Gwen Cox

Review of The Optimist

The Optimist provides a bright, enjoyable setting ...

The Optimist provides a bright, enjoyable setting and plenty of interesting approaches to seafood. We had a large group and the service was excellent. Clearly the waitstaff cares about providing a wonderful dining experience and they are well supported by management. Fresh oysters were presented well, and included one of the better hot sauces we've had in that it was a really round but sharp sauce. Each diner who had a fish dish commented on the excellent presentation. Two diners who had grouper did mention it was a little dry. The She Crab soup was excellent, very flavorful and not heavy or cloying. Hush puppies, which are often an afterthought at many seafood places, were quite a surprise in how well they were done. It's nice to see a chef really dial in every offering on the menu. Overall, a fun experience, atmosphere, and consistent menu presentation. The hostess was great as well, as we had our group arrive in dribs and drabs and she was very gracious in getting everyone to our table.