Elkhouse Eatery is not your typical beach restaurant. In a culinary world of tropical colors and island flavors, husband and wife team Charles Searleman and Trilani Delavarre wanted a place that would stand out. As seasoned industry veterans, the decision to open up a restaurant in Crescent Beach’s iconic A-frame was really a no-brainer. And steering away from the “beach grill” vibe was just as natural.
The restaurant is named after a cottage in Austria where Trilani spent childhood vacations and that far-away Alps atmosphere extends to more than just the name. Dark wood, exposed beams, and a cozy atmosphere will tear your eye away from the sand outside. And settle in, because the menu is just as transportive.
Charles and Trilani started us with a fresh, wild-caught scallop appetizer. The scallops are grilled very simply with olive oil, laid on a bed of microgreens, and served with mint pea vinaigrette and fresh peas. Mint isn’t a flavor you might expect with scallops, but it adds a crispness and enhances the dish’s simplicity.
Next, we tried the Elkhouse Salad – which is a perfect example of the chef’s love of fresh veggies. Colored bell pepper, sliced watermelon radishes, fire-roasted artichokes, along with spiced pumpkin seeds, cucumber, carrot, and a freshly shaved asiago cheese blend are topped with Ahi Tuna, seared rare.
The last two entrees, however, are at the top of the list of reasons why you should visit Elkhouse. The Cedar Plank Salmon is flown from the Faroe Islands in Scotland, baked on a cedar plank, and coated in a housemade apricot jalapeno glaze. The aroma alone could satisfy. But you won’t be able to resist digging into the flaky, melt-in-your-mouth fish.
For the readers that aren’t fans of seafood, order the ribs. Don’t be fooled; they’re no ordinary ribs. They’re Sika Red Deer from New Zealand, seasoned with blackening spice and slow roasted with carrots, parsnips, jalapenos, and onions in a craft beer broth. Before being served, they’re brushed with a housemade blueberry BBQ sauce. It’s comfort food-savory and decadently rich, with an unexpected sweetness and fruity tartness.
The menu is eclectic, fresh, and delicious and the atmosphere is unlike any other in the area. It’s a restaurant that’s sure to become your second kitchen.
Elkhouse Eatery is located at 6357 A1A South. Visit them online at www.facebook.com/ElkhouseEatery. Photography by Brian Miller.
