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Dallas might be known for its barbecue and Tex-Mex, but it also holds its own when it comes to Cajun food. With influences from Louisiana’s rich culinary traditions, these restaurants bring the bold flavors of the bayou to the Big D. From crawfish boils to Gulf oysters, étouffée to po’boys, these spots deliver authentic Cajun flavors with a Texas kick.
Our food-loving local readers voted in a recent poll, and here are the top four places they recommend to enjoy excellent Cajun food in Dallas.
4. Shell Shack
Shell Shack specializes in seafood boils, making it a go-to spot for those who love messy, shell-snapping hands-on dining. You can choose from a variety of fresh seafood options served up Cajun-style, making it a popular choice for families or a gathering of good friends.
Shell Shack opened its doors in 2013, and has become a go-to dining destination in Dallas, Texas. The menu at Shell Shack features a variety of seafood options, with custom seafood boils taking center stage. Folks can enjoy shrimp and snow crab, prepared with the restaurant’s signature seasonings. Other popular starters include Crab Stuffed Tater Tots, Alligator Tendies, and Crazy Crab Nachos.
Shell Shack’s Dallas location is situated at 2326 N. Henderson Ave., operating daily from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m., so diners can enjoy a fantastic seafood boil for lunch, dinner, or late-night dining.
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3. S & D Oyster Company
For over 40 years, S & D Oyster Company has been serving fresh seafood to the 214. This Dallas institution prides itself on simplicity, focusing on high-quality shellfish and Louisiana flavors.
S&D Oyster Company has been a Dallas institution since 1976. This sweet spot was founded by Herb and Mary Kay Story. After Herb’s six-year tenure as a Navy fighter pilot stationed on the Gulf Coast, the couple returned to Dallas, longing for the fresh seafood they had enjoyed during their time on the coast. Unable to find a local source, they decided to open their own seafood restaurant, importing treasured family recipes and culinary know-how from the best Louisiana cooks to Dallas.
Head Chef Santos Vasquez has been with the restaurant for its entire 47-year history, alongside his sous chef, Fortino Calzada. Night Chef Luis Rios joined the team 37 years ago, contributing his passion and commitment to excellence.
The menu at S&D Oyster Company offers a variety of Gulf Coast seafood favorites. Fresh Gulf oysters, both raw and grilled, are guest favorites, praised for their freshness and flavor. Other popular dishes include fried shrimp, seafood gumbo, and their famous oyster loaf.
The restaurant’s commitment to authentic Southern hospitality and a New Orleans-style ambiance enhances the dining experience. Here, you’re transported to New Orleans in Dallas without the long drive or insufferable airport lines.
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2. Aw Shucks
Aw Shucks is a laid-back seafood joint that’s been serving Dallas for decades. Known for its friendly staff and affordable fare, this spot is perfect for those looking to enjoy classic Cajun dishes without any pretense.
Aw Shucks, established in 1983 by the Peterson family, has been a cornerstone of Dallas’s seafood scene since its inception. The restaurant became the first “beachfront seafood shack” in the city.
Fans of Aw Shucks enjoy a variety of favorites including raw oysters from the Gulf of Mexico, shrimp cocktails, and ceviche. Fried selections such as catfish fillets, fried shrimp, and coconut shrimp are popular as well. For those seeking grilled options, dishes like blackened catfish and grilled salmon will certainly hit the spot. Seasonal offerings, including crawfish, can be found from time to time. And if you’re planning on bringing a friend who *gasp* hates seafood, Aw Shucks has some delicious chicken that can be enjoyed with fries and hush puppies.
If you haven’t tried their signature dish, you’re sadly missing out. Shucks’ Crawfish Étouffée is a rich, flavorful masterpiece made with tender crawfish tails simmered in a thick roux-based sauce, seasoned with onions, peppers, and spices. It’s served over a bed of fluffy white rice. This meal is guaranteed to satisfy your tummy and your soul.
Aw Shucks has expanded to multiple locations across the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, including Big Shucks on Mockingbird Lane and in Richardson, as well as Aw Shucks in Lewisville and Frisco. Each location maintains the original vibe, so you’ll know what to expect.
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1. Nate’s Seafood & Steakhouse
Taking the top spot on our list is Nate’s Seafood & Steakhouse, a family-owned restaurant that’s been serving up Cajun and Creole classics for over 30 years. Nate’s is a must-visit for anyone craving the bold flavors of Louisiana — without the travel.
Nate’s Seafood & Steakhouse, a family-owned venture in Addison, has been serving the Dallas Metroplex since its opening in 1988. Founded by Nathan Peck, a native of Lafayette, Louisiana, the restaurant brings authentic Gulf Coast flavors to the area. Before starting his own venture, Nathan honed his culinary skills in Houston at renowned establishments such as Landry’s Seafood, Willie G’s, and the Magnolia Bar and Grill.
The menu at Nate’s Seafood & Steakhouse features a variety of seafood and steaks. Popular dishes include their unbeatable red beans and rice, delicious snow crab, fried shrimp, chargrilled oysters, stuffed shrimp, crab meat etouffee, fried oysters, crab cakes, and oysters on the half shell. But the best dish, according to locals, is the Crawfish.
Nate’s Crawfish Boil is legendary. When crawfish is in season, the restaurant serves up pounds of these spicy crustaceans boiled with corn, potatoes, and sausage. The crawfish are coated in Nate’s signature seasoning blend (don’t ask — it’s a secret), delivering a satisfying kick that keeps Dallas diners coming back for more.
Nate’s is also known for its live blues music, hosting performances every Thursday night for over 20 years, with the downbeat at 8:00 p.m. Additionally, the restaurant offers a Sunday Blues Happening from 7:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., featuring Jackie Don Loe. Musicians interested in participating are encouraged to bring their instruments and speak with Jackie Don Loe in person.
Nate’s Seafood & Steakhouse offers an authentic Cajun experience that’s impossible to beat. Its commitment to traditional bayou recipes and the beachy atmosphere has made it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.