When asking yourself about something to do near me in Dallas with a group of friends or family, consider
Flying Fish
Why Flying Fish is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Flying Fish stands out as a vibrant dining destination that brings friends and family together with its focus on fresh seafood and a welcoming atmosphere. Known for its extensive seafood menu, the restaurant offers a range of dishes from catfish tacos and tilapia to exquisite crabcakes and wild Gulf shrimp. Its inviting fast-casual format welcomes guests of all ages, making it an ideal meeting place for casual meals or special occasions. Ambience complements the culinary experience, featuring a setting that is both comfortable and thoughtfully themed, enhancing the overall dining pleasure. Highlights include their exceptional hush puppies, a variety of seafood prepared with care, and unique drinks like cucumber spritzers that elevate the experience. Whether you’re crossing the lake to dine at the Boardwalk location or visiting one of their other outlets, Flying Fish offers a chance to indulge in high-quality fish dishes with friendly, attentive service, making it a memorable place to connect with loved ones.
Here's what people think of Flying Fish
As of recent, Flying Fish holds a 4.4-star rating based on 1190 reviews.
Reviews of Flying Fish reflect an overall positive experience with a distinct appreciation for its fresh seafood and inviting atmosphere. Positive reviewers frequently mention the excellent quality and preparation of fish, praising dishes like the crabcakes, shrimp, and catfish fillets, alongside commendations for the flavorful sides and creative drink options. The service often earns praise for being professional, friendly, and attentive, contributing to many memorable dining moments including special celebrations. The unique ambience and thoughtful theming, such as the adjacent AbracadaBar, also enhance the guest experience significantly. On the other hand, some negative reviews point out inconsistencies in service and concerns about value, particularly regarding portion sizes and pricing compared to quality. A few guests also noted that bread service and certain dishes did not meet their expectations, and some found the experience less special compared to other local favorites. Despite these critiques, the general consensus underscores Flying Fish as a reliable go-to for good seafood and a fun, social setting. The balance of accolades and constructive feedback suggests that Flying Fish remains a preferred spot for many, especially those seeking a fresh seafood meal with a vibrant meeting place atmosphere.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Kyle Filiatreault
If you’re a fan of Billy the Bass, seafood, fried food, and a fun atmosphere, this is your spot! I had a Shrimp Poboy and Alligator Bites. My my my… DELICIOUS! Our group had a slew of different dishes and they were just as in love as I was. Guys, don’t miss out on this one!
Ashly Westbrook
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 So Fun and So Yummy! 🐟🍤🍟 We LOVE Flying Fish! The fish on the walls make it such a fun place to eat — you can’t help but smile when you walk in! 🎣 The catfish is crispy and delicious, the French fries and hush puppies are the perfect sides, and we especially love making our own cocktail sauce just the way we like it! 😋🔥 It’s always a good time and good food at Flying Fish. We can’t wait to come back! 🐠🍽️❤️
Melinda Dague
I ordered the Trout Almondine with grilled vegetables and red beans and rice. I added pico de gallo and tartar sauce. I filled an insulated to go cup with Sprite from the soda fountain. I just had a total knee replacement surgery two months ago and was about to go back to the hospital the next morning for a knee manipulation under anesthesia procedure. I wanted a light meal and this meal didn't disappoint! One of the employees opened the door for me when they saw that I was using a cane for support. Once the meal was ready to pickup at the front, I asked the cashier if he could bring the tray to my table. He was friendly and helpful. Everyone was very hospitable at this location including other customers. I enjoyed eating my dinner and then left. I had intended to have leftovers for the next day, but I ended up eating almost everything on my plate. It was a good choice for a pre surgery meal.
M B
Everywhere you go, prices keep rising while quality goes down. I recently ordered the Snapper Veracruz, and what I received was completely disappointing. The first picture shows what I actually got—a soggy, over-fried piece of fish with no sauce. One side was dry and hard, the other soggy and scaly, with no flavor at all. The second picture is what they advertise on their website, which looks nothing like what I was served. And for $35, that’s unacceptable.
Adam C
Counter-service fish place, good menu, great rewards program. If you’re looking for good and cheap, this is it. Mostly indoor seating, a few tables outdoor. This location also listed breakfast available in the morning starting at 7a. The Plano location and the Cypress Waters location are much nicer; this one is a bit more crowded. Certainly not ‘fancy.’ This is not a place to bring your date; this is a place to bring your spouse when you want a good meal and you’re ’house poor.’
