OCEAN'S FINEST SEAFOOD & CRAB
How Truluck’s Brings the Ocean’s Finest Tuna to Your Table
At Truluck’s, we pride ourselves on sourcing and serving only the finest-quality seafood, and our tuna is a prime example of that commitment. Bringing exceptional, sushi-grade tuna to our guests requires an understanding and appreciation of the entire journey of the fish, from its ocean origins to the moment it reaches your plate.
Why Quality and Simplicity Are a Recipe for Tuna Perfection
“Great seafood starts long before it reaches the kitchen,” says Truluck’s Corporate Executive Chef Thomas Dritsas, and this is certainly true of fresh tuna.
“When the fish is harvested responsibly and handled with care from the moment it leaves the water, our job as chefs becomes very simple. Respect the product and let it shine.”
Quality tuna requires a deep respect for responsible fishing practices, careful grading, meticulous handling, and precise culinary execution. When every step is done properly, the result is something truly extraordinary: a fish with remarkable flavor, beautiful texture, and unmatched versatility in the kitchen.
Responsible Tuna Fishing and Sustainability
To continue serving great seafood, protecting the health of our ocean ecosystems is essential. Responsible harvesting practices ensure that tuna populations remain strong, while also maintaining exceptional quality.
Everyone must do their part, so at Truluck’s, we work exclusively with fishing partners who adhere to strict catch limits established by international and regional regulatory bodies.
Equally important is the use of specialized fishing equipment designed to minimize bycatch, which is the accidental capture of non-target species. Responsible fisheries also avoid harvesting in sensitive habitats or during key reproductive periods, allowing fish populations to regenerate naturally.
Many of the fisheries we partner with abide by sustainability standards established by respected organizations like the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) and the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC). These shared commitments allow Truluck’s to consistently source tuna that’s as sustainable as it is delicious.
How Fresh Tuna is Graded
Not all tuna is created equal. The industry generally recognizes four primary grades for fresh tuna: #1 (highest quality, sushi-grade), #2+, #2, and #3. The tuna grading system evaluates several critical characteristics that influence flavor, texture, and culinary performance.
Color – Color is one of the most immediate indicators of tuna quality and freshness. Premium, sashimi-grade tuna typically has a vibrant red flesh. Yellowfin tuna often presents a bright cherry-red tone, while bluefin tuna may feature a deeper, darker color due to its higher fat content.
Fat Content – Fat plays a major role in the flavor and mouthfeel of the tuna. Fish with higher fat levels, often visible as fine marbling, tend to be richer, more tender, and more desirable for culinary applications.
Structure – High-quality tuna should also have firm, dense flesh that holds together well during preparation and cooking. Larger fish often develop better fat content and muscle structure, contributing to better flavor and texture.
Handling Fresh Tuna Safely
Once the fresh tuna reaches Truluck’s restaurants, our culinary teams are proactive and obsessive about maintaining its quality. Fresh tuna should always be stored at 40°F or below, handled in accordance with best practices for food safety, and used as quickly as possible to preserve its flavor and texture.
Proper handling includes maintaining cold chain integrity, preventing cross contamination, carefully inspecting fish for freshness, and preparing it using clean knives and cutting surfaces.
The Best Way to Cook Fresh Tuna
Tuna is an incredibly versatile fish that can stand up to bold flavors, but perhaps the most celebrated way to enjoy it is to treat it simply and allow its natural qualities to take center stage. Many chefs prefer tuna raw or lightly seared, leaving the center rare to medium rare. We take this approach with Truluck’s signature Ahi Tuna Tartare and Sesame Seared Tuna, preserving the fish’s delicate texture, rich flavor, and remarkable freshness.
“Seafood rewards discipline,” says Truluck’s Director of Culinary Operations Chef Samir Canaan. “If you respect temperature, handling, and technique, the product will reward you every time.”
Tuna can also be grilled, broiled, or roasted, but chefs must take care not to overcook it. The goal is a warm red center that delivers the ideal balance of tenderness and flavor.
When finishing the dish, the same principle holds true: simplicity is key. A spritz of citrus brightens the fish beautifully, a splash of soy enhances its savory depth, and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil complements tuna’s natural richness.
As Chef Dritsas often says, “When the fish is this good, restraint becomes part of the craft. Our job isn’t to hide the flavor; it’s to highlight it.”
Truluck’s Signature Fresh Tuna Dishes
Two of our most beloved dishes showcase tuna in distinct and delicious ways, each taking a simple approach that lets the fish speak for itself. Ahi Tuna Tartare is a celebration of the clean flavor and velvety texture of raw tuna, while the light sear on our Sesame Seared Tuna enhances its rich, buttery character.
Both iconic in their own right, these two tuna preparations are core to the Truluck’s experience and remain favorites among guests across the country.
Experience the Thrill of Fresh Tuna at Truluck’s
By approaching every phase of the journey from ocean to plate with responsibility, respect, and the utmost care, Truluck’s continues to showcase fresh tuna at its very best.
Join us to indulge in classic seafood dishes like our Ahi Tuna Tartare or Sesame Seared Tuna and experience the finest fresh tuna for yourself.
Fresh Tuna FAQ
What are the grades of fresh tuna?
Fresh tuna is graded on a scale of #1 (highest quality) through #3, based on color, fat content, texture, size, and overall appearance. #1 grade tuna, sometimes called sushi grade or sashimi grade, features vibrant red flesh, high fat marbling, and firm texture — making it ideal for raw preparations like tartare and sashimi. At Truluck’s, our buyers select only #1 grade tuna for our restaurants.
How should I handle fresh tuna at home?
Purchase fresh tuna from a trusted fishmonger, store it at or below 40°F (4°C), and use it within 1–2 days. Always wash hands before and after handling, use separate cutting boards for raw seafood, and inspect the fish for off odors or discoloration before cooking. For the best results, consume tuna as close to its catch date as possible.
What is the best way to cook fresh tuna?
The purest approach is to enjoy high-quality tuna raw or seared briefly — aim for rare to medium rare with a warm red center. Grilling, broiling, and roasting also work well; just be careful not to overcook. Finish simply with a spritz of citrus, a splash of soy, or a drizzle of good olive oil to complement the natural flavor of the fish.
What tuna dishes does Truluck’s serve?
Truluck’s features two iconic tuna preparations: Ahi Tuna Tartare and Sesame Seared Tuna. Both showcase #1 grade fresh tuna sourced through long-standing partnerships with sustainable fisheries. These dishes have been mainstays on the Truluck’s menu and are beloved by generations of guests.
Does Truluck’s source its tuna sustainably?
Yes. Truluck’s partners with fisheries that adhere to catch limits set by regulatory bodies, use specialized gear to reduce bycatch, and hold certifications from organizations like the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) and Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC). Responsible sourcing is central to Truluck’s Ocean’s Finest philosophy.