4015 Ruston Way, Tacoma, WA
253.759.2165
www.lobstershop.com
This was my second visit to The Lobster Shop. My first visit was for a birthday lunch for my grandmother. The restaurant was your typical steak and seafood menu and very overpriced for the quality presented. I’m glad to say that on this occasion, the menu has been revamped to suit modern tastes and international themes, while the prices have dropped to more reasonable rates.
The night started with the Sampler Platter, a combination of Dungeness Crab-Artichoke dip, Coconut Prawns, and Crispy Calamari Steak slices. The crab-artichoke dip was outstanding; a delicate mixture of Dungeness crab, asiago cheese, onions and artichoke hearts served with a side of thin slices of baguette bread. In comparison to similar dishes, the color was eye-pleasingly lighter and the flavor richer. The asiago cheese added a smoother taste to the dip without making it too cheesy. The Coconut Prawns were comprised of crusted Wild Gulf Shrimp, deep fried to perfection, and accompanied by an apricot-ginger sauce that was otherworldly. Some might find the combination too sweet; however, most restaurants would serve this item with a cocktail sauce that typically kills the flavor of the prawns. Lastly, the calamari steaks, which were cut into thick strips coated by rice flower and panko and flash fried to tenderness. It was served with a soy mustard aioli and a sweet Thai sauce, a delicious end to a perfect selection of appetizers. I preferred the soy mustard aioli, which added a tangy alternative in comparison to the sweet Thai sauces which I felt didn’t do the calamari justice.
Dinner consisted of the Salmon Linguine Alfredo, a dish comprised of fresh Pacific Salmon, tossed with fresh vegetables, linguine, and lightly dressed with a butter alfredo sauce. There wasn’t anything flashy about this dish. It is what you expect from an establishment of this caliber. However, my past experiences have been when served a pasta dish with any sort of fish, the chef seems to be a little frugal with the fish. Quite the opposite with this entrée, the plate was loaded with salmon. The portion presented to me was so large that I couldn’t finish it in one sitting.
I’m glad I returned to the Lobster Shop after a five year absence. The service is impeccable, the views are incredible, and the food is some of the best in the Seattle/Tacoma area. If you find yourself in Tacoma looking for a place to sit back, relax, and take your mind off your troubles, I recommend The Lobster Shop. Trust me….you won’t be disappointed.
by Andrew Cray
