Great seafood isn’t just food—it’s an adventure on a plate! Some places serve oysters so fresh they practically whisper secrets of the ocean, while others pile high seafood boils that demand a roll-up-your-sleeves feast. Legendary joints and unexpected finds are scattered across all 50 states, waiting to surprise your taste buds. Get ready for a coast-to-coast seafood journey where every stop is a must-visit.
Doc’s Seafood Shack And Oyster Bar: Orange Beach, Alabama
A trip down Alabama’s Gulf Coast isn’t complete without a visit to Doc’s, where diners are greeted with the aroma of sizzling seafood. Their claim to fame? Perfectly seasoned, hand-battered shrimp, served in portions so generous that locals always say, “Come hungry–or bring a friend to share!”
Ludvig’s Bistro: Sitka, Alaska
Alaska’s wild-caught salmon shines at Ludvig’s Bistro in Sitka, a charming spot known for its fresh seafood. Diners can enjoy grilled salmon fillets, rich chowders, and inventive dishes that highlight the Last Frontier’s pristine waters. With a cozy atmosphere and dockside proximity, it’s a true taste of Alaska’s bounty.
Salt Cellar Restaurant: Scottsdale, Arizona
Fine seafood in the desert? This underground dining spot defies expectations. Since 1971, the Salt Cellar has flown in the freshest seafood daily, offering specialties like Alaskan king crab legs and lobster thermidor. The intimate, cave-like atmosphere only adds to its hidden-gem reputation.
Flying Fish Seafood: Little Rock, Arkansas
Casual, quirky, and packed with flavor, Flying Fish brings Gulf Coast seafood to Arkansas. Signature dishes include fried catfish baskets, grilled tilapia tacos, and their famous “fish in a bag,” a steamed seafood medley packed with bold Cajun spices and mouthwatering aromas.
Angler: San Francisco, California
Luxury seafood gets an open-fire twist at this Michelin-starred restaurant. Diners marvel as whole fish sizzle over an open flame, locking in bold, smoky flavors. Charred razor clams and ember-roasted lobster tails improve the experience, proving that fine dining and fire-kissed seafood are a match made in heaven.
Jax Fish House & Oyster Bar: Denver, Colorado
An oyster bar in the Rockies? Jax makes it happen by flying in premium oysters, lobster, and wild fish daily. A Denver staple since 1994, this hotspot is known for its lively atmosphere, fresh seafood platters, and one of the best happy hour oyster deals in the country.
Abbott’s Lobster In The Rough: Noank, Connecticut
Lobster lovers rejoice! Abbott’s is famous for its buttery, overstuffed lobster rolls served hot—Connecticut style. Operating since 1947, this seasonal seafood shack sits on the waterfront, where guests enjoy steamed clams and breathtaking views of the Mystic River.
Sambo’s Tavern: Leipsic, Delaware
Located in a quiet fishing village, Sambo’s serves blue crabs straight from Delaware Bay. Known for its old-school, no-frills approach, diners roll up their sleeves and dive into heaping trays of steamed crabs covered in house seasoning. Cold beer and waterfront views complete the experience.
Joe’s Stone Crab: Miami Beach, Florida
Joe’s has been serving up Florida’s prized stone crab since 1913, turning these sweet, meaty claws into a must-try delicacy. Their signature mustard sauce adds a bold kick, making every bite unforgettable. When crab season rolls around each fall, eager diners flock in for a taste of tradition.
The Crab Trap: St. Simons Island, Georgia
Salt air and Southern charm define this Georgia institution. Famous for its Blue Crab Stew and spiced peel-and-eat shrimp, this family-run spot has been a coastal staple since 1975. Long communal tables and nautical decor create the perfect setting for a messy, satisfying feast.
Mama’s Fish House: Paia, Hawaii
Did you know some of Hawaii’s best seafood lands on a plate just hours after being caught? At Mama’s Fish House, fishermen deliver fresh mahi-mahi, ono, and opakapaka daily, making every bite as ocean-to-table as it gets. Their famous stuffed fish dish, packed with crab and baked in a macadamia nut crust, is a must-try.
Cedars Floating Restaurant: Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
This Coeur d’Alene icon has been bobbing along the Spokane River since 1965, serving up wild-caught Northwest seafood with an unbeatable view. Diners rave about their signature cedar plank salmon, slow-cooked over an open flame to perfection. Even better, the restaurant rotates slightly to ensure everyone gets a panoramic lakeside experience while dining.
