23 Best Seafood Restaurants in CALIFORNIA (Most Tasty)

California, the Big Bear State, is known for its diverse seafood options making it a great destination for many seafood lovers and culinary connoisseurs.

It boasts a dynamic and buzzing seafood culinary scene in many of its cities, including Los Angeles, Monterey, Oakland, Bakersfield, and Malibu.

From the seaside dining to the buzzing seafood markets, you’ll find an unending list of fresh catches and flavorful dishes you’ll love. 

Suppose you’re looking for the perfect destination for a romantic getaway or a casual family outing with beautiful ocean views and great seafood dining, these seafood restaurants have all you need for the best experiences.

Get familiar and you’d sure love to put a pin on them!

And by the way, you may also want to check out the best Chinese Restaurants in California.

Seafood Restaurants in Monterey, California

1. Sea Harvest Restaurant & Fish Market (Coastal-Themed Decor with Fresh Seafood)

Sea Harvest is a seafood restaurant founded by some Californian fishermen in 1983.

The coastal-themed decor at this seafood restaurant immediately immerses you in a seaside ambiance that sets the stage for a delicacy made with healthy and fresh seafood sourced directly from fisheries and cooked on the spot.

Sea Harvest Restaurant offers a menu brimming with delicious options, including appetizers, desserts, grills, and seafood dishes, including clam and chips, prawn and chips, oyster and chips, shrimp cocktail, BBQ oyster, crab cakes, catfish, seafood tacos, pasta, and many more.

The friendly staff at this restaurant are helpful and take no time to prepare your orders.

Apart from Monterey, it also serves Big Sur and Carmel Valley.

There are indoor and outdoor seating options that are both spacious and convenient.

Address: 598 Foam St, Monterey, CA 93940

2. Monterey’s Fish House (Voted Best in Monterey)

Fresh seafood, juicy grills, delicious pasta, and quality service that’s the sum of Monterey Fish House.

DiGirolamo family, this seafood restaurant’s owners are accommodating; you’ll fall in love immediately. 

The Monterey Fish House has been recognized in many magazines in the US and has, over the years, been voted the best seafood place in Monterey, California.

Its menu features mouthwatering seafood dishes from appetizers to salad, soup, steak, and pasta; little wonder Guy Fieri featured two of its main dishes.

Enjoy delicious meals with their refreshing beverages and beer, or select from some of the exotic wines available.

The atmosphere at Monterey Fish House is always festive; you’ll spend much time without knowing it.

It is a perfect place for family brunch and romantic dinner dates.

Address: 2114 Del Monte Ave, Monterey, CA 93940

3. Crab House (Breathtaking Wharf Views)

Get an exciting view of the Old Fisherman’s Wharf while you enjoy some of the best seafood dishes at Crab House.

Whether you’re hunting for seafood or steak, this restaurant is always ready to satisfy every customer’s craving, no matter your taste and interest.

The polite and friendly staff provides excellent recommendations for an enjoyable and memorable experience.

Crab House is located on the Fisherman’s Wharf in Monterey, well known for its delightful menu featuring shrimp cocktails, crab cakes, nachos, bread, soups and salads, sandwiches, hamburger, tacos, burritos, fries, pasta, and many more delicious meals that you’ll always go back for.

You can be sure of a fantastic dining experience with many quality drinks.

Crab House also holds exciting events featuring tacos and prime ribs every week.

Address: 60 Fishermans Wharf #1, Monterey, CA 93940

4. Old Fisherman’s Grotto (Award-Winning Clam Chowder)

Want something old school for some steps back into the past? 

Make plans for a memorable lunch, dinner date, or casual outing in this vintage-inspired seafood restaurant.

The Old Fisherman Grotto is a family-owned restaurant started in 1950 by Chris Shake’s father, who has since taken charge satisfy visitors to the restaurant from near and far.

Dedicated to providing quality service, this restaurant has gained recognition in Monterey and other parts of the country.

Its menu features award-winning and, of course, the best clam chowder in Monterey. 

Also on the menu are crab cakes, calamari, oyster rockefeller, shrimp and prawn cocktails, artichokes, salads, and a wide variety of exotic wines, beer, smoothies, and specialty drinks.

The Old Fisherman’s Grotto is a must-try for every food lover.

Address: 39 Fishermans Wharf, Monterey, CA 93940

Also see our article on Italian Restaurants in California.

