Pittsburgh Hot Plate

Baja Fish Tacos

I had the opportunity to have dinner at the new Bonefish Grill in the South Hills. It was opening night, and the place was packed with hungry patrons eager to sample the cuisine. I sat at the Press table near the bar with another couple- they had already ordered an appetizer- Bang Bang Shrimp. This particular dish is one of Bonefish Grill’s specialties. I grabbed some chopsticks (available at every table) and quickly dug in. The shrimp were impeccably fresh and sweet with a light crust. The creamy sauce was spicy (hence the bang-bang) and provided an awesome flavor component. We quickly devoured the whole bowl, and commented that we could have eaten several dozen more.

Bang Bang Shrimp

We were also served a platter of Lobster Rangoons- small wonton pouches stuffed with cream cheese, lobster, deep fried, and drizzled with a sweet dipping sauce. The Rangoons were crispy and delicious. The mixture inside the pouches was succulent and bursting with lobster flavor. Other appetizer options at Bonefish Grill include Wagyu Beef and Ginger Dumplings ($7.90), Steamed Edamame ($3.90), Ahi Tuna Sashimi ($16.50), and Thai Coconut Shrimp ($9.30).

Prior to ordering our entrees I asked for a house salad with bleu cheese. “Would you also like crumbled bleu cheese on top?” You bet. My salad came topped with fresh tomatoes, crisp greens, pepitas, homemade dressing, and a large stalk of hearts of palm. The salad was crunchy and flavorful; I especially liked the zesty, homemade dressing.

Dinner Salad

My favorite fish to order while dining out is Chilean Sea Bass. Luckily, Bonefish Grill had it on their menu. It came in a small or large portion ($23.30 for the small, $27.30 for the large), and was prepared with a choice of Mango Salsa, Chimichurri Sauce, Pan-Asian Style or with a simple Lemon Butter sauce. Each entrée was served with a choice of whipped potatoes, potatoes au gratin, steamed veggies, French green beans, Broccoli, or asparagus. My dinner mates ordered the American-Style Kobe Beef Burger ($11.30) and the Longfin Tilapia Imperial with shrimp scallops, crab and lemon caper butter sauce ($17.90). While waiting for our entrees we enjoyed some warm crusty bread with herbed dipping oil.

My entrée came to the table first- a colossal cube of Chilean Seabass with chimichurri sauce. Also on the plate were haricot verts (French beans) and a warm chickpea salad. The sea bass was cooked medium (just as I ordered) and was naturally buttery and delicious. If you’ve never had Chilean seabass- this is the place to try it. The chickpea salad was appetizing and savory. My favorite part of the dish (besides the fish of course) was the French beans- they were cooked perfectly and impeccable fresh.

Chilen Sea Bass

I had a chance to try the tilapia, which was equally flavorsome. Packed with shrimp, scallops and crab, this would be an easy choice for any seafood lover.

Longfin Tilapia Imperial

I glanced next to me and noticed that my buddy’s Kobe Beef Burger was gone- I guess it was good as well.

Kobe Beef Burger

If you’re not a seafood fan, Bonefish Grill can accommodate you. They offer a wide variety of pork, chicken, beef and pasta dishes.

Grilled Fish and Steak

Our evening concluded with a Chocolate crème Brulee. When it was served, we were amazed at its size. “Is this a single portion?” The rich custard came in a large crock with a mountain of fresh-whipped cream and fresh mint. A thick, chocolate candy crust lay above the chocolaty goodness. We quickly cracked through the chocolate crust and scooped up some of the rich, chocolate cream. Each bite was better than the last- probably one of the best crème brulees I’ve ever had.

Chocolate Creme Brulee

In addition to the great food, the service at Bonefish Grill is exemplary.

If you’re looking for a top-shelf seafood restaurant, give Bonefish Grill a try- you won’t be disappointed.

Chef Chuck Kerber

chefchuck@pittsburghhotplate.com

pittsburghhotplate.com