Not every fish story ends well in Dallas. But Dock Local's might. Chef Brett Curtis is bringing a seafood concept to The Market Building this summer — the kind built around lobster rolls, chowder, and the specific pleasure of eating well-sourced fish somewhere that isn't the coast.
The Concept
Dock Local is a New England-inspired seafood concept — but rooted in the idea that good fish doesn't require a flight to Maine. Chef Curtis spent years on the East Coast before returning to Texas, and the menu reflects both. Maine lobster rolls (the classic, chilled with mayo) are the anchor, alongside a rotating fresh catch in tacos, a signature Lobsta Grilled Cheese, and a clam chowder that Brett insists is better than anything you'd get on Long Wharf. We'll see.
Chef Brett Curtis
Brett Curtis is a Dallas native who worked in Boston and New York kitchens before coming home. He's cooked at two James Beard semifinalist restaurants and is known for treating seafood simply — minimal preparation, maximum sourcing attention. At Dock Local, he's sourcing from Gulf Coast fisheries and partnering with a Maine dockside supplier for lobster and oysters.
"The best lobster roll is the one you don't have to fly anywhere to get. We're working on that."
Opening Summer 2026
Dock Local opens at The Market Building in Summer 2026. The space is adjacent to the existing restaurant row on the ground floor. Follow Dock Local on Instagram or check the DFM event calendar for the official opening date.
What's Already There to Eat
While you wait for Dock Local to open, The Market Building has Hurtado Barbecue (the gold standard of Dallas brisket), Cultivar Coffee, and a rotating selection of pop-up vendors on weekends. The building is open daily and always worth the stop.
Lobster Roll Intel
The Maine lobster roll debate is simple: Connecticut style (warm, butter-dressed) vs. Maine style (cold, mayo-dressed). Dock Local will serve Maine style. If you're a Connecticut loyalist, Brett says he'll hear your complaint and still bring you the correct one.
The Market Building is open daily 10am–7pm. Dock Local opens Summer 2026 — watch the DFM blog for the opening date.
