Fish by José Andrés at the MGM National Harbor is a festive, fun place of “luxurious informality.” With floor-to-ceiling windows, hanging fishnets, unique nautical art, and a great underwater mural, this open, inviting space feels like a fascinating seascape in its impressive location overlooking the Potomac toward Alexandria. The modern, minimalistic bar is a natural, welcoming gathering place in keeping with the friendly nature of award-winning chef José Andrés.
José Andrés originally hails from Spain, but the concept here is American fish and seafood. “We love shellfish in Spain,” notes José Andrés, as Spain is known for seafood rice dishes such as paella. One of the noteworthy selections on the menu here is the New Orleans-style jambalaya. Here we “apply the same love and technique” as we do in Spain. These time-tested methods continue to hold true.
Here there is an emphasis on local purveyors – farmers, cheese producers, and of course, fishermen. José Andrés has a respect for the true flavors inherent in the cuisine. “We boil crabs in Spain. Here they are steamed.” This reveals the true flavor of the crabs.” In the summer months, guests may enjoy authentic Maryland steamed crabs out on the patio.
Having lived in the DC area for 25 years and currently living in Maryland, José Andrés has a sincere appreciation for the Eastern Shore and Chesapeake Bay, as well as the countryside of Virginia, with its many inns and wineries. We have come to enjoy discovering culinary secrets along with José Andrés over the years, as he has shared much with us with his many local restaurants. He really knows how to explore the culinary diversity of a region and celebrate its distinctive offerings. And fortunately for us, he takes us along for the journey, especially as he once did in his delightful public television series Made in Spain.
In this next venture, José Andrés focuses on American fish and seafood, performing his culinary magic this time right over the bridge in Maryland, where the Potomac flows to the Chesapeake Bay and out to the deep blue Atlantic. “We share the same ocean in so many amazing ways.” Thank you, José Andrés, for sharing your magnificent vision with us.
Fish by José Andrés
MGM National Harbor | 301.971.6050
7100 Oxon Hill Rd., Oxon Hill, MD 20745
