Seattle's Best Seafood: Top Restaurants You Must Try

Seattle, a city famed for its stunning waterfront views and vibrant culinary scene, is a seafood lover's paradise. If you're on the hunt for the best seafood the Emerald City has to offer, you're in for a treat. From succulent salmon to briny oysters, Seattle's restaurants serve up some of the freshest catches you can imagine. Whether you're a local or just visiting, exploring the seafood scene here is a must-do. So, grab your appetite and let's dive into some of the top spots where you can indulge in the flavors of the Pacific Northwest.

Ivar's Acres of Clams

Let's kick things off with a Seattle institution: Ivar's Acres of Clams. Guys, if you're looking for a place with a fantastic view and some seriously classic seafood, this is it. Located right on Pier 54, Ivar's has been serving up deliciousness since 1938. This place is more than just a restaurant; it's a piece of Seattle history. When you step inside, you're not just getting a meal, you're getting an experience steeped in maritime tradition and local flavor.

What makes Ivar's so special? First off, the location is unbeatable. Imagine sitting by the window, watching the ferries glide by as you slurp down some freshly shucked oysters. The atmosphere is lively and bustling, perfect for a casual lunch or a fun dinner with friends and family. Plus, they have a variety of dining options to suit your mood. You can grab a quick bite at the fish bar, enjoy a sit-down meal in the Acres of Clams restaurant, or even take your food to go and enjoy it by the water.

Now, let's talk about the food. Ivar's is famous for its clam chowder, and for good reason. It's creamy, rich, and packed with tender clams. It's the kind of chowder that warms you from the inside out, especially on a chilly Seattle day. But don't stop there! Their fish and chips are another must-try. The fish is perfectly crispy on the outside and flaky on the inside, and the chips are thick-cut and seasoned just right. Pair it with some tartar sauce and you're in seafood heaven.

But Ivar's isn't just about the classics. They also have a great selection of fresh seafood dishes, like grilled salmon, steamed mussels, and seafood pasta. Whether you're in the mood for something simple or something a little more elaborate, you're sure to find something you'll love on the menu. And don't forget to save room for dessert! Their blackberry cobbler is the perfect way to end your meal.

The Crab Pot

Next up, we have The Crab Pot, a place where you can get down and dirty with your dinner. If you're into a hands-on dining experience, this is the spot for you. The Crab Pot is famous for its Seafood Feasts, where they dump a mountain of seafood right onto your table. We're talking crab legs, shrimp, mussels, clams, andouille sausage, corn on the cob, and potatoes – all cooked in a flavorful broth and piled high.

Imagine this: you're sitting at a table covered in butcher paper, armed with a bib and a wooden mallet. The server brings over a giant pot of steaming seafood and dumps it right in front of you. There are no plates, no forks, just you and a mountain of deliciousness. It's a messy, fun, and totally unforgettable experience. The atmosphere is loud and lively, perfect for a group of friends or a family celebration.

The Seafood Feast is the star of the show at The Crab Pot, and it comes in several different varieties. The Westport Feast is the most popular, featuring a generous portion of all the classic seafood. But if you're feeling extra hungry, you can go for the Alaskan Feast, which includes even more crab legs and other goodies. No matter which feast you choose, you're guaranteed to leave feeling full and satisfied.

But The Crab Pot isn't just about the feasts. They also have a great selection of individual seafood dishes, like crab cakes, fish and chips, and grilled salmon. Their clam chowder is also a crowd-pleaser, and their oysters on the half shell are incredibly fresh. And if you're not a seafood fan (gasp!), they even have some land-based options like steak and chicken.

One thing to keep in mind about The Crab Pot is that it can get pretty busy, especially during peak hours. So, it's always a good idea to make a reservation, especially if you're dining with a large group. Also, be prepared to get messy! This is not the place to wear your fancy clothes. But trust me, the experience is worth it. It's a fun, unique, and delicious way to enjoy some of the best seafood Seattle has to offer.

Pike Place Chowder

Now, let's talk about Pike Place Chowder. Located in the heart of Pike Place Market, this place is a must-visit for chowder lovers. They've won countless awards for their New England clam chowder, and for good reason. It's creamy, rich, and packed with flavor. But don't let the name fool you – they also have a variety of other chowders to choose from, like smoked salmon chowder, seafood bisque, and crab and oyster chowder.

When you walk into Pike Place Chowder, you're immediately greeted by the aroma of simmering seafood and the friendly chatter of customers. The atmosphere is cozy and casual, perfect for a quick lunch or a comforting bowl of soup on a rainy day. The line can get long, especially during peak hours, but trust me, it's worth the wait.

