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The Best Seafood Dish From Each U.S. State

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Seafood lovers, unite! Whether you’re on the East Coast, West Coast, or anywhere in between, every state has its claim to fame when it comes to delicious seafood. We’re talking about fried, grilled, and steamed goodness. Here’s a look at the top seafood dish in every state that’ll have you hooked.

Gulf Shrimp in Alabama

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Alabama’s Gulf Coast is famous for its shrimp, and it’s no wonder why. The waters here produce sweet, tender shrimp that are often grilled, fried, or boiled to perfection. A visit to the coast isn’t complete without tasting some freshly caught Gulf shrimp from a local seafood shack.

Alaska’s King Crab

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Few things rival the taste of Alaska’s king crab. Harvested from the icy waters, this massive crustacean is best enjoyed steamed and dipped in melted butter. Its rich, succulent meat makes it a prized delicacy that seafood lovers travel from all over the world to enjoy.

Arizona’s Grilled Trout

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Despite being a desert state, Arizona offers some excellent freshwater fish, like grilled trout. Caught in the state’s streams and lakes, trout is often prepared simply with herbs and butter. Locals and visitors alike appreciate the freshness and flavor that comes from Arizona’s natural waters.

Catfish in Arkansas

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If you’re in Arkansas, fried catfish is a must-try. This Southern favorite is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, often served with hush puppies and coleslaw. Arkansas diners pride themselves on offering some of the best catfish around, making it a comfort food staple.

California’s Dungeness Crab

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Along the California coast, Dungeness crab reigns supreme. Known for its sweet, tender meat, this crab is perfect when served steamed with a side of melted butter. From seafood shacks to high-end restaurants, you’ll find Dungeness crab on menus throughout the Golden State.

Colorado’s Fresh Trout

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Though far from the ocean, Colorado has fresh trout from its rivers and lakes. Typically pan-seared or grilled, trout is a local favorite, especially for those who enjoy the outdoors. With its delicate flavor, trout offers a taste of the Rockies that shouldn’t be missed.

Connecticut’s Warm Lobster Roll

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While many think of Maine for lobster rolls, Connecticut does things a little differently with its warm, buttered version. The lobster is served without mayonnaise, allowing the sweet, rich flavor to shine through. It’s a simple yet mouthwatering dish that Connecticut locals swear by.

Delaware’s Blue Crab Delights

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Blue crab is a staple in Delaware, and it can be found in everything from crab cakes to crab boils. Steamed with Old Bay seasoning, blue crabs are often enjoyed straight from the shell, making for a messy but delicious dining experience packed with flavor.

Stone Crab in Florida

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In Florida, stone crab is the seafood of choice. The large, meaty claws are a delicacy, especially when dipped in mustard sauce. These crabs are sustainably harvested, with the claws removed and the crabs returned to the ocean to regenerate. They are fresh, delicious, and eco-friendly!

Georgia’s Wild Shrimp

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Georgia’s wild-caught shrimp are a coastal gem. They’re often prepared in simple dishes like shrimp and grits or boiled with some seasoning. The shrimp’s natural sweetness is enhanced with just a touch of garlic and butter, giving you an authentic taste of the Southern coast.

Hawaii’s Ahi Tuna

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A trip to Hawaii wouldn’t be complete without tasting ahi tuna. Whether seared or served raw in a poke bowl, ahi tuna is rich, buttery, and flavorful. Hawaiian seafood culture is all about freshness, and ahi tuna perfectly showcases that ethos.

Idaho’s Rainbow Trout

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Idaho’s rivers are teeming with rainbow trout, a local favorite. Grilled or pan-fried, it’s a simple yet flavorful dish often paired with a squeeze of lemon. Idaho’s trout is fresh, mild, and perfect for anyone craving seafood, even in the heart of the Northwest.

Lake Perch in Illinois

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Close to the Great Lakes, Illinois serves up a fantastic lake perch. The fish is often pan-fried with a crispy coating, letting its delicate flavor shine through. It’s a favorite at local restaurants near Lake Michigan, where fresh perch is a highlight on the menu.

Indiana’s Fried Catfish

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Fried catfish is a go-to seafood dish in Indiana. Whether you’re at a diner or a family gathering, catfish is typically served with a crispy exterior and a tender, flaky inside. Paired with fries and coleslaw, it’s comfort food at its best.

Walleye in Iowa

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Walleye might not be coastal seafood, but it’s undoubtedly beloved in Iowa. Known for its light and flaky texture, walleye is often grilled or fried and served simply with lemon. This freshwater fish is a true Midwestern classic, perfect for a relaxed meal by the water.

Kansas Crawfish Boils

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Kansas may be far from the ocean, but crawfish boils are still a big deal here. Packed with spices, corn, and potatoes, these feasts bring a bit of the South to the Midwest. Locals love to get together for a boil, making it a communal event as much as a meal.

Kentucky’s Southern Catfish

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In Kentucky, catfish is often breaded and fried to perfection. With its crispy crust and tender meat, it’s a popular dish served alongside traditional sides like hush puppies and coleslaw. Kentucky’s take on this Southern staple is all about simple, hearty flavors.

