It’s amazing we don’t have a thread on The Shrimp Lover (website) a Thai-owned quasi-seafood shack, located in a strip mall just off Route 28, very convenient for Washingtonians traveling to Dulles Airport.
I went for lunch today, had wonderful service at the bar, and a kick-your-butt shrimp plate that’s worth knowing about.
Seated at the bar, I was asked what I’d like to drink – I wasn’t drinking alcohol, so I got a Diet Coke ($2,50, unlimited refills) while I waited for one of the most interesting raw seafood dishes I’ve had in quite awhile: Shrimp Nam-Pla ($12) – five (the menu said six, but I got five) large, split, raw shrimp in a cold, Thai-ceviche-like broth that was a combination of lime, intense salt, pepper, and heat (and I do mean heat), each shrimp topped with a small piece of bitter cucumber and raw garlic, and the entire dish topped with a few basil leaves.
While officially an appetizer, this was more than enough for a small lunch, and while the intensity of the “severe ceviche” might take some getting used to, heat-lovers will really enjoy this. The combination of the dish itself, the wonderful atmosphere, and the uber-friendly staff makes me take note of The Shrimp Lover anytime I’m close to Dulles Airport, and you should too.
