Unearth The Voyage
Louisiana’s Gulf Coast is home to some of the freshest, most flavorful seafood in America. From sizzling charbroiled oysters to perfectly fried catfish, the state’s restaurants serve up dishes that locals have loved for generations. Whether you’re hunting for a century-old oyster bar or a family-run spot famous for boiled crawfish, these 18 seafood destinations are the ones Louisianans recommend first when visitors ask where to eat.
1. GW Fins (New Orleans, French Quarter)
A nightly changing menu keeps diners coming back to this French Quarter gem, where pristine Gulf-caught fish takes center stage. Executive Chef Tenney Flynn curates the freshest catches, often flown in the same day, ensuring every plate showcases seafood at its peak. The restaurant earned a 2025 James Beard semifinalist nod for Outstanding Restaurant, cementing its reputation as New Orleans’ premier fine-dining seafood destination.
Signature dishes like scalibut (a hybrid fish) and wood-grilled escolar highlight the kitchen’s creativity and respect for quality ingredients. The upscale yet approachable atmosphere makes it perfect for special occasions or treating yourself to an unforgettable meal. Reservations fill up fast, so plan ahead if you want to experience what many consider the city’s best seafood house.
2. Pêche Seafood Grill (New Orleans, Warehouse District)
Wood-fired cooking transforms Gulf seafood into smoky, succulent masterpieces at this Warehouse District hotspot. Chef Ryan Prewitt’s commitment to sustainability earned Pêche the James Beard Award for Best New Restaurant in America in 2014, followed by his own Best Chef: South honor the same year. The open kitchen and communal tables create a lively, energetic vibe that feels both casual and special.
Whole roasted fish, grilled oysters, and inventive small plates dominate the menu, each dish celebrating local catches with bold flavors. The restaurant sources responsibly, partnering with fishermen who use sustainable methods to protect Gulf waters for future generations. Walk-ins are welcome at the bar, but expect a wait during peak hours because locals and tourists alike flock here for unforgettable seafood.
3. Drago’s Seafood (Metairie & New Orleans)
Charbroiled oysters were born here, and Drago’s still reigns as the undisputed king of this buttery, garlicky delicacy. On busy nights, the kitchen turns out an astonishing 900 dozen oysters, each one topped with Drago’s secret blend of butter, herbs, and Parmesan before hitting the blazing-hot broiler. The result is a bubbling, smoky treat that has spawned countless imitators but never equals.
Beyond oysters, the menu offers Gulf classics like shrimp remoulade, crawfish étouffée, and fresh fish prepared to perfection. Family-owned and operated, Drago’s has multiple locations, but locals swear by the original Metairie spot for its authentic, no-frills atmosphere. Whether you order a half-dozen or several dozen charbroiled oysters, prepare for a messy, delicious experience you will not forget.
4. Casamento’s (New Orleans, Uptown)
Since 1919, this family-run oyster house has served generations of New Orleanians craving raw and fried oysters in a setting that feels frozen in time. White tile walls, marble counters, and vintage fixtures transport you to an era when oyster bars were the heart of neighborhood dining. Casamento’s closes during the summer months, following the old tradition of eating oysters only in months with an R.
The fried oyster loaf is legendary: a crusty French bread filled with golden, perfectly seasoned oysters that crunch with every bite. Raw oysters arrive ice-cold and briny, shucked to order by skilled hands who have worked here for decades. Lines form early, especially on weekends, because everyone knows this century-old classic delivers oysters the way they are meant to be enjoyed.
5. Deanie’s Seafood (Bucktown/Metairie & French Quarter)
Born from Bucktown’s historic seafood market in 1961, Deanie’s has been feeding hungry locals giant platters of fried and boiled seafood for over six decades. The original location sits near the 17th Street Canal, where fishing boats once unloaded their daily catches, and that waterfront heritage still shapes the menu today. Barbecue shrimp, swimming in a spicy butter sauce, is a must-order dish that keeps diners mopping their plates with French bread.
Boiled crawfish, shrimp, and crabs arrive piled high on newspaper-covered tables, seasoned with Deanie’s signature spice blend that balances heat and flavor. The French Quarter location offers the same generous portions and friendly service in a more tourist-friendly setting. Whether you choose fried, boiled, or grilled, expect massive portions that guarantee leftovers.
6. Acme Oyster House (New Orleans original + LA/AL/FL outposts)
A French Quarter institution since 1910, Acme has been shucking oysters and slinging po-boys for more than a century. The marble-topped oyster bar is always packed with tourists and locals alike, all waiting for freshly shucked Gulf oysters served with crackers, hot sauce, and lemon wedges. The atmosphere is loud, crowded, and wonderfully chaotic, capturing the energy that makes New Orleans dining so memorable.
Chargrilled oysters, gumbo, and po-boys round out the menu, each dish delivering classic Louisiana flavors without fuss or pretension. While Acme has expanded to multiple locations across the Gulf South, the original Iberville Street spot retains its vintage charm and nonstop buzz. Expect a wait, especially during peak hours, but the line moves quickly as oyster shuckers work at lightning speed behind the bar.