Seafood Restaurants in Eureka, California

1. Jack’s Seafood (Thrilling Seaside Dining)

Prepare for thrilling seaside dining at Jack’s Seafood, where fresh and wild catches are transformed into delicious and satisfying meals that tantalize every palate and transport you to a world of many coastal culinary possibilities.

With its double menu of everyday and seasonal seafood dishes, there’s always something for everyone.

These menus feature clam chowder, clam strip, mushrooms, shrimp cocktail, calamari, prawn salad, sandwiches, pasta, tacos, and other local seafood dishes with attractive dressing options.

Its excellent location and impressive customer service make it a beloved destination for families and seafood lovers to hang out and enjoy delicious meals and refreshing drinks. 

Get there with no stress, you can easily access the restaurant near the Jefferson community center.

Jack Seafood also takes reservations for events and parties.

Address: 4 C St, Eureka, CA 95501

2. LoCo Fish Co. (Food Truck, Daily Operation)

Located on Myrtle Avenue in Eureka, LoCo is a food truck serving mouthwatering and crispy seafood beside McKinleyville and John’s Cigars.

Its exclusive menu features crispy fish and chips, fish tacos, prawn tacos, burgers, salad, cheese steak, and fish sandwiches prepared from fresh catches and other naturally sourced ingredients.

LoCo Fish caters to both vegetarians and non-vegetarians, ensuring that everybody has their share of quality tastes and its delicious seafood dishes that satisfies every palate.

It has takeaway and delivery options; you can order and get it delivered quickly.

Apart from the Eureka community, it also serves McKinleyville, operating daily, all year round.

If you are a seafood lover, you will always go back for more, and trust this; they are always glad to serve.

Address: 1648 Myrtle Avenue, Eureka

3. Humboldt Bay Provisions (Top Seafood & Fine Oysters)

Talk oyster, talk Humboldt Bay.

For years, this top seafood restaurant has served locally sourced fine oysters in different flavors.

The atmosphere here is excellent, and the tasting room is awe-inspiring. 

It offers well-garnished food, including bread, meat, and cheese dishes with exotic wines and refreshing beer, ciders, and 

Take a tour of Humboldt Bay or enjoy this restaurant’s scenic and satisfying views.

There’s more!

Humboldt Bay Provisions holds fun-filled events yearly featuring oyster tasting, live music, and other fun activities for a more enjoyable, relaxing, and exciting experience for all its visitors.

It is a perfect destination for quick lunch or a relaxed dinner with family, lovers, and friends.

Soak yourself in seafood dining that transports you to a coastal paradise soon at Humboldt Bay!

Address: 205 G St, Eureka, CA 95501

Also see our article on Desserts in California.

Seafood Restaurants in Malibu, California

1. Malibu Seafood Fresh Fish Market & Patio Cafe (Satisfying Cravings Since 1972)

Nothing is more satisfying than a restaurant with healthy, fresh, and flavorful seafood dishes.

Malibu Seafood has been the right choice for many Americans and visitors to Malibu, California.

For decades, this seafood restaurant has satisfied cravings with delicious seafood meals and other refreshments.

Its interiors give off the secret of every dish you might want to try – beautiful and satisfying.

Take in the savory aroma escaping to the dining area when you step in.

The extensive menu at this restaurant features delicious clam chowder, steamed shrimp, mussels, crabs, lobster, fried and grilled seafood, sandwiches, bread, salad, soup, and cocktails.

Founded in 1972, The Malibu Seafood Fish Fish Market has over 40 fresh fish and shell seafood types well-prepared to save stress and time, all at affordable prices.

Address: 25653 CA-1, Malibu, CA 90265

2. Duke’s Malibu (Malibu Shores with Hawaiian Touch)

Enjoy delicious meals at this beloved seafood restaurant open to locals and visitors in Malibu, California.

Named after the legendary Hawaiian surfer Duke Kahanamoiku, this restaurant captures the essence of Malibu’s lively and fun-filled activities.

Located along the shores of Malibu, its delicious seafood cuisine offers an unforgettable dining experience with some of the freshest fish and steak dishes.

The Ocean Room at Duke Malibu is perfect for parties and events, and the Board Room is perfect for official meetings and social gatherings.

Browse their online store for hats, gift cards, apparel, gift items, and accessories for men, women, and children.

Whether you’re a visitor exploring the city or a Californian looking for some of the best taste destinations, Duke Malibu is the perfect place.

