The Scene
Local couples and families tired of straightforward seafood preparations eschew other area chains' baked scrod and steamed lobster in favor of coconut-encrusted haddock and Brazilian fried calamari. Latin music fills the air and colorful Cuban-inspired drinks (raspberry mojitos, "mangoritas") dart through the room like tropical fish. Undulating lighting fixtures and calming color schemes evoke the sea, while pleasant servers and friendly bartenders keep the mood upbeat.
The Food
Befitting a successful chain, Naked Fish offers a lengthy, varied menu that's sure to contain something for everyone. Prices are about what you'd expect to pay for fresh, sashimi-grade seafood, and portions are quite generous. Top starters include sesame-ginger popcorn shrimp and flaky, reasonably authentic beef empanadas. Patrons have a choice between having their seafood entrees prepared "naked" (wood-grilled and brushed with olive oil and lemon) or "not-so-naked" (pan-seared, steamed, stuffed). Desserts run from rich (decadent chocolate fudge cake) to fruity (frozen mango-meringue tart).