THE BEST LOBSTER MEAL

  In the small scenic fishing village of Menemsha, where people still make their living from the sea there is a man named Stanley Larsen who is co-owner of a store called the Menemsha Fish Market. Like finding a pearl in an oyster, the market’s humble and rough exterior gives way to a shinny and precious gift of affordable scrumptious hot meals. My favorite is the whole lobster, cold salad, a cup of bisque or chowder and a stuffed clam for $19.95. Other offerings include an array of fresh fish ready for the pan or grill and boating charters.

 

My sister and I had an opportunity to clam and mussel with Mr. Larsen at 5:00 am one rainy spring day.  While we worked, we were treated to a few true sea stories. Two that I remember most vividly are...

 

·         Stanley was faced with two decisions. The first to cut off his leg which was caught in and subsequently ground to the bone by a gear located in the hold of the old fishing vessel he often captained alone. Or bleed to death while waiting for the salt sprayed Coast Guard cavalry to ride in on a misty Atlantic wave. Stanley began to search the many pockets of his coat…

 

·         As the enormous wave bore down on him, Stanley clasped onto the mast with all his might preparing for the plunge into the icy unforgiving ocean. In a matter of seconds he was engulfed by the cold ocean and forced into the sea. Ears popping and holding his breath, he waited for the ship to right itself.　That strange baptism happened many times over until…

 

To hear the rest of the stories or have great fresh seafood, visit The Menemsha Fish Market, 

56 Basin Rd

, Dutcher's Dock, Menemsha,  menemshafishmarket@yahoo.com, Phone: (508) 645-2282.  It is worth the trip (and tell Stanley Larson Sharon says hi!).

 

Have you been to the Menemsha Fish Market? Do you have a favorite Martha's Vineyard dinner?  Share your story and thoughts with the Larrier House on Facebook.