Seafood in Washington, DC is more than just a meal; it’s a citywide affair. The streets hum with a mix of oyster bars, lobster shacks, and fish markets, each with its own loyal lineup. Some places take you close to the water, others charm you in tucked-away neighborhoods. What you get each time, though, is a city that takes its seafood as seriously as its politics.
After years of threading through hidden gems and the classics, the search for the perfect bite has taken me from elegant riverfront tables to the sizzle of simple crab shacks. Along the way, I’ve met chefs who can debate the virtues of East Coast versus West Coast oysters and old-timers who swear by secret spice blends. If you want to know where the freshest catches are and which spot is perfect for your next seafood adventure, you’re in the right place. Every restaurant here has earned its reputation—no filler, just pure, fresh flavor.
Where to find the best seafood in Washington, DC
Here are some of the top spots to find the best seafood in Washington, DC:
- Joe’s Seafood Prime Steak & Stone Crab
- Pearl Dive Oyster Palace
- BlackSalt Fish Market & Restaurant
- Luke’s Lobster Penn Quarter
- Hank’s Oyster Bar Dupont Circle
- Ocean Prime
- Fiola Mare DC
- The Oceanaire Seafood Room
- Hot N Juicy crawfish
- Pisco y Nazca
1. Joe’s Seafood Prime Steak & Stone Crab
Joe’s Seafood Prime Steak & Stone Crab brings a touch of Miami’s charm to downtown DC. Slip through the doors and you’ll notice the historic vibe right away: black-and-white tiles, tuxedoed staff, and the low buzz of diners eyeing seafood platters. My favorite ritual is the anticipation as the server swings by with a plate of gleaming Florida Stone Crab claws. These claws are flown in fresh, and their sweet succulence leaves little room for anything else.
Start with a classic shrimp cocktail or oysters on the half shell, each tasting like a sea breeze. The stone crab is a must—paired with creamy mustard sauce, it’s a signature experience. For sides, creamed spinach and hash browns don’t disappoint, either. Joe’s is where flawless tradition meets local seafood cravings.
2. Pearl Dive Oyster Palace
Pearl Dive Oyster Palace hums with a laid-back vibe that feels equal parts Gulf Coast hideaway and DC hotspot. Walking in, the aroma of wood smoke and sizzling seafood pulls you closer to the shucking counter. The first time I stopped here, I lost count of the oyster varieties after the third page—each one a little adventure for your palate.
The oysters steal the show, plucked from waters as close as Virginia and as far as Japan, each shucked to order and served ice-cold. Try them raw or grilled—either way, you taste freshness in every bite. The seafood gumbo is rich and hearty, perfect for chilly DC nights. Crawfish etouffee and the Gulf Coast Redfish round out a menu that celebrates Southern coastal flavors.
3. BlackSalt Fish Market & Restaurant
BlackSalt Fish Market & Restaurant draws seafood lovers with its inviting blend of fish market charm and refined dining. The shelves are stacked with glistening catches, and the open kitchen gives you a front-row seat to the action. My first visit was a full sensory experience—from the sound of clinking oyster shells to the scent of simmering broth.
Addie’s mussels set a serious standard, swimming in a broth you’ll want to soak up with good bread. For a more adventurous route, the Provençal market stew never disappoints, brimming with the freshest catch of the day, like flaky whitefish and plump shrimp. Each dish balances subtle flavors with bold seafood notes. BlackSalt is where quality ingredients get the attention they deserve, and where every dish feels made just for you.
4. Luke’s Lobster Penn Quarter
Luke’s Lobster Penn Quarter feels like a slice of the Maine coast tucked into busy DC. The shack’s wood-paneled coziness and friendly staff make it easy to settle in. My first lobster roll here was unforgettable—sweet, chilled meat piled high on a buttered, split-top bun, with barely any dressing to hide the flavor.
The lobster roll is the main event, crafted to let the crustacean shine without unnecessary extras. If you want to switch it up, the crab roll and shrimp roll each offer their own fresh twist, every bite bursting with briny sweetness. Luke’s keeps the focus sharp: simple recipes, stellar seafood. A quick stop feels like a quick escape, no clam shack boots required.
5. Hank’s Oyster Bar Dupont Circle
Hank’s Oyster Bar Dupont Circle welcomes you with the easy charm of a breezy Atlantic-side cottage. There’s nothing stuffy here—just fresh seafood and the hum of regulars who know where to find the city’s best shellfish. My go-to moment is sitting outside, watching the street while savoring an iced platter of oysters.
The raw bar is front and center, offering oysters that never disappoint, matched with housemade mignonette. For something hot, the Old Bay mussels capture everything great about classic East Coast flavors. The lobster roll is another staple, brimming with chunky meat and barely dressed so every bite feels like summer. Hank’s brings coastal comfort to the heart of DC—no travel necessary.
