Discovering 11 Best Seafood Restaurants in NYC
Overview of Seafood Dining in NYC
In the bustling culinary landscape of New York City, seafood dining takes center stage, offering a diverse array of flavors sourced from the world’s oceans. From the vibrant markets to the upscale waterfront establishments, NYC’s seafood scene is a dynamic journey that celebrates freshness, innovation, and a deep appreciation for the bounties of the sea.
Introduction to the NYC Seafood Scene and Trend
The seafood scene in New York City is a vibrant tapestry woven with the flavors of the ocean, reflecting the city’s diverse culinary influences. The Fulton Fish Market, originally established in 1822, is one of the oldest and most iconic fish markets in the world. Known for its bustling atmosphere and vast array of fresh seafood, it has been a vital hub connecting fishermen with chefs and seafood enthusiasts for centuries.
From iconic institutions to trendy coastal eateries, the seafood landscape in NYC offers an eclectic range of dining experiences. With its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and global markets, the city’s seafood menus boast an array of fresh catches, showcasing the culinary prowess of chefs who transform the ocean’s treasures into delectable creations. Whether enjoying classic clam chowder or indulging in avant-garde seafood dishes, New York’s coastal culinary scene promises a feast for seafood enthusiasts.
Popular Seafood Spots in NYC
The Grand Central Oyster Bar, nestled in the iconic Grand Central Terminal, is celebrated for its extensive selection of oysters and classic seafood offerings. Le Bernardin, a Michelin-starred gem, stands out as an upscale destination where Chef Eric Ripert’s culinary artistry elevates seafood to new heights.
For a more casual experience, the Lobster Roll at Luke’s Lobster, with its buttery chunks of lobster on a toasted bun, is a perennial favorite among those seeking a delicious taste of the sea in the heart of the city. We’ll share more below.
Trendy Seafood Restaurants
The Mermaid Oyster Bar, located in Greenwich Village, is a chic and lively establishment known for its stylish decor and an impressive selection of oysters. At Seamore’s, sustainability meets trendiness, focusing on locally sourced and responsibly harvested seafood, offering a modern and eco-conscious dining experience. The Lobster Club, nestled in Midtown, combines contemporary design with innovative Japanese-inspired seafood dishes, making it a fashionable choice for those seeking a sophisticated and trendy seafood outing in the city.
Best Seafood Restaurants in New York City in 2023
Indulge in the maritime delights of New York City’s best seafood establishments, where a diverse oceanic bounty meets culinary expertise, from iconic oyster bars to trendsetting seafood spots. NYC offers an unparalleled seafood experience for discerning New Yorkers.
So, for those who want to eat seafood, munch on squid a la plancha, savor crab cakes, or enjoy their favorite fried calamari or fried snapper with tartar sauce, here are the best New York City seafood restaurants that offer a variety of your favorites. Aside from those above, you will be pleased because most serve sushi, caviar, scallops, squid, whole fish, fried fish, clam dishes, and fish dishes. If you’re into raw bar hopping, these are the 10 best restaurants to visit.
1. Grand Central Oyster Bar
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Grand Central Oyster Bar in Grand Central Terminal in Midtown Manhattan has been a seafood institution since 1913. Renowned for its timeless ambiance and architectural charm. Its iconic oyster bar boasts a menu featuring an impressive selection of oysters, clams, monkfish and other fresh catches, including lobsters. Their New England clam chowder is among the patrons’ favorite.
The Grand Central Seafood Pan Roast, a delectable concoction of shellfish simmered in a flavorful broth, showcasing the establishment’s commitment to crafting memorable seafood experiences, is the bestseller in the restaurant. With its central location and a menu celebrating the sea’s bounty, the Grand Central Oyster Bar remains a cherished destination for locals and visitors.
2. Lure Fishbar
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Lure Fishbar, located in the heart of New York City, has gained a devoted following for its exquisite seafood offerings and stylish ambiance. Known for its fresh and diverse selection of ocean delights, patrons appreciate the restaurant’s commitment to quality and sustainability.
The standout dish, often hailed as the bestseller, is the Lobster Roll – a harmonious blend of succulent lobster meat, perfectly seasoned and served in a buttery, toasted bun. With its chic, nautical themed decor and consistently exceptional culinary offerings, Lure Fishbar has become a go-to destination for seafood enthusiasts seeking a memorable dining experience in the bustling city.
