If you’re in Orlando and your mind drifts to the ocean, you don’t have to settle for a lackluster meal. Seafood runs deep across the city, stretching from quirky dockside joints to sophisticated dining rooms where each dish feels like a discovery. There’s something oddly delightful about sitting down to a plate of perfectly seasoned scallops or a mound of snow-white grouper in the heart of Central Florida, nowhere near a coast in sight.
Years back, I found myself tucked into a booth at a spot known for its fresh catches, stirring a bowl of seafood chowder that could make a person reconsider their favorite comfort food. That quest—chasing bold flavors, fresh textures, and memorable bites—turned into a personal ritual every time I set foot in Orlando. If you want to avoid the guesswork and go straight to the city’s top tables, you’re in the right place. The lineup ahead isn’t just a list—it’s the result of countless meals and honest recommendations. Spoiler: you don’t need saltwater in your backyard to discover remarkable seafood.
Where to find the best seafood in Orlando, FL
Here are some of the top spots to find the best seafood in Orlando, FL:
- Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
- Sear + Sea Woodfire Grill
- Eddie V’s Prime Seafood
- Deep Blu Seafood Grille
- The Boathouse
- Ocean Prime
- Todd English’s Bluezoo
- Red Lobster
- Big Fin Seafood Kitchen
- Bonefish Grill
1. Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. brings movie nostalgia to Universal CityWalk, but it’s not just a tourist stop. The shrimp here are the kind you dream about after a long day at the theme parks—tender, perfectly spiced, and always served with a side of fun. On my last visit, the server tossed Forrest Gump trivia my way as I tucked into a steaming plate of Shrimp New Orleans, all buttery garlic and a whisper of heat.
Seafood shines across the menu. Try the Cajun spiced peel-and-eat shrimp for a flavor kick, or go all-in with the shrimp sampler for a playful mix. The atmosphere is light, the staff stays in character, and the plates rarely disappoint. Bubba Gump is a go-to for families or anyone chasing bright, unmistakably Southern flavors.
2. Sear + Sea Woodfire Grill
Sear + Sea Woodfire Grill doesn’t blend into the crowd. Set inside the JW Marriott at Bonnet Creek, the restaurant feels like a secret escape from Orlando’s bustle. The air is rich with the scent of the wood-fired grill, where chefs coax bold flavors from even the simplest ingredients. My own evening there started with charred octopus—tender, smoky, and dressed with a citrus glaze that set the tone for the night.
Seafood steals the spotlight here, and the snapper is a standout. Roasted whole, it arrives glistening and aromatic, with crisp skin that gives way to buttery, delicate flesh. For something lighter, the shrimp and sea scallops deliver freshness and just enough char. Sear + Sea feels refined without ever being stuffy, and the quality never wavers.
3. Eddie V’s Prime Seafood
Eddie V’s Prime Seafood always feels like the right answer when only the best will do. The atmosphere blends elegance with a splash of old-school glamour, complete with live jazz in the V Lounge. From the moment you step in, it’s clear this place obsesses over detail, down to each swirl in a bowl of lobster bisque.
The seafood is flown in daily, which you’ll notice in every bite. The oysters arrive cold and briny, jeweled on a bed of ice, and the Chilean sea bass is always flaky, finished with a light soy broth and snap peas. Eddie V’s stands out by making every dish feel like an occasion. Make time for dessert, but linger over the main course as long as you can.
4. Deep Blu Seafood Grille
+1 407-390-2420
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Deep Blu Seafood Grille takes its name seriously, creating a space where everything—from the lighting to the menu—leans into understated coastal luxury. Set inside Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort, the setting alone makes everyday stress float away. On my visit, the staff’s attention to detail hit the right note, anticipating needs before I even asked.
The sushi rolls glide out of the kitchen fresh and beautifully arranged, each one a small masterpiece. Order the sea bass for a real treat—it’s pan-roasted and served with seasonal vegetables, silky and full of flavor. Deep Blu manages to feel special without going over the top. If you like seafood that lets quality ingredients shine, this spot will stick in your memory.
5. The Boathouse
The Boathouse at Disney Springs goes beyond typical theme park fare. Its waterfront location gives a lively, sun-soaked vibe, perfect for unwinding after a long day. Last time I dropped in, I watched seaplanes taxi by as I dove into a platter of hand-selected oysters—fresh, briny, and full of character.
The menu handles seafood with a classic touch. The Maine lobster roll stands out, stuffed with sweet lobster and minimal filler, while the grouper sauté is a reliable favorite, buttery and tender. The Boathouse pulls you in with its laid-back atmosphere and leaves you thinking about your meal long after you leave. Bonus if you snag a waterside table; the sunset views alone are worth lingering over.
