Seafood cravings in Watertown, NY aren’t just wishful thinking—they’re a delicious reality. Tucked into the northern edge of New York, Watertown surprises every seafood lover who stops by. From crispy fried fish to tender grilled salmon, the city’s table is piled high with flavors that might just outshine the coastline. I once wandered in on a rainy evening, unsure if upstate New York could satisfy my taste for anything briny or buttery. Within a few bites at a local favorite, I abandoned all doubt.
Each spot on this list was chosen with care, based on fresh catches, skillful cooking, and the kind of friendly charm that’s tough to resist. Whether you want a simple fish fry or a full-on riverside feast, you’ll find more than a few reasons to pull up a chair and dig in. This guide is your insider’s shortcut to the best seafood in Watertown, with every spot offering something special. Hungry yet? Let’s dive in.
Where to find the best seafood in Watertown, NY
Here are some of the top spots to find the best seafood in Watertown, NY:
- Jean’s Beans
- Shuler’s Restaurant
- Red Lobster
- Shorty’s Place
- Maggie’s On The River
- Tin Pan Galley
- Mar-Moc Enterprises
- The Barracks Inn
- Nu Pier Restaurant
1. Jean’s Beans
Jean’s Beans is a Watertown staple for those who crave classic, no-nonsense seafood done right. The place feels like a friendly neighbor who just happens to fry fish better than anyone else on the block. During my last visit, I walked in chasing the familiar aroma of fresh-cooked seafood, and left with a smile and an empty plate.
Their fried fish is a local legend—crispy without being greasy, tender without falling apart. The shrimp plate never disappoints and piles on flavor that makes you question all other shrimp. If you like things simple and pure, their clam strips should be on your list.
Jean’s Beans excels at comfort food with genuine charm, serving up seafood that keeps folks coming back for more.
2. Shuler’s Restaurant
Shuler’s Restaurant is where comfort food and careful cooking come together under one roof. My last meal there involved a generous plate of broiled haddock, perfectly flaky and delightfully light. The staff has a knack for making guests feel right at home—think old school hospitality, but paired with serious kitchen skills.
Their seafood menu is refreshingly straightforward, letting ingredients and technique shine. The broiled fish is a must-try, especially if you want to taste the kitchen’s dedication to quality. If you’re after a classic, the fish fry is reviewed across town for good reason.
Homemade sides—from mashed potatoes to rolls—make every dish feel personal. It’s reliable food, done right and without fuss.
3. Red Lobster
Red Lobster in Watertown brings a familiar, polished touch to seafood lovers in town. The atmosphere strikes a balance between relaxed and festive, making it easy for families and friends to settle in for a hearty meal. I once ducked in during a snowy evening, and those warm cheddar biscuits alone felt like a rescue mission.
If you’re new here, the Ultimate Feast is the way to go—lobster tail, snow crab legs, and succulent shrimp all on one plate. Their broiled fish is always consistent, and the garlic shrimp scampi might just become your repeat order.
Service is brisk and friendly, and you get the sense that every plate is designed for comfort and full flavor. It’s a reliable favorite for good reason.
4. Shorty’s Place
Shorty’s Place has that rare charm you only find in true diners—walls lined with memories, friendly faces behind every counter, and a menu that understands what “comfort” really means. I remember a lunch here where the server suggested the fish sandwich, and it was good advice. Flaky fish tucked into a soft roll, not weighed down by too many extras.
The seafood offerings here are classic but well-executed. The fried fish platter arrives golden, never soggy, and always generous. Squeeze some lemon and you’re set. Their clam chowder is surprisingly satisfying on cold Upstate afternoons.
Shorty’s doesn’t overcomplicate things. You get honest portions, fair prices, and the kind of diner atmosphere that’s becoming rare in modern times.
5. Maggie’s On The River
Maggie’s On The River pairs bold flavors with the kind of laid-back atmosphere that makes you want to linger. Perched just above the Black River, the view is as memorable as the food. I still think about a sunny day spent here with friends, swapping stories and diving into baskets of crispy fish tacos.
