Best Seafood Restaurants in Boston

Discover Boston's finest seafood from classic clam chowder to fresh lobster rolls at these top restaurants.

ByFun Around Me Team

3 min read

Boston's seafood scene is legendary, and for good reason. With access to some of the world's best fishing grounds, Boston restaurants serve incredibly fresh seafood prepared with both traditional New England techniques and modern culinary innovation. From humble lobster shacks to upscale dining rooms, the city's seafood culture runs deep. Boston's seafood traditions date back centuries. Clam chowder, lobster rolls, fried clams, and oysters are more than just dishes here—they're cultural touchstones. Whether you're seeking a classic New England experience or contemporary seafood cuisine, Boston delivers exceptional quality and variety. This guide showcases the best seafood restaurants in Boston, from iconic institutions to hidden gems. We've included everything from casual waterfront spots to fine dining establishments.

Key Takeaways

New England clam chowder is cream-based (never tomato)
Lobster rolls come two ways: warm with butter or cold with mayo
Fresh oysters are a Boston specialty
Summer is peak season for local seafood
Many restaurants source directly from local fishermen

Top Seafood Restaurants in Boston

These restaurants represent the best of Boston's seafood scene.

1. Boston, Massachusetts Seafood Restaurants Place 1

100 Main Street, Boston, Massachusetts

Savor exceptional cuisine at this beloved Boston, Massachusetts establishment, where fresh ingredients and culinary creativity come together beautifully.

Highlights:

Award-winning chef with innovative seasonal menu
Extensive wine list featuring rare vintages
Takeout and delivery available
Private dining room for groups
Cozy intimate atmosphere perfect for special occasions

2. Boston, Massachusetts Seafood Restaurants Place 2

223 Broadway, Boston, Massachusetts

This acclaimed Boston, Massachusetts dining destination showcases innovative flavors and traditional techniques in every carefully crafted dish.

Highlights:

Farm-to-table ingredients sourced from local producers
Tasting menu showcasing chef's creativity
Craft cocktails using house-made ingredients
Vegetarian and vegan options available
Gluten-free menu with dedicated preparation

3. Boston, Massachusetts Seafood Restaurants Place 3

346 Park Avenue, Boston, Massachusetts

Experience authentic Boston, Massachusetts flavors at this popular spot, known for its commitment to quality ingredients and memorable presentations.

Highlights:

Daily specials featuring seasonal ingredients
Farm-to-table ingredients sourced from local producers
Open kitchen allowing chef interaction
Desserts made in-house daily
Homemade pasta and breads

4. Boston, Massachusetts Seafood Restaurants Place 4

469 Market Street, Boston, Massachusetts

Discover culinary excellence at this Boston, Massachusetts favorite, where passionate chefs create dishes that celebrate local and seasonal ingredients.

Highlights:

Sommelier-selected wine pairings
Extensive wine list featuring rare vintages
Private dining room for groups
Craft cocktails using house-made ingredients
Gluten-free menu with dedicated preparation

5. Boston, Massachusetts Seafood Restaurants Place 5

592 Washington Street, Boston, Massachusetts

This charming Boston, Massachusetts eatery has earned its reputation through consistently delicious food, warm hospitality, and attention to detail.

Highlights:

Outdoor patio seating with city views
Tasting menu showcasing chef's creativity
Homemade pasta and breads
Private dining room for groups
Farm-to-table ingredients sourced from local producers

6. Boston, Massachusetts Seafood Restaurants Place 6

715 Elm Street, Boston, Massachusetts

Indulge in creative cuisine at this Boston, Massachusetts gem, where each dish tells a story of flavor, tradition, and culinary innovation.

Highlights:

Daily specials featuring seasonal ingredients
Sommelier-selected wine pairings
Tasting menu showcasing chef's creativity
Farm-to-table ingredients sourced from local producers
Locally roasted coffee and artisan teas

7. Boston, Massachusetts Seafood Restaurants Place 7

838 Maple Avenue, Boston, Massachusetts

From the first bite to the last, this Boston, Massachusetts restaurant delivers an exceptional dining experience that keeps guests returning.

Highlights:

Open kitchen allowing chef interaction
Cozy intimate atmosphere perfect for special occasions
Gluten-free menu with dedicated preparation
Vegetarian and vegan options available
Sommelier-selected wine pairings

8. Boston, Massachusetts Seafood Restaurants Place 8

961 Oak Street, Boston, Massachusetts

This Boston, Massachusetts culinary hotspot combines inviting atmosphere with outstanding food, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

Highlights:

Open kitchen allowing chef interaction
Craft cocktails using house-made ingredients
Sommelier-selected wine pairings
Extensive wine list featuring rare vintages
Tasting menu showcasing chef's creativity

9. Boston, Massachusetts Seafood Restaurants Place 9

1084 Pine Street, Boston, Massachusetts

Taste the difference at this Boston, Massachusetts establishment, where quality ingredients and skilled preparation result in unforgettable meals.

Highlights:

Extensive wine list featuring rare vintages
Award-winning chef with innovative seasonal menu
Sommelier-selected wine pairings
Takeout and delivery available
Gluten-free menu with dedicated preparation

10. Boston, Massachusetts Seafood Restaurants Place 10

1207 Cedar Avenue, Boston, Massachusetts

Whether you're a local or visitor, this Boston, Massachusetts dining spot offers the perfect blend of delicious food and welcoming ambiance.

Highlights:

Award-winning chef with innovative seasonal menu
Farm-to-table ingredients sourced from local producers
Tasting menu showcasing chef's creativity
Open kitchen allowing chef interaction
Craft cocktails using house-made ingredients

Practical Information

Best Time to Visit

Summer offers the freshest local seafood. Weekday lunches are less crowded. Many popular spots don't take reservations—arrive early or expect waits.

Average Price

$15-25 for casual spots, $40-70 per person at upscale restaurants

Parking Tips

Parking in Boston is challenging and expensive. Use public transit (T) when possible. Many restaurants are near T stops. Waterfront restaurants may have nearby parking garages.

Frequently Asked Questions

New England clam chowder is cream-based, thick, and white. Manhattan clam chowder has a tomato base. In Boston, only New England style is considered authentic—ordering Manhattan chowder might get you strange looks!

Lobster rolls come two ways: 'Connecticut-style' (warm lobster with melted butter) or 'Maine-style' (cold lobster with mayo). Both are delicious—try both styles to find your preference!

The old rule about months with 'R' (September-April) being best for oysters is outdated. Modern aquaculture means oysters are good year-round, though many prefer them in cooler months.

Expect to pay $20-35 for a lobster roll in Boston. Prices vary by location and lobster market prices. Higher prices usually mean more lobster meat.

Casual spots like The Barking Crab and Legal Sea Foods are very family-friendly. Upscale restaurants like Island Creek Oyster Bar welcome well-behaved children but cater more to adults.

Many popular spots (Neptune Oyster, James Hook) don't take reservations. Upscale restaurants should be booked in advance, especially for dinner. Weekday lunches are easier to walk into.

Most seafood restaurants offer non-seafood options like steak, chicken, or pasta. However, if you're dining with seafood lovers, you'll find something to enjoy at these spots.

Boston's reputation depends on fresh seafood. Reputable restaurants source locally and daily. Look for daily specials, ask about the catch, and trust your nose—fresh seafood shouldn't smell 'fishy.'