Best Seafood Restaurants in Washington, D.C. – Where to Eat Fresh Seafood
The Best Seafood Restaurants in Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C. is known for its exceptional seafood, featuring everything from classic Maryland crab cakes to luxurious lobster dishes. Whether you're looking for fresh oysters, a high-end seafood experience, or casual seafood dining, D.C. has something for every seafood lover.
Here’s a guide to the best seafood restaurants in Washington, D.C., showcasing fine dining, local favorites, and must-try seafood spots.
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1. Fiola Mare – The Ultimate Waterfront Seafood Dining
📍 Location: 3050 K St NW, Washington, D.C. 20007
⭐ Best for: Elegant fine dining, fresh seafood, and waterfront views
Fiola Mare is one of D.C.'s top seafood destinations, known for its Mediterranean-inspired seafood dishes, caviar selections, and luxurious ambiance.
Why You’ll Love It:
✔ Stunning waterfront location in Georgetown
✔ Michelin-recommended fine dining experience
✔ Premium seafood like lobster, branzino, and caviar
Must-Try Dishes:
- Seafood Tower: A decadent assortment of fresh shellfish, including oysters, clams, lobster, and shrimp.
- Branzino Crudo: Canary Island branzino with fennel purée, blood orange, and capers.
- Signature Lobster Ravioli: Handmade pasta filled with fresh Maine lobster and served with a rich saffron sauce.
💡 Looking for high-end seafood at home? Try Ossetra Sturgeon Caviar for a luxurious appetizer.
2. Hank’s Oyster Bar – A Casual Seafood Favorite
📍 Location: Multiple locations across Washington, D.C.
⭐ Best for: Oysters, lobster rolls, and laid-back seafood dining
Hank’s Oyster Bar is a must-visit for oyster lovers, serving up some of the freshest East and West Coast oysters in D.C.
Why You’ll Love It:
✔ Daily oyster happy hour specials
✔ Classic New England-style seafood
✔ Great selection of craft beers and cocktails
Must-Try Dishes:
- Raw Oysters: Sourced fresh daily, served with house-made mignonette.
- Lobster Roll: Maine-style lobster roll with buttered brioche bun.
- Fried Clam Strips: A crispy, golden-brown New England classic.
💡 Want premium shellfish at home? Check out Hokkaido Scallops for a fresh seafood treat.
3. The Salt Line – New England-Style Seafood in Navy Yard
📍 Location: 79 Potomac Ave SE, Washington, D.C. 20003
⭐ Best for: Fresh oysters, lobster rolls, and waterfront dining
The Salt Line offers a perfect blend of New England flavors and Chesapeake Bay seafood traditions, making it one of D.C.'s best seafood restaurants.
Why You’ll Love It:
✔ Beautiful waterfront views
✔ Signature lobster rolls and fresh oysters
✔ Sustainable seafood and local ingredients
Must-Try Dishes:
- New England Clam Chowder: Rich and creamy with fresh clams, potatoes, and bacon.
- Lobster Roll: Butter-toasted brioche roll packed with tender lobster meat.
- Beer-Battered Fish & Chips: Served with house tartar sauce and malt vinegar.
💡 Love high-quality fish? Shop Global Seafoods' Whitefish Collection for premium seafood options.
4. Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab – A Luxurious Seafood Experience
📍 Location: 750 15th St NW, Washington, D.C. 20005
⭐ Best for: Stone crabs, lobster, and high-end dining
Joe’s is one of the best seafood restaurants in D.C., featuring fresh seafood flown in daily, including its famous Florida stone crab claws.
Why You’ll Love It:
✔ Premium seafood and steakhouse experience
✔ Signature stone crab claws served with mustard sauce
✔ Exceptional service and classic atmosphere
Must-Try Dishes:
- Stone Crab Claws: Freshly cracked and served chilled with mustard sauce.
- Alaskan King Crab Legs: Steamed and served with drawn butter.
- Chilean Sea Bass: Pan-seared with citrus beurre blanc.
💡 Want fresh seafood at home? Browse Frozen Seafood Collection for restaurant-quality fish and shellfish.
FAQs About Seafood Restaurants in Washington, D.C.
Q1: What is the best seafood restaurant in Washington, D.C.?
A1: Fiola Mare is often considered one of the best seafood restaurants in D.C., offering high-end seafood, waterfront views, and an elegant dining experience.
Q2: What is the most popular seafood dish in Washington, D.C.?
A2: Maryland-style crab cakes are a local favorite, available at many D.C. seafood restaurants.
Q3: Are these seafood restaurants expensive?
A3: Some restaurants, like Joe’s Seafood and Fiola Mare, are fine dining establishments, while others, like Hank’s Oyster Bar and Pearl Dive, are more affordable.
Q4: Where can I find the best oysters in Washington, D.C.?
A4: Hank’s Oyster Bar, The Salt Line, and Rappahannock Oyster Bar are known for their fresh oyster selections.
Q5: What’s the best seafood restaurant for a romantic dinner?
A5: Fiola Mare is perfect for a romantic seafood dining experience, offering stunning waterfront views and a luxurious menu.
Final Thoughts
Washington, D.C. offers a thriving seafood scene, featuring everything from casual oyster bars to high-end seafood restaurants. Whether you're craving fresh oysters, lobster, or fine-dining seafood, there’s something for everyone.
📦 Want to enjoy restaurant-quality seafood at home? Shop Global Seafoods for fresh fish, smoked seafood, and gourmet delicacies!
📺 Watch seafood recipes and cooking tips on the Global Seafoods YouTube Channel!
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