10 Underrated Seafood Joints In Indiana You’ll Fall In Love With

When you think of Indiana, seafood probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind. But trust me, the Hoosier State has some seriously impressive spots serving up everything from buttery crab legs to perfectly crispy fish tacos.

These hidden jewels prove you don’t need an ocean view to get your hands on some incredible seafood. Get ready to discover ten places that’ll make you rethink everything you thought you knew about landlocked dining.

1. Crab 99 Bar and Restaurant, Indianapolis

This place doesn’t mess around when it comes to freshness and flavor. Crab 99 Bar and Restaurant brings the coastal boil experience straight to Indy, and honestly, they nail it every single time.

You’ll find yourself elbow deep in seasoned shellfish, surrounded by the kind of energy that makes you feel like you’re at a beach party.

The menu focuses on classic seafood boils with customizable spice levels. Their signature sauces coat every bite with bold, buttery goodness that’ll have you licking your fingers shamelessly. Portions are generous, prices are fair, and the vibe is unbeatable for a fun night out.

2. Kingfish, Jeffersonville

Where sophistication meets the Ohio River, you’ll discover a dining experience that feels miles away from the Midwest. Kingfish serves up coastal cuisine with a refined twist that’ll make you forget you’re landlocked.

The ambiance alone is worth the trip, with sleek décor and riverside views that set the mood perfectly. Their menu changes seasonally, showcasing the freshest catches prepared with creative flair.

Each dish balances delicate flavors without trying too hard, proving that simple execution can be absolutely stunning. Service is attentive without hovering, making every visit feel special.

3. Paula’s On Main, Fort Wayne

Though tucked away on a charming street, this spot has been quietly winning hearts for years. Paula’s On Main offers a menu that goes beyond typical fried fish, delivering thoughtfully prepared seafood with genuine care.

The atmosphere feels like dining at a friend’s house, if that friend happened to be an incredible chef. Their lobster bisque is legendary among locals, rich and velvety with generous chunks of meat.

Daily specials keep things interesting, and the homemade sides complement every entrée beautifully. You’ll leave satisfied, planning your next visit before you even reach the door.

4. Ugly Crab, Avon

Are you ready for a messy, hands on feast that’ll make your taste buds sing? Ugly Crab brings that authentic Cajun seafood boil experience to Avon with zero pretension and maximum flavor. Bibs are mandatory here, because things get gloriously chaotic in the best possible way.

Choose your seafood, pick your spice level, and watch as they dump a steaming bag of goodness right onto your table. The seasoning blend hits different, with layers of garlic, butter, and heat that build with every bite. It’s loud, fun, and exactly what seafood should be.

5. Deep Blue Seafood Restaurant, Portage

However far you think Portage is from the ocean, this restaurant makes that distance feel irrelevant. Deep Blue Seafood Restaurant sources quality ingredients and treats them with the respect they deserve.

The menu reads like a love letter to the sea, with options spanning multiple coasts and cooking styles. Their fried catfish is criminally underrated, with a golden crust that shatters perfectly.

Grilled options showcase natural flavors without drowning them in heavy sauces. Staff actually know their stuff, offering helpful suggestions that never steer you wrong.

6. Slapfish, Noblesville

When convenience meets quality, magic happens in the form of incredibly satisfying seafood. Slapfish operates as a fast casual spot that refuses to compromise on freshness or flavor.

Their mission centers on sustainable sourcing, which means you can feel good about every delicious bite you take. The fish tacos here are legitimately addictive, with perfectly seasoned proteins and bright, crunchy toppings.

Bowls offer hearty portions that actually fill you up without leaving you sluggish. Prices stay reasonable, making this your new go-to for quick weeknight dinners that don’t disappoint.

7. Chubby Trout, Elkhart

Did you know that some of the best seafood experiences happen in the most unexpected places? Chubby Trout proves that point beautifully, serving up fresh catches in a laid back setting that immediately puts you at ease. The name might make you smile, but the food will make you a believer.

Trout preparations here showcase the fish in multiple styles, each highlighting different flavor profiles. Beyond their namesake, the menu explores other seafood options with equal enthusiasm and skill. Locals treat this place like their secret weapon for impressing out of town guests.

8. The Juicy Seafood Restaurant & Bar, Indianapolis

Where flavor explodes and inhibitions disappear, you’ll find a seafood experience that demands your full attention. The Juicy Seafood Restaurant & Bar specializes in those glorious messy boils that require napkins by the dozen.

Roll up your sleeves and prepare for a feast that engages all your senses simultaneously. Their signature seasoning blends pack a serious punch without overwhelming the natural sweetness of the shellfish.

Combos let you sample multiple proteins in one sitting, perfect for indecisive seafood lovers. The energy stays high, the portions stay generous, and you’ll leave completely satisfied.

9. Kona Jack’s Fish Market & Sushi Bar, Indianapolis

Hence the name, this spot functions as both a market and restaurant, giving you options galore. Kona Jack’s Fish Market & Sushi Bar brings Hawaiian-inspired flavors and Japanese precision to Indianapolis with impressive results.

The dual concept means you can grab fresh fish to cook at home or stay and let their chefs work their magic. Poke bowls here rival anything you’d find on the coast, with ultra-fresh fish and creative topping combinations.

Sushi rolls balance traditional techniques with playful twists that keep things interesting. Quality shines through in every single bite.

10. Tiff’s Love Butta, Indianapolis

Though the name sounds like pure poetry, the food tastes even better than it sounds. Tiff’s Love Butta combines soul food traditions with seafood in ways that’ll make your heart sing. This isn’t your typical seafood joint; it’s a celebration of flavor, culture, and cooking with genuine love.

Their catfish gets fried to absolute perfection, with seasoning that penetrates every layer of that crispy coating. Shrimp preparations showcase Southern techniques that honor the ingredient while adding personality.

Sides deserve their own standing ovation, completing each plate with comforting, homestyle goodness that feels like a warm hug.