Out on the Water and into your mouth.

Mahi "Special", Harvest at The Ranch, Laguna Beach

This  Mahi Sandwich brings together a medley of tastes and textures. The  flaky, grilled fish meets the crispy bun, and the fresh toppings and  zesty sauce create a symphony of flavors in each bite. Whether you  prefer a simple, classic approach or you want to experiment with  different toppings, a Mahi Sandwich is a tasty choice for seafood  enthusiasts and anyone seeking a delicious sandwich option. So, the next  time you get the chance, give it a try and enjoy this delectable  seafood treat!

Gustave Courbet, The Fishing Boat, 1865 

Oil in canvas | MMA 99.11.3

During  a remarkably productive sojourn in Trouville, spanning from September  to November 1865, Courbet crafted this masterpiece. In a letter to his  father, the artist proudly proclaimed his feat of creating "thirty-five  paintings" in an impressively short span, leaving everyone astonished.  While visiting Trouville with James McNeill Whistler, Courbet's choice  of subject aligned with the styles of Eugène Isabey, Johan Barthold  Jongkind, and Eugène Boudin. However, unlike many contemporary canvases,  this painting places the fishing boat, with its fully-rigged structure  and brimming equipment, at the very heart of the composition rather than  relegating it to a secondary position. It is noteworthy that in 1899,  this particular work gained the distinction of being the first Courbet  piece to find its way into the Museum's esteemed collection.

Salmon BLT, Hotel Indigo, DTLA

A Salmon BLT is a delightful twist on the classic BLT sandwich, where the  traditional bacon is replaced with succulent salmon fillets. This  variation combines the rich and flavorful taste of grilled or smoked  salmon with the beloved components of a BLT, resulting in a  mouthwatering and satisfying meal.

 Joachim Beuckelaer, Fish Market, 1568

Oil on Baltic oak |  MMA 2015.146

This  artful depiction of a fish market marks a groundbreaking shift in  portraying everyday life, pioneered by Joachim Beuckelaer and his mentor  and uncle, Pieter Aertsen, who resided and practiced their craft in  Antwerp. Created amidst a turbulent period of religious conflicts, which disrupted the art market and encouraged a transition from solely  religious subjects to more worldly themes, this painting celebrates the  thriving fish industry by showcasing its abundant offerings from the  sea. Beneath the surface, these images might carry a moral message,  cautioning against the indulgence in excessive food and sensual  pleasures.

Tuna Salad, Luau Larry's , Avalon, CA

Fresh tuna is known for its premium quality, firm, meaty texture, and rich,  flavorful taste. It is a versatile seafood option that can be prepared  in various ways, such as grilling, searing, baking, or even served raw  as sashimi or sushi. It is a popular choice for special occasions and  fine dining due to its delicious taste and health benefits. Fresh tuna  is a good source of high-quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins  (B12 and D), and minerals (selenium, magnesium, and potassium),  promoting heart health and supporting brain function. However, its  availability may be limited depending on your location and the season,  and it tends to be more expensive than canned tuna. Cooking fresh tuna  requires some attention to avoid overcooking and maintain its desired  characteristics.

Hendrick Sorgh, A Kitchen, 1643 

Oil on wood | MMA 89.15.7

Within  this artwork, Sorgh skillfully merges the realm of still life with a  domestic setting. In the foreground, two maids diligently tend to the  task of cleaning fish and peeling vegetables, enveloped by the luster of  brass and earthenware. However, upon closer inspection, hidden details  emerge, adding intrigue to the scene. A playful cat, an open birdcage,  and a subtle depiction of a couple engaged in affectionate gestures  linger in the shadows, evoking a sense of mischief. Even the seemingly  innocuous earthenware pots, to the discerning eyes of  seventeenth-century viewers, would have conveyed an underlying erotic  connotation, hinting at the nuanced symbolism present in the artwork.

Tuna Club, Sherman's Deli, Palm Springs, CA

Tuna  Club sandwiches from a deli are a delicious and satisfying option that  showcases the classic combination of tuna salad and a club sandwich.  Delis often offer their unique take on this sandwich, making it a  popular choice among patrons looking for a tasty lunch or a quick bite.  The combination of tender tuna, crispy lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and  sometimes bacon, all layered between toasted bread, creates a satisfying  and flavorful eating experience. Whether you dine in at the deli or  grab it to go, the Tuna Club sandwich is a favorite go-to option for  many sandwich enthusiasts.

