Top Authentic Seafood Restaurants In New Jersey According To Locals
New Jersey’s coastline stretches over 130 miles, and if you think that means just sandy beaches and boardwalks, you’re missing the real treasure: some of the freshest, most authentic seafood spots in the country.
Locals don’t mess around when it comes to where they eat their lobster rolls, clam chowder, and crab cakes.
I’ve spent years chasing the best bites from Cape May to Red Bank, and trust me, these restaurants aren’t just good, they’re the places where Jersey folks bring their out-of-town guests to show off.
1. Boat House Bar & Grill, Belmar
Where the Shark River meets serious flavor, you’ll find a spot that locals guard like a state secret. Boat House Bar & Grill sits right on the water, and yes, the views are stunning, but I’m here for what’s on my plate.
Their raw bar is stocked daily with oysters so fresh they practically wink at you. The lobster bisque is thick, creamy, and doesn’t skimp on actual lobster chunks.
Order the grilled swordfish if you want to understand why people drive from three towns over just to eat here.
2. The Crab Trap, Sea Isle City
This place has been slinging seafood since before half the island was even developed. The Crab Trap doesn’t do fancy, and honestly, that’s the whole point.
You sit at picnic tables, crack open steamed blue crabs with wooden mallets, and get butter everywhere. It’s messy, it’s fun, and it’s exactly what summer at the shore should taste like.
Their crab cakes are all lump meat with barely any filler, and the clam strips are fried to golden perfection without being greasy.
3. The Lobster House, Cape May
However you feel about tourist traps, erase that thought because this institution has earned every bit of its reputation. The Lobster House has been a Cape May staple since 1954, and they’ve perfected the art of serving massive portions without sacrificing quality.
Their twin lobster tails are ridiculous in the best way possible. The schooner bar upstairs offers raw oysters that taste like the ocean just kissed your tongue.
Go early or prepare to wait, but trust me, it’s worth every minute.
4. Old Man Rafferty’s, Brielle
Though the name sounds like your grumpy uncle’s fishing cabin, this Brielle gem serves up seafood that’ll make you rethink everything you thought you knew about Jersey dining. Old Man Rafferty’s keeps things unpretentious but delivers flavor that punches way above its weight class.
Their coconut shrimp comes with a mango dipping sauce that’s dangerously addictive. The seafood fra diavolo is spicy, garlicky, and loaded with shrimp, scallops, and mussels.
Locals pack this place on weekends, so reservations are your friend.
5. The Shrimp Box, Cape May
When you walk into a restaurant that’s been family-owned since 1935, you know they’re doing something right. The Shrimp Box has that old-school Cape May charm without being stuffy or overpriced.
Their jumbo shrimp scampi is buttery, garlicky heaven, and the stuffed flounder is packed with crabmeat that actually tastes like crab. The outdoor patio is perfect for people-watching while you devour your meal.
This spot feels like visiting your cool aunt’s beach house, if she happened to be an incredible chef.
6. The Crab’s Claw Inn, Cape May
Nestled in the charming coastal town of Cape May, The Crab’s Claw Inn is a beloved seafood spot that locals and visitors alike rave about. Known for its fresh, locally sourced seafood and inviting atmosphere, this restaurant offers everything from classic crab cakes to mouthwatering clam chowder.
Whether you’re dining inside their cozy, rustic interior or enjoying the outdoor seating with views of the water, The Crab’s Claw Inn delivers an authentic Jersey Shore dining experience that keeps people coming back year after year.
7. White House Sub Shop, Atlantic City
A New Jersey staple, the White House Sub Shop in Atlantic City is famous for its colossal, overstuffed subs packed with fresh seafood and deli meats.
While not a traditional seafood restaurant, their seafood subs, especially the crab and shrimp options, have earned them a spot among the best places locals turn to for a quick, satisfying bite.
The casual, no-frills vibe combined with hearty portions makes it a go-to spot for both locals and tourists craving authentic Jersey flavor on the go.
8. Joe’s Crab Shack, Multiple Locations
Are purists going to roast me for including a chain? Probably. But here’s the thing: sometimes you want reliable, fun, and zero pretension, and Joe’s delivers exactly that.
Their steam pots are loaded with crab legs, shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes, all seasoned with Old Bay like it should be. Kids love the casual vibe, and parents love that the menu has something for everyone.
When you’re craving seafood without the fuss, Joe’s hits the spot every single time.
9. Kelly’s Roast Beef & Seafood, Multiple Locations
Though the name shouts roast beef, the seafood here deserves equal billing. Kelly’s is a Massachusetts transplant that’s found a loyal following across New Jersey, and for good reason.
Their fried clam bellies are plump, sweet, and perfectly crispy without being greasy. The fish and chips feature thick cod filets with a golden batter that shatters when you bite into it.
This is fast-casual done right, where quality doesn’t take a backseat to convenience, and your wallet doesn’t cry afterward.
10. The Oyster Point Hotel Restaurant, Red Bank
Are you ready to elevate your seafood game? The Oyster Point Hotel Restaurant brings sophistication to the Navesink River without the stuffy attitude that sometimes comes with upscale dining.
Their raw bar features oysters from both coasts, and the seared scallops are caramelized to perfection with a delicate sweetness. The Chilean sea bass practically melts on your fork, paired with seasonal vegetables that actually taste like something.
This is where you go when you want to impress someone or celebrate something special while still eating like royalty.
