BEST SEAFOOD

Red Lobster

2696 South Dirksen Parkway, 529-6900 It’s been quite awhile since we’ve frequented Red Lobster, opting instead to spend our dollars at locally-owned establishments. But BOS voters dubbed it the best seafood – with one indicating that “no one can beat Red Lobster for the variety of entrées offered” – we thought what the heck, give it a try. We were impressed with the variety of appetizers and entrées. We started with a couple of appetizers: shrimp nachos – tortilla chips topped with shrimp, creamy cheddar and Monterey jack cheese, pico de gallo, jalapenos, and sour cream – and breaded calamari and vegetables served with marinara and ranch sauce. While the calamari and veggies were great, the nachos were superb. Both were very tasty. As we tried to decide on an entrée, the waiter advised that all of the entrées from the wood-fire grill are the best because the food is seared on an open-flame grill, which brings out the natural flavors. We decided on the peach-bourbon BBQ shrimp and scallops, which was excellent. Shrimp lovers will be delighted to know that Red Lobster currently offers unlimited shrimp specials, as well as shrimp specials on Mondays and Tuesdays. We also recommend the create-yourown lunch specials (we love the spicy shrimp tacos and shrimp jambalya, as well as the sailor’s platter). Runner-up: Chesapeake Seafood House