Flex Your "Mussels" on the Beach

Usually served as an appetizer, mussels are prepared a number of different ways at restaurants along the beach. From steamed or baked to tomato or garlic, food lovers can indulge in some of the coast’s most delicious mussel recipes.

Which recipe will you chose to try?

Located within the Sirata Resort, the Compass Grille’s menu is plentiful and diverse. For $9.95, try their spin on this week’s featured dish. The East Rockefeller Green Lipped Mussels are topped with Pernod infused spinach, bacon and basil stuffing. After the mussels are lightly baked, they are dusted with Boursin cheese.

This private and laid back gem offers all things beachy. With a variety of all-you-can-eat offerings, like ribs or crab legs, no stomach will go unsatisfied. An order of White Wine Annisette Garlic Steamed Mussels can be yours at the Oyster Shucker for just $7.95. Noted as a “specialty item” on the menu, the mussels are prepared in a garlic infused sauce that packs spice and flavor into each bite.

Middle Grounds offers an early bird menu called “Lite Affair.” Served from 4:30-5:30 p.m. daily, the offerings include appetizers and entrees. On the appetizer portion, the Prince Edward Mussels go for a slim $5. The fresh mussels are sauteed in a garlic and white wine butter sauce before being garnished with diced tomatoes.  

For a portion big enough to share, the Conch’s Mussels Diablo are large and in charge. Aside from the island-like atmosphere at the restaurant, the food is some of the best on the beach. Try the mussels for $10.95. A heaping pile of Prince Edward mussels is smothered in a spicy tomato sauce with fresh mushrooms and spinach. Toasted garlic bread topped with parmesan cheese comes on the side for dipping. On the menu, the plate is noted as a “house favorite.”

One of the beaches well known establishments, Salt Rock Grill, serves a steamy light recipe.  The Mussels Provencale ($8.90) are an appetizer fit for a meal. The steamed mussels are served in a sauce of white wine, garlic, basil and saffron broth. Plum tomatoes and lemon zest add a power packed flavor to the signature dish.