Seafood in Garden City is anything but monotonous. Strolling along its tree-lined streets, you’ll find oyster bars humming with quiet conversation and cozy cafes hiding platters of citrus-kissed branzino. What surprised me most on my first food tour here was just how varied — and satisfying — the local seafood options turned out to be. From a Belgian bistro awash in mussels to a Japanese spot perfecting its hand rolls, each restaurant delivers its own take on the ocean’s best.
You don’t need to be a gourmand to crack the seafood code in Garden City. Whether you’re craving a classic grilled fillet, a steaming shellfish stew, or crisp fried fish paired with house-made sauces, there’s a spot ready to serve it just right. Consider this your guide to the finest seafood Garden City, NY, has to offer: a lineup tested, tasted, and chosen to deliver fresh flavors with every bite.
Where to find the best seafood in Garden City, NY
Here are some of the top spots to find the best seafood in Garden City, NY:
- Waterzooi Belgian Bistro & Oyster Bar
- International Buffet Incorporated
- Primehouse
- Seasons 52
- Ruth’s Chris Steak House
- Seventh Street Cafe
- The Capital Grille
- The Lucky Duck
- Great Wall Restaurant
- D J’s International Buffet Inc
1. Waterzooi Belgian Bistro & Oyster Bar
At Waterzooi Belgian Bistro & Oyster Bar, you’re greeted by the cozy buzz of conversation and the sound of oysters being shucked fresh behind the bar. Nestled on Franklin Avenue, this spot feels like a slice of Brussels in Garden City, but with local energy and flair.
The “Moules Pots” define the experience here. Served with a steaming pile of frites, their mussels come in broths ranging from classic white wine and herbs to a lively curry coconut blend. The raw bar is also a fixture, putting pristine oysters front and center.
If you’re looking for fresh seafood in Garden City, this is the move. The staff makes solid recommendations based on what’s fresh that day, and every dish feels both elevated and approachable.
2. International Buffet Incorporated
International Buffet Incorporated is where you go when you want variety without having to commit to just one dish. The spacious dining area is almost always bustling, making it ideal for group outings or spur-of-the-moment cravings. Each visit offers a new adventure—one minute you’re sampling a fresh seafood salad, the next you’re reaching for tender steamed fish that rivals any sit-down restaurant.
The real draw is the rotating selection of cooked shrimp and grilled fish fillets. These trays never sit untouched, which keeps everything tasting fresh and flavorful. The buffet’s chefs are adept at simple seasonings that let the seafood speak for itself.
If you like to explore multiple flavors in a single meal, this is your spot. Pair a plate of seafood with a few vegetables, and you’ve captured the real spirit of International Buffet Incorporated—plenty of choices, all under one roof.
3. Primehouse
Primehouse is sleek, modern, and confident—like the best kind of New American steakhouse, but with a seafood lineup that steals the show. My last visit started with the chilled seafood tower, which arrived as a sculptural display of oysters, lobster, and shrimp, each one crisp and ocean-fresh.
The kitchen doesn’t shy away from bold flavors or perfect preparation. The seared branzino is a standout, with skin crisped just right and flaky fish beneath. Their sushi-grade tuna, sliced and stacked with subtle dressings, is another highlight for anyone serious about seafood in Garden City.
Primehouse isn’t just about steak—it’s where seafood shares the spotlight, and the menu rewards those willing to go beyond the usual choices. Paired with polished service and a comfortable dining room, it’s a top pick for both celebrations and spontaneous cravings.
4. Seasons 52
Seasons 52 is that rare spot where everything feels balanced—every dish, every bite, every glass of wine. On my last visit, the aroma of oak-grilled fish drifted through the air, making it hard to focus on anything but the menu. Their approach is all about freshness and lighter preparations, so you leave satisfied but never weighed down.
The cedar plank-roasted salmon is a star here, tender and gently infused with woodsy flavor without overpowering the delicate fish. For something snappier, try the shrimp and grits—creamy, bright, and packed with flavor, but never heavy.
Seasons 52 is ideal for seafood lovers who want robust, clean flavors that let the ingredients shine. The menu rotates throughout the year, so there’s always something fresh to try.
5. Ruth’s Chris Steak House
Ruth’s Chris Steak House is known for sizzling steaks, but on my last visit, the seafood was the real story. The atmosphere is classic—think polished wood, white linen, and an inviting hum. It’s the sort of place you linger, enjoying conversation as your meal unfolds.
The standout here is the Chilean sea bass. It’s perfectly seared on the outside, lush and flaky beneath, served with delicate sauces that don’t mask its natural flavor. The jumbo shrimp cocktail is another winner—always fresh, chilled just right, and served with a lively dipping sauce.