3. Maison Premiere
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Maison Premiere, a seafood haven in the heart of Brooklyn, has captivated diners with its enchanting atmosphere and impeccable seafood selection. Renowned for its oyster program, patrons flock to Maison Premiere to indulge in the finest and freshest oysters from both coasts.
The establishment’s standout dish, and a perennial bestseller, is the Grand Plateau, an opulent seafood platter featuring a lavish assortment of oysters, clams, shrimp, and other delights, making it a quintessential choice for those seeking a lavish and indulgent dining experience in the vibrant culinary landscape of New York City.
4. Mary’s Fish Camp
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This seafood restaurant from the West Village has carved a niche for itself with its intimate setting and delectable seafood offerings. Adored for its unpretentious charm and consistently fresh catches, patrons love the laid-back atmosphere that pairs perfectly with the restaurant’s commitment to high-quality ingredients.
A standout on the menu is the Lobster Roll, celebrated as their bestseller. It features succulent lobster meat nestled in a buttery roll, epitomizing the simple yet sublime seafood experience that keeps diners coming back for more at Mary’s Fish Camp. With its cozy ambiance and focus on delivering the essence of seaside dining, Mary’s Fish Camp remains a beloved destination for seafood enthusiasts in the city.
5. The Fulton
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The Fulton by Jean-Georges has become a seafood sensation, drawing patrons with its stunning waterfront views, breathtaking sight of the Brooklyn Bridge, and a menu that celebrates the bounty of the sea. Its weekend brunch menu includes Egg Toast Caviar, Yellowfin Tuna, Kristal Kaviari, and Royale Seafood Plateau, to name a few. Diners appreciate its elegant yet approachable ambiance, offering a sophisticated dining experience without sacrificing the relaxed atmosphere.
Among their acclaimed dishes, the Salt and Pepper Lobster is a bestseller, featuring impeccably prepared lobster with a flavorful twist. With a commitment to culinary excellence and a location that enhances the overall dining experience, The Fulton continues to win the hearts of seafood enthusiasts seeking a taste of the ocean in the heart of New York City.
6. Crab House
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Crab House, a seafood haven in NYC, has garnered a devoted following for its delectable offerings, particularly emphasizing its enticing brunch menu. Patrons flock to Crab House for the succulent crab dishes and the unique and flavorful twists of traditional brunch favorites.
The Crab Benedict, a delightful combination of fresh crab meat, poached eggs, and hollandaise sauce, stands out as a brunch bestseller, showcasing the restaurant’s commitment to delivering a memorable dining experience. With its inviting atmosphere and a menu highlighting crab’s versatility in diverse culinary creations, Crab House has become a go-to destination for those seeking a distinctive and satisfying seafood brunch in the city.
7. Littleneck
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Littleneck is a charming seafood spot near the Gowanus Canal. It has won diners’ hearts with its laid-back atmosphere and a menu that boasts fresh and flavorful seafood delights. Known for its inviting weekend brunch, patrons flock to Littleneck for the perfect blend of classic brunch staples and innovative seafood twists.
Littleneck Clam Roll is a favorite among patrons, featuring tender clams tucked into a warm, buttered bun that embodies the restaurant’s commitment to simple yet exceptional seafood preparations. With its cozy ambiance and reputation for consistently delivering delicious, high-quality seafood, Littleneck remains a favorite among locals and visitors alike in the bustling culinary scene of New York City.
8. Upstate Craft Beer and Oyster Bar
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Upstate Craft Beer and Oyster Bar in NYC have become cherished destinations for seafood enthusiasts and craft beer lovers. Boasting a cozy, rustic ambiance, patrons appreciate the restaurant’s extensive selection of fresh oysters from both coasts, paired perfectly with an impressive array of craft beers.
The Upstate Sampler, a bestseller, showcases a variety of oysters and clams, allowing diners to savor the diverse flavors of the sea. With its laid-back vibe, stellar seafood offerings, and a carefully curated craft beer list, this restaurant offers a quintessential New York experience for those seeking a delightful blend of oceanic delights and craft brews.
9. Sea Fire Grill
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Sea Fire Grill, located in Midtown, has established itself as a premier destination for seafood enthusiasts, offering an elegant dining experience focusing on top-notch ingredients and expert preparation. Patrons love the restaurant’s sophisticated ambiance and attentive service, creating a perfect setting for special occasions or upscale dining.
