Top 15 Seafood Spots in New York City

When strolling through the streets of New York, surrounded by towering skyscrapers and bustling crowds, it's easy to forget that Manhattan is an island and that the city lies along the Atlantic Ocean. As a New Yorker, I understand the challenge of associating this urban landscape with the idea of a "seaside town." However, the reality is that New York is ocean-adjacent, and its busy streets are lined with some of the most impressive seafood restaurants in the country.

New York’s seafood scene is as diverse as the city itself, offering everything from Michelin-starred fine dining to casual seafood joints. Whether you're looking for a luxurious experience or a laid-back meal, there's something for every seafood lover. From raw seafood towers to perfectly cooked branzino, and even classic English fish and chips, the city delivers on its promise of oceanic flavors.

One standout spot is Penny in the East Village. Opened in March 2024 by the team behind Claud, this 31-seat counter restaurant offers a fresh and raw seafood selection. The shrimp cocktail alone is worth the visit, but the signature ice box is a must-try. This chilled metal tray features an assortment of fresh seafood, including oysters, clams, mussels, scallops, and Argentinian red shrimp. The dish has been praised as the “seafood tower’s cooler cousin” by one reviewer. Another highlight is the tuna carpaccio, which was recognized as one of the best dishes of 2024 by “The New Yorker.”

Lure Fishbar in SoHo is another top choice for seafood enthusiasts. Tucked beneath the streets of SoHo, this sleek restaurant is designed like a yacht, complete with porthole-like windows that create a maritime ambiance. Start with a sushi or raw bar appetizer, such as the miso-glazed salmon. The restaurant has since expanded to Chicago, but its original location remains a favorite among locals.

Crevette in the West Village offers a French-Mediterranean vibe, with pastel-hued walls and a menu inspired by the Mediterranean. Dishes like the poached pink shrimp with Calabrian chile and aioli, or the PeePeekytoe crab agnolotti, are sure to impress. For a taste of Spanish cuisine, the seafood rice with saffron, mussels, and lobster is a great option.

For a more casual dining experience, Hamido Seafood in Astoria provides a no-frills, family-owned Mediterranean fish market-meets-eatery. Here, you can choose from a variety of fresh seafood and have it prepared to your liking. The grilled shrimp and seasoned fries are particularly popular, as is the whole grilled branzino with garlic and olive oil.

Fish Cheeks, a Thai restaurant with locations in Williamsburg and Manhattan, is known for its whole branzino steamed in a chili, cilantro, and lime broth. The Zabb chicken wings are also a must-try, and the vibrant atmosphere adds to the overall experience.

Hav & Mar in Chelsea, created by chef Marcus Samuelsson, blends Atlantic and Afro-fusion flavors. The Hav bread basket and raw seafood plates set the tone, while dishes like the Havatini and Dawa Dawa Salmon offer bold flavors. The Black Mermaid Tower is a stunning shareable dish that combines lobster, shrimp, mussels, and more.

Oceana near Rockefeller Center offers a nautical-themed dining room with a menu featuring calamari, seared scallops, and more. The Montauk striped bass and Oceana plateau are standout choices for a luxurious meal.

The Grand Central Oyster Bar, located beneath the terminal, boasts one of the largest seafood menus in the city. With 25 types of fish and 30 varieties of oysters, it's a must-visit for any seafood lover. The oysters Rockefeller is a classic choice that should not be missed.

Mission Ceviche, with locations in Union Square and the Upper East Side, offers traditional Peruvian and Nikkei ceviche. The pulpo al olivo and roll acevichado are highlights that showcase the restaurant’s culinary expertise.

Cervo's in Chinatown is a sunlit gem that celebrates coastal Spain and Portugal. Its vermuteria-style setting and dishes like cockles in a vinho verde garlic sauce make it a unique destination.

Brooklyn Crab in Brooklyn provides a beachy escape with panoramic harbor views. The classic lobster roll and crab royale are crowd favorites, and the rooftop bar and lawn games add to the fun.

Randazzo's Clam Bar in Brooklyn is a historic institution known for its signature red sauce dishes. The tomato-based sauces, especially the spicy and medium varieties, are a local favorite.

El Pingüino in Greenpoint offers a charming Spanish tapas bar with small seafood plates that pair well with wine and cocktails. The raw bar options and seafood à la carte are perfect for sharing.

Dame in Greenwich Village is famous for its fish and chips, which have been praised as some of the best in the city. The cozy bistro setting makes it an ideal spot for a relaxed meal.

Le Bernardin in Midtown is the pinnacle of seafood dining, with three Michelin stars and a menu that showcases the finest techniques and ingredients. It's a place where every dish is a masterclass in precision and flavor.

From high-end dining to casual eateries, New York City offers a wide range of seafood experiences that cater to all tastes. Whether you're a lifelong seafood lover or just curious about what the city has to offer, there's no shortage of options to explore.