Seafood cravings in Asheville are something of a local legend. Maybe it’s the mountain air that sparks an appetite, or perhaps it’s that chase for a taste of the coast, even when you’re surrounded by peaks. Finding truly good seafood among the Blue Ridge hills feels almost like uncovering a well-kept secret—a little thrill with each forkful.
My own search for the best seafood here started on a crisp autumn day. One bite of delicately fried catfish, and I was hooked. What followed was a tour of oyster platters, buttery lobster rolls, and bowls of gumbo rich enough to turn a day around. Each spot on this list brings something special to the table, making Asheville a surprising haven for seafood lovers. If you want guidance that skips the empty hype and leans right into what actually tastes good, you’re in the right place. Dive in, and see what makes the mountains seem a little closer to the sea.
Where to find the best seafood in Asheville, NC
Here are some of the top spots to find the best seafood in Asheville, NC:
- Jettie Rae’s
- The Lobster Trap
- Oyster House Brewing Company
- Harbor Inn Seafood Restaurant
- Red Lobster
- Little Pearl Asheville
- Crab Du Jour
- Mother Ocean Seafood Market – Asheville
- Good Hot Fish
- Long John Silver’s
1. Jettie Rae’s
Jettie Rae’s feels different from the moment you step inside. The setting leans timeless—casual but elegant, much like their seafood. My evening started with fresh oysters, shucked to order and impossibly briny. Then came a plate of shrimp and grits, creamy and full of Southern charm.
What sets Jettie Rae’s apart is their obsession with quality. Every dish respects both the ingredient and the tradition behind it. You can taste that purpose in their daily fish specials, where the catch is always fresh, never fussy.
If you’re seeking a standout, try the Shrimp Louie or the Carolina Catfish. Each bite celebrates North Carolina’s coastal roots, handled with skill and a bit of flair. Jettie Rae’s doesn’t just serve seafood; they honor it.
2. The Lobster Trap
If Asheville ever wanted to channel the spirit of a New England harbor feast, The Lobster Trap pulls it off. The friendly buzz in the air hints at the anticipation for what’s coming out of the kitchen. My table once went quiet as the seafood tower arrived, chilled and full of surprises from the sea.
The Lobster Trap nails freshness—their lobster is always Maine-sourced and cooked to silky sweetness. You can see why diners keep coming back for the classic lobster bake and plump crab cakes; both dishes set a standard in town.
Don’t skip the golden fried oysters or the rich, satisfying clam chowder. The Lobster Trap stands out because it lets each ingredient shine, making every meal here memorable for all the right reasons.
3. Oyster House Brewing Company
Oyster House Brewing Company feels like Asheville distilled—a blend of laid-back charm, inventive flavors, and a little bit of mountain grit. Pulling up a chair means you’re here for good beer, but the seafood menu is where the real fun begins. I still remember the first round of raw oysters with their signature house-made mignonette—simple, bracing, and honest.
This spot’s real draw is the way it matches fresh seafood with crisp, house-brewed ales. Classics like the shrimp po’ boy crackle with flavor and comfort. The crab cake sandwich, delicate yet hearty, is unmistakably local in spirit.
Order the seafood platter if you’re indecisive; it’s a little bit of everything, cooked to just the right balance. The casual vibe here makes every bite feel easy, like dinner at a friend’s place.
4. Harbor Inn Seafood Restaurant
Harbor Inn Seafood Restaurant brings an old-school fish house spirit to Asheville’s table. Stepping inside, you’re greeted by the hum of families and plenty of friendly faces. My introduction was a platter of their perfectly fried whitefish, a house specialty crisp on the outside without being heavy.
The portions here lean generous, perfect for sharing or for anyone who comes with a mountain-sized appetite. The menu covers all the seafood classics, but the grilled trout and broiled shrimp are favorites for good reason—fresh, straightforward, and never overworked.
If you want a no-fuss, satisfying seafood dinner that still pays attention to detail, Harbor Inn delivers every time. It’s the kind of place where locals linger over a meal and visitors instantly feel at ease.
5. Red Lobster
Red Lobster on Tunnel Road offers a familiar escape for anyone craving classic seafood in Asheville. Walking in feels a bit like dinner at a friend’s—a steady rhythm of conversation, warm lighting, and that hint of the coast in the air. My favorite ritual is starting with a basket of their famous cheddar biscuits.
Consistency is Red Lobster’s claim to fame. Standout dishes like the grilled Atlantic salmon or the wood-grilled shrimp skewers always arrive just right—lightly seasoned and cooked for tenderness.
If variety is your thing, the Create Your Own Combination lets you sample the range, from flaky white fish to perfectly broiled seafood. Red Lobster keeps it straightforward, making it a reliable spot for a no-stress seafood fix.
