DINING AROUND With Marilyn June 05, 2006

Don’t let this unusually unassuming, comfortable little restaurant fool you.  It’s a gem.  Nestled in a quaint downtown Victorian neighborhood, Drew’s Bayshore Bistro is a slice of Cajun heaven along with equally inventive seafood dishes and daily specials.

Though the menu selections are limited, each dish is meticulously prepared to perfection.  Some regular dishes may vary daily based on fresh ingredients that Drew personally selects every day. 

The sautéed soft shell crab appetizer was served with Drew’s fresh made pickled jalapeño pepper coleslaw (and of course it’s made with Hellmann’s real mayo.) Very light and flavorful.  I loved it! 

The Colossal seared Day Boat Scallops are perfectly caramelized and served with a vegetable choux.  This night it was corn blended with scallions, sautéed portabello mushrooms, served in a wok shaped thermal bowl which kept my meal deliciously warm from start to finish, even when he was putting it a doggie bag.  I highly recommend this dish!  Be hungry to order this one, the plate is also huge to accommodate the generous amount of plum sweet scallops.  The entire combination makes you want to do a happy dance at the table! 

For a rare treat, this Bistro offers Blackened White Tuna. This Cadillac of all tuna has recently been turning up in upscale Sushi Bars across the country. 

One of Chef Drew’s specialties is spicy garlic shrimp with his secret Cajun sauce that will thrill your taste buds and make your face glow.  This was offered as a dinner special served over a blackened hangar steak.  Drew shared one of his secret ingredients with me, but I’m not telling…  You’ll have to find out for yourself. 

Another inventive dish that melts in your mouth is the Barbequed Pork Strudel -- BBQ pork with cheddar jack cheese in a crispy phyllo dough with pickled jalapeño coleslaw.

Our neighbors Bud and Janice sat at the table next to us (and regulars of Drew’s Bayshore Bistro) had the Crab Crusted Tilapia with smashed potatoes and lemon butter sauce and the Crawfish Étouffée.  Looked pretty tasty! 

Drew also takes a twist on crème brulee; the custard is mocha coffee, a nice surprise from first to last spoonful. 

The seating in this little gem is also limited; twelve tables occupy two rooms, one with an open kitchen.  An additional room will be added early this summer.  That’s good news for the Bistro clientele; reservations strongly recommended two weeks in advance for weekends, summer or winter. 

The décor is a stark contrast of black lacquered furniture against pale rose walls that feature black & white photos.  Of course I can’t forget our excellent server Dillon, who was very knowledgeable of the preparation of the dishes; he’s also a big fan of Drew’s culinary delights.

There is ample parking behind the restaurant in the Municipal parking lot.  After dinner take in a beautiful stroll along the newly renovated walking path on the water’s edge only two blocks from Drew’s.  This spectacular view is a great way to finish your night!

Drew’s Bayshore Bistro is located .07 miles off of NJ Rt. 36 in Keyport on the left hand side.  Keep your eyes peeled, he’s nestled in.  Look for a blue awning across the street from the Bistro. 

Drew opened his restaurant last July. I think he’s going to be around for a long time.  Bon Appétit!