Finding the best seafood in Austin, TX can feel like searching for pearls in a city that’s nowhere near an ocean. And yet, Austin’s food scene never settles for bland or basic. The city has reeled in a bounty of spots serving Gulf-fresh fish, succulent shrimp, and oysters that taste like trophies. Whether you’re looking for high-end crab in a white-linen setting or a plate of fried catfish that crunches in all the right ways, Austin will catch you off guard—in the best way.
Over the years, I’ve sampled flaky red snapper with views of the skyline, lost count of raw oysters at happy hours, and debated best chowder with locals more than once. This guide is built from real experiences, both the unforgettable bites and the missteps you’ll want to dodge. Here, you’ll get straightforward insights and zero fluff, so every meal out gets you closer to seafood bliss.
1. Eddie V’s Prime Seafood
Eddie V’s Prime Seafood stands at the crossroads of style and substance downtown. The seafood here is flown in from sourced waters, and it shows in every glossy oyster and flake of halibut. On my last visit, the lobster bisque was so rich, it felt almost like velvet in a bowl.
This is the place for a special evening—the elegant dining room, the live jazz, the sommelier ready to offer a perfect pairing. I always recommend the broiled swordfish or the miso-glazed Chilean sea bass. The freshness and precise preparation set these dishes apart.
If you’re serious about seafood in Austin, Eddie V’s is the standard. Quality and consistency keep it at the top.
2. Truluck’s Ocean’s Finest Seafood And Crab
Truluck’s Ocean’s Finest Seafood and Crab has cultivated a loyal following for a reason. Dining here feels polished yet warm—think white-tablecloth comfort without the stuffiness. The servers are quick to share the story behind their famous Florida Stone Crab, which arrives fresh and unadulterated, a rare treat in Austin from October to May.
I appreciate their dedication to sustainability; it makes each bite feel even better. The crab claws shine as a signature, but the herb-roasted branzino is something I keep coming back for—light, flavorful, and perfectly cooked.
You don’t come to Truluck’s just for dinner, but for a full experience. Quality seafood, meticulous preparation, and a real sense of hospitality make it stand out.
3. Eddie V’s Prime Seafood
This north Austin branch of Eddie V’s Prime Seafood delivers the same polished experience as its downtown sibling, with the bonus of a less hectic vibe. The interior mixes luxe with calm—great for a relaxed dinner or a late-night bite. I stopped by for dinner and the atmosphere made it easy to unwind, but the seafood was what truly stole the show.
The chilled shellfish tower is always a crowd-pleaser, piled high with fresh oysters, Gulf shrimp, and lobster. If you want something memorable, try the Georges Bank scallops; they’re pan-seared to perfection and bursting with flavor.
Attention to detail in every dish is what sets this location apart. Come here for thoughtfully prepared seafood and a top-notch experience.
4. Perla’s Seafood and Oyster Bar
Perla’s Seafood and Oyster Bar is the South Congress go-to for a fresh take on coastal dining. The airy space and sunny patio invite you to linger. Sipping a spritzy drink under those shady oaks just feels right. Step inside and the glowing saltwater tank and buzzing oyster bar set the mood for a meal that’s both lively and laid-back.
Seafood here is always top-notch, thanks to daily shipments from both coasts and the Gulf. My standout dish is the Jumbo Lump Crab Cake—firm, all crab, barely any filler, and perfectly crisp outside. The wood-grilled redfish is another favorite, smoky with a hint of Gulf saltiness.
Freshness and flair define Perla’s menu, making it easy to see why locals and visitors keep this spot buzzing.
5. Cypress Grill
Cypress Grill brings a throwback New Orleans spirit to Austin in a cozy, come-as-you-are setting. The menu brims with Louisiana classics, brimming with flavor and spice. I found myself drawn back after tasting the gumbo—every spoonful warmed me up and delivered just the right punch of spice.
The blackened catfish is a must; flaky inside with a peppery crust, paired with their tangy house-made remoulade. The crawfish étouffée is also hard to resist, with a rich, soulful base that puts you right in the heart of bayou country.
Cypress Grill’s commitment to real Southern flavor makes it an easy favorite for seafood in Austin, with each dish tasting like it was made just for you.
6. Truluck’s Ocean’s Finest Seafood And Crab
Truluck’s Ocean’s Finest Seafood and Crab at the Arboretum takes the classic Truluck’s experience north. The setting feels serene and polished, making it a great spot for a quiet dinner or celebratory meal. My visit was memorable for the attentive service and the caliber of the seafood.
