Dallas, a city known for its vibrant culinary scene, might surprise you with its impressive selection of seafood restaurants. While landlocked, Dallas boasts a diverse range of establishments offering fresh catches, creative preparations, and a taste of the ocean's bounty. This comprehensive guide explores the top 22 seafood restaurants in Dallas, categorized for your convenience, ensuring you find the perfect spot for your next seafood craving.
Best Overall Seafood Restaurants in Dallas
These restaurants consistently receive high praise for their overall quality, menu variety, and ambiance.
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Ocean Prime: This upscale establishment offers a sophisticated atmosphere and a menu featuring high-quality seafood dishes, from classic preparations to innovative creations. Their commitment to fresh ingredients and impeccable service makes it a top choice for special occasions. Expect a price point to match the elegance.
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Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen: A popular chain, Pappadeaux maintains a high standard across its locations, including the Dallas outpost. They're known for their generous portions, classic Cajun and Creole influences, and lively atmosphere. Perfect for a casual yet satisfying seafood experience.
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TJ's Seafood: A local favorite, TJ's offers a more relaxed atmosphere with a focus on fresh, sustainably sourced seafood. Their menu features both familiar favorites and interesting seasonal specials, highlighting the best of what's available. A great option for those seeking quality without the high-end price tag.
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Lockhart Smokehouse: While primarily a barbecue joint, Lockhart Smokehouse's seafood offerings are surprisingly exceptional. Their smoked seafood dishes offer a unique twist on classic preparations, combining the best of both worlds. A must-try for adventurous palates.
Seafood Restaurants by Cuisine Type
For those seeking specific culinary experiences, these restaurants offer focused menus:
A. Cajun & Creole:
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The Cajun Sea Shack: A casual spot serving up flavorful Cajun and Creole classics. Expect gumbo, jambalaya, and other spicy seafood delights. Perfect for a fun, boisterous meal.
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Rapscallion: This restaurant blends Cajun flavors with a more refined dining experience.
B. Sushi & Japanese:
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Tei An: A renowned sushi restaurant offering an exquisite omakase experience. Expect top-tier ingredients and artful presentation.
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Midori: Midori is another great option for traditional sushi, but offers more variety in its menu and a more casual dining atmosphere than Tei An.
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Komodo: This restaurant combines Asian-inspired cuisine with a modern twist, offering a unique perspective on sushi and other seafood dishes.
C. Mediterranean/Greek:
- Zalat Pizza: Okay, this isn't strictly seafood but their amazing, fresh Mediterranean-inspired pizzas often feature seafood toppings, so it's worth a mention!
D. Upscale Dining:
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Bullion: This upscale steakhouse also features an impressive selection of high-end seafood dishes.
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Mirador: Located atop a high-rise building, Mirador offers stunning city views along with its upscale seafood menu.
Seafood Restaurants Based on Ambiance & Price
Here's a breakdown to help you choose based on your preferred atmosphere and budget:
A. Casual Dining:
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Joe T. Garcia's: While not exclusively seafood, Joe T. Garcia's offers incredible outdoor dining and excellent seafood options.
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Meso Maya Comida y Copas: Their ceviche and other seafood-focused appetizers are a must-try.
B. Fine Dining:
- Sassetta: A beautiful restaurant with a sophisticated ambiance, offering creative seafood dishes.
C. Budget-Friendly:
- Babe's Chicken Dinner House: This popular spot offers generous portions and affordable prices, including some unexpectedly good seafood options.
Seafood Restaurants with Unique Selling Points:
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The Rustic: A great option for a casual yet trendy atmosphere. Their seafood dishes are incorporated into their diverse menu.
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Knife: Knife features some excellent seafood options within their menu, blending them creatively with other cuisines.
Seafood Markets with Prepared Foods:
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Central Market: Offers fresh seafood and prepared seafood dishes for grab-and-go meals or to take home.
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Whole Foods Market: A similar option to Central Market with a wide selection of fresh seafood and prepared items.
Hidden Gems and Neighborhood Favorites:
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[Insert Local Dallas Seafood Gem Here - Requires Local Research] This section needs research into lesser-known Dallas seafood spots that deserve a shout-out.
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[Insert Another Local Dallas Seafood Gem Here - Requires Local Research] Again, research is key for uncovering authentic Dallas gems.
Conclusion:
Dallas offers a fantastic array of seafood restaurants, catering to every taste and budget. This list serves as a starting point for your culinary explorations. Remember to check menus and make reservations, especially for popular spots and during peak hours. Happy dining!
