Manhattan's Best Seafood [Updated 2025]

These twelve spots are not just places to grab a bite; they’re culinary adventures waiting to be explored. Each restaurant has been handpicked not only for their mouthwatering dishes but also for the unique stories they tell through their flavors.

As someone who’s scoured every corner of this vibrant city, I’ve tasted my way through countless plates of shrimp, scallops, and crab, diving deep into what makes each location stand out. You can trust my taste buds to lead you straight to the freshest catches and unforgettable dining experiences that Manhattan has to offer. Let’s dive in and discover the treasures of the sea together!

Oceans

Highlights
Exceptional crab cakes
Signature whole black sea bass
Delicious ceviche flavors
Courteous and attentive service
Airy and delightful cheesecake

Oceans in Manhattan is an enchanting retreat for seafood lovers like myself. From the moment I stepped inside, I was greeted by an inviting atmosphere that promised a memorable dining experience. The exceptional crab cakes were a delightful kickoff, crisp on the outside and bursting with tender crab meat, leaving me eager for what was to come.

The signature whole black sea bass was the star of the evening, expertly seasoned and grilled to perfection, making each bite a celebration of flavor. Paired with a variety of accompaniments, it truly encapsulated the essence of fresh seafood.

What I also found intriguing was their delicious ceviche that tantalized my taste buds, with invigorating flavors that danced along my palate, perfect for summoning the spirit of summer, even in fall.

Equally commendable was the courteous and attentive service that met my every request with warmth, making me feel right at home. To round off this oceanic feast, I indulged in their airy and delightful cheesecake—a sweet ending that was the cherry on top of a splendid meal.

In short, Oceans is a must-visit for anyone seeking top-notch seafood in Manhattan, making it an experience worth savoring!

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Sea Fire Grill

Nestled in the heart of Manhattan, Sea Fire Grill is a seafood lover’s delight that truly captivates the senses. From the moment you step in, the ambiance radiates elegance, perfectly setting the stage for a delightful meal. I indulged in the grilled octopus, which was both tender and bursting with flavor, paired seamlessly with a zesty chimichurri. The standout, however, was the misoyaki butterfish, perfectly flaky and rich, leaving me wanting more with each bite. Whether you're a seafood aficionado or a curious diner, Sea Fire Grill promises an unforgettable culinary journey that is simply not to be missed!

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The Shell Seafood Kitchen & Bar

During my recent visit to The Shell Seafood Kitchen & Bar, I was immediately enchanted by the vibrant atmosphere and the tantalizing aroma of freshly prepared dishes. From the mouthwatering clam chowder to the exquisitely cooked grilled octopus, every bite was a delight. Their thoughtfully curated wine list perfectly complemented the seafood offerings, making each sip as enjoyable as the savory dishes. Service was attentive yet relaxed, creating an inviting dining experience. I left feeling satisfied and eager to return for more. If you're in the mood for flavorful seafood in Manhattan, The Shell is a must-try destination!

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Pesce lulu Seafood Kitchen NYC

Pesce lulu Seafood Kitchen is an absolute gem tucked into the heart of Manhattan! From the moment I walked in, the nautical decor set the perfect backdrop for what would be an unforgettable culinary voyage. I savored the grilled octopus, which was tender and smoky, melting in my mouth with every bite. The seafood pasta was a delightful mix of fresh flavors, showcasing the kitchen’s commitment to quality. Plus, their signature cocktails added a delightful twist to the experience. If you’re in search of a seafood haven, Pesce lulu is a must-visit; it’s a culinary splash you won’t forget!

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Aqua Boil

At Aqua Boil, I was greeted by the delightful chaos of a seafood feast. Their signature low-country boil is an explosion of flavors, featuring succulent shrimp, tender potatoes, and spicy sausage, all beautifully aromatic. The interactive dining experience of peeling shrimp and soaking up broth with your fingers elevates the entire meal! The vibrant ambience paired with their signature sauces—especially the garlic butter sauce—left me yearning for more. Don't miss out on their cajun fries, they are a perfect complement! Aqua Boil truly makes for a fun and satisfying seafood experience that local and visiting seafood lovers will adore.

