Chef Oya's The Trap

Oh the world wide web, so full of wonder and other times, a drag. I’ll be the first to admit that I have mixed feelings on social media. Somedays I love it and how it connects us to others and other days, I hate it. Well as it relates to my connection with Oya (and others), I appreciate it.

Back when I was just starting out in the world of food blogging, I made time to build connections with others both in the Baltimore area and elsewhere. I wish I could remember where exactly I began my social media friendship with Oya and Candance (FoodLoveTog) but I do know we ended up Facebook official a few years. Yes, I consider my connections and friendships with other legit once we are Facebook official and not just following each other on other platforms.

Being able to discuss food and goals with two other black women from Indiana was a special time for me. Although, I am no longer in the blogging world from a food standpoint, doesn’t mean I haven’t been cheering Oya and Candace as they both tackled their dreams. Watching Oya grow her dream from scratch to the success that it is now has been a joy, even if it’s only been online. But that was soon to change.

I don’t travel back to Indiana often. I might fly out once a year if I’m lucky and that is usually with a trip to my hometown, Gary, my main focus. Last month, I flew into Indiana with both Indianapolis and Gary being on my list to visit. Yes, I was going to have fun and catch up with family and friends, but I also wanted to make the effort to meet an online friend in person and grab a bite to eat. Up until that point, I’ve only been able to try Oya’s Trap Buttah via the bottle that I ordered online (which was BOMB). So yes, I was more than looking forward to trying a full meal.

On a brisk Friday afternoon, I grabbed my keys and cousins and headed across town to Chef Oya’s The Trap. Usually when I’m visiting a restaurant, I have an idea of what I’m looking to order, this time I showed up with seafood on the brain and that was about it. I ended up ordering the Loaded Salmon with Shrimp Tray, banana pudding and a bottle of Londo’s Watermelon Lemonade. My cousins ended up getting Lobster Tail, Crab Legs and lord knows what else. We were a busy bunch that day, lol.

I enjoyed my meal and will have to say that I have one regret. My only regret from the trip to Indianapolis was that I didn’t stay longer and give more meals on the menu a try. However, planes exist and I have a number of reasons to go again in the near future. Chef’s Oya The Trap will stay a “must visit” place for me for a few reasons:

• The platters are loaded with the flavor you can taste and see! I love the fact that you can select your Trap Buttah flavor ( I went with OG Garlic) and Bae seasoning to match whatever you’re in the mood for.

• There is something on the menu for everyone at this seafood restaurant. From shrimp, salmon to crab legs, you can go with the tray of your choice or opt for the protein of your choice.

• Trap isn’t some catchy phrase, it stands for: Towards Restoring food Access to the People and they are committed to collaborating with others in the area and supporting the community.

So if you are a seafood fan that is in the area or out of state and want to give the products a try, Chef Oya’s The Trap is worth it!