Bon Appétit
New England Comes to By Dan Epstein
H
ere’s exciting news for seafood fans. Jack’s Seafood Shack in Montclair has not just captured the spirit of New England Style seafood, their food is simply as good as it gets. Owner Jack Tabibian fell in love with lobster shacks while vacationing in Maine with his wife, Aline. Noticing that there was nothing like them outside of the seaside tourist areas, he acted. Jack and co-owner/manager Greg Markarian will happily tell you that local folks have fallen in love with Maine-style seafood, just as Jack did. In fact, Greg mentions that in addition to the many 50
Suburban Essex
frequent customers, people finding them through the internet come from as far away as Princeton or Staten Island, finding that the service is so warm and friendly that as first-time visitors they immediately feel like regulars. Most New England shacks are merely stands, though at Jack’s Seafood Shack there are plenty of tables, the atmosphere is comfortable and casual. Maine Lobsters are delivered twice a week and are on display in the two large tanks in one of the dining rooms.
March 2020
Jack’s Seafood Shack menu goes far beyond the basic New England shack. At the heart of it: lobster. Whole Maine Steamed Lobster arrives at your table cracked for you and ready to eat accompanied by corn on the cob, homemade Cole Slaw, and melted butter. It’s worth noting that for those who do not want the traditional approach, they will happily serve the lobster completely removed from the shell. Those who want a little red meat in addition should opt for the Steak and Lobster Tails—two 4oz Maine lobster tails are served with an 8oz. filet mignon along with French fries and a House Salad.
