Walking into the restaurant, it was completely empty. Just a couple parties entered after me. Upon completing my Sample the Sea with fried grouper, blackened shrimp, and a crab cake with fried okra and collard greens, I thought it was a crime that this place wasn't packed.

Though it was understandable as the price point was quite high for a fast casual establishment. But value is not found in only single digit prices. With quality and quantity, you really get a bang for your buck with the average price of $15.

My meal was $33 since I decided to have the sampler. The crab cake was delicate. The shrimp was busting with flavor. And the fish, a generous helping of fish for a sampler might I add, was fresh and perfectly friend and seasoned. The fried okra was just what I asked for. The collard greens were good as well, though I could have done with less meat and salt personally. I'm a fan of the bitter bite of collard greens.

I asked a couple other patrons who I noticed got just the fish and chips. The fish was twice as large as mine! If you can afford it, you cannot be disappointed by Half Moon Seafood Company.

The staff were also very kind and attentive for a restaurant that is not modeled to have a direct wait staff. They regularly checked on my enjoyment of the food and were quick to respond to an issue with the soda fountain. Sweet tea was a fine substitute for my initial choice of root beer, so no complaints there.

My only negative judgement might be that the lunch specials don't seem to be very special and aren't worth mentioning. It looks like they're just the same menu items with the same price. Though I could be wrong, it seems unnecessary and could be done without.

Half Moon Seafood Company is almost a secret I don't want to share so I'd never have to wait in line to dig into more great seafood. But alas, I must ask that you give them a try because not a lot of restaurants in Tampa are worth a damn. And Half Moon is worth at least a whole damn.