The seasonal Florida Stone Crab is as fresh as you’ll find in Austin, arriving at your table with nothing to hide. I’m also a fan of their seabass—light, tender, and dressed in bright seasonal flavors. Sides like the asparagus with lemon and olive oil keep things vibrant and light.
High-quality seafood and a dedication to sustainability are at the core here, so you can dig in with both confidence and satisfaction.
7. Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen
Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen injects New Orleans spirit straight into Austin. The menu is a parade of Gulf-inspired flavors, all served with Southern hospitality in a buzzing, lively space. Every visit feels like a celebration.
The portions are generous—a single order of blackened catfish or shrimp and grits is more than enough to satisfy. I’m especially keen on their crawfish platters, which arrive seasoned and steaming. The gumbo, when in season, is a warm, savory standout.
Vibrant flavors, big portions, and consistent freshness make Pappadeaux a top pick for family gatherings or group outings. The energy and classic Cajun spices keep people coming back to this Austin staple.
8. Clark’s Oyster Bar – Austin
Clark’s Oyster Bar is Austin’s breeziest escape for seafood lovers. The West 6th location feels refined but never fussy, set in a space that practically glows at lunchtime. I once spent an afternoon here savoring oysters by the dozen—they arrive sweet, briny, and impossibly fresh, thanks to a rotating selection from both coasts.
The standout dish for me is their fresh catch, simply grilled and paired with house-baked sourdough. You get the fish’s real flavor, with just enough char from the grill. If you’re in a mood for something different, the crudo and daily ceviche never disappoint.
Consistent freshness and delicate preparation make Clark’s a must on any Austin seafood itinerary. It’s where casual meets boutique, and the results speak for themselves.
9. French Quarter Grille
French Quarter Grille delivers the soulful taste of Louisiana right off I-35. The atmosphere is cozy and unfussy, making it the kind of place you can settle in for a long meal. My first time here, I was surprised by how authentic the flavors were—like a hidden New Orleans outpost slipped into North Austin.
The seafood étouffée is a highlight, with a depth of flavor that lingers long after the last bite. Their blackened redfish, full of spice and paired with just the right sides, brings you all the best of bayou cooking.
Big flavors and genuine Southern comfort make French Quarter Grille a favorite for a relaxed seafood fix in Austin.
10. Freda’s Seafood Grille
Freda’s Seafood Grille feels like a local secret in Northwest Austin. It’s the kind of place where regulars are greeted by name, and the vibe is relaxed but never dull. My most recent visit began on their leafy patio, where the aroma of Cajun spices set the mood before the menu even arrived.
The standout? The pecan-crusted tilapia—crisp, slightly sweet, and entirely satisfying. Pair it with their shrimp-studded jambalaya for a true taste of Freda’s bold, Gulf-meets-Texas style. The attention to presentation and flavor shows on every plate.
Freshness, friendly service, and a Cajun-Texan twist have made Freda’s a spot I love recommending for seafood cravings in Austin.
More Things to Try in Austin, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
What seafood is Austin best known for?
Austin shines when it comes to Gulf Coast seafood—think fresh oysters, snapper, catfish, and shrimp. Many restaurants specialize in regional eats like spicy étouffée or blackened fish, showcasing bold Texas flavor with a coastal twist.
Where can I find the freshest seafood in Austin?
For the freshest catch, check out spots that fly in seafood daily. Top picks include Eddie V’s, Perla’s, Truluck’s, and Quality Seafood Market, which focus on daily shipments and seasonal offerings.
Are there good options for casual seafood dining in Austin?
Yes, Austin’s seafood scene isn’t just high-end. Deckhand Oyster Bar, Turf N Surf Po’ Boy, and Cherry Creek Catfish Co. each offer laid-back vibes and accessible prices, without sacrificing quality.
Which seafood spots in Austin are good for groups or celebrations?
Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen, Freda’s Seafood Grille, and Cafe Blue are all great for bigger gatherings. They serve hearty portions and have lively settings perfect for celebrations.
Do seafood restaurants in Austin offer gluten-free or vegan-friendly options?
Most top seafood restaurants in Austin, like Clark’s, Perla’s, and Truluck’s, offer gluten-free items and some vegan-friendly dishes. Just ask your server for details and substitutions when you order.
