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Starboard Raw is a culinary delight

June 22, 2016

In the heart of Dewey Beach right across the street from its parent restaurant, The Starboard, Starboard Raw is a breath of fresh air in the small beach town. Walking through the door, customers are greeted by a sleek, modern atmosphere with the comfortable vibe they have come to expect from The Starboard and its affiliates.

The smell of freshly steamed seafood wafts through the air, and the astounding handmade beer tap, boasting 19 craft beers, beckons diners to sit down, relax and partake of the offerings. Starboard Raw was created to bring a unique dining experience to Dewey Beach, one that is reminiscent of a traditional old-school Baltimore raw bar, but with Dewey Beach candor.

The appeal is instant - there is something for everyone, from those wandering in clad in beach cover-ups and flip flops, to those looking for a night out, dressed in their best. This is not easily achieved, but the team at Raw makes it look quite effortless.

While the steamer, located right in the action by the shucking station behind the bar, cranks out steamed shrimp with fingerling potatoes and onions, oysters are laid on ice and served up to eager guests. Familiar comfort foods are given high-class treatment, as onion rings become elevated by Old Bay Seasoning, and when dipped in bloody mary remoulade, well, they are out of this world.

Executive Chef Franklin Navarro says, “What’s great about Raw is you can come and share the small plates or you can have a big meal.” Navarro is proud of the diverse, yet succinct menu they’ve created. “It’s basically dining according to your mood.”

Whether diners are in for a few of the freshly shucked oysters in rotating varietals, a beautiful salad like the crispy arugula and watercress with raspberries and feta cheese, a silky oyster stew with hints of sherry or a hearty filet mignon, there is a dish to suit any mood. Likewise, there is a beer or craft cocktail to pair with any of the small plates or large meals.

General Manager Pat Coleman has done wonders with the beer and cocktail choices at Raw. In addition to the 19 craft beers available on draft, roughly 60 are available in can or bottle. The beer menu is something everyone in town is raving about. Starboard Raw also brings to Dewey Beach one of the widest area selections of tequilas, bourbons and other libations which lend themselves to the craft drink menu.  Of course, what raw bar is complete without a fun selection of oyster shooters? Raw has that covered with anything from champagne to saki, cucumber chili tequila or traditional vodka oyster shooters.

From sandwiches to steamed mussels, decadent lobster pasta to briny oysters, The Starboard Raw is a culinary delight in the Eastern Shore spirit. Owner Steve “Monty” Montgomery invites everyone to come discover this newly minted gem in their favorite beach town. Happy hour is from 3 to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 11:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m., there are  12 hours of happy hour Wednesdays. For more information, go to www.starboardraw.com.

 

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