Taste of the Sea: Top 10 Best Seafood Restaurants in NYC

Ahoy, seafood lovers! Feast your eyes on this treasure trove of the finest seafood joints in the Big Apple. Whether you're craving a succulent lobster roll or a delectable plate of oysters, these top 10 seafood restaurants in NYC have got you covered. So, let's dive right in and explore the mouthwatering offerings from each of these culinary gems, shall we?

1. Le Bernardin

When it comes to seafood, Le Bernardin is undoubtedly the crème de la crème. Located in Midtown West, this Michelin three-star restaurant, helmed by celebrity chef Eric Ripert, has been serving up exquisite French-inspired seafood dishes for over 35 years. From the luxurious caviar-topped langoustine to the tender poached halibut, each dish is a testament to Ripert's culinary genius and showcases the unique flavors of the sea.

2. Pearl Oyster Bar

Searching for the ultimate lobster roll? Look no further than Pearl Oyster Bar. This cozy West Village eatery has been wowing New Yorkers with its iconic lobster roll for decades. The secret lies in the generous chunks of succulent lobster meat, lightly dressed with mayo, and nestled in a warm, toasty bun. Don't forget to indulge in their legendary clam chowder and crispy shoestring fries for the full Pearl experience.

3. Marea

When it comes to seafood with an Italian flair, Marea is the place to be. Located on Central Park South, this Michelin two-star restaurant is the brainchild of acclaimed chef Michael White. The menu features a tantalizing mix of crudos, house-made pastas, and whole-fish preparations. Don't miss the signature fusilli with red wine-braised octopus and bone marrow, or the astice, a buttery Nova Scotia lobster served with burrata, eggplant and basil.

4. The Clam

Step into The Clam, and you'll instantly feel the warm, welcoming embrace of a quintessential neighborhood seafood joint. This West Village eatery is known for its delightful clam-centric dishes, such as the tender linguine with clam sauce or the irresistible clam dip. But the star of the show is undoubtedly their crispy, golden clam strips - a nostalgic treat that will have you coming back for more. 

5. Lure Fishbar

A nautical-themed oasis in the heart of Soho, Lure Fishbar is the perfect blend of sophisticated and laid-back. Their extensive menu offers a little something for everyone, from classics like clam chowder and fish and chips, as well as more creative dishes like octopus carpaccio and sea urchin pasta. Don't miss out on their signature sushi rolls, such as the "Off the Hook" roll, featuring crunchy shrimp tempura, spicy tuna, and wasabi mayo.

6. Cull & Pistol

Located in Chelsea Market, Cull & Pistol is a seafood market and restaurant that offers a wide range of fresh seafood dishes. The menu changes daily, depending on the catch, but you can always count on having a delicious meal. The lobster roll is a must-try, served on a buttery brioche bun with a side of Old Bay fries.

7. The Lobster Place

Located in the bustling Chelsea Market, The Lobster Place is a seafood lover's dream come true. This seafood market-slash-restaurant offers a vast array of fresh catch, from live lobsters to sashimi-grade fish. Grab a seat at the sushi bar for some top-notch nigiri, or order a steaming bowl of clam chowder to warm your soul. You can even purchase some fresh seafood to cook up at home!

8. Seamore’s

Seamore’s, with locations in Chelsea and the West Village, is a casual seafood restaurant that offers a variety of dishes made with sustainably sourced seafood. The menu features classics like fish and chips and lobster rolls, as well as more creative dishes like fish tacos and poke bowls. The restaurant’s laid-back vibe and friendly service make it a great spot for a casual meal with friends.

9. Estiatorio Milos

For a taste of the Mediterranean, head to Estiatorio Milos in Midtown. Known for their commitment to sourcing the highest quality ingredients, Milos offers a stunning array of fresh seafood, flown in daily from around the world. The minimalist, white-washed interior allows the vibrant flavors of their dishes to take center stage. Standouts include the grilled octopus, the paper-thin zucchini and eggplant chips, and the salt-baked fish, dramatically filleted tableside.

10. Aquagrill

Located in the heart of SoHo, Aquagrill has been delighting seafood enthusiasts since 1996. Their impressive raw bar boasts a selection of over 25 types of oysters, sourced from both coasts. But don't fill up on oysters alone - the menu offers a vast array of mouthwatering dishes, such as the crispy crab cake with lemon-caper aioli and the pan-roasted skate wing. Their outdoor seating area is perfect for people-watching and soaking up the SoHo vibes.

Conclusion

These ten best seafood restaurants in NYC offer a variety of dishes that will satisfy any seafood lover’s cravings. So, whether you’re in the mood for some raw oysters, a succulent lobster tail, or a spicy Thai fish dish, these restaurants have got you covered. So, head over to one of these restaurants and indulge in some of the best seafood NYC has to offer!

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