Seafood in Geneva, NY is far from a secret. Tucked between the turquoise waves of Seneca Lake and the rolling vineyards, Geneva quietly plates up some of the freshest catches in upstate New York. Whether it’s the snap of perfectly grilled fish or the comfort of an old-school shrimp platter, there’s real delight in uncovering the gems scattered throughout this lively town. I’ve ducked into lakeside bistros and retro diners more times than I can count, always chasing the next memorable seafood bite.
What drew me back each time? A mix of taste, atmosphere, and the satisfaction of finding something truly good. Geneva’s dining scene is a blend of locally-sourced pride and community warmth. You’ll sense it as soon as you sit down: menus touting today’s specials, servers who actually recommend their favorites, and that faint, inviting aroma that promises something wonderful. Whether you’re hunting for an elegant night out, a relaxed lunch, or a nostalgic plate at a local haunt, Geneva has answers. Curious where to begin? Let’s dive into the top spots that locals and in-the-know visitors keep returning to whenever a seafood craving strikes.
Where to find the best seafood in Geneva, NY
Here are some of the top spots to find the best seafood in Geneva, NY:
- Kindred Fare
- Geneva Seafood
- Torrey Park Grill
- Connie’s Diner
- Abigails Restaurant
- Nolan’s on Canandaigua Lake
- Nick’s Chophouse Wine and Martini Bar
- Angel’s Family Restaurant
- Liberty Restaurant
- Keuka Restaurant
1. Kindred Fare
Kindred Fare doesn’t try to impress with pretension. Instead, it wins you over with its open kitchen energy and friendly, down-to-earth staff. The first thing you notice is how the space feels—warm, bustling, and perfect for either a low-key meal or a group night out.
What sets Kindred Fare apart is its dedication to fresh, regional ingredients and creative takes on classic seafood. One evening here, I tried their seared fish entrée—the result was nothing short of satisfying, with every bite layered and vibrant. Their menu often highlights what’s local and in season, so each visit feels pleasantly different.
For seafood lovers, the grilled fish of the day is a go-to. It’s prepared with simple finesse, letting the quality shine through. Pair it with seasonal vegetable sides for a meal that celebrates Finger Lakes freshness.
2. Geneva Seafood
(800) 491-5322Call
Geneva Seafood keeps things refreshingly simple. It’s the kind of spot I wandered into while searching for something unfiltered and real—no bells or whistles, just fresh, high-quality seafood at the center of each plate. The laid-back setting lets the food do the talking.
What I love about Geneva Seafood is their knack for putting freshness first. You get the sense that every fish fillet has a story, straight from the local waterways. This is a place where locals drop by for their favorites, and visitors leave pleasantly surprised.
If you’re unsure where to start, go for the catch of the day. It arrives perfectly cooked, with crisp edges and moist, flaky meat. Even simple preparations—think lemon, herbs, and a quick sear—let the flavors speak for themselves.
3. Torrey Park Grill
Torrey Park Grill manages to feel like everyone’s favorite local secret. The first time I stopped in, I was struck by the relaxed, welcoming vibe and the crave-worthy variety on the menu. The place hums with happy conversation and the gentle sizzle from the kitchen.
This spot stands out for its ability to balance comfort with quality; you’ll find hearty portions and skilled preparation, whether you come with family or friends. The menu is broad, but it’s the seafood that caught my attention.
The grilled salmon comes perfectly cooked—tender with a crisp sear and served with bright, seasonal vegetables. If you’re after something classic, the broiled white fish offers delicate flavor that pairs beautifully with their house-made sides. Each dish hints at the diversity of the region while keeping things inviting.
4. Connie’s Diner
Connie’s Diner is the kind of place that seems unchanged by time, and that’s exactly its charm. The moment I slid into one of the cheerful booths, I felt like I had stumbled onto a slice of small-town history. The retro décor and friendly staff make every visit feel a little nostalgic.
What really makes Connie’s Diner a standout is its straightforward approach to comfort food, especially when it comes to seafood. No unnecessary flash—just reliable, tasty plates that deliver on promise. You’ll see regulars who clearly know what’s good.
If you’re craving seafood, try the fried fish platter. It’s crisp, light, and pairs perfectly with their classic coleslaw and fries. Their shrimp basket is another favorite, offering morsels with just the right touch of seasoning and crunch, all in the spirit of diner classics done well.
5. Abigails Restaurant
(315) 539-9300Call
Abigails Restaurant combines a sense of home with the sort of menu you want to linger over. During a recent lunch, I could tell right away it was a family-run place, with the kind of friendly conversations you rarely get anywhere else. The comfortable atmosphere and attentive service make guests feel like they belong.
What really sets Abigails apart is their reputation for classic seafood dishes prepared with care. They offer a solid range, but the menu never feels overwhelming. The seafood always tastes fresh, sharing the spotlight with well-chosen sides and house specialties.
