12A Buoy Seafood Restaurant
22 Fishermans Wharf, Fort Pierce, FL 34950
12ABuoy is a classic rendition of the Florida local seafood restaurant. Located on the west bank of the Indian River in downtown Ft. Pierce the restaurant has been home to a bait shop and long ago a restaurant called The Ramp. The restaurant decor has all the right touches, neon beer signs, boat paintings, maps of the local waters mixed with nautical flea market finds. Menus are printed on paper and daily specials are recited at table side.
This is a very popular restaurant, consequently, it was hopping on Friday afternoon when we arrived for lunch. While outdoor seating is available, we opted for the cooler interior. The menu covers seafood served in burgers, sandwiches, soups, salads and all manner of shellfish, while serving a few selections of chicken, beef or vegetarian. Beer and Wine are served.
WHAT’S FOR LUNCH?
For lunch, after a bit of a debate with myself, I ordered a Lobster Club Sandwich with a side of fruit. The sandwich arrived appearing too tall to actually eat. While I managed to have a bite and the array of textures and flavors blended perfectly. The egg bun, seeming too crunchy at first, was toasted to offset the creamy, ripe avocado and mayo laced Maine Lobster salad. The accents of sliced sweet onions, lettuce and tomatoes completed the ensemble for a great sandwich. The side of fruit became dessert, nicely ripe and a delicious end note for lunch. Service was attentive and my only gripe is about the iced tea, not terrific.
My dining partner had blackened Mahi, presented cooked to correct flakiness, served with tangy Tartar Sauce and Cole Slaw. Yum was the only word uttered and while the fish was tasty (I tried it) the Tartar made it sing. Disagreeing with my tea pronouncement, my dining partner liked the Raspberry Tea.
We recommend 12ABuoy, just be prepared to wait for a table.
Amelia Grant
June 28, 2017