Unearth The Voyage
New York City is a treasure trove of culinary delights, particularly when it comes to seafood. Despite being nestled far from the ocean’s coastlines, NYC offers an array of seafood restaurants that rival those by the sea. From Michelin-starred establishments to creative fusion spots, here are 15 seafood restaurants in New York that stand out for their unique flavors, ambiance, and culinary mastery.
1. Le Bernardin (Midtown Manhattan)
Le Bernardin is a beacon of culinary excellence in Midtown Manhattan. Known for its three Michelin stars, this French seafood restaurant is helmed by the renowned chef Eric Ripert. The dishes here celebrate the essence of seafood with French precision and a touch of Asian influence.
Its elegant ambiance makes it a perfect spot for special occasions, adding a touch of glamour to the dining experience. With a focus on fish-first preparations, each dish is a masterpiece of flavor and presentation.
Le Bernardin continues to set the bar for seafood dining, proving that excellence is timeless in the culinary world.
2. Marea (Central Park South)
Nestled near Central Park South, Marea is a luxurious Italian seafood restaurant that offers an upscale dining experience. The menu is a celebration of Italian coastal flavors, with crudo, whole fish, and finely crafted pastas taking center stage.
Each dish reflects the elegance and richness of Italian cuisine, making it ideal for those seeking a sophisticated meal. Marea’s reputation is bolstered by its attention to detail and its ability to transform simple ingredients into exquisite creations.
The elegant surroundings provide a fitting backdrop for an unforgettable dining experience, embodying the spirit of Italian coastal dining right in the heart of NYC.
3. Grand Central Oyster Bar & Restaurant (Grand Central Terminal)
Situated beneath the bustling Grand Central Terminal, the Grand Central Oyster Bar is an iconic NYC institution. Known for its vast selection of oysters, this lively spot has been serving seafood lovers since 1913.
The bustling atmosphere and historic tile arches add to its timeless charm, making it a must-visit for both locals and tourists. The menu offers a variety of seafood options, ensuring there’s something for every palate.
Whether you’re a fan of raw oysters or prefer something grilled, this classic establishment guarantees a memorable experience in a uniquely New York setting.
4. Hav & Mar (Chelsea)
Hav & Mar is a dynamic addition to Chelsea’s vibrant food scene. Renowned chef Marcus Samuelsson brings a creative fusion of Swedish and Ethiopian influences to seafood, crafting dishes that are as bold as they are flavorful.
The fusion approach offers a fresh take on traditional seafood, delighting adventurous eaters with its innovative menu. The ambiance is trend-forward, with design elements that reflect the unique culinary blend.
For those seeking a departure from the ordinary, Hav & Mar provides a palate-pleasing journey through exciting flavors and textures, celebrating global influences in every bite.
5. Penny (East Village)
In the heart of the East Village, Penny offers a stylish take on the seafood bar concept. Known for its raw bar and expertly shucked oysters, this spot combines casual dining with high-quality seafood.
Though more laid-back than some fine-dining giants, Penny boasts a chic and contemporary ambiance, making it ideal for a relaxed date or a fun outing with friends. The menu is thoughtfully curated, focusing on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Penny is quickly gaining buzz for its ability to blend casual charm with culinary sophistication, creating a must-visit destination for seafood lovers.
6. Fish Cheeks (NoHo)
Fish Cheeks in NoHo is a vibrant haven for those seeking bold, Thai-inspired seafood. Known for its spice-laden dishes, this restaurant brings a burst of flavor to the New York dining scene.
The lively environment complements the menu, which is less about traditional seafood and more about dynamic, flavor-forward offerings. Patrons can expect dishes that are both exciting and satisfying, making each visit a culinary adventure.
Fish Cheeks stands out for its ability to marry traditional Thai spices with fresh seafood, offering a unique dining experience that keeps guests coming back for more.
7. The Clam (West Village)
The Clam in the West Village specializes in shellfish, offering a cozy yet lively dining experience. Known for its focus on clams and other shellfish, the restaurant provides a warm atmosphere that feels both inviting and refined.
With a menu that highlights the best of the ocean, patrons can indulge in a variety of freshly prepared dishes, perfect for seafood aficionados. The ambient bar-dining vibe adds to its charm, making it a great spot for casual gatherings.
