack has evolved, so has their menu but many
of their most popular entree recipes have remained the same
since they opened in 1972. In the many times that I have
dined there, I have thoroughly enjoyed everything I have
tasted. Whatever you order, it’s fresh, hot and prepared minutes
before arriving at the table. The Shack is a gem of a
place with down to earth charm and a menu that can satisfy
all types of appetites. It’s not a fancy place but their entrees
can compare with any of the fanciest of restaurants.
I recently tried the coconut shrimp spinach salad with
fresh fruit and a tangy citrus dressing and I think it will be
my “cool summer lunch” go to. Coconut Chicken was also
an option. My colleague decided on a decadent seafood pasta
entree. She is not a fan of garlic so they were happy to
oblige by eliminating it in her entree - something that other
places may feel inconvenienced to do. The staff is focused
on detail and they want to make sure you’re happy with your
meal from first glance to last bite.
Seafood is a highlight at The Shack but certainly not the
only option. Prime rib, NY Strip, Chicken Francais, Pasta,
Au Gratin Seafood and even the classic, Liver and Onions
are all homemade. But just try and resist their house specialties
such as Cioppino, Crab Cakes, Coquilles St. Jacques or
a bountiful Broiled Captain’s Platter. The house-made soups
they offer are a luscious New England Clam Chowder, a
spicy Louisiana Seafood Gumbo, a tangy Oyster Stew and
a cheesy French Onion. At lunchtime they have sandwiches
like the Rueben, Monte Cristo, Prime Rib Cheesesteak,
Oyster Po’ Boy and even a Fried Soft Shell Crab BLT which
is definitely worth trying. The Lobster Roll and Key West
style Hogfish Wrap are seasonal chef specialties and most
dinner items are prepped and ready during lunch as well.
The Shack Seafood Restaurant has primarily been owned
and operated by the Zemkoski family - it’s their baby. They
are a staple in the restaurant community, always a terrific
choice and open each day (except Sundays) for lunch and
dinner. They love birthdays but rather than all the hand
clapping and bad singing they’ve decided to gift you with
a Free Chef’s Choice Meal with the accompaniment of 3
other guests and proof of your youth. Holidays are also a
treat and The Shack family is quick to adorn the restaurant
with lively decorations celebrating each one, especially Halloween.
With occasional live music. a full liquor bar, tremendous
view and passionatley prepared food it’s a special
place that’s sure to make memories for ALL of your senses.
Brevard Live April 2017- 43