“Release the Craycken,” the name of a small seafood restaurant that opened Feb. 6 at 4231-R Markham Street in Annandale, reflects the two main items on the menu: crayfish and chicken.
It also alludes to the legendary sea monster known as the kraken, notes owner Juong Choi. The quote “Release the Kraken!” that became a popular meme is from the 1981 film, “Clash of the Titans.”
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| Juong Choi (left). |
The restaurant, located in a space in Seoul Plaza formerly occupied by a Honey Pig offshoot, also offers shrimp, lobster, blue crab, snow crab, burgers, fries, tater tots, and hush puppies. The seafood can be ordered boiled or fried. Chicken options include wings and fried chicken legs.
The owner, Juong Choi, who is also the property manager at Seoul Plaza, plans to add more menu items, such as mussels, clams, and salads. He’s also waiting for an ABC license before he opens a bar on the upper level. Currently, only the ground-floor level is open.
Choi decided to focus on seafood because he felt it was something missing in Annandale. “When I’m in Annandale and want something other than Korean or Latino food, there’s not much else here other than Silverado,” he said. “We don’t need any more Korean places.”
Release the Craycken is open 11 a.m.-3 p.m. daily.
Release the Craycken is open 11 a.m.-3 p.m. daily.