The Black Pearl, a jewel on the Emerald Coast

OKALOOSA ISLAND, FL - On a recent visit to the Black Pearl I found that it was everything I expected and everything I didn't.

Located on the Boardwalk on Okaloosa Island, the Black Pearl has a prime spot on the beach, where every table has a wonderful view of the Gulf. Polished wood paneling, and rattan leaf fans, gives the interior a rich, yet comfortable feel.

I expected to be impressed, but I didn't expect to be so welcomed. The staff, beginning with manager Chris Patterson, to the bartender Summer, to executive Chef Shannon White, made my dining companion and me feel right at home.

They were attentive without being intrusive, and very helpful with menu selections without being pushy.

Ordering only appetizers on this trip, we sat at the bar. When our Wasabi Crusted Tuna and Coconut Shrimp were served, the seafood was tender and flavorful.

The coconut crust on the shrimp was not overpowering as the dish sometimes can be, and the key lime butter served along side was a delicious combination of sweet, tangy and creamy.

Served with a generous dollop of wasabi, the Tuna was delicate both in taste and texture with a bit of a kick. The soy ginger sauce it was plated on gave a nice balance to the spice of the wasabi.

While there, we couldn't pass up trying a couple of the Black Pearl signature martinis. I tried the Grapetini and my friend ordered the Ruby Red Flora, flavored with grapefruit juice. Both were beautifully presented in sugar rimmed glasses. Not being a martini drinker normally, I was pleasantly surprised by the sweetness and smoothness of the drinks.

We were then treated to a sampling of a new drink, the Dragonberry-tini. I can't divulge the ingredients, but it was delicious, a little reminiscent of cotton candy.

I wanted to get the full impact of the restaurant, so I returned for a complete sit down dinner, and again I was not disappointed. I expected the seafood to be fresh - it was, having been selected from the local fishing fleet. I expected the friendly service again - wasn't expecting to be remembered and greeted by name. I expected the meal to be delicious - I didn't expect the portions to be so generous.

My daughter and I selected the grilled grouper and shrimp, served with a garlic cream sauce. The fish was moist and flaky and the shrimp were tender and cooked to perfection. The garlic sauce was a nice compliment without overpowering the taste of the fish.

We had garlic mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables for sides. The potatoes were creamy and well seasoned, and the vegetables were flavorful with a slight caramelizing.

While fresh seafood is the highlight of the Black Pearl menu, non-fish eaters are not left out. My son ordered the Kobe beef flatbread burger. Cooked to order, the burger was thick and juicy, and served with a plateful of handcut roasted potato crisps.

My husband ordered the Santa Fe chicken and garlic potatoes. A full chicken breast, and generous side portions, the meal was almost more than you could eat.

The Black Pearl also offers rib eye, Kansas strip and beef filets for those patrons who prefer steak, and several pasta dishes featuring chicken or shrimp.

Taking advantage of the beautiful Gulf weather, The Black Pearl has both indoor and patio dining in a relaxed atmosphere. Patterson has worked diligently to maintain the stylish feel of the restaurant, while bringing a sense of familiarity to the patrons.

"It's casual, yet refined, with a more upscale bistro feel," Patterson said. "We've tried to make (the restaurant) more family-friendly."

Open at 4 p.m. every day for dinner, the Black Pearl is also available for special events, such as corporate luncheons, wedding rehearsals and banquets, and private meetings. Small weddings can also be accommodated on the patio.

Chef White borrows from his Louisiana background for Cajun influences and tropical seasonings to prepare his signature Floribbean cuisine. Fresh melon and citrus, apple, cherry and cedar plank grilling, and an emphasis on fresh ingredients are key to the Black Pearl's menu.
 
Appetizers are $8-$14, salads and sandwiches are $5 - $15, and entrées range from $16-$39. Happy hour is 4-5:30 each evening with $3 beers, $4 house wines and $5 specialty martinis. Chef White offers daily specials and ask about the Drink of the Day.

During the fall off-season, the Black Pearl offers Sunset Specials for $9.99 between 4-5:30 p.m.

For more information about booking a private event at the Black Pearl, call (850) 833-3016. For a complete menu, visit online at www.blackpearlgrill.com.