Their seafood selection is generous, with options ranging from hand-breaded fish to shrimp wraps. The fish fry, served fresh and piping hot, hits the spot every single time. If you’re looking for something lighter, the grilled salmon salad is fresh and filling.
Maggie’s gets the details right: great service, riverside views, and plates that feel just a bit more special than your average pub fare.
6. Tin Pan Galley
Tin Pan Galley is where creative cooking and a laid-back vibe come together just steps from the lake. Walking inside, I was struck by how the aroma of fresh seafood mingles with the hum of friendly conversation. The patio on a summer night might just be one of the best dinner spots in the area.
The menu changes with the seasons but seafood is always front and center. I’d go back for the pecan-crusted haddock—crisp, savory, and beautifully cooked. The shrimp pasta is packed with flavor and never feels heavy.
The kitchen cares about presentation, but not at the expense of generous portions or bold flavors. Tin Pan Galley is a reminder that seafood in upstate New York can be both inventive and welcoming.
7. Mar-Moc Enterprises
(315) 232-3840Call
Mar-Moc Enterprises in Adams feels like one of those small-town places where everyone knows the best thing on the menu. My last visit was a happy accident—I stopped in hungry and discovered seafood with genuine flair. The staff made choosing easy and treated every plate like it mattered.
The fried fish platter is a highlight, featuring fresh fish with a crisp, light coating that keeps things interesting bite after bite. Their seafood chowder is creamy yet balanced, perfect on days when comfort is needed most.
It’s the kind of spot where regulars gather, but newcomers are welcomed. Mar-Moc stands out for hearty portions and flavors that let the seafood shine—this is unfussy, well-loved food served with a side of small-town hospitality.
8. The Barracks Inn
The Barracks Inn in Sackets Harbor feels both historic and welcoming, with an old-world charm that’s hard to find these days. My first dinner here surprised me with its cozy dining room and the scent of seafood fresh from the kitchen. The atmosphere draws you in, and the food keeps you around.
Their broiled seafood offerings are simple, well-seasoned, and cooked just right. The fish fry is always a strong contender, especially with house-made sides. If you want something heartier, the baked haddock captures the essence of casual, satisfying cooking.
The Barracks Inn blends a relaxing vibe with quality seafood, making it a go-to for anyone wanting a taste of tradition paired with attentive service.
9. Nu Pier Restaurant
Nu Pier Restaurant is the kind of local favorite where everyone seems to have a regular seat and a go-to order. I dropped in on a weekend morning and was greeted with warmth and the promise of fresh seafood, even as sunlight bounced off the lake outside. The casual atmosphere makes lingering over a meal feel natural.
The fish fry draws steady crowds for good reason: flaky fish, a light batter, and all the right sides. Their seafood platter is another highlight, especially if you want to sample a few favorites on one plate.
Nu Pier excels at making everyone feel at ease, serving classic seafood with generous portions and prices that don’t make you hesitate to order the extra side of coleslaw.
More Things to Try in Watertown, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
What seafood restaurants are popular in Watertown, NY?
Local favorites include Jean’s Beans, Shuler’s Restaurant, Maggie’s On The River, and Tin Pan Galley. Each has its own approach, from classic fish fries to creative seafood specialties.
Where can I find the best fish fry in Watertown?
Jean’s Beans and Shuler’s are both known for their top-notch fish fries—crispy coating, plenty of flavor, and a loyal following.
Are there places in Watertown, NY with riverside or lake views for seafood?
Yes, Maggie’s On The River provides great river views, and Tin Pan Galley’s patio is an excellent spot for lakeside dining, especially in good weather.
Is seafood in Watertown, NY fresh?
Most well-known spots in Watertown focus on fresh preparation, especially on their signature dishes. Ask about daily specials for the best options.
Do seafood restaurants in Watertown offer takeout?
Absolutely. Nearly all the major seafood spots offer takeout, including Jean’s Beans and Red Lobster, so you can enjoy your meal wherever you like.