Crawfish in Louisiana

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Louisiana is synonymous with crawfish, and no visit is complete without trying some. Whether boiled, stuffed in a po’boy, or used in a rich gumbo, crawfish is a key part of Louisiana’s culinary heritage. Expect bold flavors and plenty of spice in every bite.

Maine Lobster, Of Course!

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Maine’s lobster is world-famous, and for good reason. Whether boiled, grilled, or tucked into a buttery roll, Maine lobster is sweet, succulent, and always fresh. It’s the state’s signature dish and a seafood experience that visitors can’t get enough of.

Maryland’s Famous Crab Cakes

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Crab cakes are a point of pride in Maryland, and locals take them very seriously. Made with fresh blue crab and just enough filler to hold them together, Maryland crab cakes are flavorful, moist, and always packed with crab meat. A squeeze of lemon is all they need.

Clam Chowder in Massachusetts

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Massachusetts is known for its clam chowder, a creamy, hearty soup filled with fresh clams, potatoes, and a touch of salt pork. This New England staple is perfect for chilly days, offering a comforting bowl of rich seafood goodness that has been a regional favorite for centuries.

Michigan’s Smoked Whitefish

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Michigan’s proximity to the Great Lakes makes it a prime spot for fresh, smoked whitefish. The smoky, savory flavor of this fish is ideal for salads, spreads, or just enjoyed on its own. Michigan’s seafood scene might surprise you with its focus on local freshwater catches.

Minnesota’s Fresh Walleye

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Minnesota’s lakes are home to some of the best walleye in the country. Light and flaky, this fish is grilled or fried and usually served with a squeeze of lemon. Minnesotans love their walleye, and it’s a staple at many restaurants throughout the state.

Mississippi’s Shrimp and Grits

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Shrimp and grits is a classic dish in Mississippi, combining the sweetness of Gulf shrimp with the creamy richness of Southern grits. This comfort food is often seasoned with spices and herbs, creating a flavorful and filling meal that’s perfect for any seafood lover.

Missouri’s Crispy Catfish

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Missouri is all about fried catfish, and many local restaurants serve it with pride. Often coated in a seasoned cornmeal batter and fried until golden, catfish in Missouri is crispy, tender, and perfect when paired with a side of fries or coleslaw.

Montana’s Rainbow Trout

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Montana may not be known for seafood, but its freshwater trout is something to savor. Pulled fresh from the state’s rivers, rainbow trout are often grilled or pan-seared and served with herbs and butter. It’s a simple yet fantastic dish that highlights Montana’s natural beauty.

Nebraska’s Walleye Special

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Walleye is a favorite catch in Nebraska’s lakes, and locals know how to prepare it just right. Grilled, fried, or baked, walleye is known for its mild, flaky texture. It’s a seafood option that brings a little taste of the coast to the heart of the Midwest.

Nevada’s Freshwater Fish

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Even in the desert, Nevada offers fantastic freshwater fish like trout and bass. Whether caught from a local lake or brought in fresh from nearby waters, Nevada’s seafood scene includes simple, delicious dishes that showcase the natural flavors of these fish.

New Hampshire’s Lobster Rolls

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New Hampshire’s lobster rolls are a New England classic, featuring fresh, tender lobster meat served on a buttery, toasted roll. While some prefer mayo-based rolls, New Hampshire often serves theirs with just a drizzle of melted butter, letting the lobster’s natural sweetness shine through.

New Jersey’s Clams Casino

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In New Jersey, clams casino is a popular appetizer, combining fresh clams with a savory topping of breadcrumbs, bacon, and herbs. Baked to perfection, this dish is a seafood lover’s dream, offering a mix of textures and flavors that’s hard to beat.

New Mexico’s Shrimp Tacos

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New Mexico’s seafood scene blends Mexican influences with fresh shrimp, resulting in delicious shrimp tacos. The shrimp is marinated, grilled, and then placed in soft tortillas, topped with salsa, cabbage, and avocado. With a burst of flavor in every bite, these tacos bring a coastal twist to the desert.

New York’s Oysters Rockefeller

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New York’s seafood scene is world-class, and oysters Rockefeller is one of its star dishes. Plump oysters are topped with a rich mixture of butter, herbs, and breadcrumbs, then baked to perfection. This dish is a true indulgence, combining the salty taste of fresh oysters with savory toppings.

North Carolina’s Shrimp Boil

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North Carolina’s shrimp boil is a coastal tradition. Fresh shrimp, corn, potatoes, and sausage are boiled in a delicious broth seasoned with Old Bay. Poured out onto a newspaper-covered table, this casual meal is perfect for sharing and offers a taste of the state’s laid-back, beachy vibe.

North Dakota’s Walleye

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Walleye is the fish of choice in North Dakota, known for its mild, flaky texture. Locally caught from rivers and lakes, walleye is often grilled or fried and served with a side of fries and coleslaw. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that reflects the state’s freshwater bounty.