Address: 21150 E Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265

3. Reel Inn Malibu (Seaside Dining with Point-and-Kill Fish)

There is no perfect place to turn than Reel Inn Malibu if you’re a seafood connoisseur looking to have a unique seaside dining experience.

This seafood restaurant is a regular place for locals and visitors that love good taste and satisfying quality.

Get soaked in the aroma the instant you step through the door – a tone sets for what lies ahead.

The Reel Inn Malibu’s expansive menu features point-and-kill fish, including ahi tuna, trout, halibut, and seabass, prepared to your taste the instant you picked.

Indoor and outdoor seating options are available for a more enjoyable eat-out experience.

In-store pick-up is also available if you’ll love to enjoy these delicacies at home.

Reel Inn Malibu promises a memorable dining experience with its scenic views, fresh seafood, and great atmosphere. 

Address: 18661 E Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265

Also see our article on High Tea in California.

Seafood Restaurants in Oakland, California

1. Scott’s Seafood Restaurant (Seafood Extravaganza Event)

Started in 1976, the Scott seafood restaurant in the Marina District of San Francisco offers an up-close and lovely view of the Oakland Harbor.

Over the years, this restaurant has set the stage for indulgent dining and unforgettable festive experiences.

Its menu features some of the best seafood dishes freshly made in a unique and scenic location that gets you asking for more.

With its unmatched hospitality and excellent service, you’ll surely fall in love the instant you step into this seafood restaurant.

Experience a fantastic seafood dining experience with its signature Seafood Extravaganza event, which runs from June to November and look no further for a convenient venue for your next event; the Scott Restaurant’s private dining rooms are perfect for celebrations of any kind.

Address: 2 Broadway, Oakland, CA 94607

2. Rockin Crawfish (Spicy Seafood Extravaganza)

Rockin Crawfish is the ultimate destination for anyone seeking a spicy seafood extravaganza that will keep you craving more.

This seafood restaurant’s vibrant and energetic ambiance sets the stage for the delicious dishes you are about to explore. 

Immerse yourself in the sensory fiesta, where the sizzling from the kitchen blends with sounds of chat and laughter.

Rockin Crawfish serves eight different cities in California, including Oakland, Bakersfield, San Pablo, Duluth, Sacramento, and Garden Grove.

Its menu offers mouthwatering and spicy seafood dishes, including clams, Cajun shrimps, Gumbo, potatoes, rice, buffalo wings, and crawfish, blending with the rockin sauces and flavors that get you licking your fingers. 

But Rockin Crawfish is not just about delicious meals; you can choose from its refreshing beverages to pair with your meal.

Address: 211 Foothill Blvd, Oakland, CA 94606

3. Quinn’s Lighthouse (Vintage Interior, Seafood & Steaks)

Embark on a flavorful journey in Oakland at Quinn’s Lighthouse Restaurant and Pub – a nautical haven for food and adventure lovers.

Located along the city’s waterfront, this restaurant and pub offer top-notch American dining featuring delicious meals, seafood, and drink options, including wines, craft beers, cocktails, great ambiance, and excellent customer service.

Get lost in the restaurant’s vintage interior adorned with beautiful story-telling artifacts that transport you far back into time, the golden age of seafaring, from the moment you step into the restaurant. 

Its menu showcases a range of delicious meals celebrating the sea-fresh flavors and cuisine, from mouthwatering seafood platters and perfectly grilled steaks to comforting pub fare and vegetarian options.

Make a reservation soon for a memorable dining experience and exciting adventures.

Address: 1951 Embarcadero, Oakland, CA 94606

Also see our article on Coffee Shops in California.

Seafood Restaurants in Anaheim, California

1. Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. (Must-Visit for Shrimp Lovers)

The star of the show at Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. is, no doubt, the shrimp!

Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. is a seafood haven in Anaheim, prepping mouthwatering and flavorful shrimp meals, including shrimp gumbo, barbecue, popcorn shrimp, jumbo shrimp, and other delightful dishes.

This restaurant offers an enjoyable dining experience, a lively ambiance, and excellent customer service.

Whether you’re a Forrest Gump movie fan or a seafood lover, Bubba Gump Shrimp is a must-visit destination.

Many things around this restaurant excitingly tell the movie’s story, you’ll love it!

The interior is adorned with the movie’s memorabilia, including famous quotes and props, creating a sense of wonderment and adding an extra layer of enthusiasm to your dining experience.

