a DIAMOND in the WHARF

Ok, so how about some laid back non-bourgeoisie dining? I can use a bit of that being that I come from the laid back/Mom and Pop’s restaurant business.

Just when I thought seafood couldn’t get better than seafood with my Dad during his time on Earth. Well, I may have stumbled across something fairly close. This place is special, a true diamond in the (whar)rough - Cameron’s Seafood Market.

Finding Cameron’s Seafood Market was by pure chance and it surprised me because I consider the DC Metro area my second home and for the most part I know where to find some good eats. So, I was driving on Route 5, headed to Scotland, MD, where I was partaking in a two-week Arts Residency. Suddenly my coworker and I had a taste for food. “Something less fattening and non-fried,” my fellow coworker said. Now, on Route 5, you have many fast food options such as Wendy’s, McDonalds, Bojangles, etc. Not an option for us. Then as we passed Iverson Mall, we spotted seafood…Cameron’s Seafood!

Pulling into the driveway, my taste buds began to do fan kicks and flips. I was an instant ball of excitement and just knew we struck it big (ok my excitement - word to the wise - maybe it’s my southern superstitions but whenever you see a pick up truck parked next to a seafood market, and it’s owned by the market, chances are they get fresh catch from the fisherman’s wharf on a daily basis - so you’re in for an appetizing meal!).

Cameron’s hit the spot! My coworker and I shared the stuff salmon platter, which is 2 salmon steaks stuffed with crabmeat, and the broiled scallop dinner. Now the packaging wasn’t fancy, Styrofoam plates and plastic ware, but it was not about the look…it was all about the food! Oh and did I mention the stuffed salmon platter was only $10.99!!! We chose to continue this laid back journey by chowing down inside the car. With our bellies full and a slight need for a nap, we continued our journey to Scotland, MD. After a meal like that, I hope I prayed I had energy to teach.

If you’re looking for some real seafood from the neighborhood…make sure you find a Cameron’s Seafood Market near you. Do a google or yahoo search. There are tons in the D.C., Maryland, and Philadelphia area.

Cameron’s Seafood Market

3919 Branch Avenue

Temple Hills, MD 20748

301.316.2000