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Do You Know Your State’s Top Seafood Restaurant?

Lisa S./Yelp

American cuisine offers incredible choices—seafood, barbeque, Asian, and more. Today, we highlight the fresh and diverse seafood cuisine, precisely where you can order or dine. Craving buttery lobster, crispy fried shrimp, or a perfectly seared piece of fish? Here is where you can head to, no matter the state you live in, from Alabama to Wyoming! We’ve scoured reviews and customer favorites to bring you the best seafood restaurant in every state, offering a mouthwatering tour of flavors without leaving your seat.

Alabama: Wintzell’s Oyster House (Mobile)

Drew T./Yelp

Established in 1938, Wintzell’s Oyster House has been a cornerstone of Mobile’s dining scene for generations. Known for their legendary oysters, they’ve become the go-to spot for seafood lovers across Alabama. With a laid-back atmosphere and the freshest Gulf Coast cuisine, it’s no wonder Wintzell’s is considered the best seafood restaurant in the state by locals and visitors alike.

Alaska: The Hangar on the Wharf (Juneau)

Glen M./Yelp

Situated on the waterfront in Juneau, The Hangar on the Wharf provides more than just stunning views of the Gastineau Channel. This beloved spot is known for serving up fresh, local seafood like king crab and its fresh-caught halibut. The relaxed vibe and freshness keep both locals and tourists coming back for more authentic Alaskan cuisine.

Arizona: The Salt Cellar (Scottsdale)

Brittany C./Yelp

Tucked underground in Scottsdale, The Salt Cellar is an unexpected treasure in the desert. This longstanding seafood establishment is famous for its rotating selection of fresh catches flown in daily. With a unique underground dining experience and specialties like lobster and crab legs, this Scottsdale gem celebrates over 30 years of loyal patronage.

Arkansas: Flying Fish (Little Rock)

Paul S./Yelp

Known for its casual, laid-back atmosphere, Flying Fish in Little Rock is where you’ll find a blend of Southern seafood classics. Their fried catfish and grilled shrimp are crowd favorites, but their crawfish étouffée steals the show. With a quirky vibe and a wide range of options, the restaurant is both family-friendly and fun.

California: The Water Grill (Los Angeles)

Vivian S./Yelp

The Water Grill, located in the heart of Los Angeles, has been a seafood institution for over 30 years. Their menu is focused on sustainability and fresh, wild-caught fish; they offer an upscale dining experience where quality is paramount. From succulent Dungeness crab to expertly grilled swordfish, every dish is prepared with precision.

Colorado: Jax Fish House (Denver)

Kate L./Yelp

Jax Fish House brings coastal vibes to Denver with an impressive selection of fresh oysters, crab legs, and other seafood flown in daily. The restaurant prides itself on sustainability, partnering with responsible fisheries to offer a guilt-free dining experience. Their oysters are a top draw, but the crab cakes and clam chowder also receive great reviews.

Connecticut: Lenny & Joe’s Fish Tale (Madison)

Tammy G./Yelp

A local favorite since 1979, Lenny & Joe’s Fish Tale is a casual seafood spot that offers some of the best-fried clams and lobster rolls in the state. This restaurant has locations in Madison and Westbrook, both with a laid-back atmosphere and consistently fresh seafood, which keep customers satisfied. The crispy clam strips, the buttery lobster rolls…

Delaware: Big Fish Grill (Rehoboth Beach)

Kelli P./Yelp

Just a stone’s throw from the Atlantic, Big Fish Grill in Rehoboth Beach is a coastal delight serving up fresh, locally sourced seafood. The menu is packed with fan favorites like shrimp tacos, blackened mahi-mahi, and lump crab cakes. You can choose to dine inside or out on their beautiful patio, and be sure that the flavors here capture the essence of East Coast seafood.

Florida: Joe’s Stone Crab (Miami Beach)

Joe’s Stone Crab/Yelp

An iconic Miami Beach institution since 1913, Joe’s Stone Crab is synonymous with Florida’s seafood scene. Renowned for its seasonal stone crab claws, this eatery has earned its reputation as one of the best in the country. The stone crabs, paired with their signature mustard sauce, are a must-try. The menu also has praised delectable shrimp, lobster, and more.

