Finding great seafood in Nashville used to feel a bit like searching for pearls in the Cumberland River. But spend a lunch break by the city’s bustling streets and you’ll spot oysters on ice, steaming platters of Gulf shrimp, and crispy catfish that would make any coastal city jealous. I remember my first foray into Nashville’s seafood scene—a platter of seared scallops at a tucked-away spot in Germantown, the briny sweetness paired with southern hospitality. The surprise was real and delicious.
Now, I’ve wandered enough menus and cracked enough crab legs to confidently map out where you’ll find the city’s finest fish and shrimp. Whether you crave a lavish dinner or a casual fried catch, Nashville has options that rival any classic seafood haunt, and none of them feel like mere imitations. Skip the chains you see on every interstate. These picks offer the real deal—fresh flavors, thoughtful prep, and a dash of local flair. Let’s dive into the best seafood Nashville has to offer.
Where to find the best seafood in Nashville, TN
Here are some of the top spots to find the best seafood in Nashville, TN:
- Henrietta Red
- Eddie V’s Prime Seafood
- Aquarium Restaurant
- Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse, Nashville
- Voodoo Gumbo
- Marsh House
- Urbangrub
- Uncle Bud’s Catfish Shack
- The Optimist
- Sambuca Restaurant
1. Henrietta Red
Nestled in Germantown, Henrietta Red feels both charming and modern, thanks to its light-filled dining room and polished oyster bar. The vibe is welcoming—ideal for settling in with friends or trying something new with a neighbor at the counter. The menu’s focus on seasonal produce and responsibly sourced seafood shines, especially if you start with a chilled tower of oysters. Here, every bite tastes like a fresh catch, with varieties from different coasts that make for a memorable platter.
On my last visit, I was smitten with the roasted half-shell oysters crafted with just enough smoky flavor to complement the briny freshness. The snapper crudo also impressed me, bright and clean, and a true snapshot of the kitchen’s careful yet playful touch. For a taste of Nashville’s refined seafood, Henrietta Red is always a good idea.
2. Eddie V’s Prime Seafood
Eddie V’s Prime Seafood brings coastal flair and luxury right to Broadway’s heartbeat. The dining room feels glamorous but never stiff, thanks to soft jazz and seamless service. My first visit began with a show-stopping seafood tower—a centerpiece of chilled lobster, plump shrimp, and oysters that felt almost too elegant to eat. That didn’t stop me, of course.
This spot is known for its ever-changing selection of fresh seafood, flown in daily. The **Norwegian Salmon** is silky and expertly cooked, while the oven-roasted branzino pairs Mediterranean flavors with Nashville’s buzz. If you have room for sides, the truffled macaroni is worth a nod. For those seeking the city’s finest, Eddie V’s stands out with style and substance.
3. Aquarium Restaurant
Dining at the Aquarium Restaurant feels a bit like slipping beneath the waves without getting your shoes wet. The star here is a massive 200,000-gallon aquarium, alive with fish and sharks, circling as you eat. Kids are thrilled, and adults tend to rediscover a sense of wonder—myself included, when I visited for a friend’s birthday and spent half the meal pointing out stingrays gliding by our table.
Seafood here goes beyond novelties; the grilled salmon fillet is flaky and fresh, and the shrimp-stuffed baked potato is surprisingly rich. The menu’s playful side reflects the setting, but the dishes arrive expertly cooked and never overshadowed by the aquatic theatrics. For a meal that’s part aquarium visit and part feast, this spot delivers an experience few in Nashville can rival.
4. Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse, Nashville
Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse, Nashville balances old-school glamour with modern hospitality. From the moment you walk in, the velvet booths and nightly live music set a lively but polished mood. My first visit was a spectacle—every plate arriving like a showstopper, with details you only find at places that truly care about the dining experience.
Steak may headline, but the seafood offerings deserve attention. The Chilean sea bass is delicate and perfectly flaky, while the raw bar’s jumbo shrimp cocktail sets a high bar with its snappy texture and bold flavors. If sushi calls your name, their spicy tuna roll matches big-city standards. For those craving surf with their turf, this spot satisfies in style.
5. Voodoo Gumbo
Voodoo Gumbo brings a burst of New Orleans to west Nashville, complete with the kind of family-run warmth you wish every restaurant had. Walk through the doors and it’s all spicy aromas, friendly chatter, and a menu as lively as Bourbon Street. On my visit, I arrived craving something bold—and found it in every bite.
