There’s something undeniably indulgent about seafood, and dining at The Oceanaire Seafood Room in Dallas, Texas, only deepened my love for it.
A Warm Welcome and Jazzy Ambiance
My husband and I had reservations for two at this yacht-themed haven. The ambiance was set from the moment we pulled up, with $10 flat rate valet parking, a welcoming coat room, and sharply dressed hosts who greeted us with genuine warmth.
Inside, a smooth jazz soundtrack played softly, allowing for relaxed conversation. Our waiter was attentive and impressively knowledgeable about the Chef’s specials, making the evening feel even more personal.
Starting with Savory Surprises
We began our meal with Crispy Fried Maine Lobster Cakes, accompanied by a tangy Green Goddess dressing and herb salad. The flavors were so unexpectedly delightful that I’m tempted to recreate them at home.
When our waiter suggested the Caprese Salad, emphasizing the exceptional quality of the tomatoes that evening, we couldn’t resist. The salad featured an intriguing green tomato—a first for me. Firm and juicy, it paired beautifully with burrata cheese and balsamic vinaigrette, creating a dish that was simply divine.
Local Ingredients and Aquaponic Farming
The Oceanaire prides itself on using locally sourced ingredients, and many of their dishes feature produce from My Epicurean Farms in Slidell, Texas, just an hour north of my home. The farm specializes in aquaponics—a method combining fish farming and soil-less plant cultivation. The founder, Yseut Berlingeri-Stambaugh, has an impressive background, including a partnership with the renowned Chef Panisse in California. It’s fascinating to discover the stories and science behind what’s on your plate, and these green tomatoes were a revelation.
Savoring the Main Course
For the main course, we shared the Seared Costa Rica Swordfish, which was beautifully presented with a blackberry champagne reduction and sage-roasted sweet potatoes. The vibrant colors and savory flavors made it a standout dish.
We also savored the 6 oz center-cut filet mignon, tender and full of flavor, paired with a 5 oz Maine lobster tail that was irresistible when dipped in garlic butter. The bed of spinach it rested on absorbed the juices, enhancing every bite.
Delicious Sides and Surprising Brussels Sprouts
Our sides included Truffle Whipped Potatoes, where the truffle added a rich, woody aroma, and bacon-braised Brussels sprouts with parmesan cheese. The latter was a revelation—chopped and mixed with bacon, it was the best Brussels sprouts dish I’ve ever tasted.
A Fiery Finale with Baked Alaska
To end the meal on a high note, we indulged in Baked Alaska, a dessert that’s both a feast for the eyes and the palate. The meringue, flamed to a dusky gold, encased smooth ice cream atop a delicate sponge cake. The dramatic presentation, with whisky and syrup flambéed at the table, made it a perfect finale.
Cocktails at The Parliament: A Hidden Gem in Uptown Dallas
After our meal, we headed to Uptown Dallas and strolled over to The Parliament. This hidden gem is a swanky cocktail lounge with an unmarked entrance that you could easily miss. Inside, we were greeted by staff and seated in a cozy booth. The well-dressed bartenders in fedora hats and the stylish décor, featuring silk-like red brocade wallpaper, stamped-tin ceilings, and swan-shaped doorknobs, transported us to the roaring 20s.
Experiencing Handcrafted Cocktails
Our waitress handed us a menu—a binder, really—filled with a rich history of cocktails and a wide variety of drinks from around the world. While the extensive selection could be overwhelming, it’s a must-read for cocktail enthusiasts.
Each drink was thoughtfully crafted, not just a simple mix of alcohol. We tried The Smoking Gun, a bourbon-based cocktail with smoked cherries, and The Painkiller, a tropical rum drink reminiscent of a piña colada, garnished with mint leaves and orange slices. Despite the richness of the flavors, the drinks were smooth and easy to enjoy, without leaving us feeling overindulged.
A Stormy Happy Hour Surprise
As we soaked in the ambiance, the rain began to pour outside, prompting cheers from the bar staff. The sudden downpour triggered a spontaneous happy hour—a quirky tradition at The Parliament. Despite the late hour, the rain brought an unexpected, festive twist to our evening.
The Oceanaire Seafood Room located at 13340 Dallas Pkwy, Dallas, TX 75240.
The Parliament located at 2418 Allen St, Dallas, TX 75204.
