Best Seafood Restaurants in Manhattan: A Guide to the Top Picks

If you're a seafood lover, Manhattan is the perfect place to be. The city is home to some of the best seafood restaurants in the world, serving up fresh and delicious seafood dishes from all over the globe. From fine dining to casual eateries, there's something for everyone in Manhattan.

If you're looking for the top-rated seafood spots in Manhattan, you won't be disappointed. With so many great restaurants to choose from, it can be hard to narrow down your options, but we've got you covered. Our list includes the best seafood restaurants in Manhattan, based on customer reviews and expert opinions.

Whether you're in the mood for classic seafood dishes like lobster, crab, and shrimp, or you want to try something new and exotic, Manhattan has it all. From sushi to ceviche, there are plenty of seafood cuisine varieties to choose from. Plus, many of the top-rated seafood restaurants in Manhattan offer unique dining experiences, with stunning views and stylish decor.

Key Takeaways

• Manhattan is home to some of the best seafood restaurants in the world, serving up fresh and delicious seafood dishes from all over the globe.
• The top-rated seafood spots in Manhattan offer a variety of seafood cuisine varieties, from classic dishes to exotic flavors.
• Many of the best seafood restaurants in Manhattan offer unique dining experiences, with stunning views and stylish decor.

Top Rated Seafood Spots

If you're looking for the best seafood restaurants in Manhattan, you're in luck. There are plenty of award-winning eateries and critics' choice selections that offer delicious seafood dishes. Here are some of the top-rated seafood spots that you shouldn't miss.

Award-Winning Eateries

The Fulton

Located in the Financial District, The Fulton is a seafood restaurant that offers a stunning view of the sea. This restaurant has won several awards for its seafood dishes, including the Best Seafood Restaurant in New York City. The Fulton is known for its fresh oysters, lobster, and fish dishes that are cooked to perfection.

Le Bernardin

Le Bernardin is a Michelin-starred seafood restaurant that has been serving delicious seafood dishes for over 30 years. This restaurant is known for its innovative and creative seafood dishes that are made with the freshest ingredients. Le Bernardin has won several awards, including the Best Restaurant in New York City and the Best Seafood Restaurant in the World.

Critics' Choice Selections

Grand Banks

Grand Banks is a seafood restaurant that is located on a historic wooden schooner that is docked at Pier 25. This restaurant is known for its fresh seafood dishes and its unique location. Grand Banks has been named one of the best seafood restaurants in Manhattan by several critics, including Time Out New York and Eater.

Mermaid Oyster Bar

Mermaid Oyster Bar is a seafood restaurant that has three locations in Manhattan. This restaurant is known for its fresh oysters, lobster rolls, and clam chowder. Mermaid Oyster Bar has been named one of the best seafood restaurants in Manhattan by several critics, including The New York Times and Zagat.

Whether you're in the mood for a fancy seafood dinner or a casual seafood lunch, these top-rated seafood spots have got you covered.

Seafood Cuisine Varieties

When it comes to seafood cuisine, Manhattan has a lot to offer. From sushi delights to fresh oyster bars, you'll find a variety of seafood options to satisfy your cravings.

Sushi Delights

If you're a fan of sushi, you'll be delighted to know that Manhattan is home to some of the best sushi restaurants in the world. You can find everything from traditional sushi rolls to modern fusion creations.

One of the top sushi restaurants in Manhattan is Sushi Yasuda. This restaurant is known for its fresh and high-quality sushi, which is made with the finest ingredients. The chefs at Sushi Yasuda take great care to ensure that each piece of sushi is perfect, and the result is a dining experience that is truly unforgettable.

Another great sushi restaurant in Manhattan is Masa. This restaurant is known for its omakase menu, which features a variety of sushi creations made by Chef Masa Takayama himself. The sushi at Masa is made with the freshest ingredients, and the attention to detail is second to none.

Fresh Oyster Bars

If you're a fan of fresh oysters, Manhattan has plenty of oyster bars to choose from. These restaurants offer a variety of oyster options, from East Coast to West Coast varieties.

One of the top oyster bars in Manhattan is Grand Banks. This restaurant is located on a historic wooden schooner, and it offers stunning views of the Hudson River. The oysters at Grand Banks are always fresh and delicious, and the restaurant also offers a variety of other seafood options.

Another great oyster bar in Manhattan is The Mermaid Inn. This restaurant is known for its happy hour specials, which include $1 oysters. The oysters at The Mermaid Inn are always fresh, and the restaurant also offers a variety of other seafood options, including fish tacos and lobster rolls.

No matter what type of seafood you're in the mood for, Manhattan has something to offer. From sushi to oysters, you're sure to find a restaurant that will satisfy your cravings.

Ambience and Dining Experience

When it comes to seafood restaurants in Manhattan, the ambience and dining experience can be just as important as the quality of the food. Here are a couple of subcategories to help you find the perfect atmosphere for your next seafood meal.