How to reach Flying Fish
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Website: None
Why Flying Fish may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Flying Fish with your friends?
Flying Fish stands out as an exceptional spot to gather with friends, combining an inviting atmosphere, impressive culinary offerings, and a unique experience that sparks great conversations and memorable moments. Whether you're craving fresh seafood or an upscale casual dining experience, Flying Fish caters perfectly to groups looking to socialize, celebrate, or simply enjoy good company in an inspiring setting. The ambience strikes a perfect balance between relaxed and refined, encouraging everyone to unwind and connect while savoring top-quality dishes. The restaurant’s consistent 4.4-star rating from over a thousand reviews signals strong customer satisfaction, underscoring its popularity as a hotspot for meetups. The thoughtful layout accommodates groups comfortably, and staff professionalism ensures smooth service, which reduces waiting or logistical stress during your gathering. Overall, Flying Fish transforms a simple meal into an event; it’s a place where friends don’t just eat—they enjoy a shared experience, elevated by ambience, flavor, and service that impresses both first-timers and regulars alike. This makes Flying Fish an ideal rallying point when you want to combine culinary delight with a welcoming, social atmosphere.
What activities and experiences can groups enjoy at Flying Fish?
At Flying Fish, the activities center around an elevated dining experience that becomes interactive and social in itself. Guests can engage in savoring expertly prepared seafood dishes that offer a taste adventure ranging from classic favorites to innovative creations. For groups, there’s a pleasure in sharing appetizers like crab soup or jambalaya, allowing everyone to sample a variety of flavors and discuss favorites. The culinary journey is complemented by the restaurant's design that features elegant décor inspired by underwater themes, such as glass bubbles and fish suspended from the ceiling, which create a visually stimulating environment that sparks conversation and curiosity. Moreover, depending on the location, there may be access to waterfront views, enhancing your time together with natural beauty — perfect for photo moments or quiet appreciation between courses. Given the attentive service, your party can enjoy a relaxed pace, without feeling rushed, making it easy to focus on catching up and celebrating friendship or family ties. The warm staff welcomes inquiries about menu adaptations, ensuring dietary preferences or restrictions are accommodated, which adds to everyone’s comfort and enjoyment.
Why is Flying Fish perfect for group meetups?
Flying Fish’s appeal for group meetups lies in its combination of spacious, comfortable seating and an inviting yet sophisticated atmosphere. The restaurant is designed to accommodate groups seamlessly, from intimate gatherings to larger celebrations. The menu’s diversity ensures that all your guests, regardless of their tastes or dietary needs, can find something delicious and satisfying — from fried seafood to grilled fresh fish, plus rich sides and decadent desserts. This variety encourages sharing and exploration at the table, enriching the group’s experience. The ambience is lively yet elegant, suitable for everything from casual friend reunions to milestone celebrations, without sacrificing a sense of occasion. Even the service model is conducive to group dining, aiming to minimize wait times for meals and drinks, which keeps energy up and conversations flowing. Additionally, some locations boast picturesque views or distinctive décor that create a memorable backdrop for your meetup photos, making your gathering feel special and worth repeating. Overall, Flying Fish presents an ideal combination of quality food, convivial environment, and service efficiency that enhances every group occasion.
What kind of food and dining experience can you expect at Flying Fish?
Flying Fish offers a culinary experience that celebrates seafood and Southern-inspired dishes with a modern twist, appealing to diverse palates in your group. The menu includes signature items like crab soup, fried flounder sandwiches, jambalaya, and expertly prepared fish entrees such as grilled grouper or snapper. Diners can expect generous portions of fresh seafood prepared with care — whether fried or grilled — accompanied by well-chosen sides like seasoned vegetables and rice. The appetizers and desserts stand out for quality and creativity, with offerings like a rich key lime pie or special pork belly dishes, some of which are adaptable for gluten-free diets. The presentation of dishes is elegant, enhancing the overall dining experience. Service staff are knowledgeable and ready to explain menu details or recommend pairings, adding an informed dimension to your meal and helping to elevate simple group dinners into special occasions. This attention to detail contributes to an experience that feels both indulgent and comfortable, perfect for groups who want to indulge in good food while enjoying each other’s company.
How does the atmosphere at Flying Fish contribute to a great group gathering?
