‘Nuf said. Photo: Unsplash
Surfers, like any group of people who share a common way of life, get wrapped up in a neatly bundled stereotype. Hollywood did the honors of giving us an image that stuck: longhaired, sunkissed beat generation types who smoke pot and live on the edge of society, contributing little more than good looks and a communal style of living. The perennial surf bum, a flower of God’s psychedelic garden.
Stereotypes, like that one, work because they capture elements of truth.
Surfers are a tight knit clan. We occasionally skirt work obligations so we can chase a swell. And damn near everyone knows exactly when to say the dubbed line “reefers” in Sublime’s anthem Smoke Two Joints.
But we’re not all the same. Across the coasts we dress differently, we listen to different pre-surf music, and most notably, we crunch on different food after a surf. Every region has its favorites for a post-surf meal.
Here’s a look at the go-to surf meals in four standout regions of the United States. Locals and blow-ins… embrace the stereotypes and show some love for your local food flavors.
California Burrito
From the unschooled outside perspective, the California surf scene is all the same. Beautiful lighting, warm sand, and babes. Get to know its grooves better, and you’ll learn that Northern and Southern California have very different climates and cultures. But both sides of the divide agree on a post surf meal that’s classic California: the burrito. Or more specifically, the California burrito.
“A Cali burrito is the essential refuel,” says Joel, a Californian who has lived on both sides of Point Conception. “You got your standard burrito — asada, guac, sour cream, beans and rice or whatever. But they throw fries in ‘em. Enough calories to get you by til your next surf, if you mix a couple beers in.”
Florida Fish Fry and a Pie
I first discovered the concept of a hook n’ cook when I lived in Florida. You bring in your fresh catch, the chef preps it, fries it, and serves it with a side and a beer for 10 bucks. But if you’re busy frothing on the days when Florida offers beautiful, punchy swell, there’s plenty of options for a hungry surfer. Fried gator, crab, oysters, and fish are all staples.
“Whenever I go home, I can’t escape fried fish,” says Declan, a West Palm Beach native. And nor does he want to. “Whether it’s at home or out at a local joint, fried fish is a favorite post surf meal. It’s perfect, filling, and gives you enough calories and fuel to recover. God knows on those days that Florida is on, we’re out there all day. Throw in a piece of Key Lime pie, and you’ve got a genuine taste of the Sunshine State.”
Hawaiian Dealer’s Choice
Hawaii is known for a variety of foods that span the gamut from healthy to comfort. And they’re all delicious. There’s options for fresh, fruity meals like the acai bowl. And then there’s the hearty go-tos, like a plate lunch or spam musubi.
“You can’t go wrong with either,” says Mark, an Oahu resident. “The acai bowl has a ton of fresh fruit and natural sugars. It’s definitely the choice for a sweet tooth and you get that boost of energy. Produce punch to go before that second session.” But if you’re in the mood for something filling, the plate lunch is there too. “Garlic shrimp, rice, and mac salad for sure,” he says about a popular plate lunch. “Get a musubi or two on the side and you’ll be out like a light.”
When surfing in New York, do as the locals do. Photo: Unsplash
New York Slice
Surfers in New York City are unlike any other breed I’ve had the pleasure of meeting. These city cats make it work in one of the most expensive places on earth — and it’s a concrete jungle. NYC has drawn the likes of famous surf writers, like Bill Finnegan. It also raised its own shredders too, like my buddy Mike. A blue-collar hero who works as a firefighter by day, and has one of the best laybacks never seen in a surf mag by night.
“For any New Yorker, but especially the surfers, there’s no better meal than a New York slice (of pizza),” says Mike. “The cheaper, the better. Dollar slices are big, hot, and you can keep ‘em coming.”
In the Big Apple, ditch the fruit and go for a slice of pie.
