There’s something quietly thrilling about good seafood—fresh fish fillets that flake with a fork, shellfish with that sweet, briny pop, and chowders that draw you in spoonful by spoonful. Highland, NY, might surprise you with its line-up of seafood spots, ranging from classic diners wielding crisp fried clams to bustling markets slicing up the day’s catch. The local chefs here know how to show off both the Hudson’s bounty and the world’s finest ocean flavors.
I’ve scouted tables along the water and slipped into corner booths, tracking every plate from shrimp scampi to salt-and-pepper calamari. Finding the best seafood in Highland isn’t just about proximity to the river—it’s about kitchens that respect their ingredients and serve up meals worth discussing long after the plates are cleared. If you’re after guidance on the top seafood spots, you’re in the right current. Let’s dig into Highland’s best, from hush-hush gems to crowd favorites, and find where your next perfect bite is waiting.
Where to find the best seafood in Highland, NY
Here are some of the top spots to find the best seafood in Highland, NY:
- Mariners on the Hudson
- Main Moon Chinese Restaurant
- Tasty Crab House
- Eveready Diner
- Red Lobster
- Gadaleto’s Seafood Market
- Joe Willy S Fish
- Bonefish Grill – Closed
- Tammy Honeyman
- Aladias Crab Cravings
1. Mariners on the Hudson
(845) 691-6011Call
Mariners on the Hudson isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a front-row seat to the river, bustling with life from sunrise to moonrise. You’ll find yourself drawn in by the water’s edge, a wide patio, and a view of historic bridges that really earns bragging rights. The hum of passing trains and boats adds to a scene you won’t find anywhere else in Highland.
The seafood here leans fresh and unfussy—think broiled salmon plated with care, crispy calamari with a clean, satisfying crunch, or their signature shrimp scampi bursting with buttery richness. I remember settling in on the twilight deck, letting a mild breeze pair perfectly with a forkful of flaky white fish.
Mariners stands out for letting simple ingredients shine, wrapped in riverfront charm. If you want classic flavors and a skyline to match, reserve a sunset table—it’s the sweet spot for seafood in Highland.
2. Main Moon Chinese Restaurant
(845) 691-2047Call
Main Moon Chinese Restaurant sits right in Bridgeview Plaza, convenient and never fussy. When you crave a taste of the sea with a hint of ginger or garlic, this spot delivers with consistency. The mood is unfussy, the parking is easy, and takeout never takes long.
The real star here is the seafood section of their menu. Shrimp with broccoli lands on the table bright, crisp, and glossed with just enough savory sauce. Order the steamed fish for a lighter choice—delicate and full of flavor that doesn’t hide behind seasoning.
I remember grabbing a quick dinner on a rainy Tuesday, finding comfort in a bowl of hot seafood soup. The portions satisfy and there’s always a surprise on the buffet. Main Moon stands out for delivering seafood with that comforting, take-home quality Highland locals count on.
3. Tasty Crab House
(845) 454-2850Call
If you’re looking for a hands-on seafood experience near Highland, Tasty Crab House is the place. This spot is all about bold flavors—think garlic butter, Old Bay, and piles of freshly steamed shellfish laid out over butcher paper. It’s relaxed, lively, and great for sharing with friends who don’t mind getting a little messy.
The standout here is the build-your-own seafood boil. Choose your favorites—crab legs, shrimp, clams—then pick a seasoning and watch as mountain of seafood arrives steaming hot. The corn and potatoes soak up every drop of the house’s buttery, spiced sauce, and you’ll need plenty of napkins.
I still remember leaving with hands that smelled like Cajun seasoning and a big grin. For anyone craving a classic seafood feast with Southern flair, Tasty Crab House is tough to beat.
4. Eveready Diner
Eveready Diner feels like stepping into the golden age of classic diners, with gleaming chrome, neon lights, and a menu that spans continents. While known for comforting favorites, their take on seafood surprises with freshness and hearty portions. It’s the kind of spot where families gather and locals swear by the consistency.
The fried sole sandwich is a nod to the diner tradition—flaky, lightly breaded, and matched with fresh fixings on a toasted roll. For something warmer, try their simple broiled cod or shrimp scampi, both generous and cooked just right.
I often find myself coming back for late-night bites, chasing the comfort of a classic fish platter after a busy day. Eveready stands out for making seafood approachable, no fuss, served with a side of nostalgia and a never-empty coffee cup.
5. Red Lobster
Red Lobster in Poughkeepsie isn’t just a familiar name—it’s a dependable choice when cravings for seafood hit hard. The atmosphere is warm, with friendly service and those Cheddar Bay Biscuits that seem to disappear as soon as they hit the table. Dining here always feels easy, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a family gathering.
The menu covers all the hits, but the Ultimate Feast is a standout with its generous sampling of broiled fish, succulent shrimp, and snow crab legs. If you’re torn, their daily fresh fish picks rarely disappoint.
