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The best seafood in Dallas, according to our readers

Chargrilled large shrimp and fries

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By Stacy Rounds

January 13, 2025

Get ready to hook your claws into something delicious because Dallas’ food scene delights beyond brisket and Tex-Mex. From the freshest sushi that’ll make you swoon to oysters, fish tacos, and treasures from the Gulf, Big D has some seriously fin-tastic spots to grab some satisfying seafood. 

We’ve asked our readers to tell us which seafood spots are best of the best, and two restaurants have won their hearts over all the others. In fact, these two seafood restaurants tied for first place in our recent readers’ poll. So go ahead and skip lunch because you’ll need your appetite at full attention to indulge in the two best seafood restaurants in Dallas.

Uchiko, Plano

One of our reader’s’ favorites, Uchiko Plano stands out for its innovative sushi, sashimi, sizzling meats, and, of course, its popular seared seafood dishes. The key to fresh flavors at Uchiko Plano is its rotating menu with chef-selected ingredients — changing to reflect what’s fresh and in season so that diners can always eat the best quality foods. 

Uchiko Plano, which opened its doors on June 18, 2024, is the latest addition to the family of Japanese dining establishments founded by James Beard Award-winning chef Tyson Cole. The term “Uchiko” translates to “child of Uchi,” reflecting its origins as a spinoff of the original Uchi restaurant in Austin. While Uchiko shares the innovative spirit of its predecessor, it distinguishes itself by leaning into more smoky and charred flavors.

The culinary team at Uchiko Plano is led by Chef de Cuisine Steffen Perico, who brings a wealth of experience from his tenure at Uchi. He is joined by Head Sushi Chef Dale Park, Pastry Chef Ariana Quant, and Beverage Director Jason Komas. Chef Perico describes Uchiko’s approach as viewing technique through a “more rustic lens.”

The menu at Uchiko Plano features a variety of dishes that showcase a unique approach to Japanese flavors. Highlights include the Whole Branzino, and the 45-day dry-aged cowboy ribeye accompanied by yuzu kosho butter, sunomono, and Japanese sweet potato. Additionally, the restaurant offers a “For the Table” option, presenting family-style large-format platings designed for sharing.

Uchiko Plano is located at 7801 Windrose Ave. Suite H 150 in Plano, Texas, and operates Sunday through Saturday for dinner service. The restaurant also offers a daily happy hour for foodies on a budget. The beverage selection at Uchiko Plano is also pretty darn impressive. A well-thought-out list of sake, wines, and cocktails is available for special occasions, celebrations, or a quick indulgence.

Overall, Uchiko Plano offers a dining experience that’s different than anything else around Dallas. The quality of the food, the service, and the fine ambiance blend together to create something truly special.

Fish City Grill

Our readers’ other top choice, Fish City Grill is a go-to spot for those looking for a chill dining experience without compromising on the quality of the seafood. Families often choose this spot for its friendly vibe and reliable service.

Fish City Grill was founded by Bill Bayne in 1995. Bayne transformed his neighborhood coffee shop in Dallas’ Snider Plaza into an oyster bar, laying the foundation for what would eventually become Fish City Grill.

The restaurant’s mission is to serve great seafood and made-from-scratch recipes at affordable prices, creating an inclusive culture, and ensuring that everyone feels better about life after visiting.

The menu at Fish City Grill offers a variety of seafood dishes. Highlights include the Oyster Nachos, featuring fried oysters, chipotle tartar sauce, and fresh pico de gallo; the Shrimp & Crab Queso, a three-cheese sauce with sliced jalapeños served with tortilla chips; and the Blackened Rainbow Trout, accompanied by garlic wilted spinach and lemon basil rice. For those seeking comfort food, the Lobster & Shrimp Grilled Cheese combines cheddar, jack, American, and queso blanco cheeses with Applewood smoked bacon and sriracha on grilled sourdough.

Fish City Grill has multiple locations in the Dallas area and throughout the Lone Star State, including the Lake Highlands location at 7170 Skillman Street, Suite 100, Dallas, Texas 75231. This location operates from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and until 9:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.

The restaurant has been well-received by both critics and patrons, with particular praise for its fresh seafood, happy hour drinks, and fun vibes.

Overall, Fish City Grill offers a dining experience with “something for everyone” (save for those with severe seafood allergies, of course). With its focus on inclusion, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s a place where you can enjoy good food and good company. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual seafood lunch or a laid-back family dinner, Fish City Grill is Dallas’s number one (tied) choice for excellent seafood.

READ MORE: 12 DFW restaurant openings you may have missed in 2024

CATEGORIES: FOOD and DRINK

Author

  • Stacy Rounds

    Stacy Rounds is a writer and growth producer for Courier Texas. Prior to joining the team, Stacy has worked as a writer, editor, and engagement specialist covering topics ranging from local history, disability advocacy, recreation, and food hotspots to relationships and mental health.

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