Seafood cravings in Fresno can get tricky. You want fresh, flavorful dishes, and it can be hard to know where to find the real deal inland. Yet even though Fresno sits miles from the Pacific, its seafood scene surprises. The city holds a mix of local legends and bold new spots where quality seafood is a top priority.
After more than one late-night hunt for the perfect grilled salmon or the crispest fish taco, I know the waters here better than most. Whether you’re on the lookout for shrimp with a Cajun kick, melt-in-your-mouth sushi, or classic fish and chips, you’re in the right place. Dive in, and get ready to discover the best places in Fresno to satisfy your seafood appetite—without a hint of guesswork.
Where to find the best seafood in Fresno, CA
Here are some of the top spots to find the best seafood in Fresno, CA:
- Pismo’s Coastal Grill
- Red Lobster
- Butterfish
- Cajun Crack’n
- Central Fish Company
- California fish Grill
- Seafood In The Sea
- Pokiland
- West Coast Fish N’ Chips
- FOB Fried Or Boiled Seafood Fusion
1. Pismo’s Coastal Grill
Pismo’s Coastal Grill draws you in with its sleek coastal vibe that never feels forced. You step in, and the display of fresh fish on ice tells you the seafood’s as fresh as you’d hope for in Fresno. I remember my first visit—the grilled mahi-mahi was flaky and bright, while the oyster bar kept the pace lively.
The menu goes beyond simple fare, offering a range of options for almost every food preference, including vegetarian and gluten-free dishes. But the showstoppers? The clam chowder carries just enough richness, and their cedar-plank salmon is full of smoky depth.
Strong service, vibrant plates, and true consistency make Pismo’s a seafood mainstay for locals. If you’re craving West Coast freshness right in the heart of Fresno, this spot is a guaranteed win.
2. Red Lobster
Red Lobster is something of a classic in Fresno when you want the comfort of familiar seafood. The place is always lively, with a vibe that suits everything from casual dinners to family get-togethers. My favorite moment there was cracking into a plate of perfectly seasoned shrimp with old friends—and those famous cheddar biscuits have a way of stealing the show.
What sets Red Lobster apart is its broad selection. The Admiral’s Feast is ideal if you love variety; it delivers a bit of everything fried to crisp perfection. For something lighter, the grilled rainbow trout has a gentle smokiness that’s hard to beat.
Solid service and reliable flavors make this spot a crowd-pleaser, especially when cravings hit for classic seafood done right.
3. Butterfish
Butterfish feels like a breath of Pacific air dropped right into Fresno. The space is open, modern, and casual—ideal for quick lunches or relaxed dinners. My first encounter with their poke bowls made me rethink how lively and light seafood could taste. Each bite felt clean and vibrant, thanks to crisp vegetables and ultra-fresh fish.
This spot stands out for serving seafood in creative, fast-casual ways. You can build your own bowl or try their Aloha Bowl, which packs marinated ahi, fresh toppings, and sauces that actually balance, rather than drown, the flavors.
Butterfish caters to many diets, offering vegan and vegetarian choices that don’t sacrifice freshness. It’s the perfect place for anyone wanting real flavor and flexibility at the same time.
4. Cajun Crack’n
Cajun Crack’n brings a jolt of Southern flavor to Fresno’s seafood lineup. It’s the kind of place where you roll up your sleeves and dig in. Memories of spicy, buttery sauce clinging to shrimp and potatoes still get me hungry.
This place stands out for its customizable seafood boils. You pick your seafood—try the head-on shrimp or snow crab—then dial in your spice and seasoning level. The Cajun sauce mixes heat, garlic, and herbs in just the right way, making each bite linger.
It’s about bold flavors and hands-on eating. If you’re after a seafood feast with a lively twist, Cajun Crack’n makes Fresno feel closer to the Gulf Coast than you’d think possible.
5. Central Fish Company
Central Fish Company has been a cornerstone of Fresno’s seafood world for generations. When I dropped in to browse the fish market, I was swept away by the sheer freshness and variety. The attached Japanese cafe is a hidden gem, turning ultra-fresh seafood into tempting meals right on the spot.
What makes this place special is its straightforward connection between market and kitchen. Pick up sashimi-grade fish or relax with a grilled salmon bento—either way, you’re getting seafood at its peak. The tempura here is crisp and light, putting many restaurants to shame.
If you want to taste what local tradition looks like, Central Fish Company offers an experience that’s hard to match. It’s where market quality meets quiet charm.