Georgia: The Optimist (Atlanta)

Sean W./Yelp

Atlanta might be inland, but The Optimist delivers an unforgettable seafood experience with its inventive menu and fresh-from-the-coast selections. Specialties like their wood-fired oysters and roasted fish are definitely highlights, all served in a vibrant, stylish setting. Locals and tourists all talk about the atmosphere and food quality, making it a top pick for seafood in Georgia’s busy capital.

Hawaii: Mama’s Fish House (Maui)

Spencer C./Yelp

Set along Maui’s scenic North Shore, Mama’s Fish House offers not only stunning ocean views but also fresh seafood caught daily by local fishermen. The menu lists the fish, the fisherman, and the location where it was caught, adding a personal touch to the dining experience. With dishes like macadamia nut-crusted mahi-mahi and coconut crab soup, it’s a one-of-a-kind restaurant.

Idaho: Chandlers Steakhouse (Boise)

David J./Yelp

Known for its fine dining and distinguished seafood, Chandlers Steakhouse in Boise brings oceanic flavors to Idaho. Their menu includes an array of seafood favorites such as Alaskan king crab legs and wild-caught salmon. The restaurant has an elegant atmosphere and an extensive wine list. It’s an upscale spot and the perfect place to enjoy high-quality seafood in the heart of Boise.

Illinois: Shaw’s Crab House (Chicago)

Glenn M./Yelp

A staple in Chicago since 1984, Shaw’s Crab House offers a mix of fine dining and casual oyster bar vibes. Known for its fresh oysters, snow crab, and daily seafood specials, the restaurant maintains a stellar reputation in the Midwest and is frequently lauded on TripAdvisor and Yelp. It uses seasonal ingredients and focuses on sustainability.

Indiana: The Oceanaire Seafood Room (Indianapolis)

Brian M./Yelp

Located in downtown Indianapolis, The Oceanaire Seafood Room is renowned for its ultra-fresh, expertly crafted seafood. The kitchen sources its seafood from around the world, serving dishes such as grilled swordfish, Alaskan king crab, and lobster tails. The upscale dining experience, paired with an impressive raw bar, makes it a premier seafood destination in Indiana.

Iowa: Splash Seafood Bar & Grill (Des Moines)

Christina W./Yelp

For fresh seafood in the heart of the Midwest, Splash Seafood Bar & Grill in Des Moines is the go-to spot, according to top ratings on Yelp and TripAdvisor. This spot has impressive creative takes on classic seafood dishes like crab cakes and pan-seared scallops; Splash delivers quality on every plate. The relaxed yet refined atmosphere has earned it a loyal following.

Kansas: The Newport Grill (Wichita)

Doug P./Yelp

The Newport Grill offers an oceanic escape in the heart of Kansas with a menu brimming with fresh seafood. It’s known for dishes like lobster bisque and grilled sea bass; the restaurant prides itself on delivering authentic coastal flavors to Wichita. Due to its modern and chic setting and carefully curated menu options, it’s a local favorite for fine dining.

Kentucky: River House Restaurant & Raw Bar (Louisville)

Sophie Y./Yelp

According to Google and TripAdvisor reviews, River House Restaurant & Raw Bar in Louisville is definitely the favorite for Kentucky seafood. Visitors highly praise the waterfront setting and upscale, Southern-inspired seafood dishes, like raw oysters and crab cakes. Its modern atmosphere and strong ratings make it a strong choice in Kentucky.

Louisiana: GW Fins (New Orleans)

Diane K./Yelp

New Orleans is wildly known for its incredible cuisine, especially seafood, and GW Fins stands out as a top destination in the city’s competitive dining scene. Serving a rotating menu of the freshest catches, dishes like lobster dumplings and swordfish are crafted with attention to detail. Their Scalibut (a combination of scallops and halibut) is a standout dish to enjoy in the venue’s high-end yet welcoming atmosphere.

Maine: Eventide Oyster Co. (Portland)

Paris F./Yelp

When it comes to seafood in Maine, Eventide Oyster Co. is a standout. This celebrated restaurant is located in Portland and offers a fresh take on New England classics. The oysters, lobster rolls, and clam chowder are all crowd-pleasers, but their brown butter lobster roll truly wins people’s hearts. Eventide’s modern twist on tradition has earned it a devoted following.

