Hook & Reel Cajun Seafood & Bar

Definitely need to try. The blue drink in the pineapple glass was amazing (I forgot the name) but we ended up ordering only these after we finished our first round. Strawberry margarita was weak and not for us personally. We got “the reel hook” that included shrimp, clams, carb, lobster tail, mussels in the hook and reel blended sauce mild (does get spicy so beware if you don’t like spice too much). This was spilt between two people. I would recommend going during happy hour if you want to try the drinks because they are pricy and start to add up after a couple which is why we spent 50-60 person. Overall a good place to eat and get a taste of seafood. FYI if you get cold easily then bring a sweater because it’s chilly in there.

My first visit to this establishment. We were seated and tended to fairly quickly. It's a very large place with nice motif. The music was way too loud and not the type of music you would expect to hear in a restaurant. This was more the level and style of a night club. If you want to only attract a younger, less financially secure clientele, than you need to change that scene. I also noticed a number of waitresses with nothing to do except play with their hair and run their fingers through it. Not something you want to do on the sales floor in an eatery. Are you paying attention management?
I started with clam chowder soup, which was pretty good. My main meal was served in an inflated plastic bag. I had to ask what this was as I have never had a meal served in that fashion. Turns out you dump it on the very large shallow plate. Some assembly required, I guess. I had scallops , which were steamed well. I asked for a mild sauce, but it was quite spicey. I cant imagine what the spicey seasoning must be like. Hush puppies were pretty good as was the shrimp basket.
The take away: not sure I will return as the atmosphere left quite a bit to be desired; and the food is so-so. I think management needs to be changed to better serve older paying clientele (I am 60) and not just cater to the 20 year olds who are working there. You never get a second chance to make a first impression.

Visit #1
This is a fun new addition to Middletown! Great cocktails and really fresh and flavorful food. The margarita was a little weak/flavorless, but the Pina coladas were really good and the shrimp and crab in the reel’s catch were fresh and flavorful (and a massive portion!). Our server Amber couldn’t have been more attentive and welcome, she’s great!

Visit #2
Oooof. Night and day from our first visit. If this was the first time we came, we’d never come back. We got the happy hour shrimp basket and calamari, both were so over fried. The calamari was pure rubber bands and the shrimp was nothing like the fresh, flavorful shrimp from visit one. We also split the seafood pasta and were really disappointed. It came out with the sauce congealed like it had been sitting out for a long time before being brought to the table. The “marinara” tasted to be at least 2/3 ketchup. The shrimp was tough and the mussels were pretty fishy and gross. The first time we came was a Friday and this recent visit was a Wednesday, wondering if they have the A Team on for weekends? Will try one more time and will have two new rules in mind- don’t order anything fried and only get the boils. This was super disappointing.

First time here . Overall a good experience. The staff were friendly and inviting. Attentive to our table. The food was amazing and well seasoned . The decor is contemporary and trendy. I went for lunch. Will try again during evening hours.

The atmosphere reminds me of an authentic seaside restaurant. The food is delicious. I had the lobster bisque. Literally the best ever!! Dad had the large scallops boil with potatoes, corn, and eggs. The scallops were big as marshmallows! The beers were ice cold and paired well with the boil.
Our waiter Jayyy was attentive and friendly. He made sure our needs were always met.
Looking forward to coming back soon!