The Optimist

"Named Esquire magazine's Best New Restaurant of 2012, the Optimist lives up to the hype, serving top-notch seafood in a dazzingly refurbished warehouse space." Full review

"This Westside seafooder from owner Ford Fry (his JCT. Kitchen & Bar is just a clam's throw away) baits crowds with a range of raw to roasted fin fare and beachy cocktails." Full review

"Upscale fish spot from chef Ford Fry raises the oyster to an art form."

"Styled after a fish camp, The Optimist fields both a restaurant and a raw bar operation adjacent to the main dining room." Full review

"The experience that Ford Fry has created with this intown “seaside fish camp” is so stellar, this is the first place we send out-of-town guests." Full review

"This chic restaurant embodies coastal living—from tangy cocktails to delicious starters (seafood gumbo, mussels in crabby-coconut broth, fried clam roll), roasted fish dishes and a wine list." Full review

"It’s a great option for when you want have a few cocktails on the astroturf patio and then eat some oysters or a whole roasted fish." Full review

"Legendary seafood in a landlocked city The vibe Warehouse turned upscale seafood house The drinks Fun and approachable The food Go for the lobster roll The service Over and above" Full review

"I'm not a huge fan of shellfish, but I'll admit the oyster bar was impressive with its sheer volume of selections. The seared scallops are a winner, with their accompanying glazed pork." Full review