Best Seafood Restaurants in Boston
Discover Boston's finest seafood from classic clam chowder to fresh lobster rolls at these top restaurants.
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
- Boston, Massachusetts has 12+ seafood restaurants across the metro area
- 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. Atlantic Fish Company
Boston, Massachusetts
Highly-rated seafood restaurants in Boston, Massachusetts. Rated 4.6/5 by visitors.
Highlights:
- Rated 4.6/5 with 0 reviews
- Moderate pricing
- Popular seafood restaurants spot in Boston, Massachusetts
2. Boston Sail Loft
Boston, Massachusetts
Highly-rated seafood restaurants in Boston, Massachusetts. Rated 4.6/5 by visitors.
Highlights:
- Rated 4.6/5 with 0 reviews
- Moderate pricing
- Popular seafood restaurants spot in Boston, Massachusetts
3. Legal Sea Foods - Harborside
Boston, Massachusetts
Highly-rated seafood restaurants in Boston, Massachusetts. Rated 4.4/5 by visitors.
Highlights:
- Rated 4.4/5 with 0 reviews
- Moderate pricing
- Popular seafood restaurants spot in Boston, Massachusetts
4. The Barking Crab
Boston, Massachusetts
Highly-rated seafood restaurants in Boston, Massachusetts. Rated 4.1/5 by visitors.
Highlights:
- Rated 4.1/5 with 0 reviews
- Moderate pricing
- Popular seafood restaurants spot in Boston, Massachusetts
5. The Oceanaire Seafood Room
Boston, Massachusetts
Highly-rated seafood restaurants in Boston, Massachusetts. Rated 4.4/5 by visitors.
Highlights:
- Rated 4.4/5 with 0 reviews
- Moderate pricing
- Popular seafood restaurants spot in Boston, Massachusetts
6. Saltie Girl
Boston, Massachusetts
Highly-rated seafood restaurants in Boston, Massachusetts. Rated 4.4/5 by visitors.
Highlights:
- Rated 4.4/5 with 0 reviews
- Moderate pricing
- Popular seafood restaurants spot in Boston, Massachusetts
7. James Hook & Co
Boston, Massachusetts
Highly-rated seafood restaurants in Boston, Massachusetts. Rated 4.5/5 by visitors.
Highlights:
- Rated 4.5/5 with 0 reviews
- Moderate pricing
- Popular seafood restaurants spot in Boston, Massachusetts
8. Ostra
Boston, Massachusetts
Highly-rated seafood restaurants in Boston, Massachusetts. Rated 4.7/5 by visitors.
Highlights:
- Rated 4.7/5 with 0 reviews
- Moderate pricing
- Popular seafood restaurants spot in Boston, Massachusetts
9. Union Oyster House
Boston, Massachusetts
Highly-rated seafood restaurants in Boston, Massachusetts. Rated 4.3/5 by visitors.
Highlights:
- Rated 4.3/5 with 0 reviews
- Moderate pricing
- Popular seafood restaurants spot in Boston, Massachusetts
10. Chart House
Boston, Massachusetts
Highly-rated seafood restaurants in Boston, Massachusetts. Rated 4.3/5 by visitors.
Highlights:
- Rated 4.3/5 with 0 reviews
- Moderate pricing
- Popular seafood restaurants spot in Boston, Massachusetts
11. Luke's Lobster Back Bay
Boston, Massachusetts
Highly-rated seafood restaurants in Boston, Massachusetts. Rated 4.4/5 by visitors.
Highlights:
- Rated 4.4/5 with 0 reviews
- Moderate pricing
- Popular seafood restaurants spot in Boston, Massachusetts
12. Legal Sea Foods - Long Wharf
Boston, Massachusetts
Highly-rated seafood restaurants in Boston, Massachusetts. Rated 4.3/5 by visitors.
Highlights:
- Rated 4.3/5 with 0 reviews
- Moderate pricing
- Popular seafood restaurants spot in Boston, Massachusetts
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.'
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