Make a trip to this unique seafood spot soon.

Address: 321 W Katella Ave STE 101, Anaheim, CA 92802

2. Roy’s Restaurant (Hawaiian-Inspired Sushi)

Roy Yamaguchi founded the Roy Restaurant, a charming culinary gem in Hawaii, in 1988.

Located around Disneyland in Anaheim, California, this sushi lovers’ corner blends Hawaiian hospitality with some of the best flavors inspired by Asian cuisine.

It has about 16 locations in the United States, serving savory and flavorful sushi and other seafood options that send every taste bud a wholesome satisfaction.

The skillful and experienced chefs at Roy’s are delightful to watch as they display their inspiring culinary skills and expertise.

It also offers exotic wines and beers from leading winery brands, distilleries, and in-house refreshing signature cocktails to pair the dishes with.

Plan your next event with them; Roy’s Restaurant rents space to people looking for a beautiful venue to create remarkable, unforgettable happy memories.

Address: 321 W Katella Ave, Anaheim, CA 92802

3. California Fish Grill (Exquisite Seaside Dining)

California Fish Grill is one of the best-rated seafood destinations in Anaheim capturing the essence of seaside dining that is exquisite and delightful.

Its menu boasts a selection of delicious seafood prepared from ocean-fresh seafood from the United States and other parts of the world.

The knowledgeable staff at this seafood restaurant further enhances the fine dining experience, ensuring flawless services from the moment you enter till you leave.

On top of this, California Fish Grill also offers an extensive collection of exotic wines, beverages, and cocktails that blend perfectly with the flavors of each dish available.

It also offers quality catering services and rents beautiful event spaces perfect for momentous celebrations, including parties and corporate meetings.

Dive in for a flavorful seaside escapade you’d love.

Address: 5675 E La Palma Ave, Anaheim Hills, CA 92807

Also see our article on Ice Cream Shops in California.

Seafood Restaurants in Los Angeles, California

1. Water Grill (Rich Seafood Culinary Experience)

If you want the best halibut and crab dish in town, head to Water Grill for some satisfying Alaska Halibut and Crisfield Crab meals.

This restaurant’s friendly and professional chefs are always ready to show off some of their best culinary skills, flavors, balance, textures, and presentation.

Water Grill prides itself on its commitment to serving rich and mouthwatering dishes, desserts, and drinks that showcase its love for seafood culinary and daunting flavors. 

Its menu is a fusion of culinary traditions showcasing many delicious options such as halibut, clam chowder, calamari, Spanish octopus, sushi, crab, and lobster dishes.

Show love to friends and family with their instant Gift Card, which you can purchase and get to your recipient fast.

Water Grill is a must-try for every seafood lover.

Address: 544 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90071

2. COD Seafood House & Raw Bar (Exclusive Catering Services)

If you’re a bourbon fan, you must be at COD Seafood House for the best anyone has ever had. 

This seafood house caters to Los Angeles and surrounding areas with its delectable seafood meals and unmatched fun.

The atmosphere at COD is always friendly and festive; you can break the ice and connect with lovely and fun people.

It serves delicious seafood meals and soups, salads, and appetizers, including seafood pasta, dumplings, fried rice, and noodles.

Father’s Day celebrations at COD are always fun, a place to treat your father to an experience he will always keep a happy memory.

COD provides exclusive catering services that get your guests raving with delight, so plan your next event with them to save stress and enjoy one-of-a-kind dining while you celebrate.

Address: 8408 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90048

3. Krack N Krab (Group-Friendly Seafood Spot)

Thinking of a nice place to hang out with your group for a seafood experience you would love? 

Treat them to that and more at the Krack N Krab Seafood Restaurant.

This top-rated group, couple, and family-friendly seafood restaurant and oyster bar offer delightful and tantalizing dishes in varieties to satisfy every palate – and even the pickiest person in the group.

Every dish at Krack N Krab is freshly made and presented in a visually appealing way while keeping the good taste intact.

The bar serves exotic wine and alcoholic beverages that are refreshing and filling for a more enjoyable dining experience.

Make a reservation online to start your journey to a Krabby world of delightful tastes. You’ll always find your way back for more.

Address: 222 N Western Ave Unit C, Los Angeles, CA 90004

Also see our article on Malls in California.

Seafood Restaurants in Arcata, California

1. SALT Fish House (Unique Seafood Dining)

Whether you are a visitor exploring the city or a local looking to experience unique seafood dining in Arcata, California, the SALT Fish House is where to turn.

