DIVE right in!

By Amy Nolan…

Fusing seafood dishes with an American twist, Dive Coastal Cuisine is a favorite among SMU students and Highland Park natives. This local restaurant is conveniently located in Snider Plaza and is a great spot to stop in for a bite to eat. Whether you are looking for food on the go or sit down restaurant for a lunch date, Dive provides healthy, quality food at an affordable price. This local food joint’s welcoming environment, combined with its nutritious food options makes for a popular dining spot here in town.

This local treasure looks like it has been plucked from the coast of Malibu and placed in the middle of Highland Park. From the outside, worn out white bricks make up the backdrop to a sign that reads in big teal letters: Dive Coastal Cuisine. Bright blue umbrellas hang over tall steel bar tables and stools, which line the big bay windows outside. On a sunny day, these tables are prime.  Inside provides the same coastal ambiance and nautical accents. Pearly white walls are decorated with sea foam green photos and dark wood frames. The couches that line the back wall are sprinkled with pillows that range from a wide variety of blues and each table has vases with fresh flowers. There is definitely a marine scheme to the restaurant, which is a nice change from the typical Texan restaurant.

The décor of Dive is something to take note of, but what keeps people coming back for more is the consistency and deliciousness of the food. Dive is a healthy alternative from the typical restaurant joint. Without sacrificing the yummy taste, Dive’s chefs have mastered the ability to create food that is not only good for you but also flavorsome. Don’t worry if you are a picky eater though. The menu ranges from a wide variety to satisfy pretty much any craving you might have. From champagne mussels to turkey burgers to ahi tuna sliders to BBQ pulled pork sandwiches, Dive offers a mouth-watering meal for all taste buds. Best part of all is your wallet doesn’t have to pay too much for this great taste either!

Dive does not limit itself to only serving great meals, however. A big hit at this joint is Dive’s seasonal sangria, which consists of flavors varying from ginger to sparkling apple and cinnamon. This beverage is made fresh at the restaurant and is the perfect drink to wash down any meal. But don’t stop there; be sure to save room for dessert! After a freshly prepared healthy meal, reward yourself with Dive’s famous key lime pie. Consisting of a graham cracker piecrust and topped with fresh whipped cream, this masterpiece is an all time favorite and signature sweet at the restaurant.

Offering everything from a relaxing setting to a delicious meal, it is no wonder Dive remains a popular dining spot in the Dallas area. Whether you are sipping seasonal sangria on a hot Texas day or enjoying a warm cup of clam chowder during winter, Dive has everything you need to satisfy your hunger. So, what are you waiting for? Dive right in!