Calumet Fisheries: Chicago, Illinois
Unlike any other seafood spot on this list, Calumet specializes in hickory-smoked fish, particularly their famous smoked chubs and salmon. With a James Beard Award under its belt, this roadside joint proves that world-class seafood doesn’t need table service.
Caplinger’s Fresh Catch: Indianapolis, Indiana
Most seafood markets focus on selling fresh fish, but Caplinger’s does both: offering premium seafood for purchase and crafting some of the best fried fish sandwiches in the Midwest. Their hand-breaded grouper sandwich, loaded with house-made tartar sauce, has developed a cult following.
Splash Seafood Bar & Grill: Des Moines, Iowa
Landlocked states don’t usually scream “seafood destination,” but Splash proves otherwise. This upscale eatery features an in-house raw bar where oysters from both coasts are shucked to order. Beyond oysters, their seafood cioppino is a comforting yet refined dish you won’t find just anywhere in Iowa.
Bristol Seafood Grill: Leawood, Kansas
Few places master both steak and seafood, but Bristol strikes the perfect balance. This Kansas favorite, known for its upscale yet approachable menu, serves an impressive Chilean sea bass glazed with Thai sweet chili sauce. Their secret? A high-temperature broiling method that locks in moisture, creating a crisp yet buttery finish.
River House Restaurant And Raw Bar: Louisville, Kentucky
Bourbon may be Kentucky’s claim to fame, but seafood lovers flock to River House for its unique surf-and-sip experience. Here, bourbon-smoked trout steals the show, infusing rich smoky notes that pair beautifully with the restaurant’s house-aged whiskey selection.
Peche Seafood Grill: New Orleans, Louisiana
Peche brings something different to the table: open-fire grilling. Whole grilled redfish, seasoned to perfection, is a dish that earned this restaurant multiple James Beard Awards. Unlike traditional deep-fried Southern seafood, Peche’s approach highlights bold, smoky flavors with a rustic touch.
The Clam Shack: Kennebunk, Maine
Instead of a split-top roll, The Clam Shack serves their famous lobster roll in a round, locally baked bun. Stuffed with freshly steamed lobster and lightly dressed with butter and mayo, this no-frills bite has been a staple in Kennebunkport since 1968.
Thames Street Oyster House: Baltimore, Maryland
Maryland and oysters go hand in hand, and Thames Street Oyster House serves them in every form imaginable. Whether it’s classic raw Chesapeake Bay oysters, fried oyster po’boys, or their decadent oyster stew, this Baltimore institution knows its shellfish. Their multi-tiered oyster towers are a must for seafood lovers ready to indulge.
Neptune Oyster: Boston, Massachusetts
Boston’s seafood game is unmatched, and Neptune Oyster is at its heart. Situated in the historic North End, this intimate spot is famed for its buttery hot lobster roll and impeccably fresh oysters. With seafood sourced straight from the Atlantic, every dish bursts with oceanic flavor.
Joe Muer Seafood: Detroit, Michigan
Few restaurants hold a legacy as rich as Joe Muer Seafood. Established in 1929, this Detroit institution is famous for its cedar-planked salmon, which carries a delicate smoky char. Diners can also indulge in caviar service, sushi, and fresh oysters while enjoying stunning riverfront views.
Grand Catch: St. Paul, Minnesota
Cracking open a crab leg drenched in Cajun butter is an experience Grand Catch has perfected. This Minnesota favorite brings Southern seafood boils to the Midwest, serving up everything from crawfish to fried soft-shell crab. Each plate packs bold, zesty flavors that transport diners straight to the Gulf Coast.
Half Shell Oyster House: Flowood, Mississippi
Mississippi’s seafood scene wouldn’t be complete without Half Shell Oyster House. While its name hints at its specialty, charbroiled oysters dripping with garlic butter, the menu also features signature Southern-inspired dishes like Redfish Orleans, topped with a decadent crawfish cream sauce.
Jax Fish House: Kansas City, Missouri
A landlocked location doesn’t stop Jax Fish House from offering a true ocean-to-table experience. Their Emersum oysters, cultivated specifically for the restaurant, guarantee freshness. The house-made clam chowder, thick with tender clams and smoky bacon, makes for the perfect starter on a chilly evening.
