Finding the best seafood in Oakland, CA is its own adventure. Oakland never settles for the ordinary. Whether you fancy spicy Cajun crab, crave classic fish and chips, or want a plateful of briny oysters as fresh as the morning fog, this city delivers. My last stroll around Jack London Square ended with a forkful of perfectly grilled snapper and a mental note: Oakland’s kitchens know what they’re doing.
The city’s seafood scene is a blend of old-school staples and inventive newcomers, each with its own story and flavor. I’ve enjoyed chasing down hidden favorites and comparing notes with locals who swear by their top spots. If you want seafood that makes you pause after the first bite, you’re in the right place. This round-up covers a range of options, from bustling waterfront institutions to unassuming neighborhood gems, so you can easily decide where to start your own taste test.
Where to find the best seafood in Oakland, CA
Here are some of the top spots to find the best seafood in Oakland, CA:
- Lake Chalet
- Scott’s Seafood Jack London Square
- 1 Seafood & Chicken Restaurant
- Queens Cajun Seafood
- alaMar Kitchen
- Scotts Pavillon
- Sweetfingers Jamaican Restaurant and Bar
- Scott’s Seafood Restaurant
- A & B Seafood
- Norcal Seafood Inc
1. Lake Chalet
Lake Chalet sits right on Lake Merritt and turns seafood dining into a visual treat. There’s something about the sunlight glinting off the water while you dig into fresh catch that lifts the whole experience. On my last visit, the crab cakes tasted as if the ocean had sent them over herself—crispy outside, tender center, and plenty of flavor.
The menu leans toward Californian flavors, with a heavy nod to what’s fresh and local. The grilled fish tacos are light, zesty, and wildly popular for a reason. If you’re up for sharing, the shrimp ceviche arrives bursting with citrus and just the right amount of heat.
Lake Chalet is more than its lakeside scenery. From the rotating beer selection brewed in-house to lively weekend music, it brings the best of Oakland together on a plate and in a glass.
2. Scott’s Seafood Jack London Square
Scott’s Seafood Jack London Square is classic Oakland: polished, enduring, and always bustling. I’ve found myself there for celebrations and casual afternoons alike. The waterfront view is a bonus, but it’s the seafood that keeps drawing me back.
The restaurant brings California sensibility to its menu, meaning dishes arrive both fresh and fuss-free. The sea bass is a showstopper—moist, flaky, and simply dressed to let the quality shine. Another highlight is the Dungeness crab salad, which balances sweet crab with crisp produce.
Servers are quick with suggestions, and timing always feels just right. Scott’s is the kind of place that never needs to shout. Every meal here feels thoughtfully prepared, and you’ll taste the difference in every bite.
3. 1 Seafood & Chicken Restaurant
1 Seafood & Chicken Restaurant is what locals call a true neighborhood staple. It’s a place where no one stands on ceremony—just good food and plenty of it. My most recent visit had me splitting a generous platter of fried catfish and shrimp that was crisp, golden, and piping hot.
The portions here don’t skimp, and the seafood keeps diners coming back. The fish sandwiches are a favorite, packed with flavor and best paired with a side of fries. Everything arrives fast, perfect for a quick meal that never feels skimpy on quality.
It’s the reliability that stands out. When you want seafood in Oakland without the fuss, this spot delivers every single time.
4. Queens Cajun Seafood
(510) 328-1458Call
Queens Cajun Seafood blends Southern charm with Oakland energy in the best possible way. The ambiance is no-fuss—just tables packed with diners rolling up their sleeves and digging in. I still remember tackling their spicy crawfish boil, each bite hitting the sweet spot between savory and fiery.
This place is known for its bold flavors and rich sauces. The seafood combo bags deliver big on flavor, packed with shrimp, crab, and corn that soak up all those Cajun spices. Every bite guarantees a satisfying mess—so grab extra napkins.
If you’re craving heat and heaps of seafood, your search should start here. Queens Cajun Seafood makes every meal feel like a celebration.
5. alaMar Kitchen
alaMar Kitchen is where Oakland’s inventive spirit meets bold seafood flavors. It’s quick and lively, with the kind of menu that dares you to try something new. I was hooked from my first taste of their Peel n Eat Gulf Shrimp drenched in signature romesco sauce—smoky, sweet, and just tangy enough.
This spot stands out for its commitment to sustainable seafood. The poke bar lets you build your own bowl, each scoop fresh and bright. For fans of a good seafood boil, alaMar’s combinations layer spices and sauces for pure comfort in a bowl.
Whether you’re catching up with friends or grabbing a quick dinner, alaMar brings personality and serious flavor to every plate.
