One phrase I often dislike is “I’ll course it all out for you.” I’ve been disappointed by that promise more times than I’d like to admit. It usually leads to messy meal timing, where, say, a salad shows up just before the main course. So, when I say that Fish Shop truly gets it right, it means something.
Located on East Sixth, Fish Shop is the first solo venture of chefs Justin Huffman and Nicole Rossi. Before opening this spot, they worked together at Justine’s Brasserie. During the pandemic, Huffman turned to sourcing fish straight from local fisheries, allowing him to create a menu that reflects both freshness and creativity.
I admit, I was skeptical at first. I had seen some online drama involving the restaurant’s owner and a local influencer. I also read a few threads on Reddit that made me question the authenticity of all those glowing reviews. Yet, as someone who has spent over 20 years in the food industry, I know that online chatter doesn’t compare to tasting the food yourself.
On weekends, Fish Shop fills up fast. By 6:30 PM, people without reservations are often turned away. Lunch, however, offers a nice break. It’s a relaxing time to grab a martini and enjoy a meal without rushing.
The restaurant’s design strikes a perfect balance—stylish yet comfortable with brown leather seats and globe lights. A bell rings when they pour a Guinness, adding to the lively atmosphere. A charming touch is Rossi’s collection of vintage dishware, making each order fun and unique.
Now, let’s talk drinks. The menu features creative concoctions like the Martini Rossi, which is rich and flavorful, and the Regal Daiquiri, which packs a tart punch. The cocktails are delightful, but be ready for potential delays during busy hours.
The specials are worth paying attention to. They change regularly and showcase the freshest fish. A recent standout was a bluefin tuna crudo served with orange blossom crème fraîche, which was a lovely blend of flavors. Just watch out for the “lavash” cracker—it can be tricky to handle without making a mess!
Fish Shop also shines with its raw bar. The Gulf oysters come dressed with Thai chile and puffed rice—a surprising but tasty combo. The peel-and-eat shrimp are easy to enjoy, especially with their smoky cocktail sauce. The Louie sauce, however, is the star of the show, so make sure to save some for your fries.
One of the best dishes I tried was the Caesar Salad à la Zuni. It’s creamy and packed with flavor, but could use a few more croutons. Small details make a great meal, right?
As for the mains, I enjoyed the lobster toast, topped with caviar on buttery brioche. While it’s a bit pricey and small, it’s worth sharing. The Normandy mussels also impressed with their cider broth, though you’ll want to order some bread to soak up all that goodness.
The “secret” item on the menu is the Filet-O-Fish—a rockfish sandwich that far surpasses its fast-food counterpart. We also sampled the Le Beef Burger, a wagyu quarter-pounder that could use a little rest time to prevent the bun from getting soggy. The fries are just right, crisp without being too thin.
Dessert is simple yet enjoyable. The affogato could use a bigger scoop of gelato, but the concept is solid. I didn’t get to try the honey pie, but I’m definitely eyeing it for next time!
I’ve lived in Austin my whole life, so I have a soft spot for our local spots. Restaurants are crucial to our community, where meals create lasting memories. Pointing out flaws isn’t about tearing anyone down; it’s about growth.
Fish Shop gets many things right: friendly service and great food. Amid online drama, they’ve shown that quality hospitality matters. On a bustling Saturday night, I found myself letting the evening unfold rather than trying to control everything. As I left, the Guinness bell chimed—a delightful reminder that this neighborhood eatery has truly found its place.
[For more insights into Austin’s dining scene, check out resources from The Austin Chronicle.]
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Fish Shop,Justin Huffman,Nicole Rossi
