If I’ve said it ones, I’ve said it a thousand times. Dallas needs more seafood markets. Just because we are landlocked in the middle of Texas doesn’t mean we shouldn’t still get to enjoy the fresh variety of seafood being served up at the best restaurants in the country. Luckily, one seafood market is tackling that problem for us and getting the ball rolling on some delicious new trends.
Recently, I was invited in to sample the menu at the newest baby from Tracy Rathbun and Lynae Fearing, Lovers Seafood Market. The kitchen, helmed by Executive Chef Aaron Staudenmaier, is churning out some of the freshest fish I’ve had in a long time. The longtime Abacus chef has returned to Dallas after leaving in 2012 to lead the kitchen at Boot Ranch in Fredericksburg. Staudenmaier’s menu begins with an array of soups (gumbo, clam chowder), salads, and shareable starters like Thai-style mussels and clams, ahi tuna poke and Cajun fried oysters. Larger plates include fish and chips, a Cajun roasted half chicken and fish tacos, plus a delicious burger and sandwiches like the lobster roll, crispy hot chicken sliders and po’boys.
In addition to sit-down dining, the restaurant features a full bar and also a market, which will provide the freshest seafood and shellfish for customers to take home. One of my favorite things about Lovers Seafood is the six bar stools that line the fish case. With these stellar seats, you get to see Staudenmaier and his crew shuck, shell, crack and serve every piece of fish that gets order nightly. You also get a ton of seafood knowledge and know-how from the chef himself during dinner. Embrace the spontaneous dining option and opt for the chefs tasting. With all kinds of new seafood items flown in daily, you’re sure to get a taste of something you’ve never had before.
So what should you order? We loved on the Thai Style Mussels & Clams with Yellow Tomato, Ginger, Lemongrass, Garlic, Rice Cake. A New Orleans style Seafood Gumbo gets the bayou treatment and doesn’t disappoint with every spoonful. Three types of Lobser Roll adorn the menu (Connecticut, Maine and Dynamite style) but this boy loves his with Chilled Mayo, Tarragon, Scallions. Hungry yet? Save room for raw bar options like fresh oysters (served until gone) that flew out of the case and succulent king crab filling and scrumptious.
I couldn’t resist seeing what the dessert options were and boy was I happy I did. A Peanut Butter – Banana Pie dubbed “The Elvis was divine but Chocolate S’mores Pie with Shaved Chocolate, Sea Salt Caramel and Graham made a hard to say no to second place.
For a fresh take on fish (and so much more) head to Lovers Seafood & Market!
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