The Clam continues to delight guests with its dedication to quality and its ability to create a memorable, relaxed dining experience.
8. Flex Mussels (West Village)
Flex Mussels is a haven for mussel enthusiasts, tucked away in the West Village. This restaurant offers a diverse array of sauce options, allowing patrons to explore different flavor profiles with each visit.
The creative menu extends beyond mussels, boasting a strong oyster program that satisfies seafood lovers of all kinds. The vibrant setting and adventurous dishes make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
For those seeking a fun and innovative dining experience, Flex Mussels provides a shellfish twist on classic seafood offerings, inviting diners to savor the unexpected.
9. Cull & Pistol Oyster Bar (Chelsea Market)
Nestled within Chelsea Market, Cull & Pistol Oyster Bar offers a trendy market-to-table seafood experience. Known for its fresh oysters and flavorful seafood cocktails, this spot is perfect for a casual yet upscale dining excursion.
The vibrant bar scene and easy walk-in access make it a social hotspot, attracting both locals and visitors. With a menu that celebrates the day’s freshest catches, patrons can enjoy a lively culinary journey.
Cull & Pistol stands out for its commitment to quality, ensuring every dish is as fresh as it is delicious, embodying the essence of urban seafood dining.
10. Seamore’s (Various NYC locations)
Seamore’s offers a relaxed “fish-shack” approach to dining across various NYC locations. Despite its casual vibe, the restaurant is celebrated for its excellent seafood and unbeatable value.
Each location provides a laid-back atmosphere that welcomes diners to enjoy fresh, sustainable seafood without the formality of traditional dining. The menu focuses on simplicity and quality, highlighting the natural flavors of the ocean.
Seamore’s continues to attract those looking for a fun, accessible dining experience, embodying the spirit of casual seafood shacks while maintaining a high standard of culinary excellence.
11. Smithereens (East Village)
Smithereens in the East Village is renowned for its excellent lobster roll and raw seafood offerings. This neighborhood favorite provides a comfortable setting, perfect for an informal seafood treat.
The ambiance is casual and inviting, making it a great spot for locals to enjoy fresh seafood without any fuss. The focus on quality ingredients ensures each dish is both satisfying and flavorful.
Smithereens continues to delight patrons with its commitment to taste and quality, offering a charming, unpretentious seafood experience in a beloved neighborhood setting.
12. The Fulton (Seaport District)
The Fulton is a standout seafood destination in the Seaport District, combining exceptional cuisine with prime views of the East River and Brooklyn Bridge. The menu offers a range of expertly crafted seafood dishes, perfect for those seeking both taste and scenery.
With its scenic backdrop, The Fulton provides an upscale yet relaxed dining experience, making it ideal for a leisurely meal with a view. The attention to detail in both food and presentation ensures a memorable visit.
For diners wanting to pair breathtaking views with exquisite seafood, The Fulton is a must-visit, celebrating the beauty of NYC’s waterfront.
13. Sailor (Brooklyn – Fort Greene)
In Brooklyn’s Fort Greene, Sailor offers a seafood-focused menu that stands out for its chef-driven approach. This chic spot provides a sophisticated dining experience without feeling stuffy, perfect for those exploring beyond Manhattan.
The menu showcases fresh, innovative dishes that reflect the creativity of the culinary team, delighting diners with each bite. The neighborhood-chic ambiance adds to its appeal, creating a welcoming environment for locals and visitors alike.
Sailor continues to impress with its dedication to quality and flavor, offering a unique take on seafood dining in the heart of Brooklyn’s vibrant food scene.
14. Balthazar (SoHo)
Balthazar in SoHo is a classic French brasserie with a strong seafood focus. Known for its lively atmosphere and extensive raw bar, it offers a quintessential NYC dining experience.
The stylish setting and bustling energy make it a favorite among those seeking a taste of classic French cuisine. With a menu that features fresh oysters and expertly prepared seafood, Balthazar delivers both tradition and innovation.
For those looking to enjoy a lively meal in a vibrant setting, Balthazar provides the perfect blend of French elegance and New York energy, making each visit unforgettable.
