A few weeks ago, we got a babysitter and went to dinner for Nick’s birthday. We ate at St. James Seafood Restaurant and Raw Bar in Durham, one of Matt Kelly’s (of Vin Rouge and Mateo’s bar de tapas fame) newest food sensations. Seriously, I love all of his restaurants and would let him cook for me for the rest of my life. Anyway, we went there for my birthday in December and Nick liked it so much that we went back for his. We had just started the Whole30 diet at the time and we were going to try really hard to stick to it, but as soon as we saw the fried oysters, we threw the diet out the window and didn’t feel the least bit bad about it! It was totally worth it.

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Birthday Boy!

I love oysters but Nick isn’t a fan, especially when they’re raw, so I had these bad babies all to myself! They were meaty and salty, and so good I didn’t even need to use any hot sauce.

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Oysters

He did try the fried oysters, which I think were an excellent addition to this yummy Cesar salad. I mean, Cesar salads are good on their own but even better when you add some crispy, salty fried oysters. As soon as I saw this, I knew I had to try it and I wasn’t disappointed.

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Fried oyster Cesar salad

Nick ordered a seafood gumbo and I got shrimp and grits. They were both out-of-this-world delicious!

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Seafood gumbo in the back, Shrimp & Grits in front of me – and old bay crackers for sharing

I mean, just look at those plump NC shrimp, that smoky Andouille sausage, and those rich, creamy grits. Nick and I shared our dishes, which we normally do, so I had to save some for him but I could have eaten this whole bowl myself and then ask for seconds. If you’re ever in Durham at St. James when this is on the menu, you should definitely give it a try.

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Shrimp & Grits

Also, P.S. this is what I wore to partake in this scrumptious meal. Drawstring pants are perfect for loosening up when you stuff yourself with yummy fresh seafood. Plus, this is a really cute outfit.

Nikki by example

Do you like seafood? What’s your favorite things to eat and/or your favorite seafood restaurant?

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