Finding great seafood in Binghamton, NY may seem like searching for sand dollars in a city without a shoreline, but this town has a knack for surprises. Over the years, I’ve discovered that tucked among classic diners and pizza joints are hidden gems that serve up remarkably fresh catches, briny oysters, and creative seafood plates. I still remember the first time I ordered a platter of grilled salmon that tasted so fresh, I momentarily forgot I was landlocked.
Binghamton’s seafood scene offers more than just battered fish and curly fries. It’s a blend of creative kitchens, cozy neighborhood spots, and culinary traditions from far-flung coastal regions. This guide explores the best places in town to enjoy seafood that’s both delicious and made with care. Whether you’re craving an elegant oyster bar or a quick fried whiting, you’ll find spots here that surprise and delight.
Where to find the best seafood in Binghamton, NY
Here are some of the top spots to find the best seafood in Binghamton, NY:
- Remlik’s Grille & Oyster Bar
- Caribbean Patty World
- Kennedy Fried Chicken & Gyro
- The Fish Fry
- Lost Dog Cafe
- Whole In the Wall
- Remilk’s Grille & Oyster Bar
- Sake-Tumi
- Sharkey’s Restaurant
- Red Lobster
1. Remlik’s Grille & Oyster Bar
Step into Remlik’s Grille & Oyster Bar and you’ll notice the old-school charm of the Kilmer Building paired with a menu that feels anything but ordinary. My first visit was for lunch; I stayed for the oysters, shucked fresh and briny, a rare treat outside bigger cities.
This spot stands out for its relaxed polish—a place refined enough for celebrations, but comfortable for a casual seafood craving too. The chef’s grilled salmon bursts with flavor, crisped just right on the outside and tender inside.
Try the sesame-seared tuna if you want a dish that’s artfully plated and packed with bright, clean flavors. For anyone who thought great seafood required an ocean view, Remlik’s might just prove you wrong.
2. Caribbean Patty World
Caribbean Patty World offers a colorful taste of island life right on Main Street. When I dropped by for a quick dinner, the aroma of spices and slow-cooked seafood promised something out of the ordinary.
This spot stands out because each dish packs plenty of authentic Caribbean flair. Their fish patties are flaky, warm, and gently spiced—comfort food at its best. Paired with rice and peas, it made for a satisfying meal that didn’t try to imitate anything but its own roots.
If you’re open to something a little different, order the fish stew. It’s rich, filling, and comes with just enough kick to wake up your taste buds. There’s no better way to get a vacation vibe without leaving Binghamton.
3. Kennedy Fried Chicken & Gyro
Kennedy Fried Chicken & Gyro isn’t just about crispy chicken. It’s also a surprising source for satisfying seafood, especially if you need a fast, no-fuss meal. On one busy afternoon, I grabbed their fried fish sandwich—the crunch alone made it a standout.
This place stands out for its quick service and generous portions. The fish combo meal is a solid choice: hot, golden fillets paired with fries, and a tangy house sauce. It’s not fancy, just reliably tasty and filling.
If you’re in a hurry or craving late-night comfort food, the seafood here checks every box. Kennedy’s shows that good fish doesn’t need to come from a white-tablecloth setting.
4. The Fish Fry
(607) 238-1626Call
The Fish Fry feels like a family-run coastal shack, right on Broad Avenue. On my last visit, the scent of frying fish hit me before I even opened the door. Inside, the vibe is unpretentious and friendly, just what you want when you’re craving classic seafood.
This spot is best known for its fried Northeastern Icelandic haddock. The fillets are crisp, flaky, and served hot—no sogginess, no shortcuts. The coconut shrimp is sweet and crunchy, another must if you like a twist on traditional flavors.
Want something warming? Their lobster bisque and seafood gumbo both come loaded with big flavors and lots of seafood. The Fish Fry proves you don’t need to see the ocean to get a taste of it.
5. Lost Dog Cafe
Lost Dog Cafe has a way of feeling like everyone’s favorite secret, even after more than two decades downtown. On my first visit, I was drawn in by the cozy, artsy vibe and stuck around for the creative menu. There’s always something new on special, but the seafood dishes shine with their fresh twist on classics.
What sets Lost Dog apart is its knack for balancing comfort and invention. The seared salmon plate is a personal favorite: moist, flavorful, and crafted with just the right touch of herbs and citrus. The daily seafood specials are always tempting, using whatever fresh catch inspires the kitchen that day.
If you’re looking for something lighter, try the seafood salad—full of crisp greens and plump shrimp. Lost Dog Cafe proves that seafood can be creative, accessible, and anything but boring in Binghamton.