Riverside Views

If you're looking for a seafood restaurant with a view, Manhattan has plenty of options. One of the best is Grand Banks in Tribeca. This oyster bar is situated on a historic wooden schooner, which is docked at Pier 25. The views of the Hudson River and the Manhattan skyline are stunning, and the seafood is equally impressive. The menu includes a variety of oysters, clams, and other seafood dishes, all made with sustainable and locally sourced ingredients.

Another great option for riverside views is The Loeb Boathouse in Central Park. This iconic restaurant is located on a lake in the heart of the park, and the views of the water and surrounding greenery are breathtaking. The seafood menu includes dishes like lobster bisque, grilled octopus, and pan-seared scallops, all served in a charming, rustic setting.

Intimate Settings

Sometimes, you want a seafood restaurant that feels cozy and intimate, with a relaxed, romantic atmosphere. For that, try Pearl Oyster Bar in the West Village. This small, charming restaurant has a classic New England vibe, with white-washed walls, wooden tables, and nautical decor. The menu features classic seafood dishes like lobster rolls, clam chowder, and fried oysters, all served in a warm and welcoming environment.

Another great option for an intimate seafood dinner is Esca in Hell's Kitchen. This elegant Italian seafood restaurant has a sleek, modern decor and a menu that focuses on fresh, seasonal ingredients. The dishes are expertly prepared and beautifully presented, and the wine list is extensive. Whether you're on a date or just looking for a special night out, Esca is a great choice.

Must-Try Dishes and Specialities

If you are a seafood lover, Manhattan is the perfect place for you. The city is home to some of the best seafood restaurants in the world, offering a wide range of dishes and specialities that will satisfy any palate. Here are some must-try dishes and specialities that you should definitely try when you visit Manhattan's seafood restaurants.

Lobster Roll

One of the most popular dishes in Manhattan's seafood restaurants is the Lobster Roll. This delicious sandwich is made with fresh lobster meat, mixed with mayonnaise, celery, and other seasonings, and served on a toasted bun. It is a must-try dish, and you can find it in many seafood restaurants in Manhattan. Some of the best places to try a Lobster Roll include Luke's Lobster, The Mermaid Inn, and Red Hook Lobster Pound.

Oysters

Another must-try dish in Manhattan's seafood restaurants is Oysters. These delicious shellfish are served raw on the half shell, and are often accompanied by a variety of sauces and condiments. Oysters are available in many seafood restaurants in Manhattan, and some of the best places to try them include Grand Central Oyster Bar, The John Dory Oyster Bar, and The Mermaid Inn.

Clam Chowder

If you are looking for a hearty and comforting dish, Clam Chowder is the perfect choice. This creamy soup is made with fresh clams, potatoes, onions, and other ingredients, and is often served with oyster crackers. You can find Clam Chowder in many seafood restaurants in Manhattan, and some of the best places to try it include Pearl Oyster Bar, The Clam, and Ed's Lobster Bar.

Fish Tacos

If you are in the mood for something a little bit different, try the Fish Tacos. These delicious tacos are made with fresh fish, usually cod or tilapia, and are topped with a variety of toppings, such as salsa, avocado, and sour cream. Fish Tacos are available in many seafood restaurants in Manhattan, and some of the best places to try them include Seamore's, Tacombi, and Los Mariscos.

Sushi

Finally, if you are a sushi lover, Manhattan's seafood restaurants have some of the best sushi in the world. From traditional sushi rolls to more creative options, you can find it all in Manhattan. Some of the best places to try sushi include Blue Ribbon Sushi, Sushi Yasuda, and Masa.

Frequently Asked Questions

Could you recommend the most romantic seafood restaurants in NYC for a special evening?

If you're looking for a romantic seafood restaurant in Manhattan, you won't be disappointed. The city is home to some of the most romantic seafood spots in the world. For a special evening, you can check out The River Café, which is located in Brooklyn but offers a stunning view of the Manhattan skyline. You can also try Oceana, which is known for its elegant atmosphere and exceptional seafood dishes.

Which Manhattan seafood restaurants are ideal for celebrating a birthday?

If you're planning to celebrate a birthday in Manhattan, you can choose from a wide variety of seafood restaurants. Some of the best options include The Sea Fire Grill, which offers a lively atmosphere and an extensive menu of fresh seafood dishes. Lure Fishbar is another great option, with its chic atmosphere and delicious seafood platters. You can also check out Catch NYC, which is known for its trendy vibe and exceptional seafood dishes.

Can you list some of the finest seafood restaurant chains known for their quality?

There are many great seafood restaurant chains that are known for their quality and consistency. Some of the best include Legal Sea Foods, which has been serving fresh seafood since 1950. Another great option is The Capital Grille, which offers an extensive menu of seafood dishes and impeccable service. You can also check out McCormick & Schmick's, which is known for its fresh seafood and classic American dishes.

Are there any hidden gems for seafood aficionados in Brooklyn?

If you're a seafood aficionado, you'll be happy to know that Brooklyn is home to some hidden gems. One of the best is Brooklyn Crab, which offers a laid-back atmosphere and a menu of fresh seafood dishes. You can also check out Maison Premiere, which is known for its oyster selection and creative seafood dishes. Another great option is Littleneck, which offers a menu of classic New England seafood dishes in a cozy atmosphere.