6. California fish Grill
California Fish Grill fuses speed with freshness. I first dropped by between meetings, expecting the usual quick bite. Instead, the flavors took me straight to the coast. The open kitchen buzzes, and each plate carries a clean, char-grilled aroma that sets the place apart.
It’s easy to see why locals make this their go-to for light yet satisfying seafood. The grilled swai is a standout—tender, moist, and never heavy. Their ahi poke salad brings a fresh spin, loaded with crisp veggies and marinated fish that tastes bright and natural.
Simple ingredients and quick service keep things lively. California Fish Grill offers a breezy, modern take on classic seafood, perfect for anyone short on time but not on taste.
7. Seafood In The Sea
Seafood In The Sea takes classic, comforting seafood and gives it a homey, local twist. My first meal here featured a simple yet memorable grilled fish platter, and the flavors spoke for themselves. This spot feels a bit like dining at a friend’s kitchen—straightforward, no pretense, just good food.
The standout here is variety. You’ll find options ranging from crisp fish fillets to juicy shrimp plates, all made with the kind of care that shows. The seafood breakfast specials set this place apart, offering a fresh start to the day that few others attempt.
If you want hearty, honest seafood in an unfussy setting, Seafood In The Sea delivers every time.
8. Pokiland
Pokiland is the kind of place you wish you’d found sooner if you love your seafood fresh and fast. My first poke bowl here left a lasting impression—a colorful mix of marinated tuna, crunchy onions, and tangy house-made sauces. Each bowl feels bright and custom-built for your cravings.
The ordering process puts you in control, letting you layer fresh fish, rice, and vibrant veggies to your liking. The Shrimp Lover bowl is worth a go; it’s equal parts sweet, savory, and satisfying, thanks to quality seafood and punchy toppings.
Pokiland stands out for offering vegan and vegetarian options without skimping on flavor. Here, whether you’re feeling bold or just want a light lunch, you really can’t go wrong.
9. West Coast Fish N’ Chips
+1 559-229-8282
West Coast Fish N’ Chips brings a bit of old-school British charm to Fresno’s seafood mix. On my first visit, the aroma of crisp batter and fresh fish pulled me right in. The fish comes out perfectly golden, light, and just the right kind of flaky, paired with fries that hold up well.
This spot stands out for its commitment to classic, straightforward recipes. The cod fish and chips is the highlight—a generous portion that balances crunch and tenderness. The jumbo prawns offer a satisfying alternative, with a clean fried finish that never feels greasy.
If you want hearty seafood in a laid-back setting, West Coast Fish N’ Chips gets right to the point—and delivers every time.
10. FOB Fried Or Boiled Seafood Fusion
FOB Fried Or Boiled Seafood Fusion shakes up the Fresno seafood scene with its adventurous twist on classic dishes. My first meal here featured a combo boil loaded with shrimp, corn, and potatoes, all drenched in a spiced-up garlic butter sauce, and it was impossible to put my fork down.
This place stands out for letting you choose your style—fried, boiled, or a bit of both. Their fried catfish strips come out golden and crisp, without losing any natural flavor. The seafood boils are crowd favorites, with seasoning blends that are bold but balanced.
If you appreciate bold flavors, hands-on eating, and plates that come out steaming hot, FOB delivers a unique experience that’s easy to crave over and over.
More Things to Try in Fresno, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find the freshest seafood in Fresno?
Pismo’s Coastal Grill and Central Fish Company are top picks for fresh, high-quality seafood. Both source their fish carefully and have a reputation for serving excellent dishes straight from the market or grill.
Are there affordable seafood spots in Fresno?
Definitely. Places like California Fish Grill and West Coast Fish N’ Chips offer great seafood at wallet-friendly prices, with generous portions and quick service for busy schedules.
Which Fresno seafood restaurants have vegetarian or vegan options?
Butterfish and Pokiland are standouts. They provide a variety of vegetarian and vegan bowl options that don’t sacrifice freshness or flavor.
Can I get Cajun-style seafood in Fresno?
Cajun Crack’n and FOB Fried Or Boiled Seafood Fusion are the best bets for bold Cajun-style boils. Both let you customize spice levels and mix in your favorite ingredients.
What are must-try dishes for seafood lovers visiting Fresno?
Try the cedar-plank salmon at Pismo’s, a poke bowl from Butterfish, classic cod and chips at West Coast Fish N’ Chips, or a shrimp boil at Cajun Crack’n for a taste of what Fresno’s seafood scene does best.