Christine’s by the Sea is a newly-opened jewel on the beach in Pompano.Located in the Lighthouse Cove Resort, at 14 St. and A1A, this establishment is separate from the resort and brings a unique twist to the theme of the restaurant. The eatery has a “rat pack” feel with dark maroon booths, soft blue lighting and a dance floor by the bar. Live music is offered Tuesday through Sunday and changes throughout the week. Music styles range from Motown to Rock to Doo Wop. Currently, the restaurant is open for dinner only, but a Sunday brunch from 11 to 3 began on Jan. 24. Peel-and-eat shrimp, omelette station, carving station, breakfasts meats, cold pastas and breads are just part of the brunch menu. Buy one mimosa or Bloody Mary and refills are free!
The creative force behind Christine’s is Tony and Roxanne Mesoraca. Originally from the Philadelphia/Jersey shore area, they opened Christine’s three weeks ago with the knowledge that “great food at great prices” were the perfect combination.
Chef Marcellino Colon, manager Cheryl Schmitt and owners Tony and Roxanne created a menu full of wonderful choices.We started with an appetizer of meatballs in a homemade marinara sauce that was mild, yet rich, with onions, garlic and basil. The sauce complimented the tender meatballs perfectly. We also sampled the ‘aranchina di manzo’— a lightly breaded and fried risotto meatball. This was a softer version of the meatball with lots of flavors combined in the meat and rice. It was deep fried, crispy and tender on the inside. I couldn’t seem to get enough of this original dish. Be sure to try it when you stop by. I highly recommend it.
The escarole soup is the house specialty, and the salad choices include Caesar, Capresse, Mediterranean and house. Choosing to skip the soup and salad course, I went directly to the “create your own pasta” section and ordered the penne pasta with the carbonara sauce plus chicken. This incredible dish was creamy and full bodied and I couldn’t have been more pleased with my selection. It did not need the chicken, as the dish could stand alone and be perfect. My husband decided to try the lobster ravioli. Four large raviolis stuffed full of lobster were presented in a velvety light pink cream sauce and finished with diced tomatoes. The sauce was not heavy and left you wanting more.
Chicken dishes include Marsala, Vesuvio and Parmesan, and seafood ranges from snapper and mahi mahi to grilled salmon. If you are in the mood for a steak, filet mignon is a superb choice. This center-cut filet is encrusted with fresh-crushed pepper and topped with a wild mushroom sauce. Also available are Veal Scallopini, Veal Marsala and the very popular rack of lamb served with a white bean ragout and honey mustard sauce.
We chose the tiramisu and the cannoli as our dessert, although chocolate cake, profiteroles, cheesecake and chocolate mousse are also available. Our dessert was beautifully presented with fresh mint and strawberries, drizzled with chocolate. The desserts were just as amazing as the meal. What a delightful way to finish off our dinner!
Christine’s by the Sea offers happy hour from 4-7 p.m. Monday through Friday with half-price well and call drinks, imported and domestic beers, and house wine available.