Zhou Dongqing, The Pleasures of Fishes, 1291 

Handscroll; ink and color on paper |  MMA 47.18.10

Zhou  Dongqing, a close associate of Wen Tianxiang (1236–1283), the renowned  Song loyalist from Jiangsi Province, found his artistic inspiration in a  passage from the ancient Daoist classic Zhuangzi (circa fourth century  B.C.). The passage depicts Zhuangzi observing the joyful freedom of  minnows darting about in a river, prompting a philosophical exchange  with his companion, Huizi.

Intrigued by this profound encounter, Zhou Dongqing translated his contemplation onto paper, writing at the end of the painting:

"Without  being fish ourselves, how can we truly fathom their happiness? Yet,  through our art, we can express the depth of our emotions. In exploring  the subtleties of the ordinary, We dare to capture the ineffable."

Choosing  paper over silk as his canvas, Zhou deliberately employs muted colors  and delicate patterns of pale inkwash, evoking a sense of detachment and  introspection, a sentiment further emphasized by his inscription.  Hailing from Linjiang, in close proximity to the Daoist hub at Mount  Longhu (Dragon Tiger Mountain), Zhou's art likely bears the strong  influence of Daoist philosophies.

Cream Cheese and Lox, Benjies, Santa Ana, CA

Lox  is a popular delicacy made from cured salmon. To prepare lox at home,  start with a fresh salmon fillet, preferably wild-caught and skin-on.  Prepare a curing mixture by combining equal parts kosher salt and  granulated sugar, optionally adding black pepper or dill for extra  flavor. Remove any pin bones from the salmon fillet and lay it skin-side  down on a large piece of plastic wrap. Cover the salmon with the curing  mixture, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate for 24 to 48 hours to allow  the curing process. Afterward, rinse off the excess salt and sugar, pat  the lox dry, and thinly slice it for serving. Lox is commonly enjoyed on  bagels with cream cheese, capers, onions, and dill, making it a  delicious addition to breakfast or brunch.

Katsushika Hokusai, Kajikazawa in Kai Province, 1830–32 Woodblock print; ink/color on paper | MMA JP2581

Among  the series, this artwork stands out as one of the most cohesive and  aesthetically pleasing designs due to its clever repetition and  harmonious alignment of shapes and colors in both the foreground and  background. Notably, a captivating triangular formation emerges,  composed of the fishing lines, the fisherman's gracefully arched back,  and the jutting promontory from which he casts his line, all mirroring  the iconic shape of Mount Fuji on the distant horizon.

The  visual interplay between the human figure in the foreground and the  encompassing natural landscape in the background is intensified by  Hokusai's deft use of deep Berlin blue hues, adorning the fisherman's  jacket, the pinnacle of the shoreline in the immediate foreground, and  the majestic summit of Mount Fuji. Through this strategic coloration, a  seamless connection between man and nature is achieved, imparting a  profound sense of harmony.

Initially,  the print was executed using the indigo technique, leaving a lasting  impression with its striking simplicity. However, in subsequent  impressions, Hokusai expanded the color palette, adding depth and  dimension to the already captivating composition.

Ahi Sandwich, Lobster Trap, Avalon CA

Creating  a mouthwatering seared ahi sandwich is simple and delightful. Begin by  seasoning ahi tuna steaks with salt and pepper, optionally adding sesame  seeds for extra flavor and texture. Heat a skillet with oil over high  heat and sear the tuna steaks for 1-2 minutes per side, aiming for a  crusty exterior while keeping the interior tender and rare. Let the tuna  rest briefly, then assemble the sandwich with your choice of bread,  mixed greens, tomatoes, and optional toppings like red onions or avocado  slices. Drizzle on some sriracha mayo or your preferred condiments,  encase the seared ahi and veggies within the bread, and enjoy this  scrumptious creation with an optional side of chips or salad.

A  seared ahi sandwich offers a delectable way to savor the succulent  flavors of tuna in a portable and satisfying meal. Seasoned with salt  and pepper, and optionally coated with sesame seeds, the ahi tuna steaks  are seared to perfection in a hot, oiled skillet. Achieving a crispy  outer crust while retaining a tender, rare interior is the key to this  delightful sandwich. Once rested, the tuna is combined with mixed  greens, tomatoes, and other optional toppings like red onions or avocado  slices. Add a drizzle of sriracha mayo or your favorite condiments,  sandwich the seared ahi and veggies between slices of bread or buns, and  voilà! A delectable seared ahi sandwich awaits, perfect for a quick and  flavorful meal.

Paul Cézanne , The Fishermen (Fantastic Scene), 1875  Oil on canvas | MMA 2001.473

At  the 1877 Impressionist exhibition, the discerning critic Georges  Rivière was deeply impressed by this painting, describing it as  "strikingly majestic and extraordinarily calm." He suggested that the  scene seemed to unfold from Cézanne's recollections, as if he were  turning the pages of his own life.

