Set Sail

With the wave of redevelopment now transforming Pompano Beach comes Oceanic at Pompano Beach Pier, a fresh new dining destination just steps from the beach.

It’s easy to feel like a tourist when sitting in Oceanic’s spacious covered patio area, designed to evoke the feeling of sailing on an ocean liner. Relish the ocean breeze as you begin your evening with truly unique cocktails made by friendly mixologists. Champagne lovers will thrill to Sunset Vibes, a refreshing concoction made with Belvedere vodka, St. Germain, Moet, ice, cucumber and mint. There are impressive wine and craft beer selections, too. 

The best calamari I’ve had in years is at Oceanic: the Fresh Pan-Seared Calamari, accompanied by smoked tomato aioli, sweet cherry peppers and kalamata olives. Pair that with the refreshing and satisfying Fresh Watermelon + Grilled Shrimp salad, made with a generous portion of shrimp, feta cheese, cucumber, pickled red onion, fresh mint, spiced sunflower seeds, arugula and balsamic glaze.

Haven’t had a proper whole fish in a while? Do it at Oceanic. There, it’s wild caught, grilled with housemade lathorigani (a mix of olive oil and oregano) and served with ancient grain rice and seasonal fresh vegetables. The Oceanic Seafood Pasta is uniquely delicious as well, with the fresh fish of the day, shrimp, blistered tomato, squid ink pasta and lemon beurre blanc.

Although the menu is heavily skewed toward fresh seafood, there’s also plenty for meat lovers and vegetarians. Choose from several steaks, including the Bone-In Cowgirl Rib Eye, and an assortment of toppings: gorgonzola butter, au poivre, seven herb pesto, romesco béarnaise and truffled mushrooms. The vegetarian Grilled Cauliflower Steak is luscious, served with rustic Fresno chili romesco, tempura heirloom carrots and green beans, and herb aioli. 

Those who like to wrap things up with something different won’t be disappointed. The Fat Elvis Pie is a hunk of tempting love, with a generous serving of chocolate banana mousse atop Nutter Butter crust and accented with whipped cream and candied bacon. Or try the Upside Down Pineapple Bread Pudding, a decadent twist on the traditional cake, with dark rum anglaise and salted caramel gelato.

It might just take your breath away – if the water views at Oceanic haven’t done so already. O

Oceanic is located at 250 N. Pompano Beach Blvd., Pompano Beach. For more information, call 954-366-3768 or visit oceanicpompano.com.