Best Seafood Restaurants in NYC – Where to Eat Fresh Lobster, Oysters & More

by Oleg Nikitenko February 02, 2025

The 10 Best Seafood Restaurants in NYC

New York City is a paradise for seafood lovers, offering everything from Michelin-starred fine dining to casual oyster bars and lobster roll joints. Whether you're craving fresh oysters, sushi-grade tuna, Maine lobster, or a classic seafood boil, NYC has it all.

Here’s a list of the top seafood restaurants in NYC, based on their quality, reviews, and overall dining experience.

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1. Le Bernardin – The Ultimate Fine Dining Experience

📍 Location: 155 W 51st St, New York, NY 10019
⭐ Best for: Michelin-starred fine dining, seafood lovers, special occasions

Le Bernardin is New York City’s most famous seafood restaurant, holding three Michelin stars and a James Beard Award. It offers elegant French-inspired seafood dishes made with the freshest fish, oysters, and shellfish.

Why You’ll Love It:

✔ World-renowned chef Eric Ripert’s exquisite seafood menu
✔ Elegant atmosphere perfect for special occasions
✔ Top-rated seafood restaurant in NYC

Must-Try Dishes:

Barely Touched Yellowfin Tuna – Thinly pounded tuna with foie gras and toasted baguette.
Poached Lobster – Served with butter-poached leeks and black truffle sauce.
Dover Sole Fillet – A signature dish, expertly cooked to perfection.

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2. Grand Banks – The Best Waterfront Seafood Spot

📍 Location: Pier 25, Hudson River Park, New York, NY 10013
⭐ Best for: Outdoor dining, fresh oysters, stunning waterfront views

Grand Banks is one of NYC’s most unique seafood restaurants, located on a historic wooden schooner docked on the Hudson River. This spot is perfect for fresh oysters, lobster rolls, and cocktails with a view.

Why You’ll Love It:

✔ Breathtaking NYC skyline and waterfront views
✔ Delicious, sustainably sourced seafood
✔ Perfect for date nights and weekend brunch

Must-Try Dishes:

East & West Coast Oysters – Fresh, daily selections.
Lobster Roll – Served with house-made brioche and lemon aioli.
Seafood Tower – A lavish mix of lobster, shrimp, oysters, and crab.

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3. Marea – Italian Seafood at Its Best

📍 Location: 240 Central Park South, New York, NY 10019
⭐ Best for: Italian seafood, crudo platters, and handmade seafood pasta

Marea is one of NYC’s best Italian seafood restaurants, known for its house-made pasta, crudo selections, and whole roasted fish.

Why You’ll Love It:

✔ Michelin-starred seafood restaurant
✔ Perfect spot for seafood pasta lovers
✔ Stylish, elegant ambiance overlooking Central Park

Must-Try Dishes:

Astice Lobster Burrata – Maine lobster with buffalo burrata.
Fusilli with Red Wine-Braised Octopus – A signature dish with house-made pasta.
Whole Roasted Branzino – Perfectly grilled Mediterranean sea bass.

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4. The Lobster Place – The Best Lobster Rolls in NYC

📍 Location: Chelsea Market, 75 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011
⭐ Best for: Fresh lobster, sushi, and quick seafood bites

The Lobster Place is NYC’s top destination for lobster lovers, offering lobster rolls, fresh sushi, and raw oysters in Chelsea Market.

Why You’ll Love It:

✔ Casual, fast-service seafood spot
✔ Fresh lobster straight from Maine
✔ Perfect for a quick seafood fix

Must-Try Dishes:

Classic Lobster Roll – Packed with fresh lobster meat, lightly dressed.
New England Clam Chowder – Creamy and rich, with a touch of bacon.
Sushi Bar Selections – Some of the freshest sushi in the city.

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FAQs About Seafood Restaurants in NYC

Q1: What is the best seafood restaurant in NYC?

A1: Le Bernardin is widely regarded as NYC’s top seafood restaurant, offering Michelin-starred fine dining and exquisite seafood dishes.

Q2: What is the most popular seafood dish in NYC?

A2: Lobster rolls are one of the most popular seafood dishes in NYC, available at top spots like The Lobster Place and Luke’s Lobster.

Q3: Are seafood restaurants in NYC expensive?

A3: Some restaurants, like Le Bernardin and Marea, are high-end, while others, like Luke’s Lobster and The Lobster Place, offer more affordable options.

Q4: Where can I find the best oysters in NYC?

A4: Grand Banks, The Mermaid Inn, and Cull & Pistol offer some of the freshest oysters in NYC.

Q5: What’s the best seafood restaurant for a romantic dinner?

A5: Fiola Mare and Marea are perfect for romantic seafood dining in NYC, offering stunning ambiance and high-end seafood menus.

Final Thoughts

New York City has some of the best seafood restaurants in the country, offering a mix of fine dining, casual seafood spots, and classic oyster bars.

✔ For fine dining, visit Le Bernardin or Marea.
✔ For fresh lobster, check out The Lobster Place or Luke’s Lobster.
✔ For waterfront views, try Grand Banks.

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