Arlington has a knack for surprising even the pickiest seafood lover. One evening, I found myself debating between a platter of briny oysters and a fragrant bowl of seafood stew. Each choice seemed to tell its own story, from crab shacks off the beaten path to polished dining rooms buzzing with conversation. With streets filled with old favorites and newer spots making waves, Arlington’s seafood scene sidesteps the ordinary.
Finding the right catch shouldn’t feel like searching for a pearl in the ocean. Whether you’re after grilled fish that flakes at the touch of your fork, or you lean toward a hearty lobster roll, Arlington’s variety keeps things interesting. Dive in for a guide that sidesteps tourist traps and highlights the spots where quality, freshness, and skill always hold court.
Where to find the best seafood in Arlington, VA
Here are some of the top spots to find the best seafood in Arlington, VA:
- Quarterdeck
- Legal Sea Foods
- Mele Bistro
- Mussel Bar & Grille
- McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood & Steaks
- The Salt Line (Ballston)
- Island Time Bar & Grill
- Seamore’s – Arlington
- Ocean Shack
- Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls
1. Quarterdeck
Tucked in the Fort Myer Heights neighborhood, Quarterdeck feels like a local secret. There’s an easy comfort to the place—old-school picnic tables, laughter drifting from every corner, and newspaper-topped tables hinting at what’s next. My first visit left my hands gloriously messy, a badge of honor after working through their famous Maryland Blue Crab feast.
Crabs here aren’t just a menu item—they’re a ritual. Piles of shell, piles of memories. Even if you’re not into crab, the jumbo shrimp and classic seafood platters deliver. Each bite feels fresh, simply cooked, and true to tradition.
Quarterdeck’s laid-back charm and no-nonsense approach to seafood make it easy to see why locals return season after season.
2. Legal Sea Foods
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Legal Sea Foods at Reagan National Airport has a knack for making travel delays feel almost welcome. Once, with hours to spare before a flight, I lingered over a bowl of their New England clam chowder. It was creamy, piping hot, and never skimpy with the clams.
This spot isn’t your average airport stop. The menu serves up classic New England seafood flavors—think grilled fresh fish and vibrant salads. There’s space to unwind, from the buzzing bar to quiet corners upstairs, making it easy to forget you’re in transit.
Go for the grilled salmon or the tuna steak, both reliable crowd-pleasers. At Legal, seafood is treated with respect—from the ocean to your table.
3. Mele Bistro
Mele Bistro surprises with a genuine blend of creativity and comfort. On my last visit, I slipped into a cozy booth and ordered their Hawaiian fish special. Each bite was so fresh you’d think someone ran it straight from the dock.
The kitchen’s artistry shines through in plates like sea scallops over risotto—tender, lush, and beautifully seasoned. There’s a lovely balance between classic and inventive, perfect for anyone craving seafood done right.
Seafood at Mele Bistro feels both elevated and accessible. Their rotating chalkboard specials keep you curious, and the attentive staff makes dinner feel special, even on a Tuesday.
4. Mussel Bar & Grille
Mussel Bar & Grille has a way of luring you in with the aroma of simmering broth and freshly baked bread. The vibe is energetic yet welcoming, perfect for everything from after-work gatherings to lazy weekend brunches. My own discovery came over a pot of classic moules marinières. Each mussel was plump and swimming in a garlicky, herby broth that begged to be soaked up with bread.
What sets Mussel Bar apart is its commitment to Belgian-style seafood. The menu revolves around mussels, but the seafood pastas and grilled fish specials rival the main attraction. There’s a satisfying depth to the flavors you’ll want to revisit.
If you visit, lean into any of the mussel pots—they showcase the kitchen’s roots and creativity in every ladle.
5. McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood & Steaks
McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood & Steaks strikes a balance between polished dining and a welcoming atmosphere. The first time I visited, I was drawn to their Pacific Rim-inspired seafood dishes—each plate looked as appealing as it tasted. It’s the sort of spot where you can linger over dinner and not watch the clock.
Freshness leads the way here, from grilled Atlantic salmon to crisp, garden salads. The menu adjusts with the seasons, allowing local flavors to shine through. I can never resist their seafood trio platter; perfectly cooked fish, shrimp, and scallops showcase the kitchen’s range.
