One of the perks about visiting “old Florida” places on the weekends, is finding restaurants that are off the beaten path or offer fare that truly represents the Sunshine State. On a recent trip to the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge in Brevard County, we found one such restaurant: Goodrich Seafood and Oyster House in Oak Hill. Located on River Road on Mosquito Lagoon, Goodrich’s offers good food and a relaxing view.
Goodrich Seafood and Oyster House
Goodrich Seafood and Oyster House has its own storied past that you need to read to understand how the restaurant started and how it has evolved into what it is today. Although this isn’t a restaurant that goes back a hundred years, the Goodrich family has been in Oak Hill for nine generations. Started in 1910 by two brothers, Jeff and Clarence Goodrich, Goodrich Seafood did not include a restaurant. Instead, it consisted of a wholesale retail seafood house and blue crab processing facility about 300 feet south of the current restaurant. The pilings can still be seen today. The original seafood house was destroyed by fire in the late 30s, and the crab house fell from its pilings into the water.
To find out how they rebuilt the business, check out their website here.
Ambience
The restaurant offers up a spectacular view of the Mosquito Lagoon. You can watch as boats glide by, birds skim above the water and, if you are lucky, you might catch a glimpse of a dolphin or two. Nautical décor can be found throughout the restaurant, including the shark hanging on the wall outside, and a wooden model of a ship resting on a piling on the deck. Whether you are inside the dining room or outside on the deck, Goodrich Seafood and Oyster House provides a casual atmosphere for good Florida eats.
On the Menu
Let’s face it. Everything on the menu looks extremely appetizing. There are daily specials to choose from or you can try one of their seafood plates. How about fried alligator or frog legs? If that doesn’t interest you, there are always oysters, shrimp, scallops or the local catch.
Appetizers
First, the appetizers. The smoked fish dip offered up just the right quantity to hold us over until the meal arrived. It was served with crackers, tomatoes and banana peppers and was fresh and flavorful.
A trip to the chowder bar didn’t disappoint either. The Florida chowder was made with tomatoes and potatoes and was a spoonful of heaven in every bite.
Main Course
On to the main course. As is the usual routine, we each tried something different. I ordered the shrimp and grits, which were the epitome of perfection. Grilled shrimp over cheese grits, topped with savory bacon. What a great combination.
Lee chose the oyster po’ boy with golden fried oysters on a toasted hoagie roll, topped with lettuce, tomatoes, red onions, and a tangy sauce. Hush puppies and two sides rounded out the meal.
Location and Hours
Goodrich Seafood and Oyster House is located at:
253 River Road
Oak Hill, Florida
The restaurant is open Tuesday through Saturday from 7:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. On Sunday, the hours are 7:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Goodrich Seafood and Oyster House is closed on Monday.
Recommendations
If you are there when the weather is just right, try for a coveted table outside. If there isn’t one, a table on the enclosed porch works just as well. Make sure you walk along the deck and take in the views of the lagoon and the birds.
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