This week, Fork in the Road visits the fishing village of Cortez, Florida. While many enjoy a Caney Fork River trout meal or a Center Hill Lake fried catfish sandwich, the abundance of fresh seafood from the Gulf of Mexico elevates dining to a new level.
Cortez is a charming, historic fishing village renowned for its fresh Gulf seafood. If you’re craving authentic, fresh-from-the-Gulf seafood in a laid-back setting, Star Fish Company is a must-visit.
This dockside market and casual eatery serves daily catches like fried grouper, stone crab claws, and shrimp, all sourced directly from local fishermen. Grab your food at the window, find a picnic table overlooking the water, and enjoy the relaxed vibe of this working fishing village. Note: it’s cash only.
On a recent visit, my party enjoyed a delicious Cortez Fish Chowder , a hearty tomato-based chowder full of the catch of the day’s seafood and vegetables. We also devoured delicious grouper sandwiches. For me, know visit to Florida is complete without a grouper sandwich, which can be fried, grilled, or blackened. All served alongside a traditional hushpuppy and pineapple coleslaw.
Founded in the 1880s by fishing families from North Carolina, Cortez remains one of Florida’s last true fishing villages. Its rich maritime heritage lives on through sustainable fishing and local traditions, making Star Fish Company not just a restaurant but a taste of Florida’s coastal history.
So, whether you drop your line at Center Hill Lake’s 18,000-acre reservoir, trout fish the Caney Fork River, or cast from the banks of one of our beautiful nearby state parks, know that across our great nation, the spirit of outdoor adventure and the joy of fresh, local flavors connect us all.
Star Fish Market and Dockside Restaurant
· Location: 12306 46th Ave W, Cortez, FL
· Hours: Tue–Sat 11:30 a.m.–8 p.m., Sun–Mon 11:30 a.m.–3 p.m.
· Cash only, outdoor seating with waterfront views
Check out my new blog, Whatscookingsmithville.com, for a few of my favorite seafood recipes.
Mark MyGrant is a retired educator turned food writer and blogger. To read more view Mark’s blog at Whatscookingsmithville.com