Maryland: Thames Street Oyster House (Baltimore)

Ann S./Yelp

Situated on the picturesque waterfront of Baltimore’s Fells Point, Thames Street Oyster House delivers exceptional seafood with a view. Known for its fresh oysters and classic Maryland crab cakes, the restaurant serves authentic East Coast flavors. Whether you’re a local or a traveler, Thames Street has become a go-to destination for top-quality seafood in Maryland.

Massachusetts: Union Oyster House (Boston)

Ann S./Yelp

The Union Oyster House in Boston is a historic landmark and a known seafood institution. Established in 1826, it’s the oldest continuously operating restaurant in the United States. This historical spot is acclaimed for its creamy clam chowder and fresh oysters and offers classic New England seafood in an atmosphere steeped in history. It’s a must-visit for any seafood and history lover in Massachusetts.

Michigan: The Sardine Room (Plymouth)

Christal P./Yelp

Located in downtown Plymouth, The Sardine Room serves its diners seafood with a creative twist in a sleek, contemporary setting. Their raw bar is often praised as a highlight, with meals like fresh oysters and shrimp cocktails taking center stage. Customers also frequently recommend blackened swordfish and seared scallops.

Minnesota: Smack Shack (Minneapolis)

Betty P./Yelp

Smack Shack in Minneapolis delivers East Coast-style seafood with an emphasis on sustainability. Famous for its lobster rolls and crab boils, this vibrant spot has become a favorite for seafood enthusiasts. The casual yet lively atmosphere makes this land of lakes a great place to enjoy fresh fish, no matter the season.

Mississippi: Half Shell Oyster House (Biloxi)

Mike M./Yelp

With its charming, Southern-inspired decor and fresh Gulf Coast ingredients, Half Shell Oyster House is a highlight in Biloxi. The oysters, grilled or on the half shell, are definitely the must-try, but if you can, also order the crab cakes and shrimp po’boys! This beloved spot offers a true taste of the Gulf in the middle of Mississippi.

Missouri: Broadway Oyster Bar (St. Louis)

Pawel L./Yelp

If you want seafood with a Creole twist, Broadway Oyster Bar in St. Louis delivers a unique and lively dining experience. Recognized for its oysters, gumbo, and shrimp dishes, the restaurant pairs bold flavors with a laid-back, music-filled atmosphere. It’s a top pick for those craving a taste of New Orleans right in the heart of Missouri.

Montana: Luke’s Lobster (Bozeman)

Alice X./Yelp

Despite Montana’s distance from the sea, Luke’s high-quality ingredients and simple, flavorful dishes have made it a top spot in the state. This spot specializes in serving high-quality, sustainable seafood directly from the coast. It serves lobster rolls, crab rolls, and clam chowder, and the Bozeman location has garnered strong reviews on Google and Yelp.

Nebraska: Plank Seafood Provisions (Omaha)

Josh R./Yelp

Plank Seafood Provisions in Omaha brings coastal cuisine to the Midwest, prioritizing fresh and sustainable components. Their oyster bar grabs most of the attention, but dishes like fried shrimp and seared scallops are also trendy. Plank has quickly become a favorite spot for seafood lovers due to its chic and urban vibe.

Nevada: Mastro’s Ocean Club (Las Vegas)

Mastro’s Ocean Club/Yelp

Mastro’s Ocean Club is an upscale dining experience located in the vibrant atmosphere of Las Vegas. Committed to serving only the finest dishes, the restaurant is renowned for its luxurious lobster, fresh oysters, and Chilean sea bass. This venue offers an elegant and exceptional escape from the fast pace of Sin City.

New Hampshire: The Beach Plum (Portsmouth)

Don W./Yelp

For classic New England seafood in a relaxed, beachside setting, The Beach Plum in Portsmouth is a favorite for locals and tourists. Located near the coast, it’s a casual, family-friendly spot with delicious award-winning lobster rolls. You should also try the fried clams and haddock sandwiches, which are often praised in online reviews.

