Food review: Cafe Pacific serves excellent lobster roll

by Ashli Michelle of Almost Veggie

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The restaurant feels stuffy, but we'll forgive them that.

HIGHLAND PARK — Dress codes come and go in Dallas ... until entering Highland Park Village. In a world where peasants are comparable to rodents living under a Dumpster in a dark alley, this part of town has no choice. Rules must strictly be in place to ensure commoners continue to act … right.

The definition of acting right in a rich person’s world means dressing correctly while not making any kind of poor person fuss. The required attire at Cafe Pacific is not as simple as “We’d really appreciate it if all humans wear a shirt and shoes while dining.” This isn’t Wal-Mart, people. Not Gucci? Get out. Cafe Pacific placed a plaque on the wall clearly stating they do not have time for people dressed like losers. All of the rich people know this, so what’s the deal?

Successfully walking in meant passing one hostess while wearing none other than — flip flops. Brainstorming consumed all thoughts as it became apparent a flip-flop-wearing commoner isn’t making the cut. If I could just keep her eyes focused on my upper body, I could then quietly non-flip my flop all the way to the bar. Once seated, Cafe Pacific’s dress code would be defeated.

Soaking in the scene meant realizing this place probably has 42 ladies lunching at once. Soon after hostess departure, a champagne toting socialite arrived with specific seating instructions. “You can sit there at the end, but not at any of the other seats. Those are all taken.” The end of the bar is gross because the foot rest stops at the second seat. I was now being forced to perform a flip flop hang. Nobody likes the flip flop hang, knowing any attention to these flip flops could possibly prevent all lobster roll joy.

Soon after sitting, the bartender dropped off crudités. This is when a brand-new socialite with long locks of glorious well maintained and ultimately conditioned hair said, “Oh, I just love those!” Is this small talk for me? Did she not notice the dress code infraction before her?

While looking to the left, a table of four sat staring. It’s always best to smile during a people-stare. The big-eye should never be used as a defense. Using the big-eye-surprised-look as a comeback for the people-stare really isn’t necessary. Simply smiling is acceptable during this kind of situation.

A woman at the table suddenly said, “We are just admiring your necklace. It’s gorgeous.” Note to commoners: When receiving a jewelry compliment from a rich person, um, try not to say, “Thanks! I bought it at White House Black Market.” This store is for paupers in the eyes of the Highland Parkers. After taking an answer chance, they loved it anyway! Curtsy.

Cafe Pacific only serves a lobster roll during lunch each Friday. This lobster roll is worth all dress code violation anguish endured. Everything about this dish of $15.50 delish is totally worth it. Rex’s Seafood Market is still the best so far, but this kitchen means business! This is a 100% lobster roll lunch win. Plus, there’s an option for fruit rather than fries.

Minus the bar seat bosser in the beginning, it’s refreshing to see how nice everyone was during lunch that day. The service was personable, as well as spot on, with top-notch food. While every part of the atmosphere forces feelings of stuffy, in the end it didn’t matter. The quest for the best lobster roll in Dallas continues this week with a visit to East Hampton Sandwich Company.

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