As you might have heard, the Hudson Valley is quickly becoming the new Hamptons, with its charming towns, stunning scenery, and, of course, incredible food. When it comes to seafood, few places can compete with Frank Guido’s Port of Call in Catskill, NY, and even though the restaurant is closed now, we are looking forward to its reopening this spring.
Frank Guido’s Port of Call: A Lobster Bake Fit for a King (or Queen) in the Hudson Valley – Catskill, NY – Restaurant Reviews with Photographer Maxwell Alexander
Forget Michelin stars and trendy bistros – my palate craves the soul of the Hudson Valley and Catskills. As a professional food photography enthusiast, I’m on a mission to unearth culinary gems tucked away in charming towns and vibrant cities. From quaint farm-to-table cafes to boisterous riverside pub kitchens, I capture the true essence of each dish, bite by mouthwatering bite. Join me on my culinary crusade as we navigate winding country roads, cozy barstools, and sun-drenched patios, all in pursuit of the perfect plate (and, of course, the perfect shot!). Get ready for vibrant stories spun with delectable details, where the warmth of hospitality meets the artistry of the kitchen. Buckle up, folks, we’re about to embark on a delicious adventure through the culinary heartbeat of the Hudson Valley and Catskills.
Sesame Bliss: A Bite-Sized Symphony at Frank Guido’s Port of Call
Forget dainty amuse-bouches, my Hudson Valley adventure began with a flavor bomb. Sesame-crusted ahi tuna arrived, a masterpiece with a vibrant side of mango salsa. Ruby-red tuna, kissed by a golden mosaic of toasted sesame seeds, promised an eruption of textures and tastes. The aroma, a dance of toasted nuts, mango, and ginger, was pure temptation.
Each bite, a symphony: nutty sesame richness against the tuna’s oceanic sweetness, warmed by ginger, elevated by a kiss of soy and tropical vibes from the mango salsa. Flaky tuna met the satisfying crunch of sesame, the crisp greens refreshing the palate for the next delightful morsel.
This wasn’t just an appetizer; it was a culinary haiku, a poem of taste crafted with care. The memory lingered long after, a reminder that simple ingredients, treated with artistry, can create something truly exceptional.
So, next time you see sesame-crusted ahi tuna, don’t hesitate. Dive in and experience the bliss of a bite-sized symphony.
Frank Guido’s Signature Lobster Bake Experience
My recent visit to Port of Call was a feast for all senses, starting with the spectacular Lobster Bake. Imagine a vibrant red crustacean, fresh from the tank, nestled amongst a bounty of plump shrimp, clams, mussels, sweet corn on the cob, and a perfectly roasted potato. It’s a photographer’s dream, a symphony of colors and textures begging to be captured.
But the beauty wasn’t just skin-deep. Each bite of the lobster was pure, sweet perfection, cooked to just the right tenderness. The shrimp were juicy and flavorful, the clams and mussels briny and satisfying, and the corn, well, it was corn on the cob, the perfect accompaniment to any seafood feast.
And speaking of feasts, the unique lobster selection process at Port of Call is worth mentioning. Forget frozen or pre-cooked lobsters – here, you get to choose your crustacean companion live and direct from the tank. It’s a fun and interactive experience that adds to the overall dining adventure.
Hudson Valley Lobster Bake Extravaganza, with a Lychee Martini Chaser!
Imagine this: a vibrant crimson lobster, plucked fresh from the tank, nestled amidst a bounty of plump shrimp, clams, mussels, sweet corn on the cob, and a perfectly roasted potato. The air swirls with the aroma of the sea, mingled with the scent of sizzling garlic and butter. It’s a feast for the senses, a masterpiece of seafood on a plate – and that’s just the appetizer!
My recent odyssey to Frank Guido’s Port of Call in Catskill, NY, wasn’t just about conquering this incredible lobster bake (though conquer it I did, every succulent morsel!). It was also about discovering the perfect libation to complement this nautical symphony of flavors. And let me tell you, folks, I struck gold – a lychee martini that was pure liquid sunshine in a glass.
Now, I’m not one for overly cloying cocktails. My palate craves something complex, nuanced, with a touch of unexpected delight. And this lychee martini, oh boy, it delivered. The delicate sweetness of lychee danced with the subtle tartness of lime, all underpinned by a whisper of floral elderflower liqueur. It was a taste bud tango, a tropical vacation for my weary soul.
Each sip was like biting into a perfectly ripe lychee, the juice bursting with sunshine and floral perfume. It cleansed the palate between bites of lobster, its gentle sweetness a delightful counterpoint to the briny, buttery seafood. But it wasn’t just a palate cleanser; it was an experience in itself, a mini-cocktail adventure that perfectly complemented the larger epic unfolding on my plate.
So, if you’re ever in the Hudson Valley and find yourself drawn to the siren song of a lobster bake, do yourself a favor and chase it with a lychee martini at Frank Guido’s Port of Call. Trust me, your taste buds (and Instagram feed) will thank you. Now, excuse me while I go daydream about that lobster… and that martini.
But Port of Call is more than just lobster. The menu boasts an array of fresh seafood dishes, from delicate fish preparations to hearty pasta bowls. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re a die-hard seafood lover or just looking for a delicious meal with a view.
And what a view it is! The restaurant sits right on the banks of the Catskill Creek, offering stunning vistas of the Hudson River and the surrounding nature. Whether you’re dining on the spacious deck, enjoying the nautical ambiance indoors, or simply sipping cocktails at the bar, the setting is pure Hudson Valley magic.
So, if you’re looking for a taste of the “New Hamptons” without the Hamptons price tag, head to Frank Guido’s Port of Call. With its incredible seafood, stunning setting, and friendly service, it’s the perfect spot for a memorable Hudson Valley dining experience.
Here’s why Frank Guido’s Port of Call deserves a spot on your Hudson Valley foodie bucket list:
- Fresh, delicious seafood: From the star of the show, the lobster, to the supporting cast of shrimp, clams, mussels, and more, the seafood here is simply divine.
- Unique lobster selection: Choose your own lobster from the tank for a fun and interactive experience.
- Stunning setting: Enjoy your meal with breathtaking views of the Catskill Creek and the Hudson River.
- Something for everyone: The menu caters to all tastes, with a variety of seafood dishes and other options.
- Friendly service: The staff is attentive and knowledgeable, making your dining experience even more enjoyable.
- Pro tip: Be sure to check out their specials and happy hour offerings for even more value.
So, what are you waiting for? Set sail for Frank Guido’s Port of Call in Little Italy in Kingston, NY, and stay tuned for its reopening in Catskill, NY to experience the Hudson Valley’s seafood scene at its finest!
