Finding exceptional seafood in Fargo can feel a bit like looking for buried treasure in the middle of the prairie. I still remember my first night out here, standing in front of a plate of perfectly crisp walleye thinking, “Maybe Fargo’s seafood game really is as good as some coastal cities.” I’ve tasted my way through tiny raw bars, bustling grills, and creative bistros, all in pursuit of the region’s best catches.
The city surprises at every corner, whether you’re after flaky northern pike, a classic shrimp cocktail, or innovative sushi that could hold its own in much bigger markets. Looking for the best spots to satisfy your seafood cravings? This guide cuts the guesswork and shares exactly where to go for fresh flavors, casual charm, and reliable menus. Prepare to dive into Fargo’s standout seafood places—each one with something special on the plate.
1. Beer & Fish Company
Beer & Fish Company feels like Fargo’s answer to the classic coastal fish house, right in the heart of downtown. I dropped in after work one evening and was caught off guard by the breezy vibe—think fresh local catches, no fuss, no pretense. The menu is a playground for seafood lovers.
The walleye sandwich is the stuff of local legend: crisp, flaky, and just the right amount of indulgent. The fish and chips come out golden, and the rotating draft list pairs perfectly with anything fried, grilled, or shucked. Beer & Fish Company’s genuine hospitality makes it easy to linger, while their commitment to freshness keeps every visit interesting. Explore the daily specials for a taste of North Dakota’s best waterways.
2. Red Lobster
Red Lobster in Fargo brings a splash of the coast to 13th Avenue. I once ducked in during a blizzard, searching for comfort, and the familiar aroma of baked seafood was a welcome greeting. The dining room is relaxed, the staff quick with a friendly smile, and you always know what to expect.
The real magic is in the consistency. The Ultimate Feast gathers shrimp, crab, and flaky white fish all on one generous platter—a tour of the ocean, Fargo-style. Broiled wild-caught whitefish is another favorite, light and ideal for seafood purists. For me, it’s impossible to leave without a basket of those famous cheese biscuits, which seem to appear as soon as you sit down.
3. Deep Blue Seafood
Deep Blue Seafood is Fargo’s answer to the “fresh off the boat” seafood experience, minus the ocean. My first visit felt like stumbling into a secret—open display cases gleaming with glistening fish, and the menus scribbled with what just arrived by air. Their commitment to freshness shows in every detail.
If you love to cook, the market counter brims with options ready to take home. For dine-in, jumbo shrimp platters and house-made crab cakes let you taste just how lively midwestern seafood can be. Their grilled salmon is always spot-on, tender and never overdone. Deep Blue is the place where you know exactly where your meal was caught, and that’s a rare thing in the Midwest.
4. Osaka Seafood Steakhouse
Osaka Seafood Steakhouse mixes showmanship and quality in the best way. My first meal here included a hibachi performance that almost outshined the food—until I tasted the seafood. There’s real attention to detail, from the way everything sizzles on the grill to the freshness on each plate.
The shrimp hibachi is a must; it’s plump, juicy, and grilled with just enough char. The sashimi sampler offers a delicate taste of the ocean, sliced and plated with care. If you’re in the mood for warmth, the seafood udon is loaded and soothing. For anyone craving Japanese flavor with a Fargo twist, Osaka is a top pick that doesn’t miss a beat.
5. Mångata Wine & Raw Bar
Mångata Wine & Raw Bar is that rare Fargo spot where seafood feels both adventurous and refined. My first visit turned me into a regular—half the menu is about discovery, the other half pure comfort. The roomy space sweeps you in with a relaxed vibe, brightened by an ever-changing list of raw and cooked selections.
Oysters on the half shell are the signature move: icy, briny, and meticulously shucked. The tuna tartare is silky and fresh, served with crunchy elements for balance. If you’re hungry for more, the crudo du jour always comes with a creative twist. Mångata’s pairing of wines with seafood might make you rethink what you want from a night out in Fargo.
6. Blarney Stone At The Hotel Donaldson
Blarney Stone At The Hotel Donaldson brings a bit of Irish cheer to downtown Fargo. I walked in on a chilly evening and was greeted by pub warmth—low lighting, laughter, and the hum of conversation. The menu offers hearty favorites, but seafood here deserves a second look.