Their crab cakes are a highlight, crisp on the outside and tender within, served with a lively dipping sauce. For something hearty, the broiled white fish is a popular choice—delicate, flaky, and proof that simplicity can be satisfying. Here, straightforward flavors win every time.
6. Nolan’s on Canandaigua Lake
Nolan’s on Canandaigua Lake turns any meal into an easygoing occasion. The dining room looks out over the water, making every visit feel like a mini getaway. I’ve stopped in after a long day and found the calming view as memorable as anything on the menu.
What’s undeniable here is the focus on quality ingredients and relaxed luxury. The staff let you settle in and enjoy yourself, whether you’re gathered with friends or sharing a quiet evening for two. It’s no wonder Nolan’s keeps collecting local awards.
If seafood’s what you’re after, the grilled Atlantic salmon is consistently excellent—moist, flavorful, and finished with a light, house-made sauce. Their broiled haddock is also a standout, delicate and served alongside local vegetables for a feel-good meal that’s as inviting as the lakeside setting.
7. Nick’s Chophouse Wine and Martini Bar
Nick’s Chophouse Wine and Martini Bar is the place where steakhouse gravitas and neighborhood charm meet. My first visit brought a lively buzz, with live music filtering through the menu’s tempting choices. The intimate feel and thoughtful service created a memorable night out without any fuss.
Seafood at Nick’s is anything but an afterthought. They use top-notch ingredients and take care with every plate. It’s clear they give the same attention to their seafood as they do their much-loved steaks.
If you’re narrowing down choices, start with the pan-seared salmon or the broiled haddock. Both arrive expertly cooked, with spot-on seasoning and generous sides. These dishes sum up Nick’s philosophy: comfort and quality, always in equal measure.
8. Angel’s Family Restaurant
(315) 536-4026Call
Angel’s Family Restaurant is a true staple, where the mood is always unhurried and the coffee never seems to run out. On my first visit, the inviting buzz of breakfast regulars gave the place a comforting, lived-in feel. The menu leans into homestyle comfort with dishes that satisfy every time.
What makes Angel’s stand out is its commitment to consistently good food without gimmicks. It’s the sort of spot where you can bring anyone, anytime, and know they’ll leave happy. Seafood is presented simply, which lets the freshness take center stage.
The fried fish sandwich is a highlight, arriving crisp and golden, nestled in a soft roll with just enough tang from the house tartar. Their seafood platters come with classic sides, creating the kind of no-fuss meal that’s both hearty and familiar.
9. Liberty Restaurant
(315) 536-9036Call
Liberty Restaurant has an easy comfort, serving as a go-to for folks with a fondness for family-run spots. My own meal there started with a warm greeting and ended with a plate that felt homemade in the best way. The relaxed, classic setting makes it a favorite for lunch breaks and easy dinners alike.
What sets Liberty apart is their genuine approach—no frills, just good food done right. The menu is varied, but their seafood holds its own among the comfort staples. Portions are generous without feeling overwhelming.
If you’re here for seafood, the baked white fish is a dependable choice. Tender and subtly seasoned, it arrives alongside beloved sides like fresh vegetables or hand-cut fries. Their shrimp platter is another reliable pick, offering plenty of crunch and flavor for fans of classic dishes.
10. Keuka Restaurant
Keuka Restaurant has the vibe of a favorite neighborhood hangout, where the clink of glasses and lively conversation set the tone. My visit there had me trading stories with locals over plates that arrived hot and loaded with flavor. The easygoing, community feel is a big part of its draw.
Keuka’s menu follows the “something for everyone” philosophy, but they don’t skimp on seafood quality. Dishes here are unfussy, letting the ingredients shine in a comfortable, tavern-like setting. The portions often leave room for leftovers, much to my delight.
For seafood, the broiled haddock is a classic, coming out moist and well-seasoned, often with a squeeze of fresh lemon. Their fish fry is also beloved—crisp, golden, and served with diner-style sides. Both choices show how Keuka turns simple fare into something worth sharing.
More Things to Try in Geneva, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best seafood restaurants in Geneva, NY?
Kindred Fare, Geneva Seafood, Torrey Park Grill, and Connie’s Diner consistently rank among the area’s favorites for fresh, well-prepared seafood dishes.
Are there any seafood spots in Geneva, NY with lake views?
Nolan’s on Canandaigua Lake is just a short drive from Geneva and offers beautiful lakeside dining, pairing fresh seafood with a calming view.
Is there a good place for casual seafood meals in Geneva?
Angel’s Family Restaurant, Liberty Restaurant, and Keuka Restaurant are popular for relaxed settings and classic seafood platters at approachable prices.
Do seafood restaurants in Geneva, NY have vegan or vegetarian options?
Yes, several spots like Kindred Fare and Torrey Park Grill offer vegan and vegetarian dishes alongside their seafood selections.
Is the seafood locally sourced in Geneva, NY?
Many restaurants, including Kindred Fare and Geneva Seafood, focus on using local and regional ingredients when possible. It’s always worth asking your server for details on the day’s catch.