A great seafood meal doesn't have to begin with a full-sized entrée. In Fells Point, Baltimore, sharing a few thoughtfully chosen appetizers is a delicious way to explore different flavors, especially when Mediterranean seafood is on the menu. Grilled octopus, tender calamari, and plump shrimp each bring something different to the table, making it easy to build a meal around small plates.
At The Black Olive, Greek-inspired mezzethes invite diners to slow down, sample a variety of dishes, and enjoy dinner together. If you're looking for the best seafood appetizers in Fells Point, these three favorites are an excellent place to start.
Grilled octopus stands out for anyone who enjoys seafood with a little character. Its firm, tender texture takes on a smoky flavor from the grill, while a simple marinade helps bring out its natural taste. It's a dish that feels special without needing a complicated presentation.
The Black Olive's grilled octopus salad combines marinated, grilled octopus with fresh red onions and capers. The onions add a sharp, fresh bite, while the capers contribute a salty, tangy note that balances the seafood.
This appetizer is a great choice if you want something lighter to begin your meal. Its bright flavors also make it a natural companion to other Greek small plates, particularly creamy spreads and warm bread.
Calamari is a familiar seafood favorite, but preparation makes all the difference. While breaded, fried rings are common, grilled calamari offers a different experience, with a tender texture and a more pronounced seafood flavor.
At The Black Olive, the stuffed calamari is filled with Manouri and feta cheeses before being carefully grilled. The cheeses bring a creamy, savory quality to the dish, complementing the calamari without overwhelming it.
Stuffed calamari works especially well as part of a shared spread because each bite feels substantial. Pair it with a fresh salad or a lighter seafood appetizer to create a pleasing mix of textures and flavors.
If you're dining with someone who enjoys trying traditional Mediterranean dishes, this is a particularly good one to order. It offers a taste of Greek cooking that feels both comforting and distinctive.
Sometimes, the simplest seafood dishes are the ones people remember most. Grilled shrimp deliver plenty of flavor without feeling too heavy, and their firm, juicy texture makes them easy to enjoy alongside other appetizers.
The Black Olive serves colossal marinated grilled wild shrimp. Our generous size makes them a satisfying addition to a shared meal, while grilling adds a subtle char that complements the shrimp's natural sweetness.
Shrimp are also an easy crowd-pleaser. If your table includes diners with different tastes, this dish offers a familiar option alongside the more distinctive flavors of octopus and stuffed calamari.
For a balanced seafood spread, order shrimp with a tangy salad or a few traditional Greek dips. The combination gives everyone something different to sample without making the meal feel overly rich.
Choosing three seafood appetizers gives your table a strong starting point, but a few thoughtful additions can turn those dishes into a more complete dining experience. Greek mezzethes are meant to be enjoyed together, so there's room to bring in contrasting flavors and textures.
Consider rounding out your order with these options:
You don't need to order everything at once. Start with two or three dishes, see what everyone enjoys, and add another plate if you're still hungry. That approach keeps the meal relaxed and gives each appetizer a chance to stand out.
Greek seafood cooking often relies on ingredients that complement the fish rather than hide its flavor. Olive oil, herbs, citrus, fresh vegetables, and careful grilling can create vibrant dishes without heavy sauces or elaborate prep.
That balance is part of what makes Mediterranean small plates so appealing. A bite of grilled octopus might bring smoky, briny notes, while stuffed calamari offers a creamy richness and shrimp provide a naturally sweet flavor.
Ordering several appetizers also lets you explore different preparations in one sitting. Instead of committing to a single entrée, you can discover new favorites and share the experience with friends or family.
The best seafood appetizers offer variety, fresh flavors, and a reason to order one more plate. Grilled octopus salad, cheese-stuffed calamari, and colossal shrimp each bring a different taste and texture, making them an excellent trio for your next meal in Fells Point.
Ready to explore Greek seafood for yourself? Visit The Black Olive to view our menu and plan your next dining experience. Our team looks forward to welcoming you and helping you discover the seafood dishes that make sharing a meal so enjoyable.
