Best Seafood Restaurants in Atlanta – Top Places for Fresh & Flavorful Seafood
February 02, 2025
Best Seafood Restaurants in Atlanta – A Foodie’s Guide
Are you a seafood lover visiting Atlanta or a local looking for the best seafood spots? Atlanta may be famous for its Southern comfort food, but the city also boasts an impressive seafood scene, offering everything from fresh oysters and grilled fish to crab legs and sushi.
Whether you’re in the mood for a casual seafood shack or an upscale dining experience, this list highlights Atlanta’s best seafood restaurants to satisfy your cravings.
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1. The Optimist – Atlanta’s Top Seafood Destination
📍 Location: West Midtown
⭐ Rating: 4.7/5 (Google Reviews)
The Optimist is one of Atlanta’s top-rated seafood restaurants, offering a coastal dining experience in the heart of the city. Known for its wood-grilled fish, raw oysters, and lobster rolls, this restaurant delivers a high-end seafood experience with a lively ambiance.
Must-Try Dishes:
✔ Lobster Roll – Buttery, perfectly toasted bun with succulent lobster meat.
✔ Charred Octopus – A smoky, flavorful appetizer that seafood lovers will enjoy.
✔ She Crab Soup – A creamy and rich Southern seafood classic.
🎣 Pro Tip: Pair your meal with a signature cocktail or one of their fine wines for a complete experience.
2. Lure – Seafood with a Modern Twist
📍 Location: Midtown
⭐ Rating: 4.6/5
If you’re looking for a modern seafood experience, Lure is the place to go. The restaurant sources seafood from around the world, offering a diverse menu that includes sushi, ceviche, and fresh seafood platters.
Must-Try Dishes:
✔ Tuna Tartare – Fresh ahi tuna, avocado, and crispy wontons.
✔ Whole Branzino – Lightly grilled and served with citrus-infused flavors.
✔ Oyster Platter – Freshly shucked oysters with house-made sauces.
🎣 Pro Tip: Lure has an excellent wine and cocktail menu—ask the staff for a pairing recommendation!
3. Atlanta Fish Market – A Classic Seafood Staple
📍 Location: Buckhead
⭐ Rating: 4.5/5
A landmark in Atlanta’s seafood scene for over 30 years, Atlanta Fish Market is known for its fresh seafood selection, sushi bar, and cozy yet elegant atmosphere. If you're craving classic seafood dishes, this is the place to go.
Must-Try Dishes:
✔ Maine Lobster – Steamed or grilled to perfection.
✔ Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes – A customer favorite with minimal filler and maximum flavor.
✔ Miso-Glazed Chilean Sea Bass – A rich and flavorful dish that melts in your mouth.
🎣 Pro Tip: Enjoy a meal on their spacious patio for a relaxed dining experience!
4. The Big Ketch Saltwater Grill – Casual Coastal Dining
📍 Locations: Buckhead & Canton St.
⭐ Rating: 4.4/5
For a laid-back, beachy vibe, head over to The Big Ketch Saltwater Grill. This casual seafood joint offers great seafood dishes at reasonable prices, with a focus on grilled fish and Southern-style seafood plates.
Must-Try Dishes:
✔ Fish Tacos – Grilled or blackened fish topped with slaw and chipotle aioli.
✔ Crab Cakes – Served with remoulade sauce and fresh greens.
✔ Shrimp & Grits – A Southern classic with creamy, buttery grits.
🎣 Pro Tip: Visit during happy hour for discounted drinks and appetizers!
5. Six Feet Under Pub & Fish House – Rooftop Views & Great Seafood
📍 Location: Grant Park
⭐ Rating: 4.6/5
For a unique seafood experience with rooftop views, check out Six Feet Under. This popular seafood pub offers casual dining, generous portions, and a fun, laid-back atmosphere.
Must-Try Dishes:
✔ Fried Seafood Platter – A mix of fried shrimp, catfish, oysters, and hush puppies.
✔ Seafood Tacos – Served with house-made sauces and slaw.
✔ Peel & Eat Shrimp – Fresh shrimp served hot or cold with seasoning.
🎣 Pro Tip: Head to the rooftop bar for great city views while enjoying your meal!
FAQs About Seafood Restaurants in Atlanta
1. What type of seafood is popular in Atlanta?
✔ Atlanta is known for its Southern-style seafood, including shrimp, oysters, crab, and catfish. Many restaurants also offer high-quality sushi and raw bar selections.
2. Are these seafood restaurants expensive?
✔ Prices vary, but most of these seafood restaurants range from mid-range to high-end. The Optimist, Lure, and Atlanta Fish Market are more upscale, while Six Feet Under and The Big Ketch offer casual, affordable options.
3. Do these seafood restaurants offer vegetarian options?
✔ Yes! Most seafood restaurants also offer vegetarian dishes like salads, vegetable sushi rolls, and pasta.
4. What’s the best time to visit these restaurants?
✔ Weekends are the busiest, so making a reservation is recommended for Lure, The Optimist, and Atlanta Fish Market.
✔ Happy hours (weekdays 3-6 PM) at Six Feet Under and The Big Ketch offer great discounts!
Conclusion – Experience the Best Seafood in Atlanta!
Atlanta is a fantastic city for seafood lovers, offering a mix of upscale dining, casual eateries, and fresh seafood markets. Whether you’re looking for a seafood feast, a light sushi meal, or classic Southern flavors, these top seafood restaurants in Atlanta won’t disappoint.
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