Sharkey's Seafood Bar & Grille - a gem on Ladner's Landing

Written by Angie Holubowich

Growing up in Alberta meant that the freshest seafood I enjoyed was beautiful rainbow trout caught out of Spring Lake and pan fried in our campsite. Pretty blissful really. When it came to lobster and crab, it was Red Lobster all the way. Although most west coasters cringe at the thought of their only source of seafood being their local Red Lobster. Being that we are surrounded by marinas and multiple sources of fresh-from-the-boat seafood.

Since moving to BC, I have been spoiled. I first discovered really amazing fresh fish dinners at the romantic A Kettle of Fish in downtown Vancouver. As of Sunday October 17th 2010, after 31 years of service to our city they closed their doors. I always try to have a place to bring all my relatives and visitors where they can experience a true west coast meal packed flavor as close to the water as possible. A Kettle of Fish was my place. I have since then been on the hunt for a new haunt for my seafood fixes.

Nestled on the docks in Ladner is what could be mistaken for a common pub and restaurant. What a perfect example of how not to judge a book by its cover. Within the doors of Sharkey's Seafood Bar and Grille you will find above the bar service, warm hospitality, and awesome food.

I highly advise starting your meal with a flavorful cocktail made with fresh fruit and an order of the cod bites. The cod has been battered lightly and flash fried so they are super crispy without being oily at all. The ideal fish and chips served with the zing of tartar sauce. Pairing the zing of the tartar sauce with the cod and a fresh watermelon cocktail is the perfect match.

My fix at A Kettle of Fish was their Cioppini. Lucky for me it is also available here and it's delicious! A hot pot with a tomato based sauce and packed to the gills with a crab leg, salmon, scallops, calamari, mussells, clams, and tiger shrimp. Probably the best option for the ultra-indecisive such as myself, a little bit of everything in one dish. This is the ultimate comfort food for the seafood lover. I always end up taking part of this home with me and use it as a pasta sauce base the next day, so amazing.

So although I have been there a few times and have made it my "must visit" location for my visitors from out of town. I NEVER get anything other than the Cioppini when I go there. I look at the gorgeous stuffed fish entrees and I am tempted by the seasonal specials, but alas I cannot stray from my favorite. Luckily I bring willing participants who gladly let me try a bite of their meals for taste testing research purposes.

Following up your meal with a blueberry cheesecake slice or mocha chocolate mousse puts the perfect finish on these local tastes. Try them out, you wont regret it. They might be a bit out of Vancouver area, but so worth the drive. Check out their website before you go because twice now we have walked in the door to be greeted by live music from a band. They love to host local talent and it really sets the scene for an awesome evening.