Fish and chips steal the spotlight: light, crisp batter blankets mild white fish that flakes perfectly. Their seafood chowder is a comforting bowl with a rich, creamy base and generous bites of fish and potatoes, perfect for Fargo’s long winters. Blarney Stone’s relaxed atmosphere pairs well with a rotating draft beer or two, rounding out a meal that hits all the right notes for a casual gathering or solo treat.
7. Mezzaluna
Mezzaluna brings a touch of downtown polish with a menu that quietly celebrates the best of land and sea. Stepping inside, you’re greeted by exposed brick and gentle lighting—a setting that fits the creative plates emerging from the kitchen. My first dinner at Mezzaluna featured a seafood entrée that rivaled any coastal dinner I’ve had.
Their pan-seared walleye stands out, perfectly cooked with a golden crust and set off by seasonal local vegetables. Seafood lovers will also find the scallop risotto memorable, creamy and full of well-developed flavor. Dishes here are inventive but never fussy. Mezzaluna is the place to linger over good conversation and let Fargo’s culinary potential surprise you.
8. Cork N’ Cleaver
Cork N’ Cleaver feels timeless—dark wood, rustic decor, and the gentle clink of glassware. Every visit is a reminder of why this spot has been a Fargo favorite for over five decades. I still remember my first forkful of flaky fish here, surrounded by regulars swapping stories at the bar.
The menu is as much about seafood as it is about steak. King crab legs always impress: sweet, perfectly steamed, and generously sized. Another top pick is the walleyed pike, served simply to let its natural flavor shine. As for starters, the shrimp cocktail sets a high standard. For anyone wanting the classic supper-club experience with reliable seafood, Cork N’ Cleaver doesn’t disappoint.
9. Urban 42
Urban 42 feels sleek and modern, tucked away inside the Delta Hotels by Marriott. The first time I visited, it was for a work dinner that quickly turned into one of those unexpectedly good meals. The large windows and open layout make it easy to settle in and linger over something special.
If you’re eyeing seafood, the seared tuna salad is a standout—fresh, perfectly rare slices of tuna over crisp greens. Steamed mussels are another solid pick; they arrive fragrant and overflowing, with plenty of sauce for dipping. I’d also recommend the crusted halibut if you want something both hearty and elegant. Urban 42’s menu manages to feel polished but genuinely welcoming, a rare find for hotel dining in Fargo.
10. Osaka Sushi & Hibachi
Osaka Sushi & Hibachi makes seafood dining lively, combining classic Japanese favorites with plenty of local flair. My go-to order started as an experiment: I asked the server to surprise me, and the result was a colorful plate of nigiri that didn’t last long. Every meal here feels fresh and deliberate.
The Fargo roll is a playful house special loaded with shrimp and avocado, wrapped just right. Sashimi platters arrive artfully arranged and deliver clean, balanced flavors. If you’re with a group, the hibachi shrimp draws a crowd for both the show and the taste. For a break from hearty Midwest fare, Osaka hits the spot with seafood that’s both elegant and fun.
More Things to Try in Fargo, ND
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find fresh seafood in Fargo?
Several restaurants source fresh seafood weekly. Try Deep Blue Seafood for market-fresh options, or Beer & Fish Company for daily catches served straight to your table.
Are there any sushi spots in Fargo worth trying?
Fargo’s got you covered. Osaka Sushi & Hibachi and Osaka Seafood Steakhouse both offer well-prepared sushi and sashimi, with creative rolls and classic favorites.
Which restaurants offer a good seafood dinner for a special occasion?
For a more upscale seafood meal, check out Mezzaluna or Cork N’ Cleaver. Both serve high-quality seafood in a refined atmosphere, perfect for celebrations or date nights.
Is seafood available year-round in Fargo?
Yes. Though Fargo isn’t coastal, many restaurants fly in fresh fish weekly, so you’ll find quality seafood all year long at places like Deep Blue Seafood, Urban 42, and Mångata Wine & Raw Bar.
Are there gluten-free or vegetarian seafood options?
Many seafood restaurants in Fargo offer gluten-free options. Red Lobster and several sushi spots provide a variety of dishes to suit different dietary needs. Always check with your server for the latest menu options.