The New England clam chowder is the star of the show at Pike Place Chowder, and it's easy to see why. It's made with fresh clams, potatoes, onions, and a secret blend of spices, all simmered in a creamy broth. It's the kind of chowder that warms you from the inside out, and it's the perfect comfort food on a chilly Seattle day. But if you're feeling adventurous, be sure to try some of their other chowders as well. The smoked salmon chowder is a local favorite, and the crab and oyster chowder is a decadent treat.

In addition to their chowders, Pike Place Chowder also offers a variety of sandwiches, salads, and sides. Their lobster roll is a popular choice, and their crab cakes are incredibly flavorful. And don't forget to try their homemade bread, which is perfect for dipping in your chowder.

One thing to keep in mind about Pike Place Chowder is that it's located in a very busy area, so parking can be a challenge. It's best to take public transportation or walk if possible. Also, be prepared to wait in line, especially during peak hours. But trust me, the chowder is worth it. It's some of the best you'll ever taste, and it's a must-try for any seafood lover visiting Seattle.

Walrus and the Carpenter

For a more upscale oyster experience, check out The Walrus and the Carpenter in Ballard. This charming spot is known for its fresh oysters, sourced from the best farms in the Pacific Northwest. They also have a great selection of small plates featuring seasonal ingredients. The atmosphere is chic and romantic, perfect for a special occasion or a date night.

When you walk into The Walrus and the Carpenter, you're immediately struck by the elegant yet relaxed atmosphere. The décor is simple and understated, with exposed brick walls, wooden tables, and soft lighting. The focus is on the food, and the restaurant is designed to showcase the freshness and quality of the ingredients.

The oysters are the star of the show at The Walrus and the Carpenter, and they're incredibly fresh and flavorful. They offer a variety of different types of oysters, each with its own unique flavor profile. The servers are knowledgeable and can help you choose the perfect oysters to suit your taste. They also have a great selection of oyster accompaniments, like mignonette sauce, horseradish, and lemon wedges.

In addition to the oysters, The Walrus and the Carpenter also offers a variety of small plates featuring seasonal ingredients. Their steak tartare is a popular choice, and their mussels are incredibly flavorful. They also have a great selection of salads and vegetable dishes, perfect for a light and refreshing meal. And don't forget to try their homemade bread, which is perfect for soaking up all the delicious sauces.

The Walrus and the Carpenter is a popular spot, so it's always a good idea to make a reservation, especially on weekends. The prices are a bit higher than some of the other seafood restaurants in Seattle, but the quality of the food and the atmosphere make it worth it. It's the perfect place to indulge in some fresh oysters and enjoy a special night out.

RockCreek Seafood & Spirits

Last but not least, we have RockCreek Seafood & Spirits in Fremont. This spot is known for its wood-fired seafood and creative cocktails. The atmosphere is rustic and cozy, perfect for a casual dinner with friends. They source their seafood from sustainable fisheries, so you can feel good about what you're eating.

When you walk into RockCreek Seafood & Spirits, you're immediately struck by the warm and inviting atmosphere. The décor is rustic and charming, with exposed brick walls, wooden beams, and a cozy fireplace. The restaurant is designed to feel like a seafood cabin, and it's the perfect place to relax and enjoy a delicious meal.

The wood-fired seafood is the star of the show at RockCreek Seafood & Spirits, and it's incredibly flavorful. They offer a variety of different types of fish, each cooked over an open flame. The smoky flavor of the wood infuses the fish, creating a unique and delicious taste. Their grilled octopus is a popular choice, and their whole roasted fish is a showstopper.

In addition to the wood-fired seafood, RockCreek Seafood & Spirits also offers a variety of other dishes, like seafood stews, salads, and pasta. Their clam chowder is also a crowd-pleaser, and their oysters on the half shell are incredibly fresh. And don't forget to try their creative cocktails, which are made with fresh ingredients and unique flavor combinations.

RockCreek Seafood & Spirits is a popular spot, so it's always a good idea to make a reservation, especially on weekends. The prices are reasonable, and the quality of the food and the atmosphere make it a great value. It's the perfect place to enjoy some delicious seafood and creative cocktails in a cozy and inviting setting.

Seattle's seafood scene is diverse and exciting, offering something for every taste and budget. Whether you're in the mood for classic clam chowder, a hands-on seafood feast, or fresh oysters, you're sure to find it in the Emerald City. So, get out there and explore the best seafood restaurants Seattle has to offer. Your taste buds will thank you!