6. Scotts Pavillon
Scotts Pavillon in Jack London Square offers an atmosphere that feels both timeless and special-occasion worthy. The open views of the waterfront add a calm, welcoming energy that always makes lingering over seafood easy. The last time I dined here, I noticed everyone—from couples to large families—looked like they’d planned their whole day around this meal.
The menu leans on tradition but with finesse. I’d point anyone toward the halibut, always cooked just right and served with seasonal accompaniments that don’t get in the way of the fish. The prawn cocktail is a crowd-pleaser, loaded with zesty sauce and impossibly fresh prawns.
Consistent quality and thoughtful service mark every visit. It’s clear Scotts Pavillon is a cornerstone of Oakland’s seafood scene, and each plate speaks for itself.
7. Sweetfingers Jamaican Restaurant and Bar
Sweetfingers Jamaican Restaurant and Bar instantly grabs your attention with the aroma of bold spices drifting from the kitchen. Every visit feels like a mini-vacation to the Caribbean, thanks to a menu that’s as vibrant as the decor. One bite of their escovitch fish—crisp, tangy, sweet, and spiced just right—had me wishing I’d ordered a second serving.
The seafood here carries that unmistakable Jamaican twist. The curried shrimp is a must: rich, creamy, and loaded with complex layers of flavor. Each dish highlights how Caribbean traditions and fresh, local ingredients play off each other in perfect harmony.
Service at Sweetfingers feels personal and warm, with staff happy to guide you to something new if you’re feeling adventurous. It’s a genuine, flavorful standout in Oakland’s seafood landscape.
8. Scott’s Seafood Restaurant
Scott’s Seafood Restaurant is the sort of place that lets the ingredients take the spotlight. The vibe is polished but unpretentious, with staff who know their menu and always have a recommendation at the ready. On my last stop, I couldn’t get enough of the grilled salmon—tender, flaky, and resting on a simple bed of seasonal vegetables.
The kitchen’s focus on freshness pays off. Dishes like the prawn cocktail and halibut show off the clean, classic flavors that define this spot. Seafood here tastes as if it’s headed to the table straight from the dock.
Consistent quality and relaxed elegance make Scott’s a favorite for both weekday lunches and special occasions. Every plate showcases Oakland’s love for good seafood done right.
9. A & B Seafood
(510) 834-8898Call
A & B Seafood sits quietly on Franklin Street, but inside, it buzzes with loyal customers and the scent of sizzling fish. It’s a straightforward, no-frills spot, yet every dish feels dialed in for flavor and freshness. My go-to order? The fried snapper, always perfectly cooked and served piping hot.
This place is known for delivering hearty portions and reliable quality. The grilled shrimp plate is another standout—well-seasoned, juicy, and great with a squeeze of lemon. Everything lands on the table fast, making it ideal for both a quick bite or a leisurely lunch.
If you’re craving classic seafood, A & B Seafood makes the case for simplicity done exceptionally well in Oakland.
10. Norcal Seafood Inc
(510) 532-7823Call
Norcal Seafood Inc is one of those hidden gems that Oakland regulars keep in their back pockets. Tucked away on 7th Street, the vibe is no-nonsense and all about the food. I dropped in for a quick lunch, and the grilled white fish blew me away—flaky, moist, and perfectly seasoned with a hint of citrus.
The menu is rich with variety, offering something for every seafood lover. People rave about the shrimp stir-fry—a dish known for plump, flavorful shrimp tossed with vegetables in a light, savory sauce. Everything feels made to order, which is rare at this price point.
Norcal Seafood Inc’s straightforward approach lets great seafood shine, and that’s what keeps folks coming back.
More Things to Try in Oakland, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
What seafood dishes is Oakland famous for?
Oakland is known for Dungeness crab, fresh oysters, seafood boils, and classic fried fish plates. Many local spots put their own spin on California-style fish tacos and poke bowls.
Are there good halal seafood options in Oakland?
Some restaurants offer halal-friendly seafood dishes, but it’s always best to call ahead and confirm with the kitchen. Most places have vegetarian sides for added flexibility.
Which Oakland neighborhood has the best seafood restaurants?
Jack London Square is packed with popular seafood restaurants, but you’ll also find hidden gems in Chinatown, the Lakeside district, and along International Blvd.
How fresh is the seafood in Oakland restaurants?
Many places source their seafood daily from local distributors, so you can expect dishes that highlight local catch at its best. Look for menus that note “seasonal” or “fresh catch.”
Can I find good seafood on a budget in Oakland?
Absolutely. There are plenty of family-run seafood grills and takeout spots where you can grab fresh fried fish or shrimp without paying fine-dining prices.