New Jersey: Dock’s Oyster House (Atlantic City)

Reva R./Yelp

Established in 1897, Dock’s Oyster House in Atlantic City has a storied history of serving up some of the finest seafood on the Jersey Shore. The most famous dish is the oysters, while the lump crab cakes and broiled lobster tail come right after. This timeless New Jersey dining will make you know impeccable seafood.

New Mexico: Mariscos La Playa (Santa Fe)

Merritt W./Yelp

Bringing the bold flavors of coastal Mexico to the high desert, Mariscos La Playa in Santa Fe is a local favorite for seafood with a twist—spice. Known for their seafood cocktails, ceviche, and grilled fish, the restaurant adds a splash of spice to every dish to provide a bold flavor. It’s a refreshing take on seafood in the Land of Enchantment.

New York: Le Bernardin (New York City)

Thuong T./Yelp

In the heart of Manhattan, Le Bernardin reigns as one of the most acclaimed seafood restaurants in the world. It has Michelin stars and a world-class chef—this fine dining establishment certainly offers a luxurious seafood experience. From delicately poached lobster to the freshest oysters, every dish is a work of art. You do not want to miss this one out.

North Carolina: Crook’s Corner (Chapel Hill)

Michael U./Yelp

Crook’s Corner in Chapel Hill is a Southern institution that showcases seafood with a focus on local ingredients. Their shrimp and grits are legendary among customers. The menu also offers incredible fried oysters and soft-shell crab—there’s something for every taste! The restaurant’s laid-back, welcoming atmosphere and dedication to fresh food have drawn fans from all over.

North Dakota: The Toasted Frog (Fargo)

Raegan L./Yelp

In Fargo, The Toasted Frog offers a unique seafood experience, pairing fresh catches with daring flavors. The relaxed yet stylish vibe makes this restaurant a go-to spot for seafood lovers looking for something distinct in North Dakota. Their wood-fired walleye is a definite standout, and the calamari appetizer is a local favorite.

Ohio: Mitchell’s Ocean Club (Columbus)

Tyanna M./Yelp

Mitchell’s Ocean Club is located in Easton Town Center and brings an upscale seafood dining experience to Columbus. Its expertly prepared fish and seafood tower ensures the restaurant’s offerings are a refined setting for enjoying high-quality, sustainably sourced seafood. Dishes like sea bass and lobster tail are standout favorites, earning Mitchell’s a reputation for excellence.

Oklahoma: Pearl’s Oyster Bar (Oklahoma City)

Cuong L./Yelp

Pearl’s Oyster Bar has been a recognized favorite in Oklahoma City for over 30 years. It offers Cajun and Creole-inspired seafood dishes. Their oysters, shrimp étouffée, and crab cakes are often praised as the favorites among the crowds, bringing the flavors of the Gulf to the Midwest. With its lively atmosphere and consistently great seafood, you should visit Pearl’s if you are around Oklahoma City.

Oregon: Jake’s Famous Crawfish (Portland)

Stephanie O./Yelp

One of Portland’s oldest restaurants, Jake’s Famous Crawfish, has been serving fresh Pacific Northwest seafood since 1892. In over 120, they have perfected each dish with the crawfish as the show’s star. Visit this cozy spot for a classic atmosphere and delicious Dungeness crab and wild salmon. It’s genuinely a must-go venue in Portland.

Pennsylvania: The Original Oyster House (Pittsburgh)

Courtney T./Yelp

The Original Oyster House has been a Pittsburgh staple since 1870. It serves up seafood in a no-frills, old-school setting. This beloved spot is known for its fried fish sandwiches and fresh oysters. The restaurant strives to keep things simple yet mouthwatering and has a longstanding reputation for fresh and affordable seafood, making it a top choice for diners.

Rhode Island: Matunuck Oyster Bar (South Kingstown)

Alan B./Yelp

Perched along the waterfront, Matunuck Oyster Bar offers seafood straight from its farm in South Kingstown. The fresh, local focus and stunning views make it a quintessential Rhode Island seafood experience. Dishes such as clam chowder and lobster rolls are often raved about, but the oysters, harvested just outside the restaurant, are the absolute highlight.

