Top 10 Must-Try Coastal & Seafood Dishes in Stuart, FL

As the "Sailfish Capital of the World," Stuart, FL is legendary for its vibrant coastal lifestyle and incredible access to the water. Naturally, when people look for a great place to eat downtown, they are often searching for the best seafood in town.

While there are plenty of places to grab a casual fried fish basket, sometimes you want an elevated dining experience. Southern Italy has a rich, centuries-old tradition of preparing fresh seafood with light, aromatic, and sophisticated flavors. If you are a seafood lover, here are the top 10 coastal and seafood dishes you absolutely must try at Pepe & Sale.

1. Linguine alle Vongole (Clams)

The ultimate coastal Italian classic. Fresh, briny clams are tossed with al dente linguine in a delicate sauce made of garlic, white wine, extra virgin olive oil, and fresh parsley. It is light, incredibly flavorful, and perfectly highlights the natural sweetness of the clams.

2. Calamari Fritti

Forget the heavy, greasy bar food versions. Authentic Italian Calamari Fritti is dusted in a remarkably light, seasoned flour and fried just until golden and tender. Served with a squeeze of fresh lemon and a side of house-made marinara, it is the perfect shared appetizer.

3. Shrimp Scampi

A true crowd-pleaser. Plump, juicy shrimp are pan-seared and bathed in a rich, vibrant sauce of garlic, butter, white wine, and lemon juice. Served over pasta, the pasta absorbs every drop of that incredible sauce.

4. Seafood Risotto (Risotto ai Frutti di Mare)

Cooking authentic risotto requires patience and skill. Arborio rice is slowly simmered with seafood broth and white wine until perfectly creamy, then folded together with a medley of fresh shrimp, scallops, mussels, and clams.

5. Cozze alla Marinara (Mussels)

If you love dipping rustic bread into an incredible sauce, this is the dish for you. Fresh mussels are steamed open in a fragrant broth of crushed tomatoes, garlic, white wine, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for just a hint of heat.

6. Lobster Ravioli

When you are celebrating a special occasion or simply want to indulge, lobster ravioli is the answer. Tender pasta pillows are stuffed with sweet lobster meat and typically served in a delicate, creamy pink sauce that complements the richness of the seafood without overpowering it.

7. Pan-Seared Salmon

A beautifully pan-seared filet of fresh salmon, prepared Italian-style. Instead of heavy glazes, it is often served with a bright piccata sauce (lemon, butter, and capers) or alongside perfectly roasted Mediterranean vegetables and garlic-infused olive oil.

8. Frutti di Mare Pasta

Meaning "Fruit of the Sea," this is the ultimate dish for those who simply cannot choose just one type of seafood. Linguine or spaghetti is tossed with an abundant mix of shrimp, clams, mussels, and calamari in a light tomato and wine broth.

9. Fresh Catch of the Day (Italian Style)

Living on the Treasure Coast means access to incredible local catches like Snapper and Mahi-Mahi. Prepared the Italian way—pan-seared or baked with white wine, lemon, fresh herbs, and cherry tomatoes—the focus remains entirely on the quality and freshness of the fish.

10. Pair it with a Crisp Italian White Wine

To truly elevate your coastal dining experience, you must pair your seafood with the right wine. Skip the heavy reds and ask your server to recommend a crisp, refreshing Italian white, such as a Vermentino, Pinot Grigio, or a chilled glass from the Antinori family vineyards.

Experience the Best Coastal Italian Dining in Stuart

Whether you just got off the boat after a long day on the water or you are getting dressed up for a romantic evening, Pepe & Sale brings the sophisticated flavors of the Italian coast right to downtown Stuart.

Join us for dinner, or take advantage of our newly launched midday lunch service (Wednesday through Friday) to enjoy a refreshing, upscale seafood meal in a beautiful setting.