Ruth’s Chris isn’t just for steak lovers; the seafood selection matches the high standards set by the rest of the menu. For a memorable dining experience, don’t skip straight to the steaks—let the seafood surprise you.
6. Seventh Street Cafe
Seventh Street Cafe captures the warmth and energy of an Italian street, right in the heart of Garden City. Every visit feels like a brief getaway, thanks to cozy decor and attentive service. The menu brings regional Italian favorites — neatly balancing rustic charm and refined technique.
The seafood linguine is a must-order here. Tender clams, shrimp, and calamari toss together with house-made pasta, bathed in a light, aromatic tomato broth. The grilled branzino also impresses, arriving crisp on the outside and juicy inside, with subtle herbs that let the fish shine.
This spot blends comfort and authenticity, serving seafood in a way that feels both special and familiar. It’s a steady favorite for anyone craving Italian flavor with their fresh catch.
7. The Capital Grille
The Capital Grille is often celebrated for its steaks, but the seafood dishes have their own devoted following. My last visit turned into a memorable dinner thanks to the pristine seafood plateau, where cold lobster and oysters arrived on shivering ice—fresh and full of flavor. The staff always makes you feel at home, whether you’re celebrating or just unwinding after work.
Don’t pass up the seared citrus-glazed salmon, which comes perfectly cooked with a silky, bright finish. The pan-seared sea bass is another favorite, flaky and delicate, served alongside seasonal vegetables that complement every bite.
The Capital Grille proves that high-end dining doesn’t stop at steak, offering seafood that’s as skillfully prepared as anything from their grill. Each dish feels polished, making it a reliable pick for lovers of ocean fare.
8. The Lucky Duck
The Lucky Duck surprises you with its variety—classic Italian dishes alongside fresh seafood, all in a cheerful, relaxed space. I dropped in on a rainy afternoon and found both comfort food and lighter, briny bites that kept things interesting. The staff keeps the mood upbeat without crowding your table.
The standout is the shrimp scampi, where juicy shrimp meet garlic and a perfect splash of lemon, tossed with al dente pasta. For something crispier, the fried calamari is reliably golden and never greasy—something not every spot manages consistently.
The Lucky Duck balances easygoing dining with smart flavors, making it a go-to for locals who want familiar Italian plates with quality seafood right in Garden City.
9. Great Wall Restaurant
Great Wall Restaurant is a low-key neighborhood favorite, serving Chinese and Asian-inspired seafood that’s both affordable and satisfying. My first visit was on a whim, but the spot quickly made my list for quick, tasty seafood in Garden City. Service is quick and the atmosphere is casual, perfect for a relaxed meal.
The steamed fish with ginger and scallion is consistently fresh, bringing subtle flavors without overpowering the delicate fish. Their shrimp with mixed vegetables stands out for its crisp snap and light, balanced sauce—not too heavy, not too salty.
If you enjoy Asian-style seafood that’s easy on the wallet, Great Wall Restaurant delivers classic dishes with a straightforward, reliable touch. It’s the kind of spot where you’ll find families and regulars enjoying trusted favorites.
10. D J’s International Buffet Inc
(516) 227-2472Call
D J’s International Buffet Inc is a bustling spot for anyone who loves choice. The layout features a range of seafood that kept me circling the stations on my last visit, plate in hand. It’s easy to sample different flavors without settling on just one type of cuisine.
The highlight is the fresh sushi and sashimi, a rare perk at a buffet. The teams here keep the shrimp, crab, and grilled fish trays well-stocked and fresh, and you can always spot regulars making a beeline for them.
D J’s International Buffet Inc stands out for giving you variety, especially if you appreciate seafood with both Asian and classic preparations. For anyone craving a laid-back feast, this spot makes decisions easy.
More Things to Try in Garden City, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best seafood restaurants in Garden City, NY?
The top spots include Waterzooi Belgian Bistro & Oyster Bar, Primehouse, and Seasons 52. Each offers a unique style, from classic Belgian to modern New American seafood favorites.
Is fresh seafood available year-round in Garden City?
Yes, many local restaurants feature daily deliveries and seasonal menus to ensure fresh seafood all year. Some, like The Capital Grille and Waterzooi, are known for their commitment to quality ingredients.
Are there seafood restaurants with vegetarian or gluten-free options?
Absolutely. Places like Seasons 52, Waterzooi, and Seventh Street Cafe provide vegetarian-friendly and gluten-free selections, making them suitable for a range of diets.
Which restaurants in Garden City are best for special occasions?
The Capital Grille, Primehouse, and Ruth’s Chris Steak House all offer upscale settings with polished service, making them excellent choices for celebrations or an elegant night out.
Can I find buffet-style seafood in Garden City?
Yes. D J’s International Buffet Inc and International Buffet Incorporated serve a variety of seafood options alongside other cuisines, perfect for those who enjoy sampling different flavors in one meal.