You can enjoy a three-course meal for a prix-fixe and add a jump crab. Also on the menu are classic raw bar items, grilled swordfish, lobster mac and cheese, Spanish risotto, and bouillabaisse. Their bestseller, the Chilean Sea Bass, is a testament to the culinary mastery at Sea Fire Grill, featuring flawlessly cooked fish with a delectable accompaniment of flavors.
Their happy hour is from 4 pm to 6 pm from Mondays to Thursdays and up to 7 pm on weekends. With its commitment to quality, upscale atmosphere, and a menu that celebrates the best of the ocean, Sea Fire Grill remains a beloved choice for those seeking a fine dining seafood experience in the heart of New York City.
10. Saint Julivert
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Saint Julivert Fisheries, nestled in NYC, has captured diners’ hearts with its modern approach to seafood in a cozy setting. Patrons appreciate the restaurant’s commitment to sustainability, sourcing fresh, seasonal catches from responsible purveyors.
The Grilled Octopus is a standout on the menu and often considered a bestseller, expertly prepared and served with a medley of flavorful accompaniments, showcasing the culinary finesse that defines Saint Julivert. Saint Julivert Fisheries has become a favorite for those seeking a contemporary and conscientious seafood dining experience in New York City, emphasizing quality ingredients, innovative dishes, and a welcoming ambiance.
11. Lobster Place
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Lobster Place Seafood Market in NYC has earned acclaim for its seafood offerings, drawing patrons who appreciate the restaurant’s diverse menu and dedication to freshness. Renowned for its bustling kitchen and raw bar, Lobster Place boasts a bestseller in its Lobster Roll, a classic favorite featuring succulent lobster meat in a buttery roll. The restaurant’s sushi selection adds to its allure with expertly crafted rolls and sashimi, showcasing the kitchen’s versatility in preparing seafood in various forms. With a commitment to quality, a lively atmosphere, and a menu that caters to seafood lovers of all kinds, Lobster Place stands out as a must-visit destination in the vibrant culinary scene of New York City.
Expert Tips for Seafood Lovers
For seafood lovers navigating the diverse culinary landscape of NYC, consider the following tips to find the best restaurants offering a delectable array of crab, mussels, oysters, and more. Follow it diligently to have a great eating experience while enjoying your favorite food.
How to Find the Best Seafood Restaurants in NYC
- Online Reviews and Recommendations: Explore platforms like Yelp or TripAdvisor for insights into the experiences of fellow seafood enthusiasts, helping you discover top-rated restaurants with delectable offerings.
- Sourcing Practices: Inquire about a restaurant’s sourcing practices to ensure the freshest catches, emphasizing establishments committed to sustainable and responsible seafood.
- Specialty Focus: Opt for restaurants renowned for specific seafood specialties, ensuring a curated and expertly prepared menu that caters to your cravings.
- Seasonal Menus: Check for seasonal menus to guarantee the availability of your favorite seafood dishes, promising an experience with the freshest and in-season catches.
- Local Insights: Ask locals for recommendations, uncovering hidden gems and local favorites in NYC’s diverse and thriving seafood scene.
Understanding Different Seafood Options
The world of seafood offers diverse options, ranging from delicate white fish to briny oysters and succulent lobster. White fish like cod and halibut are known for their mild flavors and flaky textures, making them versatile for various culinary preparations. With their unique regional profiles, oysters are celebrated for their complex tastes, from sweet and creamy to briny and mineral-rich.
Meanwhile, the rich and tender lobster meat, whether steamed, grilled, or in a buttery roll, remains an indulgent favorite among seafood enthusiasts. The expansive range of seafood options ensures a delectable choice for every palate and culinary preference.
Pairing Seafood with the Perfect Wine
Pairing seafood with the perfect wine is an art that enhances the dining experience, balancing flavors and elevating the overall enjoyment of the meal. Lighter seafood, such as delicate white fish or oysters, harmonizes beautifully with crisp and citrusy white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. For richer and heartier seafood dishes like grilled salmon or lobster, consider a well-balanced Pinot Noir or a medium-bodied Chardonnay to complement the robust flavors without overpowering the delicate nuances of the seafood.
Conclusion
The best seafood restaurants stand out not only for their diverse and delectable offerings but also for the unique experiences they provide. From the upscale elegance of Sea Fire Grill to the modern and conscientious approach of Saint Julivert Fisheries, each establishment contributes to the city’s rich tapestry of seafood dining. There are also great choices in Long Island like Psari, Lobster Roll Restaurant and Bigelow’s New England Fried. All of these seafood spots are worth a visit, so make sure to check them out! If you