I’ve found myself caught by surprise at the freshness of a simple grilled salmon during one visit. Red Lobster stands out with reliable quality and classic flavors that always hit the mark in the Hudson Valley seafood scene.
6. Gadaleto’s Seafood Market
Gadaleto’s Seafood Market blends a classic fish market with a casual eatery vibe. Tucked just off Main Street in New Paltz, this family-run spot is where Hudson Valley locals find pristine seafood year-round. It’s the kind of place where staff can tell you exactly where the catch came from that morning.
The grilled salmon salad and the seafood chowder sum up what Gadaleto’s does best: fresh, clean flavors that need little fussing. Stop by the market counter for fillets, but don’t skip the eatery’s daily fish specials—they’re worth planning lunch around.
Some of my best meals in the area started here—picking up just-caught bluefish or lingering over fish tacos at a sunny table. Gadaleto’s stands out for pairing market freshness with a community feel.
7. Joe Willy S Fish
Joe Willy’s Fish, tucked in Westside Plaza, brings a breezy, unfussy charm to Hudson Valley seafood. With a slightly retro vibe, it’s a spot where locals come for generous portions and straightforward flavors. It’s the kind of place where you get to know the staff and might find yourself coming back for favorites.
Their fish and chips set the standard—crisp coating, flaky interior, never greasy. The seafood fry basket is legendary for good reason: a sampler of the sea, fried just right, served hot and fast. I once stopped in after a hike, still craving their hearty clam chowder long after the bowl was empty.
Joe Willy S Fish stands out for treating classic seafood right, without overstating the experience. If you’re searching for great value and reliably fresh seafood near Highland, this is your place.
8. Bonefish Grill – Closed
Bonefish Grill in Poughkeepsie had a devoted following while it was open, thanks to a contemporary setting and reliably good seafood. People would show up for a laid-back but polished meal, making it a go-to for date nights or group dinners. Even now, its absence is felt by those who counted on it for a special night out.
The Bang Bang Shrimp was their star plate—crisp, tender, and coated in a creamy, peppery sauce. Their wood-grilled fish offerings rotated with the seasons, always paired with signature sides like garlic mashed potatoes or seasonal vegetables.
I still recall savoring a perfectly grilled lemon-butter salmon while catching up with friends there. Bonefish Grill will be missed for putting an upscale spin on classic seafood and creating meals that linger on the palate and in memory.
9. Tammy Honeyman
(845) 236-2700Call
Tammy Honeyman, nestled along Route 9W in Marlboro, feels like a well-kept local secret for seafood lovers. The charm lies in its unpretentious atmosphere and a focus on the catch rather than the décor. It’s the sort of place you hear about from someone who knows the area well.
The standout here is their grilled fish plates—no heavy sauces, just perfectly seasoned, fresh fish that lets the flavors speak for themselves. The shrimp stir-fry is another highlight, light but deeply satisfying, making Tammy Honeyman ideal for quick lunches and casual dinners alike.
I once stopped in after a long drive and found the staff quick with a smile and even quicker with a warm plate. It’s a reminder that great seafood doesn’t have to shout to be memorable in Highland’s neighboring scene.
10. Aladias Crab Cravings
(845) 419-9175Call
Aladias Crab Cravings, tucked in Wallkill, embraces its name with a menu focused squarely on the freshest crab around. It feels like walking into a seafood spot where everything revolves around pure flavor and a love for shellfish. The service is friendly and quick, with an easygoing atmosphere that keeps regulars coming back.
The signature crab boils are a must-try—each order brimming with sweet crab, potatoes, and corn, finished with seasonings that turn every bite into something craveable. If you’re up for something extra, their lemon-herb shrimp never disappoints, especially paired with classic sides.
I still remember cracking open crab legs and losing track of time, caught up in good conversation and even better seafood. Aladias Crab Cravings stands out for making crab the headliner, every single visit.
More Things to Try in Highland, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best seafood restaurants near Highland, NY?
Some local favorites include Mariners on the Hudson for riverfront dining, Tasty Crab House for lively seafood boils, and Gadaleto’s Seafood Market for incredibly fresh, market-sourced dishes. Each offers its own take on classic seafood in the Hudson Valley.
Where can I find fresh seafood in Highland?
Gadaleto’s Seafood Market in nearby New Paltz is a trusted spot for market-fresh fish and shellfish. Mariners on the Hudson and Joe Willy S Fish also pride themselves on using quality, fresh ingredients in their kitchens.
Which places offer seafood with a view?
Mariners on the Hudson sits directly on the river, delivering both scenic views and a strong seafood menu. If ambience matters as much as the meal, this one is tough to top.
Are there family-friendly seafood restaurants in the area?
Red Lobster, Eveready Diner, and Joe Willy S Fish all have relaxed atmospheres and menus suited for all ages, making them solid picks for group outings or family dinners.
What dishes should I try for an authentic local seafood experience?
Opt for broiled salmon or local catches at Mariners on the Hudson, fried fish at Joe Willy S Fish, or any build-your-own seafood boil at Tasty Crab House for big flavors and generous portions.