The atmosphere at Flying Fish plays a critical role in shaping a positive group dining experience by blending sophisticated décor with a warm, welcoming vibe. Designed with underwater elements like glass ceiling features and marine life sculptures, the space transports diners to a serene, aquatic setting that is both visually enchanting and calming. The blues and tans used throughout the décor evoke an elegant underwater feeling, enhancing the dining ambiance without overwhelming it. Lighting is thoughtfully arranged to create a comfortable environment, whether you’re enjoying a casual lunch or a celebratory evening meal. Although lively, the space avoids becoming noisy or chaotic, which helps maintain the intimacy and quality of conversation that groups value. In some locations, the addition of waterfront views or proximity to natural scenery further enhances the mood and provides a stunning backdrop for your gathering. Service staff contribute to this atmosphere with attentive, friendly interactions that make guests feel cared for, helping groups to relax and enjoy their time. This digestible mix of environment, ambience, and service elevates Flying Fish beyond a simple restaurant, making it a destination for creating memorable experiences with friends or family.
What makes Flying Fish a reliable choice for repeat visits with your group?
Several factors make Flying Fish a dependable option for groups looking to return time and again. First, the consistent quality of food and service ensures that each visit meets or exceeds expectations, cementing its reputation as a reliable dining destination. The menu’s blend of classic seafood favorites and innovative dishes means that even frequent visitors find new tastes to explore, preventing the experience from becoming stale. Additionally, the staff's professionalism and friendly demeanor help build a connection with returning guests, who appreciate being recognized and well taken care of by a knowledgeable team. The restaurant’s ability to accommodate dietary restrictions and provide respectful, patient service adds to its appeal as an inclusive venue for diverse groups. Finally, the ambiance and setting — appealing and comfortable — remain a draw for groups wanting a consistent but special environment for their outings. Together, these qualities create a strong case for Flying Fish as a place where friends and families want to reunite regularly, knowing they will be welcomed with the same high standards and enjoyable atmosphere every time.
Can Flying Fish accommodate special occasions or larger group events?
Flying Fish is well-suited to hosting special occasions and larger group events due to its versatile space and attentive service. The restaurant can accommodate varying group sizes, making it suitable for birthdays, anniversaries, or casual reunions. Its upscale yet approachable ambience provides a fitting backdrop to mark celebrations without the formality that might stifle relaxed enjoyment. The kitchen and service team are experienced in managing group orders efficiently, ensuring timely service without disrupting the dining flow for others. Customizable menus or special requests can often be arranged in advance, allowing groups to tailor the experience to their preferences and needs. Additionally, some Flying Fish locations offer private or semi-private dining areas, which provide an extra layer of exclusivity and comfort for group events. This flexibility, combined with high food quality and friendly service, makes Flying Fish a top contender when planning any group gathering where both food and atmosphere matter.
How does Flying Fish compare to other dining options for group outings?
Flying Fish offers several advantages compared to other dining spots for group outings, mainly its balance of quality, ambience, and service. Unlike fast casual or purely family-style restaurants, Flying Fish provides an elevated dining experience that still feels accessible and welcoming to groups of all ages. The focus on seafood with Southern influences distinguishes it from more generic or chain eateries, appealing to those wanting something flavorful, fresh, and locally inspired. The thoughtful décor and comfortable seating arrangements make socializing more enjoyable, creating a setting that encourages lingering and interaction rather than hurried meals. While some restaurants might excel in speed or novelty, Flying Fish shines in its consistency, ensuring groups can rely on good food and good service without surprises. It also tends to attract a clientele that appreciates attention to detail and good taste, which further enhances the feeling of a shared, special occasion. For groups seeking a place with both heart and finesse, Flying Fish is often a preferred choice.
What should you know before booking your group meetup at Flying Fish?
Before booking your group meetup at Flying Fish, consider a few important details to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Reservations are highly recommended, especially for larger groups or popular dining times, to guarantee seating and minimize wait times. It’s helpful to communicate any dietary restrictions or special requests ahead of time so the kitchen can accommodate your group’s needs efficiently. Be aware that some menu items might be seasonal or occasionally adjusted, so checking the current offerings in advance is wise. While the ambiance is generally inviting and lively, some guests have noted that service can vary; therefore, having clear communication with your server about your group’s pace and preferences can improve the experience. Finally, plan your budget with the menu pricing in mind, as some items or add-ons may be priced on the higher side, but the quality and portions usually justify the cost. With a bit of preparation, Flying Fish can provide a seamless and memorable gathering spot for your friends or family.