Finding fresh, flavorful seafood in Manassas, VA is almost like discovering a secret each time you sit down to eat. The aroma of grilled fish and the snap of fried shrimp make their presence obvious before a single bite hits your tongue. I once stumbled into a tucked-away spot on a rainy afternoon and left with a new obsession for their tangy, perfectly steamed crab legs. Every visit since has been a pursuit of that first unforgettable taste.
Manassas is more than just a spot on a map—it’s a journey for your taste buds. You’ll find oyster bars where shuckers greet you by name and seafood kitchens where the hush puppies still sizzle as they reach your table. Whether you crave down-home classics or something a bit adventurous, this guide covers the best seafood in Manassas. Ready to discover your next favorite dish?
1. CJ Finz Raw Bar & Grill
CJ Finz Raw Bar & Grill lives at the center of Old Town Manassas, where seafood always feels like a celebration. After a long stroll down West Street, I found myself at their bar eyeing an oyster platter with more excitement than I care to admit.
The biggest draw at CJ Finz is their raw bar—think sweet, briny oysters and chilled shrimp that tastes like it was caught that morning. Pair it with one of their creamy, perfectly balanced crab dips for a starter that rarely disappoints.
The menu boasts fresh catches prepared with just the right touch. The grilled fish tacos and blackened salmon stand out for their bold flavor without overcomplicating things. CJ Finz keeps the focus on quality, local flavor, and easygoing charm.
2. Sam’s Southern Eatery
If you’re after a Southern spin on seafood, Sam’s Southern Eatery delivers. My first visit was on a Saturday just before the lunch crowd. The friendly staff sent out a platter so big I almost had to question my appetite—but the flaky white fish kept me digging in.
Sam’s is best known for generous portions and homestyle seafood favorites. The fried fish plates, cooked just right with a crisp, golden crust, set the standard here. Their shrimp po’ boy impresses, packed with juicy shrimp and southern fixings.
Try the catfish—it’s the go-to for regulars and never disappoints. At Sam’s, the focus is comfort and value, making every meal feel like a weekend treat.
3. Shakin Crab
Shakin Crab brings a burst of flavor to Manassas with its bold, messy approach to seafood. My first time, I surrendered to the bib and let the seasoned garlic butter sauce do its thing—a choice that paid off in every bite.
Their seafood boils are the real draw, brimming with crab, shrimp, and corn, all tossed in your choice of signature sauces. The Cajun-inspired blends add just the right amount of heat without overwhelming the freshness.
For the full experience, order the mixed seafood bag. Digging into the shellfish with your hands is part of the fun, and every bite is packed with flavor. Shakin Crab is a place where you eat well and leave all polite dining pretenses at the door.
4. Red Lobster
Red Lobster has a familiar glow for seafood lovers seeking a reliable meal. On a rainy evening, I found comfort at their table. The place was buzzing, but somehow the scent of warm Cheddar Bay Biscuits cut through the noise.
What sets Red Lobster apart is consistency—classic seafood dishes served just as you remember them. The endless shrimp is pure crowd-pleaser territory, but the grilled salmon stands out with its subtle smoky flavor and fresh finish.
If you’re feeling hungry, try the Ultimate Feast. It’s a mix of shrimp, scallops, and fish, all done with care. Red Lobster in Manassas is a steady pick for those who crave tradition and straightforward, satisfying plates.
5. Skrimp Shack
Skrimp Shack bills itself as a “vacation on a plate,” and it hits the mark. My last trip there came after a rough week. I left with a full belly and that rare feeling you get when food actually lifts your mood.
The star here is their po’ boy sandwich, loaded with fried shrimp or flaky fish. The bread is soft, the seafood piping hot, and every bite gives you that laid-back, beachy vibe—right in the middle of Manassas.
Try the seasoned shrimp plate. It comes with golden fries and slaw, and it’s all about comfort without the fuss. Skrimp Shack turns classic, unfussy seafood into a break from the everyday grind.
