Xihns Seafood and Oyster House

Kath: There is a true Jem buried in the heart of downtown Shelton: Xihns seafood and Oyster House.

 Many of us don't think of Shelton as a city to dine out in, but Xinh's was a plesent surprise! 

Xihn comes to us from Vietnam, bringing her unusual and delightful culinary skills.  Xinh’s food is neither Vietnamese nor American, but rather cooking from the heart as she expresses the flavor memories of her homeland with the shellfish grown in nearby waters. Imbued with her special warmth and wit, Xinh’s food is known to her many loyal fans, simply and uniquely, as “Xinh’s food”. Some call it “Xinhful”. Xinh has indeed found her natural talent… making people happy with her food. If you haven’t tried Xinh’s Clam & Oyster House yet, you are in for a treat.

The atmosphere is unpretentious but the food is magnificent. Deserving of the label "fine dining", but presented in a casual setting. It is not unusual to find the chef chatting it up with the diners and often there are gales of laughter permeating the room, along with the delightful aromas coming form the kitchen.

 Kath had The Maila Clams with Black Bean and Hoisin Sauce. Fresh manila clams sauteed with garlic, lemon grass, celery, green onion in a black bean hoisin sauce served with jasmine rice. I pretty much skipped the rice, and sopped up the sauce with the lovely fresh bread that is served with every meal. Yum.

Liz had Black Tiger Prawns with Curry Sauce. Prawns sauteed in a Vietnamese style curry, flavored with coconut milk, lemongrass, cayenne pepper, ground peanuts and seafood sauce, served with jasmine rice.  That Curry was amazing! Liz shared with me. I almost always have the clams when I eat here, but this made me think I should be more adventurous. Succulent.  There is no other word for it.

This is actually one of my favorite places to eat...but don't tell too many people, its already very busy!!! I do recommend calling ahead, its sometimes very full.

Cost of dinner: about $30.00 each, including salad,beverages, and gratuity. (I didn't keep the slip.)

Xihns Oyster and Seafood House

221 W Railroad Ave ste D

Shelton Wa 98584

(360) 427 8709

www.xihnsrestaurant.com