Juliano’s Restaurant: Billings, Montana
Montana might not scream “seafood paradise,” but Juliano’s Restaurant challenges that notion. Ahi tuna, crusted in sesame and paired with wasabi mashed potatoes, is a house favorite. With a changing menu that highlights fresh seafood, this fine-dining gem brings coastal flavors to the mountains.
Plank Seafood Provisions: Omaha, Nebraska
Omaha isn’t just about steaks—Plank Seafood Provisions makes sure of that. Offering an impressive raw bar and a standout blackened mahi-mahi taco, this restaurant champions sustainability. The lobster mac and cheese, packed with tender chunks of shellfish, is a must-try for comfort food lovers.
The Legends Oyster Bar: Las Vegas, Nevada
Just like the city itself, Las Vegas’ seafood scene is always buzzing. The Legends Oyster Bar keeps the flavors bold with a seafood pan roast brimming with shrimp, scallops, and crab in a rich tomato cream sauce. Fresh oysters and late-night feasts make it a go-to for seafood lovers.
BG’s Boathouse: Portsmouth, New Hampshire
Few places serve up a seafood experience as classic as BG’s Boathouse. This New Hampshire institution offers everything from whole belly clams to lobster rolls. With picnic tables overlooking the scenic Sagamore Creek, every meal comes with a perfect ocean breeze.
Seabra Marisqueira: Newark, New Jersey
A love letter to Portugal’s seafood traditions, Seabra Marisqueira turns Newark into a coastal retreat. Steaming bowls of seafood rice overflow with shrimp, octopus, and clams, while smoky grilled sardines offer a rustic delight. Each dish tells a story of ocean-kissed flavors and centuries-old culinary craft.
Mariscos Altamar: Albuquerque, New Mexico
Few expect New Mexico to have a seafood hot spot, yet Mariscos Altamar delivers ocean-fresh flavors with a bold, Latin twist. Its standout dish, the shrimp cocktail, arrives chilled in a tangy tomato-based broth with avocado and spices. Seafood lovers craving authentic Mexican mariscos won’t be disappointed.
The Otter: New York City, New York
The Otter is one of the few places that push the boundaries of seafood. The star of the menu? Miso-marinated black cod, a dish so tender it practically melts on the fork. Seasonal surprises fill the menu, which makes each visit a fresh and exciting experience.
Saltbox Seafood Joint: Durham, North Carolina
Lines wrap around the block at Saltbox Seafood Joint, and for good reason. This award-winning eatery sources seafood straight from North Carolina’s coast, ensuring peak freshness. Whole fried flounder, seasoned to perfection, draws seafood purists. Every visit is an opportunity to experience North Carolina’s fishing heritage on a plate.
Butterhorn: Bismarck, North Dakota
Steakhouses may dominate North Dakota’s dining scene, but Butterhorn carves out a space for seafood excellence. Their pan-seared scallops, delicately crisped and paired with a silky citrus beurre blanc, challenge expectations. In Bismarck, this unexpected culinary gem redefines what Midwestern fine dining can be.
Ocean Prime: Columbus, Ohio
Opulence and seafood go hand in hand at Ocean Prime, an upscale Columbus dining institution. The restaurant’s seafood tower arrives stacked with chilled lobster, oysters, and colossal shrimp. Guests celebrate special occasions here, indulging in butter-basted Chilean sea bass and signature cocktails in a glamorous setting.
Dan’s Seafood And Chicken: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Not all great seafood comes with white tablecloths. At Dan’s Seafood and Chicken, bold Cajun flavors steal the show. The crawfish boil, smothered in house-made garlic butter sauce, delivers Louisiana authenticity deep in the heart of Oklahoma. Messy, flavorful, and unforgettable—this is comfort food done right.
Dan & Louis Oyster Bar: Portland, Oregon
Shucking over a century of history, Dan & Louis Oyster Bar remains a cornerstone of Portland’s seafood culture. Established in 1907, this family-run institution serves oysters straight from the Pacific Northwest’s cold waters. A sip of their legendary oyster stew proves why it has remained a local favorite.