6. Little Pearl Asheville
Little Pearl Asheville brings a dash of coastal energy right to the mountains. It’s the kind of place where the raw bar sparkles and you can’t help but order a dozen oysters, split between East and West Coast. The staff here knows their seafood and offers a pairing for every taste—crisp, cold wines and local brews stand ready.
My first visit started simple: a selection of oysters and a plate of their house ceviche. Every bite was bright and confident, respecting the source and letting the fresh flavors shine.
The Surf & Turf burger is a quirky highlight, but the seafood menu truly shines. For the purest experience, stick with the raw bar and let the quality speak for itself.
7. Crab Du Jour
Crab Du Jour feels lively, with the sound of cracking shells and plenty of napkins for good reason. This spot specializes in Cajun-style seafood boils—a real hands-on experience. Steam rises from the tables, carrying the scent of garlic, butter, and spice through the dining room.
What makes Crab Du Jour memorable is the sheer fun of a table piled high with crab legs, shrimp, and corn. My favorite move? The seafood boil bag, loaded with your picks and your spice level, always arrives hot and ready for dipping.
If you’re looking for something less messy but still soulful, try the fried catfish platter. Crab Du Jour captures the spirit of Southern seafood—casual, bold, and a bit indulgent.
8. Mother Ocean Seafood Market – Asheville
Mother Ocean Seafood Market isn’t just a place to buy fish; it’s where Asheville’s freshest seafood dreams come true. The counter always displays gorgeous catches straight from the coast, and the daily lunch menu is a quiet local favorite. Lunch at Mother Ocean means you’re in for real, chef-driven seafood with zero fuss.
My best afternoon here started with a bowl of hearty clam chowder, followed closely by a serving of house-made crab cakes. Each was bursting with flavor and unmistakably fresh. Their sides, made in-house, round out a meal without upstaging the main event.
If you want to take something home, grab the catch of the day to cook yourself or a prepped seafood platter. Mother Ocean stands out for quality, freshness, and a dash of Asheville hospitality.
9. Good Hot Fish
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Good Hot Fish serves nostalgia with a bit of style, tucked away in Asheville’s South Slope. Walk in and you’ll notice this isn’t your average fish shack. Every dish pays tribute to classic Southern seafood but done with care and a creative touch.
My order of crunchy fried catfish and hushpuppies took me right back to family fish fries—each piece golden and just-spiced. The thoughtful sides, like tangy coleslaw or seasoned fries, round out a meal that feels like home but tastes like a chef made it.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try their take on fried trout or a seafood sandwich piled high for lunch. Good Hot Fish stands out for flavor, simplicity, and an easy vibe that makes every visit a treat.
10. Long John Silver’s
Long John Silver’s in Asheville is straight to the point: quick, familiar, and always ready for a no-frills seafood fix. The vibe is classic comfort, where it’s all about quick service and those unmistakable golden fried meals. I’ve dropped in more than once after a busy day, knowing exactly what I’m in for.
What stands out about Long John Silver’s is their range—you’ll find crispy fish and chips as well as lighter grilled options, both made to order. The texture of the fish is always distinct: flaky inside, with a just-right outer crunch.
Pop in for the fried fish basket or try the grilled salmon if you’re after something a little lighter. It’s reliable, easy, and the flavors hit all the right notes when you want seafood fast.
More Things to Try in Asheville, NC
Frequently Asked Questions
What seafood is Asheville known for?
Asheville is recognized for its fresh mountain trout, creative Southern seafood dishes, and a growing love for oysters and crab brought in fresh from the coast.
Are there any local seafood markets in Asheville?
Yes, places like Mother Ocean Seafood Market offer a selection of daily catches, shellfish, and chef-prepared sides. It’s a go-to for top quality and freshness.
Can I find halal or non-pork seafood options in Asheville?
Most seafood restaurants focus on fish and shellfish dishes. Let your server know your dietary preferences—they’re used to accommodating various requests.
Which restaurant has the best oyster selection in Asheville?
Jettie Rae’s and Little Pearl Asheville both have excellent raw bars, with varieties from both the East and West Coast often on offer.
Are there any family-friendly seafood restaurants in Asheville?
Absolutely. Harbor Inn Seafood Restaurant and Red Lobster are great choices for groups, thanks to their generous portions and approachable menus.
Is it easy to find gluten-free seafood in Asheville?
Many restaurants, including The Lobster Trap and Jettie Rae’s, list gluten-free seafood options. Always double-check with your server for the latest offerings.
Where can I get a good seafood boil in Asheville?
Crab Du Jour is a local favorite for Cajun-style seafood boils served tableside—with plenty of spice if you want it.