The Top Seafood Restaurants in Seattle: A Foodie's Guide
October 05, 2024Top Seafood Restaurants in Seattle
Seattle is a seafood lover's paradise, surrounded by rich waters that yield some of the finest seafood in the world. Known for its Pacific Northwest specialties like Dungeness crab, wild salmon, and oysters, Seattle boasts an impressive array of seafood restaurants that cater to every palate. Whether you're craving a classic seafood boil, a gourmet meal, or freshly shucked oysters, Seattle's seafood scene delivers. This guide explores the top seafood restaurants in Seattle, offering a deep dive into the city's vibrant culinary landscape, renowned for its commitment to fresh, sustainable, and local seafood.
If you're looking to enjoy fresh seafood at home, you can also check out Global Seafoods’ collection for high-quality fish, crab, and caviar options.
Why Seattle is a Seafood Capital
Seattle’s location on the Puget Sound and the Pacific Ocean gives it unparalleled access to some of the best seafood in the world. The cold waters of the Pacific provide an abundance of species, from Dungeness crab to king salmon, all of which have become staples in Seattle’s restaurants. But it’s not just the availability of fresh fish that makes Seattle special—it’s the city’s long-standing relationship with the ocean. Seattleites are passionate about sustainability, making it a hub for restaurants that prioritize environmentally friendly fishing practices.
According to Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch, which promotes sustainable seafood choices, Seattle is one of the leaders in responsible sourcing, with many restaurants focusing on sustainably caught seafood. This means that when you dine in Seattle, you’re often not just eating delicious seafood, but also supporting conservation efforts.
Explore sustainable seafood options for your own culinary creations by visiting Global Seafoods' selection of premium caviar and fish .
The Best Seafood Restaurants in Seattle
Seattle’s seafood restaurants are as diverse as the catch they serve. From fine dining establishments with stunning waterfront views to casual oyster bars and historic fish markets, there's something for every seafood lover. Here are some of the must-visit seafood spots in Seattle:
1. Pike Place Chowder
Located in the heart of Pike Place Market, Pike Place Chowder has earned a reputation as one of the best places for clam chowder, not just in Seattle, but nationwide. Their creamy New England-style clam chowder has won multiple awards, and the seafood bisque is another standout. The freshness of the seafood shines in every bite, and for those looking to try a local favorite, the Dungeness crab roll is a must.
Expert Tip: Go early to avoid the long lines, as this spot is extremely popular with both tourists and locals. For more Dungeness crab recipes, explore Global Seafoods' king crab selections .
2. The Walrus and the Carpenter
Located in Ballard, The Walrus and the Carpenter is an iconic spot for oyster lovers. Known for its expertly curated oyster selection, this intimate restaurant serves fresh, locally sourced oysters alongside other seasonal seafood dishes. The focus here is on simple, elegant presentations that let the quality of the seafood shine. The restaurant’s commitment to local sourcing and sustainable practices has earned it rave reviews from both locals and food critics alike.
Notable Mention: Chef Renee Erickson, owner of The Walrus and the Carpenter, was a James Beard Award winner, a prestigious accolade in the culinary world. Her focus on high-quality, sustainable ingredients makes this restaurant a must-visit for seafood purists.
3. RockCreek Seafood & Spirits
In Seattle’s Fremont neighborhood, RockCreek Seafood & Spirits offers a globally inspired seafood menu in a rustic, chic setting. From Alaskan king salmon to Hawaiian ono, RockCreek is known for its diverse seafood options that showcase the best of the ocean’s bounty. Their dishes are designed to highlight the flavors of each fish, with seasonal vegetables and creative sauces enhancing the experience.
For those inspired to bring restaurant-quality seafood into their own kitchens, check out Global Seafoods' dry-aged fish collection for premium cuts and flavors.
4. Taylor Shellfish Farms
A Seattle staple, Taylor Shellfish Farms operates several oyster bars throughout the city, offering an unbeatable selection of fresh oysters, clams, mussels, and more. Taylor Shellfish has been farming sustainably in the Puget Sound for over a century, making them a trusted name in local seafood. Whether you’re a seasoned oyster lover or trying them for the first time, Taylor Shellfish is the place to be.
Fun Fact: Anthony Bourdain, the famous chef and TV personality, once praised Taylor Shellfish Farms for their commitment to high-quality, sustainable seafood. He highlighted their oysters as some of the best he’s ever had.
