Where to Find the Best Seafood Restaurants in Atlanta, GA

Looking for seafood restaurants in Atlanta, GA can feel surprising at first—this is a landlocked city, after all. But Atlanta has become a serious destination for fresh, high-quality seafood, from classic fried fish and Lowcountry boils to sleek raw bars and chef-driven menus.

Whether you live in the metro area or you’re visiting and craving oysters, shrimp, or a full seafood feast, this guide will help you navigate where to go, what to order, and how to choose the right seafood restaurant in Atlanta for your plans and budget.

What to Expect from Seafood Restaurants in Atlanta

Atlanta’s seafood scene pulls from several traditions:

• Southern & Lowcountry seafood – shrimp and grits, fried catfish, crab cakes, hushpuppies, collard greens.
• Cajun & Creole – crawfish, étouffée, gumbo, blackened fish, spicy boils.
• Modern/raw bar – oysters on the half shell, crudo, ceviche, lobster rolls.
• Global styles – seafood tacos, Asian-inspired fish dishes, Caribbean flavors.

Because Atlanta is not on the coast, most restaurants emphasize:

• Frequent deliveries from the Gulf Coast, East Coast, and beyond.
• Seasonal menus, especially for oysters and certain fish.
• Transparency about sourcing on menus or from the staff.

If you’re picky about freshness, Atlanta is a city where you can (and should) ask where the seafood comes from and how often it’s delivered.

Popular Types of Seafood Restaurants in Atlanta

1. Classic Southern & Family-Friendly Spots

These restaurants are where you’ll find:

• Fried shrimp, catfish, and flounder
• Seafood platters with multiple options
• Hushpuppies, coleslaw, fries, and grits
• Casual, often noisy, family-friendly environments

They’re great if you want large portions, familiar flavors, and kid-friendly menus.

2. Upscale & Special-Occasion Seafood

Upscale seafood restaurants in Atlanta often feature:

• Raw bars with oysters, clams, and chilled shellfish towers
• Seasonal fish, often grilled or roasted
• Creative sauces and sides
• Strong wine, cocktail, or champagne lists
• Dressier atmosphere suitable for dates, celebrations, or business dinners

These can be found in Buckhead, Midtown, Downtown, and parts of Inman Park and West Midtown.

3. Cajun, Creole & Seafood Boil Restaurants

In and around Atlanta, you’ll also find:

• Seafood boils with shrimp, crab, sausage, corn, and potatoes
• Bold, spicy sauces (garlic butter, Cajun, lemon pepper)
• Crawfish during peak seasons
• Laid-back, messy-but-fun dining with bibs and gloves

These are especially popular for group outings and casual weekend dinners.

4. Neighborhood Seafood & Fish Markets with Dining

Some Atlanta spots combine a seafood market with a small dining area or fry counter. These are useful when you want:

• Fresh fish and shellfish to cook at home
• A quick fried fish sandwich or plate
• Advice on how to prepare a certain type of fish

They’re scattered around the metro area and can be a good value compared to more formal restaurants.

Key Areas in Atlanta for Seafood Dining

While you can find seafood across the metro, several areas tend to have higher concentrations or notable options:

Buckhead

• Known for upscale restaurants and polished service.
• Good for business dinners, dates, and special occasions.
• Often features raw bars, premium shellfish, and extensive wine lists.

Midtown & Downtown

• Mix of trendy and classic seafood spots.
• Convenient if you’re staying near major hotels, the Georgia Aquarium, or major offices.
• Good for pre-show dinners before events at the Fox Theatre or State Farm Arena.

Inman Park, Old Fourth Ward & BeltLine Areas

• Popular for modern, chef-driven seafood dishes.
• Many restaurants here focus on seasonal, local ingredients and lighter preparations.
• Great choice if you’re looking for creative, contemporary seafood in walkable neighborhoods.

West Midtown & Upper Westside

• Known for industrial-chic spaces and food halls.
• You can often find seafood counters, oyster bars, and fusion seafood offerings.
• Good for groups that want different food options in one place.

Metro & Suburban Atlanta

Outside the core city (Decatur, Doraville, Sandy Springs, Marietta, and others), you’ll find:

• Cajun and boil-focused spots
• Family-owned Southern seafood restaurants
• International options where seafood is a major part of the menu

These can be worth the drive if you’re already in the area or want to avoid intown crowds.

How to Choose a Seafood Restaurant in Atlanta

When you’re deciding where to go, consider the following:

1. Freshness & Sourcing

Ask or look for:

• When seafood deliveries arrive (many places get them several times per week).
• Whether oysters and fish are listed by region (e.g., Gulf, East Coast).
• If the restaurant highlights seasonal specials—a good sign they care about quality.

👍 Tip: If a server can easily explain where the fish comes from and how it’s prepared, it usually reflects a restaurant that pays attention to freshness.