7. Middendorf’s (Manchac/Akers & Slidell)
Thin fried catfish is an art form at Middendorf’s, where the Original Thin Fried Catfish has been delighting diners since the restaurant opened between Lakes Pontchartrain and Maurepas. The catfish fillets are pounded paper-thin, breaded lightly, and fried to a golden, crispy perfection that practically melts on your tongue. Locals drive from miles around just to enjoy this signature dish with a side of tangy coleslaw and hushpuppies.
The lakeside setting adds to the charm, with both the Manchac and Slidell locations offering water views and a laid-back, old-school Louisiana vibe. Fried shrimp, oysters, and seafood platters also shine, but the catfish is the star everyone remembers. Family-friendly and welcoming, Middendorf’s has been a weekend tradition for generations of Louisiana families seeking honest, delicious seafood.
8. Spahr’s Seafood (Des Allemands & Thibodaux)
Catfish chips and a legendary Bloody Mary have made Spahr’s a beloved Cajun Bayou destination since 1968. The Des Allemands original location was rebuilt in 2006, but the recipes and warm hospitality remain unchanged, drawing regulars who have been coming for decades. Gumbo simmers rich and dark, loaded with seafood or chicken and sausage, depending on your mood and appetite.
The casual, family-friendly atmosphere welcomes everyone from fishermen stopping in after a morning on the water to families celebrating birthdays and anniversaries. Fried seafood platters overflow with shrimp, oysters, and catfish, all cooked to crispy perfection and served with traditional sides. The Thibodaux location offers the same quality and flavors, making Spahr’s a reliable choice no matter which Cajun Bayou town you are exploring during your Louisiana seafood adventure.
9. Parrain’s Seafood (Baton Rouge)
Since 2001, Parrain’s has been the go-to spot for Baton Rouge locals craving fried seafood platters and Cajun-Creole classics. Located on Perkins Road, the restaurant serves up generous portions of fried shrimp, oysters, catfish, and crawfish tails, all seasoned with just the right amount of spice. The menu also features grilled fish, pasta dishes, and daily specials that showcase the best of Louisiana’s culinary traditions.
Oysters arrive raw or fried, depending on your preference, and the gumbo is thick, flavorful, and loaded with seafood or andouille sausage. The casual, family-friendly atmosphere makes Parrain’s perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings with friends. Service is friendly and efficient, ensuring you spend more time enjoying your meal than waiting for it to arrive at your table.
10. Steamboat Bill’s on the Lake (Lake Charles)
For over 40 years, Steamboat Bill’s has been feeding Lake Charles residents boiled crawfish, fried platters, and boudin balls in a casual, no-frills setting. The original location on the lake remains a local favorite, especially during crawfish season when pounds and pounds of spicy, perfectly boiled crawfish disappear from tables covered in newspaper. Boudin balls, a Southwest Louisiana specialty, are crispy on the outside and packed with flavorful rice and pork on the inside.
Fried seafood platters come loaded with shrimp, oysters, catfish, and all the fixings, satisfying even the biggest appetites. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, with a loyal crowd of regulars who have been coming here for decades. Whether you are a Lake Charles native or just passing through, Steamboat Bill’s delivers authentic Louisiana seafood without pretension or high prices.
11. SHUCKS! The Louisiana Seafood House (Abbeville)
Vermilion Parish knows SHUCKS! as the place to go for oysters, whether you want them raw on the half shell or chargrilled with butter and herbs. This Abbeville classic has been serving Cajun plates and fresh seafood to locals and visitors for years, earning a reputation for quality and consistency. The menu features fried seafood, boiled crawfish, gumbo, and etouffee, all prepared with traditional Cajun seasonings and techniques.
Chargrilled oysters are a standout, arriving bubbling hot with a smoky, garlicky flavor that keeps diners ordering round after round. The casual, laid-back atmosphere reflects the heart of Cajun Country, where good food and good company matter most. Friendly service and generous portions make SHUCKS! a must-visit stop when exploring the seafood treasures of Louisiana’s coastal parishes and vibrant culinary traditions.
12. Prejean’s (Lafayette)
Big Al, the 14-foot alligator, greets every guest who walks through the doors of this Lafayette landmark, setting the tone for a fun, family-friendly dining experience. Award-winning gumbos, chargrilled oysters, and crawfish dishes fill the menu, each one showcasing the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine. Live Cajun music often fills the dining room, adding to the lively atmosphere that makes Prejean’s a favorite for both locals and tourists.
The restaurant’s large dining room can accommodate big groups, making it perfect for family gatherings, celebrations, or just a casual meal with friends. Fried alligator, boudin balls, and seafood platters give visitors a taste of authentic Cajun cooking without having to hunt down multiple restaurants. Service is warm and welcoming, reflecting the hospitality that Louisiana is famous for across the country and beyond.
