Sea Salt - Berkeley

I had read many good things about this place, so my expectations were high. I met with friends to check it out. The decor is very casual and bright, which is somehow beautiful. It made it less expensive, though not. Service was pleasant, we had no problems. My waitress took my plate early, but it's not a big deal. The food? Very good. A friend had the Clam Chowder with bacon that I thought was a big (if unhealthy) combination. I also really liked the anchovies in the Ceasar salad, which were not excessively salty (in fact, they tasted like a non-crude ceviche). I also tried the shells I usually love. Here they were also solid, but the combination of tastes (with lemongrass) did not work too great for me personally. A friend had the salmon raw potato finger. I didn't think this was a wise choice of order and it ended unnoticable. Another friend had a grilled Aal sandwich... that was basically just a sandwich with unagi like the meat. I like Unagi, and the sandwich was good, but it also had a “I could do that at home in a second” kind of feeling to him. The halibut was tender, but a little in taste... Perhaps a stronger sauce would have contributed. I had the Malu that was the best duck. The fish itself was very good, but the sides accompanying it were not too special. If we had spent about $10-15 less per person, then I would think this place was great. But at its price it is good, but you can actually find even better meals for the money (Lure in San Mateo sources to immediately note). For the record, Sea Salt seems to be good for lunch, so perhaps their prices are cheaper for that.

I especially appreciated that the small plates were perfect for a meal, not just a taste. I loved the Clam Chowder with bacon and the chicory salad.

The best seafood! I place for a special meal. Love sitting near the kitchen to watch