Ensley’s Seafood Express III stands as a beacon for seafood lovers craving authentic, fresh, and flavorful dishes. Nestled in the heart of the community, this beloved establishment has built a reputation by serving an extensive menu that caters to diverse tastes while maintaining a strong focus on quality and tradition.
Whether you are a local or a visitor, the menu here is designed to offer something for everyone, from classic fried favorites to healthier grilled options, all prepared with an expert touch that brings the ocean’s bounty to your plate.
The charm of Ensley’s Seafood Express III lies not just in its food but in its commitment to crafting meals that celebrate the rich heritage of Southern seafood cuisine. Each dish is thoughtfully curated, balancing bold flavors with fresh ingredients that highlight the natural essence of the seafood.
The welcoming atmosphere pairs perfectly with the menu’s offerings, encouraging guests to enjoy a relaxed dining experience where every bite tells a story.
Exploring the menu reveals a treasure trove of culinary delights, from succulent shrimp baskets to hearty crab cakes, all made with care and passion. The variety ensures that whether you prefer spicy, mild, or savory profiles, you’ll find dishes that excite your palate.
Beyond the main seafood plates, the sides, sauces, and specials add layers of taste and texture, rounding out a meal that satisfies both comfort and curiosity.
Signature Seafood Plates
The heart of Ensley’s Seafood Express III menu features signature seafood plates that showcase a variety of fresh catches prepared with a blend of traditional and innovative techniques. These plates are the perfect starting point for anyone eager to experience the core offerings of the restaurant.
Each plate is crafted to highlight the natural flavors of the seafood. Whether fried, grilled, or steamed, the dishes maintain a balance between seasoning and freshness.
Popular options include crispy fried catfish, tender grilled shrimp, and savory crab cakes. These plates often come with a choice of sides, allowing diners to customize their meals to their preferences.
The preparation techniques emphasize quality and consistency. For example, the fried items are battered with a special blend of spices that enhances the seafood without overpowering it.
Grilled options are marinated to perfection, ensuring a juicy and flavorful bite every time. This attention to detail is what makes these signature plates stand apart.
Popular Signature Plates
- Fried Catfish Plate: Coated in a seasoned cornmeal batter and fried to golden perfection, served with hush puppies and coleslaw.
- Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Marinated in a blend of herbs and spices then grilled, accompanied by seasoned rice and steamed vegetables.
- Crab Cake Dinner: Made with lump crab meat, lightly seasoned and pan-seared, served with remoulade sauce and a side salad.
“The signature plates at Ensley’s are a testament to the restaurant’s dedication to fresh, flavorful seafood prepared with an expert hand.”
Appetizers and Starters
Appetizers at Ensley’s Seafood Express III provide a flavorful introduction to the dining experience. These starters are designed to whet the appetite without overwhelming the palate, offering a range of textures and tastes that complement the main courses.
From crispy fried pickles to savory seafood bisques, the appetizer selection is diverse and thoughtfully developed. Many items feature locally sourced ingredients, contributing to the authenticity and freshness.
The portion sizes are ideal for sharing or for those seeking a light beginning to their meal.
These starters are also perfect for those who want to sample a variety of flavors. The menu encourages guests to mix and match, pairing items with house-made sauces that enhance the natural taste of the seafood.
Featured Starters
- Fried Calamari: Lightly breaded and fried to a crisp, served with a tangy marinara sauce.
- Seafood Bisque: A creamy, rich soup featuring shrimp and crab, seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices.
- Crab Claws: Steamed and served with a zesty cocktail sauce, perfect for sharing.
| Appetizer | Portion Size | Recommended Pairing |
| Fried Calamari | 8 oz | House-made Marinara |
| Seafood Bisque | Cup or Bowl | Crusty Bread |
| Crab Claws | 12 pieces | Cocktail Sauce |
Sandwiches and Po’ Boys
Sandwiches and po’ boys at Ensley’s Seafood Express III offer a satisfying and portable way to enjoy the restaurant’s seafood specialties. These handheld delights pack bold flavors into every bite and are a fantastic choice for those seeking a casual yet flavorful meal.
The menu features a variety of options, from classic fried shrimp po’ boys to innovative creations like blackened fish sandwiches. Each sandwich is made with freshly baked bread and topped with crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and signature sauces that elevate the taste.
These items are popular among regulars and newcomers alike, as they combine convenience with a genuine taste of Southern seafood culture. The po’ boys are particularly noteworthy for their balance of crunchy textures and tender seafood fillings.
Notable Sandwich Selections
- Classic Shrimp Po’ Boy: Fried shrimp served on a toasted hoagie roll with lettuce, tomato, and remoulade sauce.
- Blackened Catfish Sandwich: Spiced catfish fillet grilled and placed on a bun with avocado and Cajun mayo.
- Soft Shell Crab Sandwich: Fried soft shell crab with lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce, served on a brioche bun.
“The sandwiches at Ensley’s are a perfect marriage of authentic seafood and Southern sandwich tradition, creating a truly memorable meal.”
Sides and Accompaniments
The sides at Ensley’s Seafood Express III are crafted to complement the main dishes without overshadowing their flavors. These accompaniments provide texture, freshness, and balance, rounding out the dining experience.
Options range from classic Southern favorites like collard greens and hush puppies to lighter choices such as steamed veggies and seasoned rice. Each side is prepared with care, using fresh ingredients and traditional recipes that highlight the regional culinary heritage.
