They say that first, you taste with your eyes. Even before a single dish hits the table at Smokin Fins, the surrounding atmosphere sets a high standard. The dark wood furniture, warm lighting and unique light fixtures all will make you feel like you are in big city dining. Then when your dish arrives at the table, this one-of-a-kind experience begins.
Since opening its doors in 2020, Smokin Fins has been a hot spot in the community for its seafood and ideal location. Sitting across the Snake River on Memorial Drive, this restaurant has evolved over the years and continues to evolve daily, according to general manager, Joey Docksey.
“When it first opened, it was a typical restaurant atmosphere with these typical restaurateurs that kind of party a lot,” he said. “And now it's more of a business where we're trying to make money, and we're trying to provide the best service that we possibly can. We're trying to create raving fans with unreasonable hospitality and go above and beyond.”
What makes Smokin Fins a one-of-a-kind experience in Idaho Falls is that you get to experience big city dining and a unique menu.
Over the years, the menu has evolved from a focus on seafood to a more diverse palate. “We try to appeal to everybody in the family,” Joey said. “We have burgers, a prime sandwich, sushi, and we really focus on our seafood.” Between the honey chipotle salmon, lobster mac and cheese and hamburgers on the menu, it’s easy to see what makes this restaurant stand out.
Being one of the only seafood restaurants in the city, Smokin Fins sets their expectations high by ensuring the quality and presentation of the food. Every dish that goes out is inspected before it hits the table by the talented chefs, and the dishes are constantly evolving to be better.
“We take risks every week with menu items, and sometimes they succeed and sometimes they don’t,” Joey said. “The lemon caper mahi-mahi was definitely one of those ones that was kind of out of left field, a totally different build to a lot of our stuff, but ended up being one of our better sellers.”
The ever-evolving menu keeps this restaurant fresh with daily chalkboard specials and seasonal menus. “It's always important in a restaurant to keep changing the menu, even though people might hate to see certain things go, but it keeps 'em on their toes,” Joey said. “It's super important to us to change our menu to offer more things and to show off our culinary chops, which we have.”
Aside from the diverse menu, Smokin Fins offers an atmosphere and ambiance unlike anywhere else. And while reservations are recommended, the restaurant keeps tables open for those who prefer to walk in. Visit Smokin Fins with open eyes to experience this sea of flavors.
Smokin Fins
370 Memorial Drive
Idaho Falls, ID 83402
208-888-3467
smokinfinsrestaurant.com