6. Long Time No Sea
+1 703-789-8979
See Menu
Long Time No Sea draws you in with the scent of Cajun spices drifting across Festival Lane. The first time I stepped in, the sound of old-school jazz and the spill of lively conversation got me ready for something special. Here, seafood comes sauced, spiced, and ready to eat with your hands.
The signature seafood boils are the must-try—crab, shrimp, and lobster, all tossed in buttery Cajun seasoning. They pile it high, add corn and potatoes, and let you go to town. Every table carries the low-country boil spirit of Louisiana into the heart of Manassas.
If you like it messy and fun, this is the place for you. Order the create-your-own boil if you’re craving something custom. Long Time No Sea is affordable, welcoming, and never boring.
7. Louisiana Cafe
Louisiana Cafe offers a true taste of the South, straight from a family that’s been mastering Cajun flavors since 2004. I wandered in on a hunt for something bold and left promising myself a return trip for the gumbo alone.
This spot stands out for its authentic recipes and homey feel. The cooks know exactly how to get the most flavor from simple, fresh ingredients.
The seafood gumbo is a star here, brimming with shrimp and complex spice. Try the catfish plate for a reliable second act—it’s always crisp and satisfying. Louisiana Cafe brings a slice of New Orleans to Manassas in every spoonful and bite.
8. The Black Sheep Restaurant
The Black Sheep Restaurant feels one part upscale bistro, one part local favorite. My dinner here started with soft jazz and the gentle clink of glasses, and ended with a plate wiped clean of house-cured salmon.
The Black Sheep shines with an inventive menu and careful attention to detail. Each seafood option arrives plated like art, but always delivers substance, not just style.
The seared scallops are a standout—sweet, tender, and paired with just the right sauce. For something lighter, try the seasonal fish special. Here, seafood is treated with respect and a creative flair that’s hard to find elsewhere in Manassas.
9. Shrimp Connection, LLC
(703) 791-2300Call
Shrimp Connection, LLC is where locals go for seafood that’s impressively fresh. On my last visit, I watched folks come in and out with bags of fish, chatting with the staff like they’ve been friends for years. The vibe is more “friendly fish market” than sit-down restaurant, and that’s part of the charm.
The standout here is the variety—you can grab everything from plump shrimp to fillets just waiting for your next recipe. Their seafood is always clean, bright, and never fishy.
Pick up the fresh shrimp for an at-home boil, or ask for their advice on what’s best that day. Shrimp Connection makes it easy to turn any kitchen into a seafood spot worthy of Manassas.
10. Captain D’s Seafood Kitchen
Captain D’s Seafood Kitchen is a go-to for quick, reliable seafood that still feels like a treat. I’ve stopped here after countless soccer games—sometimes for the hush puppies alone, sometimes for a plate piled high with fish.
Captain D’s stands out for its value and consistency. The food is hot, the batter is crisp, and the portions satisfy without pretense.
Try the classic battered fish or their grilled shrimp skewers. Both are reliable favorites, and the sides—think coleslaw and green beans—round things out without stealing the show. Captain D’s shows that fast seafood can still taste fresh and comforting, even after all these years.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best seafood restaurants in Manassas, VA?
Local favorites include CJ Finz Raw Bar & Grill, Shakin Crab, Skrimp Shack, and Blue Ridge Seafood. Each offers its own spin on fresh seafood and quality service.
Are there places with seafood boils in Manassas?
Yes. Shakin Crab and Long Time No Sea are top picks for Cajun-style seafood boils with plenty of seasoning and flavor.
Can I find halal or non-haram seafood options in Manassas?
Many restaurants focus on classic seafood and avoid haram ingredients. Checking menus or calling ahead is a good idea if you have specific dietary needs.
Where can I buy fresh seafood to cook at home?
Shrimp Connection, LLC and local markets offer high-quality, fresh seafood perfect for home cooking.
What’s a good place for a casual seafood meal with family?
Skrimp Shack, Captain D’s Seafood Kitchen, and CJ Finz Raw Bar & Grill all provide a relaxed setting and family-friendly menus.
Do any seafood restaurants in Manassas offer gluten-free options?
CJ Finz Raw Bar & Grill and Red Lobster both have gluten-free options. It’s always smart to check with your server before ordering.