Spring is here! The weather is warming up, the sea breezes are blowing in, and seafood is all the rage again. The perks of living in Jacksonville are endless, whether that be enjoying coastal views and salty beach air all year long or getting some of the freshest seafood in the country, we’re pretty happy with our home. Speaking of seafood, Marker 32 will have some pretty tasty specials hitting the menu over the next month. Here’s a little inside scoop as to what fish might be featured:

 

Cobia (aka Black Salmon)

This flakey white fish is enjoyed by all…fishermen, chefs and most importantly, you! Cobia migrate from the Gulf all the way around Florida and then up the shores of the East Coast, which make Florida a hot-spot for Cobia fishing during season! Fresh from the Florida waters to your plate! Whether it’s thrown on the grill, baked or pan fried, Cobia has a rich, sweet flavor that is arguably the best the sea has to offer.

 

Yellowfin Tuna (aka Ahi)

At Marker 32 we have tuna on the menu all year, but its peak season is in the Spring. Spring means thick wallets for fishermen because there is a lot of tuna! Ahi Tuna is harvested in the beautiful blue waters of Hawaii and can weigh up to 400 pounds. A interesting characteristic of ahi tuna is that it can be served raw or cooked, both offering completely different textures. No matter how this trophy fish is cooked, the flavor is mild and works well with strong flavors, such as soy.

*Menu item we referenced (and highly recommend): Tuna Poke with sweet soy, crispy gyoza, mango and ginger aioli

 

Grouper (aka Goliath)

Lucky for us these fish taste better than they look! Although there are over 300 different species of grouper, we tend to stick to just a couple: red, black and yellow edge. When it comes to taste, grouper can be compared to a cross between halibut and bass, with an unmatched mild flavor. Here’s a fun fact for all of you trivia fanatics: grouper changes from female to male as they age. That could be the answer to your next trivia win! You’re welcome.

 

King Mackerel (aka Kingfish)

Sport fishing tournaments feature a wide variety of fish, but one popular catch is the King Mackerel! This fish is super popular as a plated dish in cities all over Florida. When prepared correctly, this fish can go head to head with the incredible flavors of sheepshead or flounder. Kingfish must be eaten fresh because of the abundance of oils in its skin. Some people also refer to this type of fish as amberjack. Regardless of the name you use, this fish’s sweet, rich darker meat is a favorite around these parts.

 

Sailfish (aka Snooter)

This is one of the fastest fish in the sea and is a popular sportfish because of its mean fighting instinct. But along with it’s skills in the ocean, sailfish often make their way onto menus around this time of year. The filets are typically large and require proper brining before cooking. Sailfish is an awesome choice for grilled skewers at a backyard summer party, guests will surely be impressed

 

 

We’re so excited for new coastal flavors in our fresh seafood favorites this Spring! There’s nothing better than fresh seafood with a gorgeous view of the intracoastal on the side. Spend your spring evening enjoying delicious seasonal seafood with your new vast knowledge!