Their seafood gumbo is genuinely soulful, packed with Gulf shrimp and blue crab, simmered to rich perfection. The crawfish étouffée is another standout, with a savory, buttery sauce that calls for extra rice. What makes Voodoo Gumbo shine is its unapologetically authentic Creole flavor and unfussy, generous portions. If you want standout seafood in Nashville with genuine southern character, this is your spot.
6. Marsh House
Marsh House, in the heart of The Gulch, serves up southern seafood classics with a modern edge. The dining room feels refined but never fussy; it’s the kind of place where a business lunch or leisurely brunch both fit right in. My first memory is tied to a simple dish—raw oysters, plucked fresh, iced perfectly, and dressed with a delicate mignonette. Every shell was a briny burst.
The seafood gumbo here deserves fans, loaded with Gulf shrimp and just the right kick of spice. The red snapper comes seared and flaky, with seasonal vegetables elevating every bite. At Marsh House, ingredient quality is never up for debate. Expect Southern coastal flavors, elevated with care and a creative spin.
7. Urbangrub
Urbangrub feels like a winning blend of southern comfort and laid-back cool. The reclaimed wood and open layout invite guests to linger, whether it’s brunch with friends or a casual evening feast. On my first visit, the raw bar pulled me in—oysters so fresh I could practically hear the waves.
Seafood is treated with respect and a little flair. The grilled Gulf shrimp pop with smoky flavor, while their fish tacos surprise with punchy slaw and citrus. The shareable seafood platter is a favorite, perfect for big tables and family-style eating. Urbangrub stands out for its hearty portions and unfussy, flavor-forward approach to southern seafood classics.
8. Uncle Bud’s Catfish Shack
Uncle Bud’s Catfish Shack gives off pure southern fish camp vibes, right down to friendly greetings and gingham tablecloths. I wandered in on a rainy day craving something simple. The charm and steady stream of regulars made it clear that this spot is a Nashville tradition.
Catfish is the undisputed star. Try the crispy catfish fillets, golden and flaky in a way you don’t forget. The catfish nuggets are also a favorite—bite-sized, light, and full of flavor. Sides come classic and generous. At Uncle Bud’s, it’s the straightforward approach and unfussy comfort that make even a quick lunch feel like a family gathering.
9. The Optimist
The Optimist transforms a converted warehouse into a glow of nautical charm, with breezy interiors that make every meal feel like a coastal escape. When I first walked in, the aroma of wood-roasted fish and the energy around the oyster bar set my expectations high—and they were met.
Start with the charcoal-roasted oysters; they’re smoky, buttery, and unforgettable. The whole roasted branzino comes out perfectly flaky, accented by fresh herbs and citrus. Even simple dishes shine—think peel-and-eat shrimp, elevated by thoughtful seasoning. The Optimist stands out for its bold yet clean flavors and the ability to make classic seafood feel exciting again, right in the heart of Nashville.
10. Sambuca Restaurant
Sambuca Restaurant brings a lively pulse to Nashville’s Gulch, mixing great music with impressive seafood in a space made for celebration. My first meal there landed on a night when a jazz band set the mood; dinner became a show, and every course felt just as captivating as the music.
Their miso-glazed seabass stands out—flaky, savory, and balanced with sweet soy. The seafood paella brims with shrimp and seasonal fish, each bite layered and satisfying. Sambuca’s menu pairs fresh dishes with a bit of dramatic flair, matching the atmosphere. If you’re looking for seafood in a spot where entertainment and flavor go hand in hand, this is where you’ll find your rhythm.
More Things to Try in Nashville, TN
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best seafood restaurants in Nashville, TN?
Nashville’s top spots for seafood include Henrietta Red, The Optimist, Marsh House, Eddie V’s Prime Seafood, and Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse. Each brings a unique style and fresh catch to the table.
Where can I find fresh oysters in Nashville?
Henrietta Red and The Optimist are known for stellar oyster selections, featuring a range from both coasts served fresh or roasted to perfection.
Is there good seafood near downtown Nashville?
Absolutely. The Gulch, Germantown, and Lower Broadway offer options like Marsh House, Eddie V’s, and Jeff Ruby’s, just minutes from the action.
Are there any seafood restaurants with great ambiance?
Sambuca Restaurant is known for live music, while Aquarium Restaurant adds aquatic wonder. For modern vibes, The Optimist and Marsh House are tough to beat.
Can I find family-friendly seafood restaurants in Nashville?
Yes. Aquarium Restaurant, Uncle Bud’s Catfish Shack, and Voodoo Gumbo all deliver relaxed settings, generous portions, and welcoming service that suit families well.