13. Harbor Seafood & Oyster Bar (Kenner)
Just minutes from MSY airport, Harbor Seafood has become a locals’ favorite for raw and chargrilled oysters, fried seafood, and boiled crawfish when they are in season. The convenient location makes it a popular stop for residents of Kenner and nearby suburbs, as well as travelers looking for authentic Louisiana seafood before or after a flight. The casual, neighborhood vibe feels welcoming and unpretentious, with regulars chatting at the bar and families filling the dining room.
Oysters are the main attraction, whether you prefer them raw with cocktail sauce or chargrilled with garlic butter and Parmesan. Fried shrimp, catfish, and seafood po-boys round out the menu, all prepared with fresh ingredients and traditional seasonings. The staff knows many customers by name, creating a friendly, community atmosphere that keeps people coming back week after week for their seafood fix.
14. Seither’s Seafood (Harahan)
Creative po-boys and standout seafood boils have made Seither’s a beloved hangout since opening two decades ago in 2004. The restaurant has won multiple awards at Oak Street Fest for their inventive po-boy creations, which go beyond traditional fried shrimp and oyster varieties to include unique flavor combinations. Picnic tables and a fun, laid-back atmosphere give Seither’s a backyard party vibe, especially when crawfish season arrives and tables fill with pounds of spicy boiled crawfish.
Boils are customizable, allowing diners to choose their seafood, spice level, and add-ons like corn, potatoes, and sausage. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, happy to guide first-timers through the menu and recommend favorites. Seither’s celebrated 20 years in business in 2024, a testament to the quality food and welcoming atmosphere that keeps the Harahan community coming back for more delicious seafood.
15. R&O’s Restaurant & Bar (Bucktown, Metairie)
Bucktown’s waterfront heritage lives on at R&O’s, where fried seafood platters and roast beef po-boys have satisfied locals since the 1980s. The restaurant sits in a neighborhood known for its fishing roots, and that connection to the water shows in every dish. Fried shrimp, oysters, and catfish arrive golden and crispy, paired with perfectly seasoned fries and coleslaw that balance the richness of fried seafood.
Roast beef po-boys, piled high with tender beef and smothered in rich gravy, are a surprising standout on a seafood-focused menu. The casual, neighborhood atmosphere makes R&O’s a comfortable spot for families, couples, and solo diners alike. Regulars have their favorite tables and usual orders, creating a sense of community that makes every visit feel like coming home to good food and familiar faces in this beloved Metairie institution.
16. Clesi’s Restaurant & Catering (Mid-City, New Orleans)
Family-run and full of heart, Clesi’s has earned a reputation as boil specialists, winning awards for best boiled crawfish and fried catfish. The lively patio becomes the center of the action during crawfish season, when tables overflow with pounds of perfectly seasoned crawfish, corn, and potatoes. Onsite boil catering means Clesi’s can bring their famous flavors to your backyard party, wedding, or corporate event.
Fried catfish arrives light and crispy, with a delicate breading that lets the fish flavor shine through. The family atmosphere extends to the service, with staff treating every customer like a neighbor stopping by for a meal. Mid-City locals know Clesi’s as the place to go when you want honest, delicious seafood without the fuss or high prices of fancier restaurants. The welcoming vibe and consistently excellent food make every visit memorable and satisfying.
17. Felix’s Restaurant & Oyster Bar (New Orleans, French Quarter)
Right across the street from Acme, Felix’s has been shucking oysters and serving classic Creole dishes since 1940. The friendly rivalry between the two oyster houses adds to the French Quarter charm, with locals and tourists debating which spot serves better oysters. Felix’s offers a slightly less crowded alternative, with the same quality Gulf oysters and a menu full of New Orleans favorites like gumbo, jambalaya, and seafood platters.
Raw oysters arrive ice-cold and briny, shucked by experienced hands who have worked the oyster bar for years. Chargrilled oysters provide a smoky, buttery contrast to the raw variety, giving diners the best of both preparations. The vintage atmosphere, complete with tile floors and wood-paneled walls, transports you back to mid-century New Orleans when oyster bars were the heart of French Quarter dining and entertainment for locals and visitors alike.
18. The Boiling Crab (Multiple Louisiana locations)
Hands-on seafood boils served in plastic bags have made The Boiling Crab a favorite for casual, messy, delicious dining experiences. Choose your seafood (shrimp, crawfish, crab, or a combination), pick a sauce (Cajun, garlic butter, lemon pepper, or a mix), and select your spice level from mild to extra hot. Everything arrives in a bag, ready to be dumped onto paper-covered tables for a communal feast.
Bibs and gloves are provided because eating here is a hands-on, interactive experience that encourages digging in and getting messy. Corn, potatoes, and sausage soak up the flavorful sauce, adding variety to each bite. The lively, energetic atmosphere makes The Boiling Crab perfect for groups looking to share food, laughs, and plenty of napkins. While it is a chain, the Louisiana locations capture the spirit of Gulf Coast seafood boils with authentic flavors and generous portions that satisfy hungry diners.