2. Style of Food

Match the restaurant’s style to your plans:

• Want fried platters and hushpuppies? Look for Southern-style or fish camp–style menus.
• Prefer grilled fish and lighter sauces? Aim for modern or upscale seafood spots.
• Want a seafood boil or Cajun flavors? Search for “seafood boil” or “Cajun seafood” in Atlanta specifically.

3. Budget & Occasion

Seafood can range widely in price:

• Casual: Baskets, po’boys, and fried fish plates at modest prices.
• Mid-range: Sit-down restaurants with a mix of fried and grilled options.
• Upscale: Premium fish and shellfish, raw bar, craft cocktails, and higher prices.

If you’re going for a birthday, date night, or client dinner, consider calling ahead to ask:

• About noise level
• Whether they take reservations
• If they offer private or semi-private spaces

4. Location & Parking

Atlanta traffic can turn a short trip into a long one. Check:

• How close the restaurant is to MARTA if you’re using transit.
• On-site parking garages or valet in areas like Buckhead and Midtown.
• Street parking rules in intown neighborhoods.

Typical Seafood Dishes You’ll See in Atlanta

Most seafood restaurants in Atlanta, GA offer a core set of dishes:

Southern Favorites

• Fried catfish with tartar sauce
• Shrimp and grits
• Fried or grilled shrimp plates
• Crab cakes
• Seafood platters (mix of shrimp, fish, oysters, scallops)

Seafood Boil & Cajun Highlights

• Shrimp boils with corn, potatoes, and sausage
• Snow crab legs and king crab (often market price)
• Crawfish when in season
• Gumbo and étouffée

Raw Bars & Lighter Options

• Raw oysters on the half shell
• Steamed mussels or clams
• Grilled fish (salmon, red snapper, grouper, etc.)
• Seafood salads and lighter starters

If you’re unsure what to order, most Atlanta servers are used to guiding guests through the menu—especially at raw bars or boil-focused places where the choices can feel overwhelming at first.

Simple Comparison: Types of Seafood Experiences in Atlanta

Practical Tips for Eating Seafood in Atlanta

1. Check Hours and Seasonal Menu Notes

Seafood delivery schedules and seasonal items (like oysters or crawfish) can affect what’s available:

• Many restaurants update daily specials based on what’s freshest.
• Crawfish and certain regional items might only appear during limited seasons.

Calling ahead or checking a recent menu can help avoid disappointment if you’re craving something specific.

2. Reservations vs. Walk-Ins

• Upscale and busy intown seafood restaurants often recommend reservations, especially on weekends.
• Casual spots, boil places, and fish markets usually accept walk-ins but may have waits during peak dinner times.

If you’re planning a group dinner, it’s worth:

• Calling at least a few days in advance.
• Asking about large-party policies and whether they can do separate checks.

3. Dietary Needs

Most Atlanta seafood restaurants can accommodate:

• Shellfish or fish allergies (with alternate options or careful prep).
• Gluten-conscious choices (grilled fish vs. breaded/fried).
• Lighter preparations (sauces on the side, baked or grilled options).

To stay safe and comfortable, let your server know early about any allergies or restrictions so they can guide your order accordingly.

Buying Seafood to Cook at Home in Atlanta

If you prefer to cook your own seafood, Atlanta has:

• Specialty seafood markets
• Grocery stores with fresh fish counters
• Some restaurants that also sell raw seafood to-go

When shopping:

• Look for clear eyes and fresh smell in whole fish.
• Ask when the fish was delivered and filleted.
• Bring a cooler or insulated bag if you’re driving a distance, especially in warmer months.

This can be a smart option if you:

• Want to host a seafood night at home
• Prefer specific recipes or seasonings
• Are trying to control costs, since restaurant seafood can be pricier

Getting Local Help and Information

If you care about environmental impact or sustainability of your seafood choices in Atlanta:

• Some local markets and restaurants will indicate sustainable or responsibly sourced options.
• Staff at fish counters and higher-end seafood restaurants are often prepared to answer basic questions about where the seafood comes from and whether it’s considered a better environmental choice.

You can also:

• Compare multiple seafood restaurants’ menus online to see how they describe sourcing.
• Call ahead and ask if they focus on seasonal and responsibly sourced seafood.

Making the Most of Atlanta’s Seafood Scene

Even without an oceanfront, seafood restaurants in Atlanta, GA offer a wide range of experiences—from simple fried catfish plates to elaborate raw bars and seafood feasts. To get the best experience:

• Decide what style of seafood you want (Southern, Cajun, raw bar, or modern).
• Choose a neighborhood that fits your plans for the day or evening.
• Check in advance for reservations, parking, and seasonal menu items.
• Don’t hesitate to ask about freshness, sourcing, and recommended dishes when you arrive.

With a bit of planning, it’s easy to enjoy high-quality seafood while you’re living in or visiting Atlanta.