Greenville sits quietly, but its seafood scene makes plenty of noise. Searching for the best catch in town can feel like exploring a series of hidden coves, each with its own flavor. I’ve sat at weathered bar tops, swapped stories with locals, and picked at platters so fresh you can almost hear the ocean. This city rewards those who look beyond the obvious, promising gems waiting to be discovered by anyone craving fish, oysters, or crab.
Each spot you find here will have its own story—a shucked oyster sliding onto a bed of ice, a plate of perfectly fried catfish that needs nothing beyond a squeeze of lemon, or a simmering pot of Cajun spices filling the air. I’ll guide you through Greenville’s top seafood picks, sharing the places I trust for a meal that always hits the mark. If you want something local, lively, and genuinely good, you’re definitely in the right place.
1. The Lost Cajun- Greenville
Tucked away on Pelham Road, The Lost Cajun-Greenville feels like a slice of Louisiana spirit transported to the Upstate. The moment you walk in, you’re greeted by the scent of simmering spices and a vibe that’s both relaxed and vibrant. I’ve sat here more than once, watching bowls of steaming gumbo find their homes on tables full of regulars.
Gumbo is the real star in this kitchen, rich and loaded with shrimp and catfish. The shrimp po-boys pack a serious crunch, served on bread that manages to be both soft and crusty. The fried catfish rivals anything you’ll find in New Orleans—fresh, flaky, perfectly seasoned.
It’s the kind of spot where even an ordinary Tuesday feels festive. Seafood lovers hunting for bold flavors will find this place tough to beat.
2. The Lost Cajun- Greenville Downtown
The Lost Cajun-Greenville Downtown brings a bold Cajun flair right to the heart of Main Street. The casual setting feels welcome, even for first-timers, and more than once, I’ve found myself drawn in by the savory aroma of their made-from-scratch dishes wafting toward the sidewalk.
This spot is known for gumbo that tells a story with every spoonful. If you’re after true Louisiana comfort, their seafood gumbo is loaded with shrimp and catfish in a rich, deeply flavored broth. Fried seafood plates also pack plenty of crunch without being greasy. The shrimp po-boy comes nestled in crusty bread, drenched in house-made sauce, and always hits the mark.
If you want to taste downtown Greenville’s liveliest seafood, this spot is an easy pick.
3. Coral
Coral sits at the southern end of Main Street and offers an atmosphere that feels both elegant and unpretentious. From the moment you slip into a booth, the tempo slows, and you can focus on the flavors. I once spent an entire evening here, savoring each course, with plates that looked as striking as the mural behind the bar.
The bar sets the stage, but it’s the seafood risotto that keeps regulars coming back. Creamy, briny, and filled with the day’s best catch, it’s a plate that delivers both comfort and a bit of surprise. The grilled salmon is a close rival—expertly cooked, resting on a bed of fresh vegetables.
For anyone after seafood prepared with finesse and a little bit of theater, Coral is a must-visit in Greenville.
4. The Jones Oyster Co.
The Jones Oyster Co. brings a genuine coastal vibe to downtown Greenville. The setting is lively, with a bar bustling with oyster lovers watching the experts do their best work. Sitting at that bar, it’s easy to lose track of time as plates of fresh seafood quietly arrive.
The raw oysters are a must—pristine and kissed with brine, they taste like a quick trip seaside. If you’re in the mood for comfort, the New England clam chowder is creamy and full of flavor. The lobster roll strikes a perfect balance between tender and rich, tucked in a soft, griddled bun.
This place feels like a celebration, offering everything you want from a seafood spot—with a little Greenville charm on the side.
5. Shuckin Shack
Shuckin Shack on Pelham Road is where seafood meets pure fun. Walk in and you’ll find paper-topped tables, friendly buzz, and a menu built for those who don’t mind a little mess when cracking open crab legs. I remember tackling a heaping platter of shrimp here, fingers stained with Old Bay, not a care in the world.
Start with peel-and-eat shrimp, spiced just enough to make you reach for another napkin. The steamed oysters keep regulars coming back—plump, briny, and perfectly cooked. For a meal with real Lowcountry soul, try their signature crab bites, a bite-sized sample of what this place does best.
Whether you’re a shellfish fanatic or just after a casual hangout, Shuckin Shack delivers fresh flavors every time.
