The Merroir Journal: Seafood, Science, and Stewardship with the Orca Network
Download the complete Merroir Journal here
At Tagal Oceanic, we believe that seafood is more than just a meal. It is a story of place, ecology, and connection. On Saturday, October 17, 2026, we are bringing that concept to life at a private fundraising dinner supporting the Orca Network, held at the waterfront home of a generous network member who volunteered their home for the evening.
Chef Mark Tagal, marine biologist and owner of Tagal Oceanic, will guide guests through a curated culinary journey exploring "merroir", the marine counterpart to wine’s terroir. Just as soil and climate shape a fine wine's character, water temperature, salinity, currents, and local plankton shape the distinct flavor profiles, textures, and qualities of local shellfish and seafood.
What’s Inside the Merroir Journal
To accompany the meal, each guest will receive a copy of our event booklet, the Merroir Journal. The journal bridges the gap between what is on the plate and the ecosystems that sustain it:
The Merroir Wheel & Marine Food Webs: Explaining how algae and forage fish, like Surf Smelt, cycle energy through the ecosystem all the way to Southern Resident orcas.
Feature Recipes & Local Sourcing: Showcasing dishes developed for the event, including Spot Prawns, Mussels Marinère featuring Penn Cove mussels, Sea Grape Salad, Lumpia Kanpachi, and Ginger Miso Sablefish.
Aquaculture Literacy & Stewardship: Highlighting how understanding where our seafood comes from enhances our dining experience and fosters deeper marine conservation.
Supporting the Salish Sea
Beyond the kitchen, the event highlights the Orca Network's vital conservation efforts. From their community-driven Sighting Network to public education and habitat advocacy, their work helps track whale movements, alert maritime traffic, and protect endangered marine life across the Pacific Northwest.
By bringing science, aquaculture, and culinary arts together around one table, we hope to inspire greater curiosity and lasting care for our shared waters.
If you have a group, club, school, or just a few friends, contact us at Tagal Oceanic for personalized programs, including our beloved Merroir talks! It has to be the seafood!