This is a destination for anyone who takes seafood seriously but still wants a relaxed, memorable meal near Arlington’s major landmarks.
6. The Salt Line (Ballston)
The Salt Line (Ballston) brings a bit of coastal charm to Arlington. My fondest visit started with a dozen Chesapeake oysters—briny, bright, and fresh as a sea breeze. This spot weaves together New England and Chesapeake flavors into a menu that feels both familiar and full of discovery.
There’s a playful energy here, from the nautical décor to the creative crudos. The lobster roll and stuffies (stuffed clams) let you sample New England’s best without leaving town.
If you’re after variety, opt for a seafood platter. The Salt Line’s commitment to freshness and bold flavors turns every meal into a mini getaway.
7. Island Time Bar & Grill
Island Time Bar & Grill offers a breezy escape right along the George Washington Parkway. One lazy afternoon, I sipped lemonade under a shade umbrella and watched plates of hot grilled fish tacos and shrimp salads sailing from the kitchen. The vibe is pure laid-back comfort, perfect for unwinding after work or a bike ride.
What stands out here is the cheerful, unpretentious approach to seafood. Every dish feels like summer served on a platter. The grouper sandwich is reliably moist and full of flavor, while their grilled mahi-mahi keeps things fresh and light.
Island Time keeps things easy and tasty; it’s where casual meets quality, one plate at a time.
8. Seamore’s – Arlington
Seamore’s – Arlington feels like coastal dining with a city zip code. On my last visit, I tried the blackened fish tacos and a side of their seasonal slaw—fresh, bold, and bursting with inventive flavor. The menus rotate, but you can always count on options that put the spotlight on sustainable, well-sourced seafood.
What makes Seamore’s different is its unfussy approach. The daily catch can be grilled or seared and served up with a clever variety of vegetable sides.
Don’t miss their shrimp ceviche. It hits the perfect balance of bright and hearty, reflecting the relaxed and playful spirit at Seamore’s.
9. Ocean Shack
Ocean Shack is the kind of neighborhood spot where everyone seems to know each other, yet newcomers are always welcome. My favorite memory is settling in for lunch and working through a generous plate of their grilled shrimp platter. Perfectly cooked shrimp, crisp fries, and simple sides—it’s comfort food with a coastal twist.
What puts Ocean Shack in a league of its own is its friendly counter service and unpretentious menu. The focus here is on fresh flavor, not frills. The fish tacos and crab salad are local favorites, always bright and satisfying.
Ocean Shack captures the spirit of casual dining—honest portions, reasonable prices, and seafood prepared just right for Arlington locals and visitors alike.
10. Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls
Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls has a way of making a quick meal feel like a spontaneous trip to the Maine coast. One bite of their classic lobster roll and I was hooked—sweet lobster meat, just a hint of seasoning, and a pillowy roll that lets the seafood shine.
This small spot is all about authentic New England flavor delivered with no fuss. You can stick to the classic or get adventurous with options like lobster bisque or a lobster salad over greens.
Quality stands front and center here, with lobster delivered fresh from Maine and prepared simply. If you crave the clean, slightly briny taste of real lobster, Mason’s always delivers something special.
More Things to Try in Arlington, VA
Frequently Asked Questions
What seafood is Arlington, VA known for?
Arlington is popular for fresh crabs, oysters, shrimp, and Atlantic fish. You’ll find both New England and Chesapeake influences on menus across town.
Where can I find the best crab in Arlington?
Quarterdeck is a go-to for local crab feasts. The Salt Line and Ocean Shack also serve standout crab dishes.
Which Arlington seafood spots have outdoor seating?
Many seafood restaurants here offer patio or outdoor seating, including Quarterdeck, Island Time Bar & Grill, and The Salt Line.
Are there good halal or vegetarian seafood options in Arlington?
Most places on this list offer vegetarian and non-pork options. Always ask your server for details on preparation.
What’s a signature dish I should try?
If you love the classics, don’t miss a Maryland Blue Crab feast at Quarterdeck or a lobster roll at Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls.
Can I get takeout or delivery?
Absolutely. Nearly all seafood spots in Arlington offer takeout or delivery for added convenience.