This leading seafood restaurant is dedicated to serving delicious seafood in varieties.

Its menu features smashing seafood delicacies made from fresh, locally sourced catches from oysters to lobsters, halibut, 

Salt House is a perfect destination for families, groups, and colleagues to bond more while enjoying meals that send taste buds raving with excitement and satisfaction.

The handcrafted cocktails on its menu complement the dishes blending flavors and creating a balance that you’ll always want more of.

Take a step towards a satisfying seafood adventure and fine dining that promises tantalizing tastes.

It’s a place you’ll never get tired of.

Address: 935 I St, Arcata, CA 95521

2. Plaza Grill (Extraordinary Coastal Cuisine)

From seafood appetizers to soup, wraps, salad, sandwiches, and specialty dishes, the Plaza Grill menu takes you from the ordinary to an extraordinary world of coastal cuisine and dining.

This culinary gem embodies a world where unmatched culinary possibilities meet artistic creativity to satisfy every palate and craving.

Its interior setting, from the decor to seats, tables, and dishes, is a masterpiece fashioned to kindle delight and appetite.

Choose from its refreshing beverages and exotic wines, including coffee, beer, kombucha, fruit juice, and white and red wines.

Join the daily Happy Hour and the weekend Late Night Drink for more canned, bottled, and on-tap drinks. 

Indulge in an exciting dining experience and unleash your taste buds in the lively ambiance and hospitality of the Plaza Grill.

Address: 780 7th St, Arcata, CA 95521

3. The Alibi (Innovative Seafood Adventure)

Get ready to rock your taste buds and satisfy your cravings for a genuinely unforgettable seafood adventure at The Alibi.

The menu at this seafood restaurant is a testament to its innovative cuisine and a blend of fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients, from flavorful spices to tasty sauces. 

It offers local breakfast and dinner, seafood soup, salad, and dishes including Arcata Bay Oyster and Shrimp.

The experienced chefs combine their love for culinary excellence with unmatched artistic flair resulting in visually stunning delicacies.

But it isn’t only about delicious seafood at The Alibi; it also serves mouthwatering beef, steak, chicken sandwiches, wraps, and burgers.

Anticipate the Alibi online store, where you can shop for customized apparel and more.

Discover flavors that push the boundaries of traditional cuisine. 

Address: 744 9th St, Arcata, CA 95521

Seafood Restaurants in Bakersfield, California

1. Captain Crawfish Cajun Seafood Bakersfield (Unique Cajun & Creole Cuisines)

Captain Crawfish Cajun Seafood Bakersfield is another smarty-boot in seafood cuisine and delivery. 

Their ultimate goal is to give guests a unique culinary experience without breaking the bank.

The restaurant has a great atmosphere, easy parking, and fast service for dining in at any time of the day. 

It is also recognized for its tasty Cajun and Creole cuisines, garlic shrimp, po’boys, and good crab legs. 

The combos are a great value, and the food comes out fast and fresh. 

Other cuisines available are Fish and Chips, Fresh Oyster Shot, Crawfish beer and wine, Shrimp, Snow crab, king crab, crab in a bag, boiling crab, and Cod Fish.

Their kid’s chicken tenders basket also makes them a good option for couples with kids’ private dining.

Address: 4000 Coffee Rd #2, Bakersfield, CA 93308

2. Crab in a Bag (Authentic Hands-on Seafood Experience)

Crab in a Bag is your go-to for an authentic hands-on seafood dining experience. 

This Singapore seafood restaurant opened its first outlet in Sept 9, 2013.

It is perfect for a family or friends looking to eat with their hands while creating down-and-dirty fun memories together. 

You can never go wrong with these menus, from catfish to snow crab, mussels, clamps, peeled shrimps, whole shrimp, and Dungeness crab.

It also provides its guests with delicious, fresh, and tasty appetizers, desserts, and sides for an unforgettable seafood experience. 

The spices in their food are just right and extremely pleasant, making it worth more than the prices of the meals. 

Do not miss out on their special party and family menu for families and groups to enjoy.

Address: 1641 Union Ave, Bakersfield, CA 93305

If you liked this article, you may also like to read about the best Chinese restaurants and Italian restaurants in California.

Looking beyond California? Check out our articles on the best Seafood restaurants in New York and some of the finest seafood restaurants in Illinois.