Many guests appreciate the variety of sides available, as they allow customization of the meal to suit individual tastes and dietary preferences. The portion sizes are generous, ensuring that every plate is both satisfying and well-rounded.
Popular Side Dishes
- Hush Puppies: Golden fried cornmeal balls, crispy on the outside and soft inside.
- Collard Greens: Slow-cooked with smoked turkey for a rich, savory flavor.
- Seasoned Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with herbs and spices, a perfect neutral base.
- Steamed Vegetables: Fresh seasonal vegetables lightly steamed to retain nutrients and crunch.
| Side | Calories (approx.) | Flavor Profile |
| Hush Puppies | 180 | Crispy, Slightly Sweet |
| Collard Greens | 90 | Smoky, Savory |
| Seasoned Rice | 140 | Herbaceous, Mild |
| Steamed Vegetables | 80 | Fresh, Light |
Sauces and Condiments
Sauces and condiments at Ensley’s Seafood Express III are carefully crafted to enhance the natural flavors of the seafood. Each sauce is made in-house using fresh ingredients, ensuring both quality and taste.
The menu offers a variety of options, from tangy remoulade to spicy Cajun aioli. These sauces can be paired with different dishes to create personalized flavor combinations.
They emphasize the balance between heat, acidity, and creaminess, contributing to a more dynamic eating experience.
Many diners find that experimenting with sauces adds a new dimension to their meals, transforming familiar dishes into exciting culinary adventures. The staff is always happy to recommend pairings based on individual preferences.
Signature Sauces
- Remoulade Sauce: A creamy, tangy blend with hints of mustard and herbs, perfect for fried seafood.
- Cajun Aioli: A spicy mayonnaise-based sauce with a smoky kick, great for grilled items.
- Tartar Sauce: Classic accompaniment made with pickles and capers, ideal for crab cakes and fish sandwiches.
“Sauces at Ensley’s are not just an add-on; they are an essential part of the flavor experience, crafted to bring out the best in every dish.”
Beverage Selection
The beverage menu at Ensley’s Seafood Express III is designed to complement the flavors of the seafood dishes while offering variety for all tastes. From refreshing soft drinks to carefully selected alcoholic beverages, there is something to suit every palate.
Non-alcoholic options include classic sodas, iced teas, and lemonades, all served chilled to provide a perfect counterbalance to the warm, savory seafood plates. For those interested in alcoholic beverages, the menu features a selection of beers and wines chosen for their ability to pair well with seafood.
The wine list emphasizes crisp whites and light reds that enhance the delicate flavors of fish and shellfish. Craft beers with citrus and herbal notes also make excellent companions to the rich and spicy dishes on the menu.
Popular Beverage Choices
- Iced Tea: Freshly brewed and served sweetened or unsweetened.
- Craft Beer: Local and regional varieties, selected for pairing with seafood.
- White Wine: Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc options that complement grilled and fried items.
- Lemonade: Made fresh daily with a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness.
| Beverage | Type | Pairing Notes |
| Iced Tea | Non-Alcoholic | Refreshing, balances spicy dishes |
| Craft Beer | Alcoholic | Citrus notes enhance fried seafood |
| White Wine | Alcoholic | Acidity cuts through rich flavors |
| Lemonade | Non-Alcoholic | Sweet and tart, cleanses palate |
Desserts and Sweet Endings
To conclude the meal, Ensley’s Seafood Express III offers a selection of desserts that provide a sweet finish without overwhelming the palate. These treats are carefully chosen to complement the savory and sometimes spicy flavors of the main courses.
Options include classic Southern desserts like bread pudding and pecan pie, as well as lighter choices such as fresh fruit parfaits. Each dessert is made with quality ingredients and traditional recipes, ensuring a satisfying conclusion to the dining experience.
The dessert menu is perfect for those who enjoy finishing their meal with something indulgent or for sharing among friends and family. The balance of textures and flavors creates a memorable end to a flavorful journey.
Popular Desserts
- Bread Pudding: Warm, spiced, and served with a rich caramel sauce.
- Pecan Pie: Classic Southern pie with a buttery, nutty filling.
- Fresh Fruit Parfait: Layers of seasonal fruit, yogurt, and granola for a light option.
“Desserts at Ensley’s provide the perfect sweet counterpoint to the bold, savory flavors that precede them, completing the meal with grace and warmth.”
Conclusion
Ensley’s Seafood Express III offers an exceptional menu that celebrates the richness and diversity of Southern seafood cuisine. Every dish is a thoughtful combination of fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and traditional preparation methods that honor the culinary heritage of the region.
Whether you are drawn to the signature seafood plates, the flavorful po’ boys, or the comforting sides, there is a clear dedication to quality and authenticity throughout the entire menu.
The variety and balance found in the selection ensure that all guests, from seasoned seafood enthusiasts to casual diners, can find something to delight their palate. The carefully crafted sauces, refreshing beverages, and indulgent desserts round out the experience, making each visit a memorable occasion.
Ensley’s commitment to excellence is evident not only in the food but in the thoughtful pairing of flavors and textures that invite exploration and enjoyment.
For anyone seeking a genuine taste of the sea infused with Southern charm and hospitality, Ensley’s Seafood Express III remains a top destination. Its menu stands as a testament to the power of well-prepared, fresh seafood to bring people together and create lasting culinary memories.