5. Elliott’s Oyster House
Located right on the Seattle waterfront, Elliott’s Oyster House is famous for its extensive oyster selection and unbeatable views of Puget Sound. Offering over 20 varieties of oysters daily, this restaurant is the perfect spot for those looking to indulge in a true Pacific Northwest seafood experience. The menu also includes a variety of other seafood options, including fresh Dungeness crab, wild-caught Alaskan salmon, and king crab legs.
For those wanting to replicate the experience at home, Global Seafoods offers fresh sturgeon black caviar and other gourmet seafood options.
Sourcing the Freshest Seafood in Seattle
One of the reasons Seattle’s seafood restaurants are world-renowned is their access to fresh, local seafood. If you’re looking to recreate some of these seafood dishes at home, finding high-quality ingredients is essential. Here’s where to source the best seafood in Seattle and beyond:
1. Pike Place Market
Pike Place Market is famous for its seafood stalls, where you can watch fishmongers toss fresh fish across the counter. From Dungeness crab to wild Alaskan salmon, Pike Place offers some of the freshest seafood in the city. Be sure to stop by Pure Food Fish Market or City Fish Co., two of the oldest seafood vendors in the market.
2. Global Seafoods
For those outside of Seattle or looking to order premium seafood online, Global Seafoods is a top choice. Offering a wide range of seafood, including king crab , red caviar , and sustainably sourced fish, Global Seafoods ensures you’re getting the best of the ocean delivered straight to your door.
3. Fishermen’s Terminal
Another hidden gem for seafood in Seattle is Fishermen’s Terminal, where you can buy fresh fish directly from the source. The terminal is home to Seattle’s fishing fleet, and some vendors sell directly to the public, offering unbeatable freshness.
The Importance of Sustainable Seafood
Sustainability is at the heart of Seattle’s seafood culture. Many restaurants in the city have partnered with organizations like Seafood Watch and the Marine Stewardship Council to ensure that their seafood is sustainably sourced. This not only helps protect the ocean’s ecosystems but also ensures that future generations can continue to enjoy seafood.
Consumers can contribute to sustainability by choosing responsibly sourced seafood, whether dining out or cooking at home. For instance, Global Seafoods is committed to offering sustainably sourced products like their Dungeness crab and red caviar , helping you make eco-friendly choices.
FAQs About Seafood Restaurants in Seattle
1. What is the best seafood restaurant in Seattle?
There are many outstanding seafood restaurants in Seattle, but The Walrus and the Carpenter, Elliott’s Oyster House, and RockCreek Seafood & Spirits are some of the most highly recommended by locals and food critics alike.
2. What seafood is Seattle famous for?
Seattle is famous for its Dungeness crab, wild-caught Alaskan salmon, and Pacific oysters. These local delicacies are staples on most seafood restaurant menus in the city.
3. Are there sustainable seafood options in Seattle?
Yes, many of Seattle’s top seafood restaurants, like Taylor Shellfish Farms and Elliott’s Oyster House, prioritize sustainable sourcing. You can also find sustainable seafood products at markets like Pike Place and from online suppliers like Global Seafoods .
4. Can I buy fresh seafood in Seattle?
Absolutely. Pike Place Market is a popular spot for locals and tourists to purchase fresh seafood. Additionally, you can order high-quality seafood online from sources like Global Seafoods .
5. What’s the best way to cook Dungeness crab at home?
Dungeness crab is delicious when simply steamed and served with melted butter or added to dishes like crab cakes. You can buy fresh or pre-cooked Dungeness crab meat online for easy home preparation.
6. Where can I find the best oysters in Seattle?
For oyster lovers, Taylor Shellfish Farms and The Walrus and the Carpenter are top spots. They offer a variety of locally sourced oysters, shucked to order.
Conclusion
Seattle’s seafood scene is unparalleled, offering some of the freshest and most sustainably sourced seafood in the world. Whether you’re enjoying oysters at The Walrus and the Carpenter, a bowl of chowder at Pike Place Chowder, or a seafood feast at Elliott’s Oyster House, the city's restaurants reflect a deep appreciation for the ocean’s bounty. For those looking to bring Seattle’s seafood excellence into their own kitchens, Global Seafoods provides an extensive selection of premium seafood products, allowing you to recreate restaurant-quality dishes at home.
For more insights into seafood recipes and sourcing, visit Global Seafoods' YouTube channel .