6. Ocean Prime
Ocean Prime turns every visit into an occasion, thanks to its polished atmosphere and attentive service. I remember my first dinner here: soft lighting, a lively hum, and plates arriving with the kind of careful presentation that signals a chef’s pride. The raw bar is stacked with oysters and chilled seafood, always fresh and never fussy.
If you want crowd-pleasers, the sea bass arrives silky and expertly roasted, resting on a bed of creamy risotto. The sushi menu is surprisingly solid for a steakhouse, with rolls that hold their own next to the entrees. Every detail, from the crisp salads to the perfectly cooked scallops, speaks to Ocean Prime’s knack for blending classic technique with creative flair. This is upscale seafood that feels approachable and celebratory.
7. Fiola Mare DC
Fiola Mare DC feels like a quick trip to the Italian coast, with floor-to-ceiling windows framing sparkling river views. The ambiance is magnetic; you’ll spot both business deals and celebrations unfolding over plates of fresh seafood. My first visit felt almost theatrical, with servers presenting the freshest daily catch tableside.
The crudo section is where Fiola Mare shines, offering delicate, expertly sliced fish that tastes like the sea itself. For a splurge, the signature “Carrello del Pesce” brings a showy array of the day’s best, selected from global waters. The handmade pastas with seafood speak to Italian comfort, each bite balancing richness and lightness. Fiola Mare’s blend of elegance and pure flavor makes any meal special, from sunsets to slow lunches.
8. The Oceanaire Seafood Room
The Oceanaire Seafood Room makes every occasion feel a bit more polished, with Art Deco styling and a menu built for true seafood lovers. There’s an old-school charm to the place, right down to the chilled shellfish towers and white tablecloths. My first time there, the staff helped pick out the day’s best catch—nothing short of flawless.
The daily selection of fresh fish is a highlight, grilled or prepared simply to let the natural flavors stand out. The jumbo lump crab cakes and charbroiled salmon offer rich textures and pure seafood taste. If you want to go big, start with a seafood platter; the oysters and shrimp taste as if they landed on your plate straight from the coast. The Oceanaire balances classic dishes with creative touches, creating a standout experience.
9. Hot N Juicy crawfish
Hot N Juicy Crawfish is the place to get your hands a little messy in the best way possible. There’s no pretension here—just big bags of seafood, a roll of paper towels, and plenty of satisfied smiles. My first visit was a lesson in choosing the right spice level and savoring every shell-on bite.
The crawfish is the main attraction, perfectly seasoned and best eaten straight from the bag. If you’re feeling adventurous, the shrimp and clams are just as rewarding, soaking up bold sauces that range from mild to “make you sweat.” Order corn and potatoes to round out your feast. This is a spot that celebrates seafood with flavor and fun, setting itself apart with its interactive style and generous portions.
10. Pisco y Nazca
Pisco y Nazca buzzes with energy, drawing in crowds who want something lively and different. The open kitchen lets you catch the sizzle and slice as Peruvian specialties come together. My introduction to the place started with ceviche—bracingly fresh, with bright citrus and tender fish, it was an instant mood-lifter.
Ceviche is the star here, mixed with sweet potatoes, corn, and a bit of chili for good measure. The tiradito, another raw fish dish, brings soft slices draped in tangy sauce—perfect for anyone craving complexity in a single bite. Order the grilled octopus or seafood chaufa if you want dishes bursting with layers of flavor. Pisco y Nazca celebrates the ocean with every plate, offering something bold yet comforting.
More Things to Try in Washington, DC
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best area in DC for seafood restaurants?
Georgetown and Penn Quarter are favorites for seafood, offering a range of riverside fine dining and busy oyster bars. Dupont Circle and The Wharf also have top spots loved by locals and visitors alike.
Which DC seafood places are good for a relaxed, casual meal?
Pearl Dive Oyster Palace, Luke’s Lobster, and Hot N Juicy Crawfish serve up great seafood in a laid-back setting where you can just roll up your sleeves and dig in.
Is there a dress code at the city’s fancy seafood spots?
Yes, some upscale restaurants like Fiola Mare or Ocean Prime suggest business casual or smart attire, but you won’t need to dust off a tux for dinner.
Are reservations recommended?
Absolutely—especially on weekends or for waterfront tables. Many top seafood spots book up quickly, and a reservation saves the wait.
Can I find gluten-free or vegetarian options at seafood restaurants in DC?
Most of the city’s top seafood restaurants offer gluten-free and vegetarian choices, so everyone at your table can find something to enjoy.