Washington Spots Serving Endless Seafood Locals Rave About

Washington State sits right on the Pacific Ocean, which means fresh seafood is everywhere you look. From cozy oyster bars tucked in neighborhoods to waterfront restaurants with stunning views, locals know exactly where to find the best catches.

Whether you crave buttery salmon, crispy fish and chips, or briny oysters straight from the bay, these sixteen spots deliver seafood so good that people come back again and again.

1. The Walrus and the Carpenter

If you love oysters, this Ballard spot should be at the top of your list. The Walrus and the Carpenter sources its oysters directly from local waters, ensuring every bite tastes incredibly fresh and briny.

It operates on a no-reservations policy, so expect a wait during busy times. The lively atmosphere makes the experience worth it, though.

Locals crowd this place for good reason the oyster selection changes regularly based on what’s available. You’ll find friendly staff who know their shellfish inside and out. The small plates menu pairs perfectly with the oysters, making it easy to share with friends and try multiple flavors in one visit.

2. Ray’s Boathouse

Since 1973, this waterfront institution has been serving impeccable seafood with a view that takes your breath away. Ray’s Boathouse sits right on the water in Ballard, offering stunning vistas of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains.

Locals celebrate special occasions here because the combination of excellent food and scenery creates memorable experiences. The menu features seasonal catches prepared with care and creativity.

You can choose between the casual café upstairs or the elegant dining room downstairs. Both options deliver quality seafood, but the upstairs café offers a more relaxed vibe. Sunset dinners here are particularly magical when the sky turns orange and pink over the water.

3. The Oyster Bar on Chuckanut Drive

Perched on a cliff overlooking Samish Bay, this restaurant offers one of the most scenic dining experiences in Washington. The Oyster Bar provides a rotating selection of oysters with detailed tasting notes, helping you understand what makes each variety special.

Did you know that oysters taste different depending on where they grow? The staff here loves explaining these differences to curious diners.

The location alone makes this spot worth visiting, but the food keeps people coming back. Fresh seafood arrives daily, and the kitchen prepares it simply to let natural flavors shine. Locals recommend arriving before sunset to catch the golden hour view over the bay while enjoying your meal.

4. Bennett’s Fish Shack

When you want no-frills seafood that tastes amazing, Bennett’s Fish Shack delivers every time. Located in Westport, this relaxed spot wraps its famous fish and chips in newspaper, giving you that classic seaside experience.

Locals gather here after fishing trips or beach days to refuel with generous portions. The atmosphere feels inviting and unpretentious, perfect for families or casual dinners with friends.

The fish arrives fresh from nearby waters, and you can taste the difference in every crispy, golden bite. Prices remain reasonable despite the quality, making it accessible for regular visits. If you’re exploring the coast, this shack should definitely be on your seafood tour itinerary.

5. Sunfish Seafood

How does perfectly fried fish with a view of the beach sound? Sunfish in West Seattle has become a neighborhood favorite for exactly that reason.

Generous portions mean you’ll leave satisfied without breaking the bank. The fish and chips here are cooked to golden perfection, with a crispy exterior that gives way to tender, flaky fish inside. The salmon dishes showcase expert cooking techniques that bring out the fish’s natural richness.

Locals appreciate the consistent quality and friendly service that makes every visit pleasant. You can grab your food to go and enjoy it at nearby Alki Beach, or dine in and watch the world pass by. Either way, you’re getting some of the best seafood West Seattle has to offer.

6. Taylor Shellfish Farms

It’s hard to get fresher seafood than eating it right at the source. Taylor Shellfish Farms operates several locations throughout Washington, each offering shellfish harvested from their own farms.

You can shuck your own oysters or have the staff do it for you. The experience feels authentic and educational, especially for kids who’ve never seen how oysters are prepared.

Locals know that Taylor’s represents some of the best aquaculture in the Pacific Northwest. The retail markets let you take shellfish home, while the oyster bars provide immediate gratification. Whether you prefer your oysters raw, grilled, or fried, they’ve got you covered with multiple preparation options and flavor profiles to explore.

7. Elliott’s Oyster House

Right on Seattle’s waterfront at Pier 56, Elliott’s Oyster House has been a seafood destination since 1975. The restaurant boasts an impressive selection of over thirty oyster varieties from the Pacific Northwest.

Are you someone who likes trying different flavors? The oyster menu here reads like a geography lesson of Washington’s bays and inlets. Each variety offers distinct taste profiles that reflect its growing environment.

The seafood towers here are legendary piled high with oysters, clams, shrimp, and crab. Locals bring out-of-town visitors here to show off Seattle’s seafood scene. The location makes it easy to combine dinner with a waterfront stroll, and the views of Elliott Bay add to the overall dining experience beautifully.

8. Anthony’s HomePort

With multiple locations across Washington, Anthony’s HomePort brings consistent quality seafood to various communities. Each location features waterfront views that enhance the dining experience significantly.

Locals appreciate the reliability of Anthony’s you know what you’re getting every time. The menu highlights wild Pacific salmon, Dungeness crab, and other regional specialties prepared with care and attention to detail.

Though it’s a chain, Anthony’s maintains high standards for freshness and sustainability. The happy hour deals make it accessible for regular visits without overspending. Families particularly enjoy the welcoming atmosphere and kid-friendly options. If you’re looking for dependable seafood in a pleasant setting, Anthony’s delivers across all their locations throughout the state.