6. Ocean Prime
Ocean Prime feels like the kind of place where big moments unfold: proposals, deals, and laughter over well-crafted cocktails. The atmosphere strikes a balance between modern chic and warmth, making you want to linger. I found myself drawn in by the hum of conversation and the steady rhythm of attentive service.
The seafood selection is sharp and seasonal. The Chilean sea bass arrives soft and buttery, nestled atop a bed of ginger soy glaze and shiitake mushrooms. The sushi here is nothing to skip; each roll is precise and packed with vibrant flavors. Ocean Prime puts the spotlight on quality, elevating simple ingredients with technique and finesse. If you want seafood with a side of sophistication, this is your stop.
7. Todd English’s Bluezoo
Todd English’s Bluezoo wraps fine dining in an underwater dreamscape, making every visit feel just a bit surreal. The setting alone—sleek, blue-lit, and whimsically sophisticated—hints at the culinary creativity ahead. On my first trip, I found myself lost in both the décor and a plate of perfectly seared sea scallops that tasted as fresh as anything near the coast.
The menu fuses coastal flavors with global touches. Try the “simply fish,” which highlights the best catch of the day without fuss, or venture into the miso-glazed sea bass—tender and gently sweet with a caramelized crust. Bluezoo excels at letting top-tier ingredients shine while adding just enough flair. It’s an experience you’ll want to savor slowly.
8. Red Lobster
Red Lobster on International Drive is a classic for a reason. It delivers crowd-pleasing seafood in a familiar, unfussy way, making it an easy choice for families and groups. The last visit made me appreciate the consistency—friendly greetings at the door, warm Cheddar Bay Biscuits, and a menu that stays true to its roots.
The Ultimate Feast is a must if you want to sample a bit of everything, from tender crab legs to soft shrimp scampi, all arranged just-so. For a lighter option, the grilled salmon is reliably juicy and well-seasoned. Red Lobster stands out by being a dependable mainstay—no surprises, just classic seafood done right. Perfect for when you crave comfort and familiarity.
9. Big Fin Seafood Kitchen
Big Fin Seafood Kitchen isn’t just another stop on Restaurant Row—it’s a lively spot where locals and visitors share stories over stellar seafood. The vibe strikes a refreshing balance: upscale enough for celebrations, relaxed enough for a spontaneous dinner. My most memorable moment there involved an open-air patio table, a warm breeze, and a platter overflowing with expertly prepared shellfish.
Try their signature blackened grouper or the colossal fried shrimp. Both show off Big Fin’s ability to lean into bold flavors without overpowering the freshness. The daily chef’s specials often deliver pleasant surprises, especially when softshell crab or seasonal catch makes an appearance. This is a place where passion for seafood shines through, bite after bite, no matter what you order.
10. Bonefish Grill
Bonefish Grill on Central Florida Parkway leans hard into the art of wood grilling. The aroma hits you before the menu does, promising bold flavors and just the right amount of char. I remember settling into a cozy booth after a day at SeaWorld—nothing cuts through long lines and theme park chaos like a tender fillet of fish paired with house-made citrus herb sauce.
The Bang Bang Shrimp wins fans for its crispy, lightly spicy kick, and the wood-grilled Chilean sea bass is a showstopper: flaky, lush, and brightened by a lemon butter drizzle. Service is quick, and the atmosphere feels relaxed but polished. Bonefish is the type of place where you can rediscover favorites or fall for something new—all under one roof.
More Things to Try in Orlando, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
What seafood is Orlando known for?
Orlando’s top seafood spots focus on fresh fish, shrimp, oysters, and grouper, with menus often changing seasonally. Grouper sandwiches and shrimp dishes stand out as local favorites.
Are there halal seafood options in Orlando?
Yes, several Orlando restaurants offer seafood that aligns with halal dietary preferences, especially at international or Mediterranean spots. Always confirm with the restaurant for full details.
Which seafood restaurants in Orlando are best for families?
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., Red Lobster, and The Boathouse are excellent choices. These places provide kid-friendly menus and casual atmospheres, making them easy picks for groups with kids.
What seafood dishes should I try in Orlando?
Classic picks include blackened grouper, seafood paella, peel-and-eat shrimp, crab legs, and lobster rolls. Local chefs often add a Florida twist with citrus accents or seasonal herbs.
Is fresh seafood available in a landlocked city like Orlando?
Absolutely. Many restaurants fly in fresh seafood daily from coasts around the country and beyond, so quality is not sacrificed. Some even offer daily specials based on what just arrived.