With the new Mardi Gras Amtrak Service expected to bring more daytrippers and tourists to Gulf Coast towns, the restaurant scenes in these towns are expected to evolve. One of the first signs of this evolution is the upcoming transformation of Toro Sushi and Sake in Bay St. Louis into Field’s Crab Shack. Under the same ownership, the upscale sushi restaurant is being transformed into more of a casual dining restaurant that will highlight steamed seafood and other local dishes.
Co-owner Jourdan Nicaud recently told What Now New Orleans that the transformation has been in response to people asking for more local seafood options that better suit the seaside vibe in Bay St. Louis.
“People who come into the area,” Nicaud said, “they want crabs, they want shrimp, they want oysters, they want things from the area. They usually go to the beach, so they want things that go with the beach.”
When it opens in October, Field’s Crab Shack will feature steamer plates and platters of little neck clams, royal reds, seasonal crabs, whole lobsters, Dungeness crabs, snow crabs, and king crabs. The menu also includes pasta dishes, fried seafood, fried chicken, and grilled beef tournedos. Beverage options include local craft beer and a specialty cocktail menu.
Nicaud said he expects the more casual seafood concept to be a big hit with both locals and incoming visitors. He added that the new Amtrak service, proximity to New Orleans, and walkability all make the Gulf Coast town an attractive destination.
“The great part about these small towns like Bay St. Louis is that once you get into the area, the walkability factor is amazing,” he said. “And if you don’t want to walk, golf cart and bike rentals are available everywhere. So, you can rent a bike, you rent a golf cart and get around all day.”
He added that a town like Bay St. Louis is a much more attractive destination than the traditional destination for New Orleanians, the Florida Panhandle.
“Our restaurants are great, our hotels are more price-friendly, and we’re less than an hour away,” he said. “So, why drive the four hours to get to Florida when you can come here?”