6. Whole In the Wall
Whole In the Wall is an old-school Binghamton staple for anyone who likes food made with care. My first meal here was on a rainy Thursday, and I found comfort in their relaxed, earthy atmosphere and inventive menu. With roots in natural foods, this spot puts a fresh spin on familiar dishes, especially when it comes to seafood.
The standout is their blackened salmon, served with a side of homemade pesto. The fish is perfectly seasoned, and the pesto gives it a bright, herbaceous finish. For something lighter, the seafood pasta features tender shrimp and vegetables tossed in house-made sauces—simple, satisfying, and full of flavor.
If you value wholesome cooking, Whole In the Wall will leave you thinking differently about classic seafood plates. Here, it’s all about pure flavors and quality ingredients.
7. Remilk’s Grille & Oyster Bar
Returning to Remlik’s Grille & Oyster Bar is like revisiting a favorite story—always something familiar, always something new. I once celebrated a milestone here, sitting by the window with a platter of pristine oysters and quietly enjoying the soft buzz of conversation around the room.
The restaurant’s draw is its blend of classic refinement and modern ease. With seafood, the kitchen goes beyond basic, focusing on freshness and thoughtful flavor. The grilled scallops are seared just right, tender and delicate, best paired with seasonal vegetables.
If you’re after a richer dish, order the seafood risotto. Creamy, loaded with shrimp and sweet crab, it shows Remlik’s commitment to both comfort and quality. No matter what you choose, the meal feels like a small celebration.
8. Sake-Tumi
Sake-Tumi brings a fresh, modern take to Binghamton’s seafood scene. My most memorable night here was during their legendary $1 Sushi Night—plates of salmon and tuna rolls arriving fast, each bite as lively as the atmosphere itself.
Fusion is the theme, and everything on the menu feels inventive without overcomplicating things. The Rainbow Roll is a must, layered with vibrant slices of fish that highlight quality and balance. For a warm option, the seafood udon delivers chewy noodles and hearty chunks of shrimp and fish in a soothing broth.
It’s the kind of spot where regulars and newcomers alike feel at home, savoring seafood that’s as much about style as it is about substance.
9. Sharkey’s Restaurant
(607) 729-9201Call
Sharkey’s Restaurant is a local institution with a reputation for serving up comfort food to generations of Binghamton families. The ambiance is classic and a bit nostalgic, with friendly service that makes you feel like a regular even on your first visit.
Sharkey’s stands out for its generosity—hearty plates, simple flavors, no fuss. The fried haddock is a favorite, golden and crispy, paired with a pile of hand-cut fries. Every piece is hot and flaky, whether you’re dining in or grabbing takeout for a weeknight treat.
If you prefer lighter fare, try the broiled fish dinner. The subtle seasoning lets the fresh fish do the talking. Sharkey’s proves that classic seafood never goes out of style.
10. Red Lobster
Red Lobster on Vestal Parkway makes seafood accessible and fun, whether you’re out for a celebration or just need to satisfy a sudden craving. My go-to here is the atmosphere—nothing pretentious, just a place for friends and families to dig into seafood classics together.
This spot stands out with its familiar menu and consistent quality. The grilled Atlantic salmon is always fresh and well-prepared, while the shrimp scampi offers buttery, garlicky comfort in every bite.
For a group or if you’re indecisive, try the Admiral’s Feast. It’s a sampler of the best: golden fried fish, shrimp, and more. Red Lobster proves seafood can be a crowd-pleaser any day of the week.
More Things to Try in Binghamton, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best seafood restaurants in Binghamton, NY?
Some top picks include Remlik’s Grille & Oyster Bar, The Fish Fry, Sake-Tumi, and Whole In the Wall. Each offers a distinct style, from classic fried haddock to inventive sushi rolls and fusion dishes.
Can I find fresh oysters in Binghamton?
Yes. Remlik’s Grille & Oyster Bar is known for its fresh oysters, shucked to order and served with all the right accompaniments.
Do any places offer seafood with vegetarian or gluten-free options?
Absolutely. Restaurants like Whole In the Wall and Lost Dog Cafe serve seafood dishes with gluten-free and vegetarian choices, making it easy for everyone to find something delicious.
Where can I get affordable seafood?
For value, try The Fish Fry or Kennedy Fried Chicken & Gyro. Both spots offer generous seafood portions at wallet-friendly prices, including fried fish sandwiches and platters.
Is there a spot for Caribbean-style seafood in Binghamton?
Caribbean Patty World offers Caribbean-inspired seafood like fish patties and fish stew for anyone craving island flavors right in town.