The  artistry of this composition draws upon influences from paintings by  Manet and Monet during the 1860s, which depicted leisurely moments in  the great outdoors, with a fusion of fishermen and elegantly attired strollers gracing a sunlit shore. Cézanne's work echoes the spirit of  these earlier artists while also paying homage to the pastoral  masterpieces of Giorgione, Titian, and Veronese, whom he admired. This  amalgamation of inspirations results in a rich and harmonious visual  tapestry that captivates the viewer with its serene allure.

Tuna Melt, Sherman's, Palm Springs CA

Over  the years, Sherman's Deli has become a beloved institution in Palm  Springs. It is a go-to spot for both locals and tourists looking to  indulge in classic deli fare and experience a taste of traditional  Jewish cuisine.  While Sherman's Deli is primarily known for its classic  deli favorites, including pastrami, corned beef, and brisket  sandwiches, their tuna melt is also worth mentioning. Served on  perfectly toasted rye bread with a generous filling of creamy tuna salad  and melted cheese, the tuna melt at Sherman's is a delightful twist on  the traditional deli sandwich. It combines the comforting flavors of  tuna and cheese, making it a satisfying choice for those who crave a  warm and flavorful meal. So, if you're a fan of tuna melts or simply  looking to try something different at Sherman's Deli, their version is  sure to please your taste buds.

Christian Krohg, The Net Mender (Garnbinderen), 1879 Oil on canvas | MMA 2020.84.3

In  the summer of 1879, Krohg produced this captivating portrayal of a  working couple amidst the artistically influential Skagen village,  situated on the coast of Jutland in Denmark. The fisherman Niels  Christian Gaihede (1816–1890) and his wife, Ane Gaihede (1812–1904),  served as his models for this remarkable piece. In contrast to the  prevailing sentimentality often associated with peasant subjects in  Nordic art, Krohg chose to express a resolute objectivity, which struck contemporaries as somewhat unconventional and even faulted when the  artwork was exhibited in Oslo shortly after its completion.

Responding  to the critiques, Krohg later painted a more restrained version of the  same subject, which can be found in the National Museum, Oslo. His  dedication to portraying the working class and his commitment to an  unadorned and objective representation left a lasting impact, reflecting  the artist's distinctive artistic approach.

Tuna Melt, Beachcomber, Crystal Cove CA State Park

The Beachcomber Café: Nestled among the cottages, The Beachcomber Café is a  popular and iconic restaurant that offers a delightful dining  experience with panoramic ocean views. The café has a beachfront patio  where guests can savor delicious meals, like the Tuna Melt, while  enjoying the picturesque surroundings. It's a great spot for breakfast,  brunch, lunch, or dinner, and it's especially popular during sunset,  offering a romantic setting for couples.

Thomas Rowlandson, Anglers of 1811, 1811 

Hand-colored etching | MMA 59.533.1467

In the bow of a boat, a man and a woman are engaged in fishing,  accompanied by another couple in the stern. Standing at the center is a  younger man, beside whom a boy has taken a tumble, while two dogs also  share the boat. In the foreground, a duck takes flight, while on the  shore behind them, two men play musical instruments, a trumpet and French horn. On the left side, an inn comes into view, featuring figures  seated in a lookout constructed partway up a tree, with a grand dome  visible in the distance.

Tuna Melt, Sycamore Kitchen, Los Angeles, CA

A  pickle can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the tuna  melt, and its acidity can help cut through the cheese and mayo. It adds a  crunchy texture and an extra burst of flavor to the meal. If you're a  fan of pickles and enjoy the combination, then go ahead and serve it  with a pickle. On the other hand, if you or your guests are not fond of  pickles or have dietary restrictions, feel free to explore other sides  like chips, coleslaw, or a simple green salad. Ultimately, it's all  about creating a satisfying and enjoyable dining experience.

Georges Seurat, View of the Seine,  1882–83 

Oil on wood | MMA 59.16.5

In Georges Seurat's "View of the Seine," the artist captures the industrialized riverside with a serene, almost meditative tone. The composition balances smokestacks and barges with placid water and open sky, reflecting Seurat's interest in the contrast between man-made and natural elements.

This painting is a crucial early work, revealing the experiments with color, light, and structure that would later evolve into his signature Pointillist technique. While the brushwork remains relatively traditional, the piece clearly shows Seurat's emerging vision: one that was organized, contemplative, and deeply modern, finding a structured harmony in the everyday landscape of his time.