South Carolina: Hyman’s Seafood (Charleston)

Terry A./Yelp

Hyman’s Seafood in Charleston is a family-run eatery that has been open and serving deliciously fresh seafood for over 120 years. The extensive menu and dedication to fresh ingredients are what people love the most about this place. Its standouts? The fried shrimp and award-winning crab cakes are all mouthwatering and tantalizing.

South Dakota: Cattleman’s Club Steakhouse (Pierre)

Jay O./Yelp

Fricano’s in Rapid City is highly rated on Google and Yelp for offering extremely high-quality seafood in South Dakota. While seafood options are limited in this state, Fricano’s seafood dishes, like shrimp scampi and fish fry, always receive great feedback from customers online. With consistently good reviews, it stands out as the best seafood option in the state.

Tennessee: Henrietta Red (Nashville)

Natalie W./Yelp

Henrietta Red in Nashville brings a unique taste to seafood dining with its raw bar and visionary menu. Their menu has several highlights, with the oysters often picked as a favorite, closely followed by dishes like squid ink pasta and seared scallops. Henrietta Red has a sleek and airy setting focused on providing seasonal ingredients.

Texas: Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen (Houston)

Analyn A./Yelp

Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen in Houston is a fan favorite, with glowing reviews on Yelp and Google. Popular for its Cajun-inspired seafood with bold flavors like the blackened catfish and crawfish étouffée, Pappadeaux has become a go-to seafood destination in Texas with its lively atmosphere and extensive menu options.

Utah: Market Street Grill (Salt Lake City)

Jeff M./Yelp

Market Street Grill in the heart of Salt Lake City ranks as Utah’s top seafood restaurant with a nautical-themed atmosphere. This seafood spot serves an extensive seafood menu featuring fresh catches daily. Their clam chowder and seafood pasta are public favorites. It is also known for its fresh oysters and king crab legs.

Vermont: Butler’s Pantry (Stowe)

CF./Yelp

FoundNestled on Lake Champlain, the Dockside Café in Colchester consistently tops the list of seafood restaurants in the state of Vermont for a reason. The high reviews and lakeside setting secured its top spot for Vermont. Since it offers fresh dishes with simple and traditional tastes, such as lobster rolls and fried fish, charming both locals and tourists alike.

Virginia: Captain George’s Seafood Restaurant (Virginia Beach)

Mel W./Yelp

Captain George’s Seafood Restaurant in Virginia Beach offers a seafood buffet experience like no other. With its endless supply of crab legs, shrimp, and oysters, the restaurant delivers a wide variety of fresh seafood in an all-you-can-eat format. Imagine eating as much tasty food as you possibly can. A dream!

Washington: The Walrus and the Carpenter (Seattle)

Lei C./Yelp

Per opinions on Yelp and TripAdvisor, Seattle’s The Crab Pot is a top seafood restaurant in Washington. Famous for its seafood feasts served on butcher paper, where diners crack open crab legs and clams, The Crab Pot offers a memorable and fun experience. Its strong reviews and iconic dishes made it the top pick.

West Virginia: The Market (Charleston)

Sean V./Yelp

The Market in Charleston offers fresh, sustainably sourced seafood in a relaxed, modern setting. Its crab cakes and grilled salmon are tantalizing. The restaurant focuses on simple, flavorful dishes with high-quality ingredients, which makes it unique. Their welcoming atmosphere and dedication to freshness are just a plus.

Wisconsin: Harbor House (Milwaukee)

Lisa S./Yelp

Harbor House in Milwaukee is consistently ranked Wisconsin’s top seafood restaurant. With stunning views and tasteful treats, it serves fresh seafood towers, lobster, and excellent views of Lake Michigan. Harbor House offers an upscale dining experience that seafood lovers flock to. Its glowing reviews and high ratings made it the top choice.

Wyoming: King’s Saddlery & Restaurant (Sheridan)

Rick J./Yelp

In the rugged scenery of Wyoming, King’s Saddlery & Restaurant offers surprisingly fresh seafood options. Their surf and turf, featuring popular dishes like trout, shrimp skewers, and lobster tail, is a popular choice, and the laid-back Western atmosphere adds to the dining experience. Indeed, it is a delicious choice in Wyoming.

Written by Adrian Berlutti

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