Aunt Carrie’s: Narragansett, Rhode Island
Rhode Island’s seafood traditions run deep, and Aunt Carrie’s embodies that legacy. Opened in 1920, this coastal gem is credited with inventing the beloved clam cake. Golden, crispy, and brimming with fresh clams, this dish alone makes the visit worthwhile. Generations return for a taste of history.
Pearl’s Oyster Bar: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Hidden inside the iconic Reading Terminal Market, Pearl’s Oyster Bar has been a Philadelphia seafood staple for decades. Its lobster roll, piled high with sweet, buttery lobster meat, rivals those of New England. A bustling counter-style setup keeps the experience lively, much like the city itself.
Bowen’s Island Restaurant: Charleston, South Carolina
Few seafood experiences compare to an oyster roast at Bowen’s Island Restaurant. Located among Charleston’s salt marshes, this no-frills eatery serves oysters straight from the pluff mud, steamed over an open fire. Eating here isn’t just a meal—it’s a Lowcountry tradition passed through generations.
Storming Crab: Rapid City, South Dakota
Bib up and dig in! Storming Crab serves up Cajun-style seafood boils bursting with flavors. Freshly steamed crawfish and king crab legs arrive drenched in their signature garlic butter sauce, delivering a finger-licking experience. Locals swear by the spice levels, which range from mild to tear-inducing heat!
The Half Shell: Memphis, Tennessee
The Half Shell serves up seafood with a soulful Southern twist. Crab legs drenched in butter, perfectly seasoned shrimp and grits, and cheesy, decadent oysters Rockefeller headline the menu. It’s no wonder this spot has earned a devoted following among seafood lovers and comfort food enthusiasts alike.
Gaido’s Seafood Restaurant: Galveston, Texas
Over a century of excellence defines Gaido’s, a Texas seafood icon since 1911. Gulf Coast flavors shine in their famous pecan-crusted snapper, a dish so beloved it’s trademarked. Patrons also rave about their house-made remoulade, a perfect companion to their crispy fried shrimp platters.
Current Fish And Oyster: Salt Lake City, Utah
Surprising but true—landlocked Utah has a serious seafood scene! Current Fish and Oyster delivers an upscale experience with its expertly prepared Pacific halibut, flown in daily. Sustainability is key here, with responsibly sourced ingredients ensuring every bite is both ethical and unforgettable.
The Left Bank At The Weston: Weston, Vermont
Farm-to-table meets ocean-fresh flavors at The Left Bank. This eatery crafts seafood dishes with locally sourced ingredients to offer a refined menu that changes with the seasons. Their scallops with applewood-smoked bacon and cider reduction bring a distinct Vermont twist to classic coastal cuisine.
Merroir: Topping, Virginia
Oyster lovers, rejoice! Merroir, located on the banks of the Rappahannock River, specializes in freshly harvested oysters served raw, roasted, or baked. A visit here is all about appreciating seafood at its purest—no frills, just impeccable quality straight from the water to your plate.
The Walrus And The Carpenter: Seattle, Washington
Seattle’s seafood scene wouldn’t be complete without this celebrated spot. The Walrus and the Carpenter curates a rotating selection of Pacific Northwest oysters, each briny bite telling the story of the region’s pristine waters. Pair it with their smoked trout dip, and you’ll understand why reservations are a must!
Coleman’s Fish Market: Wheeling, West Virginia
An unassuming fish market with a legendary reputation, Coleman’s has been serving its iconic fish sandwich since the 1950s. Lightly breaded whitefish, placed between soft white bread, remains a no-fuss classic. Regulars argue over the best toppings, but one thing’s certain: fresh seafood steals the show.
Norwood Pines Supper Club: Minocqua, Wisconsin
Wisconsin supper clubs are known for their hearty meals, and Norwood Pines delivers a seafood selection worth savoring. Their cedar-planked salmon, slow-roasted over an open flame, offers a smoky depth unlike anything else in the region. It’s an old-fashioned dining experience with flavors that never go out of style.
King Sushi: Jackson, Wyoming
Who says top-tier sushi belongs only to the coasts? King Sushi in Jackson proves otherwise, offering expertly prepared rolls that showcase fresh, high-quality seafood. The standout Cowboy Roll fuses spicy tuna with seared wagyu, creating a bold, flavor-packed bite that keeps sushi lovers coming back for more.
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