Ohio’s Lake Erie Perch

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Lake Erie perch is a local favorite in Ohio, where it’s often fried and served with tartar sauce and fries. The fish is mild and flaky, with a light breading that makes it crispy on the outside. Whether enjoyed at a lakeside restaurant or a backyard fish fry, perch is a must-try.

Fried Catfish in Oklahoma

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Fried catfish is a Southern favorite that’s also beloved in Oklahoma. Freshly caught catfish is breaded in cornmeal and fried until crispy and golden. Served with hushpuppies, coleslaw, and a side of tartar sauce, it’s a down-home dish that’s comforting and delicious.

Oregon’s Dungeness Crab

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Oregon’s coast is known for its Dungeness crab, a sweet and succulent seafood delicacy. Often steamed or boiled, the crab is served with melted butter for dipping. Whether you crack the shells yourself or enjoy it pre-shelled, Dungeness crab is an unforgettable taste of Oregon’s coastal waters.

Pennsylvania Crab Bisque

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Crab bisque is a creamy, rich dish that’s popular in Pennsylvania. Made with fresh crabmeat, cream, and a touch of sherry, this soup is a seafood lover’s dream. It’s smooth, flavorful, and perfect for a chilly day, bringing a taste of the coast to the heart of the state.

Rhode Island’s Clam Cakes

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Famous for its clam cakes, a deep-fried treat that’s packed with chopped clams. These fritters are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them perfect for dipping in tartar sauce or clam chowder. Whether eaten by the beach or at a seafood shack, clam cakes are a must.

She-Crab Soup in South Carolina

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She-crab soup is a Southern delicacy that’s especially popular in South Carolina. Made with crab meat, cream, and a hint of sherry, this rich and velvety soup is perfect for seafood lovers. The addition of roe from female crabs gives it a unique flavor, making it a must-try dish in the Lowcountry.

South Dakota’s Fried Walleye

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In South Dakota, walleye is a local favorite, often fried to crispy perfection. Lightly seasoned and served with lemon and tartar sauce, this freshwater fish is a delicious representation of the state’s abundant rivers and lakes. Whether enjoyed at a lakeside restaurant or a family fish fry, walleye is a must.

Tennessee Fried Catfish

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Fried catfish is a beloved dish in Tennessee, where it’s often served with Southern sides like hushpuppies, coleslaw, and fries. The fish is coated in cornmeal, then fried until golden and crispy. It’s a down-home comfort food that showcases the state’s love for simple, flavorful cooking.

Texas Gulf Shrimp

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Texas is known for its Gulf shrimp, which is plump, juicy, and full of flavor. Whether grilled, fried, or boiled, Gulf shrimp is a favorite in coastal areas like Galveston. Served with various dipping sauces, from spicy remoulade to tangy cocktail sauce, Texas shrimp is a seafood lover’s dream.

Utah’s Trout

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Utah’s rivers and lakes are home to some of the best trout in the West. Grilled trout is a popular dish here, often served with a side of vegetables or a light salad. The fish is tender and flavorful, with a mild taste that pairs perfectly with a squeeze of lemon.

Vermont Rainbow Trout

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Rainbow trout is a staple in Vermont, where the clear, cold waters provide the perfect habitat for this fish. Lightly grilled or pan-fried, rainbow trout is flaky and mild, often served with a side of vegetables or potatoes. It’s a simple yet delicious way to enjoy the state’s natural bounty.

Virginia’s Soft-Shell Crab

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Virginia’s Chesapeake Bay is famous for its soft-shell crabs, which are harvested just after molting. These crabs are fried whole, shell and all, and served on sandwiches or as a main dish. The result is a crispy, tender bite that’s full of flavor and a true taste of Virginia’s coastal waters.

Pacific Salmon in Washington

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Washington is known for its Pacific salmon, which is a staple of the state’s seafood scene. Grilled, smoked, or baked, salmon is rich, flavorful, and full of healthy omega-3s. Whether caught wild from the Puget Sound or enjoyed at a local restaurant, Washington salmon is a must-try for seafood lovers.

West Virginia’s Fried Trout

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Fried trout is a favorite in West Virginia, where the state’s rivers and streams are teeming with this flavorful fish. Lightly breaded and fried until crispy, trout is often served with sides like coleslaw and fries. It’s a simple, satisfying meal that reflects the state’s love for fresh, local ingredients.

Wisconsin Fried Perch

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Fried perch is a popular dish in Wisconsin, especially during Friday fish fries. The fish is slightly breaded and fried until crispy, then served with tartar sauce, fries, and coleslaw. It’s a comforting, satisfying meal that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family at local taverns and restaurants.

Trout in Wyoming

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Trout is a favorite in Wyoming, where the clear, cold streams provide the perfect environment for this fish. Grilled or pan-fried, trout is often served with a squeeze of lemon and a side of vegetables. Whether enjoyed at a riverside lodge or a local restaurant, Wyoming trout is a must-try for seafood lovers.

Written by Adrian Berlutti

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