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Shaking Crab (Hell's Kitchen)

At Shaking Crab in Hell's Kitchen, the atmosphere is as vibrant as the flavors! The moment you step in, you're greeted by an enticing aroma of spices that tickles your senses. I dove into their signature boil—a glorious medley of shrimp, crab, and corn, all drenched in a zesty garlic butter sauce. Each bite was a delightful dance of textures and tastes. The playful presentation, served in a bag, is perfect for indulging with friends. If you’re seeking a fun seafood experience that packs a punch, Shaking Crab will definitely leave you shaking with excitement! 🦀✨

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Crab House NYC

Stepping into Crab House NYC feels like a delightful dive into the heart of seafood heaven. The atmosphere is vibrant, mirroring the rich flavors I was about to savor. The signature crab boil is a must-try—perfectly spiced and bursting with freshness, it’s like a festival of flavors in every bite! The friendly staff made our experience even more enjoyable, eagerly guiding us through their menu. The sides, especially the garlic butter corn, were a delicious complement. If you're hunting for seafood bliss in Manhattan, this gem is a shining catch you won't want to miss!

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Cull & Pistol

A recent visit to Cull & Pistol was nothing short of a maritime delight! Nestled in the bustling Chelsea Market, this gem offers a vibrant atmosphere and a menu brimming with freshness. I savored their oysters on the half shell, which were a true revelation—briny yet sweet. The lobster roll was a decadent triumph, overflowing with tender chunks and a whisper of citrus. Don't overlook their unique seafood chowder, which tantalized my taste buds with layers of flavor. Cull & Pistol epitomizes the spirit of coastal dining, making it a must-visit for any seafood aficionado in Manhattan!

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Hav & Mar

Upon entering Hav & Mar, I was immediately captivated by the nautical ambiance that sets the mood for a delightful seafood experience. The raw bar boasts an impressive selection, and I couldn't resist the freshly shucked oysters—they were like ocean jewels, brimming with briny freshness. The seared scallops were perfectly caramelized and accompanied by a vibrant citrus salsa that danced on my palate. The attentive staff took pride in their knowledge, enhancing the overall experience. If you're on the hunt for exceptional seafood in Manhattan, this gem is not to be missed. A true feast for the senses!

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Oceana

During my recent visit to Oceana, I was enveloped in a maritime haven that celebrates the ocean’s bounty. The Pan-Seared Scallops danced on my palate, perfectly complemented by a zesty citrus beurre blanc. Each dish is a testament to their commitment to sustainable seafood, making my dining experience both guilt-free and indulgent. The ambiance exudes elegance, with a touch of coastal charm. Plus, the knowledgeable staff guided me through their extensive wine list, enhancing every delightful bite. If you're seeking a culinary voyage that honors the sea, Oceana is an unmissable destination in Manhattan!

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Ocean Prime

Ocean Prime in Manhattan is a delightful seafood haven that tantalizes your taste buds with every bite. The moment you step in, the ambiance is sophisticated yet inviting, setting the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. I opted for their signature Maine lobster tail, perfectly grilled and bursting with flavor, complemented by a zesty lemon butter sauce. The oysters on the half shell were exceptionally fresh, showcasing the richness of the ocean. Service was impeccable, with staff that seemed genuinely eager to enhance my meal. If you're seeking a blend of elegance and exceptional seafood, Ocean Prime is a must-visit!

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Crave Fishbar

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Manhattan, Crave Fishbar is a delightful seafood haven that truly delivers. From the moment I stepped in, the playful ambiance set the stage for a fantastic dining experience. The oysters were remarkably fresh, offering a briny kiss of the ocean with each slurp. For the main course, the Maine lobster roll stole the show—succulent chunks of lobster enveloped in a perfectly toasted bun! Not to mention, their craft cocktails paired splendidly with the meal. If you're in search of a culinary adventure, Crave Fishbar is a must-visit gem in Manhattan’s bustling food scene!

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