6. Bimini’s Oyster Bar and Seafood Cafe
Bimini’s Oyster Bar and Seafood Cafe brings a touch of the coast to Greenville with a laid-back, tropical vibe. On my first visit, the hum of lively conversation and steamy platters reminded me of a favorite Myrtle Beach haunt. This place leans into tradition, making every meal feel like a beach vacation without leaving town.
Steamed oysters are center stage, best enjoyed with a squeeze of lemon and a nod from your server. The Lowcountry boil, brimming with shrimp, potatoes, and corn, turns an ordinary night into a full celebration. Fried shrimp platters are golden and crisp, each bite echoing classic seaside flavor.
If you’re after a no-frills seafood experience with genuine charm, Bimini’s delivers every single time.
7. Bonefish Grill
Bonefish Grill on Woodruff Road blends polish with comfort, serving up refined seafood with an approachable feel. My most memorable visit was on a Friday night, the place abuzz yet my table felt relaxed, with servers quick to recommend their personal favorites.
The highlight here is the wood-grilled fish, always fresh, with choices like Atlantic salmon or Chilean sea bass, grilled to a delicate char. The Bang Bang Shrimp gets a lot of attention, but for something a bit more classic, the Ahi tuna steak is a real standout, cooked just right and served with crisp seasonal vegetables.
Bonefish Grill masters the art of making seafood feel both special and reliably good, plate after plate.
8. Silver Bay Seafood Restaurant
Silver Bay Seafood Restaurant is the kind of local favorite that keeps family traditions alive, with generous portions and friendly smiles everywhere you look. On my last visit, families gathered over platters that practically spilled over with fresh seafood—the sense of community was just as filling as the food.
The menu is huge, but the fried fish platter stands out as a top pick. You get flaky fish, golden and crisp, with just the right touch of seasoning. Shrimp lovers will find the grilled shrimp skewers tough to resist, each one tender and packed with flavor.
If you’re after old-school seafood with no shortcuts and plenty of Southern hospitality, Silver Bay delivers, plate after plate.
9. Red Lobster
Red Lobster on Wade Hampton Boulevard is a go-to for anyone after consistency and craveable seafood classics. The dining room always feels lively, with servers who know their way around the menu and keep orders moving smoothly. I’ve visited on busy nights and always leave satisfied.
The grilled shrimp skewers are a personal favorite—juicy, lightly seasoned, and never overdone. For a bit of variety, the fish and chips plate delivers, crisp on the outside with tender fish inside. Even the salads come generously topped with the protein of your choice.
If you’re after familiar flavors or feeding a group with mixed tastes, Red Lobster delivers quality seafood that’s reliable every time.
10. The Seafood Spot
The Seafood Spot is the kind of local gem that keeps things simple: fresh catches, friendly service, and plates built for big appetites. I stumbled in one rainy afternoon and left wishing I’d discovered it sooner—the energy is relaxed and warm, the portions generous.
If you’re into sharing, get the seafood platter. It’s loaded with shrimp, fish, and scallops, each bite with a golden crunch that’s never greasy. The catfish nuggets, a house specialty, are addictive and always perfectly seasoned.
This is the spot for anyone who loves straight-up, no-fuss seafood at fair prices. For locals and visitors alike, The Seafood Spot delivers exactly what the name promises—and then some.
More Things to Try in Greenville, SC
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-rated seafood restaurants in Greenville, SC?
Some favorites include The Jones Oyster Co., Shuckin Shack, Bimini’s Oyster Bar, and Coral. Each brings its own style, whether you’re after oysters, shrimp, or a Lowcountry boil.
Where can I find fresh oysters in Greenville?
The Jones Oyster Co. and Bimini’s Oyster Bar are two prime spots for fresh, briny oysters. Both offer raw and steamed options and the kind of atmosphere where you can linger for a while.
Are there seafood restaurants in Greenville with vegetarian or gluten-free options?
Yes. Bonefish Grill, The Lost Cajun, and Coral offer menus with vegetarian and gluten-free options, making them easy picks for mixed groups.
What’s the best casual seafood spot in Greenville?
If you want something laid-back, The Seafood Spot and Shuckin Shack are perfect for a relaxed meal without any fuss.
Is it possible to find local or Southern-style seafood in Greenville?
Definitely. Bimini’s Oyster Bar and Silver Bay Seafood Restaurant both serve up Southern seafood favorites and classic Lowcountry flavors.
