A new premium seafood restaurant called Atlantic Ocean is opening on Washington Avenue. (Courtesy Quit Nguyen)
A new seafood concept by restaurateur and chef Virgil Harper is set to open April 1 on Washington Avenue.
The details
Atlantic Ocean will offer a “coastal seafood diaspora shaped by diverse regions and culinary traditions,” according to a March 25 news release from company representatives.
The restaurant’s menu will feature premium seafood and globally inspired coastal flavors, including dishes such as Moroccan lamb chops, grilled branzino and lobster pasta with butter-poached claw meat and white wine.
Menu items at Atlantic Ocean include a grilled branzino with chimichurri and citrus mojo. (Courtesy Madelynne Grace)
Additionally, the 5,100-square-foot restaurant will feature 202 indoor seats and a 21-seat private dining room for special occasions and intimate gatherings.
Meet the chef
Harper has more than 20 years of experience in the dining industry and is known for creating Toast on Lenox, a popular brunch concept in Atlanta. In the release, he said Atlantic Ocean blends his lifelong connection to the sea with his passion for hospitality.
Atlantic Ocean partners Chef Aliyah Watley (left) and Chef Virgil Harper (right). (Courtesy Quit Nguyen)
According to the release, he is partnering with executive chef and partner Aliyah Watley, whose background reflects Black, Spanish, French and Canadian heritage.
"Atlantic Ocean was created to deliver a dining experience where every detail feels intentional, from the quality of the seafood to the warmth of the service and the atmosphere around you,” Harper said. “Houston’s dynamic food culture makes it the perfect home for this concept, and we’re excited to share a menu that respects seafood traditions while bringing a fresh, creative perspective."