9. The Crab Pot

When you want seafood served in the most fun way possible, The Crab Pot delivers. Located on Seattle’s waterfront, this restaurant dumps your entire seafood feast directly onto your table.

You’ll get a bib and a mallet, then dig into a pile of crab, shrimp, clams, mussels, and potatoes. It’s messy, delicious, and absolutely memorable for kids and adults alike.

Locals bring visitors here for the entertainment value as much as the food. The interactive dining style creates a casual, party-like atmosphere that encourages conversation and laughter. You won’t leave hungry the portions are massive and designed for sharing. If you’re celebrating something special or just want a unique seafood experience, this spot fits the bill perfectly.

10. Ivar’s Acres of Clams

Since 1938, Ivar’s has been a Seattle institution serving seafood to generations of locals and visitors. The original Acres of Clams location sits right on the waterfront, offering classic dishes that have stood the test of time.

Their clam chowder is legendary creamy, rich, and packed with clams. You can order it in a sourdough bread bowl for the full experience.

Locals have childhood memories of feeding seagulls on the pier after eating at Ivar’s. The fish and chips remain a staple, prepared the same way for decades. While the restaurant has expanded to multiple locations, the original spot holds special significance. The combination of history, location, and consistent quality makes Ivar’s a must-visit for seafood lovers.

11. Duke’s Seafood

Did you know that Duke’s sources only sustainable, wild-caught seafood? This commitment to responsible fishing sets them apart in Washington’s crowded seafood scene.

With several locations around the state, Duke’s makes quality seafood accessible to many communities. The menu features wild Pacific salmon prepared multiple ways, from grilled to cedar-planked, each highlighting the fish’s natural flavor.

Locals trust Duke’s for consistently excellent food and ethical sourcing practices. The chowder wins awards year after year, and the Dungeness crab cakes are crispy outside and tender inside. Family-friendly atmosphere and reasonable prices make it easy to visit regularly. Whether you’re celebrating or just craving good seafood, Duke’s provides a welcoming environment and delicious food every single time.

12. Chinook’s at Salmon Bay

Located at Fisherman’s Terminal, Chinook’s offers something special you can watch the working fishing fleet while eating the catch they brought in. This connection to the source makes the experience feel authentic and grounded.

The menu changes based on what’s fresh and available, reflecting the seasonal nature of fishing. Locals appreciate this approach because it means you’re always getting the best available seafood.

Floor-to-ceiling windows provide stunning views of the boats and the bay. The atmosphere feels relaxed yet refined, suitable for both casual lunches and special dinners. If you want to understand Washington’s fishing industry while enjoying excellent seafood, Chinook’s provides the perfect combination of education and delicious food in one memorable location.

13. Blueacre Seafood

In downtown Seattle, Blueacre Seafood brings a modern approach to Pacific Northwest seafood. The restaurant focuses on sustainable practices and relationships with local fishermen and farmers.

Chef Kevin Davis created a menu that respects traditional preparations while adding creative touches. The raw bar showcases pristine oysters, clams, and other shellfish displayed beautifully on ice.

Locals consider this a go-to spot for business dinners or date nights when you want to impress. The atmosphere feels upscale without being stuffy, and the staff knows their menu thoroughly. Happy hour offers excellent values on smaller plates and drinks. If you’re downtown and craving sophisticated seafood in a contemporary setting, Blueacre delivers on all fronts with style and substance.

14. The Fisherman’s Restaurant

How long has your favorite restaurant been around? The Fisherman’s in Bellingham has served the community for decades, becoming a beloved institution.

Perched above Bellingham Bay, the restaurant offers panoramic views of the water and San Juan Islands. On clear days, you can see all the way to the Canadian Gulf Islands while enjoying your meal.

The menu features classic preparations that let fresh seafood shine without unnecessary complications. Locals bring their families here for celebrations and regular dinners alike. The portions are generous, and the prices remain reasonable despite the prime location. Whether you order salmon, halibut, or the seafood combo platter, you’ll taste the quality and care that goes into every dish prepared here.

15. Westward

It’s rare to find a restaurant that perfectly balances trendy atmosphere with excellent seafood, but Westward manages both. Located on Lake Union in Seattle, this spot features a massive outdoor patio that’s packed during summer months.

The wood-fired cooking method adds a smoky depth to seafood dishes that you won’t find elsewhere. Oysters are grilled over open flames, and whole fish arrives at your table with crispy skin and tender meat.

Locals love the communal vibe and the fact that you can arrive by boat. The views of the lake and city skyline create a stunning backdrop for your meal. Reservations are recommended, especially for outdoor seating during nice weather when everyone wants to enjoy lakeside dining.

16. Matt’s in the Market

Tucked above Pike Place Market, Matt’s in the Market seats only about twenty-two people, making reservations essential. This tiny restaurant sources ingredients directly from the market below, ensuring incredible freshness.

The chef shops the market each morning, building the menu around what looks best. This means the seafood selection changes frequently based on availability and season.

Locals consider getting a reservation here a real score because the intimate setting and exceptional food create unforgettable experiences. The kitchen is visible from most seats, letting you watch the culinary magic happen. Window seats offer views of Elliott Bay and the Olympic Mountains beyond. Though small, Matt’s delivers huge flavors and impeccable service that keeps people returning whenever they can snag a table.