Craving seafood in Reno? You’re not alone. Finding a place that serves fresh, flavor-packed catches in the middle of Nevada might sound like a gamble, but the city proves it can play with the best. My own first Reno seafood adventure knocked out every expectation. Picture a plate of oysters glistening under neon casino lights and the gentle clatter of sushi knives, transforming an ordinary weeknight into a small celebration.
This guide is built for everyone looking for the best seafood in Reno, whether you’re after a casual po’ boy or an elegant, seared salmon. Each spot has been tried, tasted, and picked for its standout quality, creative edge, or ability to surprise. If you’re ready to discover where the locals go and why these kitchens have loyal followings, you’re in the right place. Pull up a seat; your next seafood craving is about to get answered.
Where to find the best seafood in Reno, NV
Here are some of the top spots to find the best seafood in Reno, NV:
- Oyster & Sushi Bar on the Sky Terrace
- Oceano
- Toucan Charlie’s Buffet & Grille
- Crawfish Asian Cuisine
- Chickie’s & Pete’s
- Smee’s Alaskan Fish Bar
- Red Lobster
- Sushi Pier
- Atlantis Steakhouse
- EL PESCADOR
1. Oyster & Sushi Bar on the Sky Terrace
Spotting the sleek Sky Terrace from across the casino floor, I was instantly curious. The Oyster & Sushi Bar on the Sky Terrace lives up to every bit of its buzz. High above the city, sunlight spills through glass walls while skilled chefs create rolls and plate fresh oysters with precision.
What makes this place shine? There’s a jaw-dropping variety—over 50 sushi options—and the seafood is always vibrant and clean-tasting. The all-you-can-eat menu makes it easy to try a bit of everything, from plump nigiri to sweet, briny oysters.
Order the chef’s selection nigiri for a true taste of the kitchen’s finesse. Pair it with a bowl of spicy miso soup for comfort and balance. Even on a busy night, the Sky Terrace feels like your own secret seafood haven.
2. Oceano
Stepping into Oceano feels a bit like being swept into an elegant underwater escape. The calming blues, ocean visuals, and gentle lighting set the mood. From my first visit, I noticed the staff’s confidence in recommending menu favorites—always a good sign.
Oceano is known for its committed sourcing and freshness. If you’re craving variety, the menu delivers everything from sushi to chowder, each dish rooted in the chef’s attention to detail. It’s a place where seafood is elevated without losing its heart.
Try the salmon sashimi, expertly sliced and meltingly tender. The seafood cioppino also deserves attention—packed with the catch of the day in a rich, savory broth. Every meal feels a little special here.
3. Toucan Charlie’s Buffet & Grille
Finding a spot that pleases everyone is tough, unless it’s Toucan Charlie’s Buffet & Grille. This buffet reinvents the concept, offering a spread that’s as visually appealing as it is satisfying. I once got lost (very happily) browsing the live action seafood stations, each brimming with color and energy.
What really puts Toucan Charlie’s ahead is the Sea Fare station. It’s a seafood lover’s playground, from delicate shrimp to flaky fish, all set up fresh right in front of you. The staff keeps things moving and lively, so even when it’s busy, you’re never left waiting too long.
Order a made-to-order seafood stir fry or the classic steamed crab legs. They capture the buffet’s playful, high-quality approach and let you customize your meal. Finish with a scoop of their house-made gelato for a complete experience.
4. Crawfish Asian Cuisine
Crawfish Asian Cuisine is where Reno’s seafood scene gets playful with bold flavors. My first dinner there was full of surprises—the menu goes far beyond your standard seafood choices, mixing classic Asian spices with ultra-fresh ingredients.
This spot shines for its generous crawfish boils and creative approach to seasoning. Every table seems to be sharing platters piled high, the air fragrant with garlic and herbs. Their staff is warm and always ready to suggest something you’ll love.
Order the garlic butter crawfish for finger-licking flavor, or choose the seafood hot pot if you’re in a sharing mood. Both highlight Crawfish Asian Cuisine’s knack for turning seafood into a group event with real personality.
5. Chickie’s & Pete’s
For seafood with a side of high-energy sports, Chickie’s & Pete’s is a fun detour from the typical Reno lineup. My visit lined up with a buzzy game night, and the atmosphere was contagious—big screens, laughter, and plenty of seafood dishes to keep the table happy.
This spot makes its mark with Crabfries® and clever seafood twists on bar classics. The kitchen handles comfort food with skill, without overcomplicating anything. Everything feels approachable, yet better than what you might expect from a standard sports bar.
Order the classic Crabfries® with crab seasoning for the signature experience, or the seafood basket for shareable bites. Both bring Chickie’s & Pete’s playful, crowd-pleasing spirit straight to your plate.
6. Smee’s Alaskan Fish Bar
Smee’s Alaskan Fish Bar sits by the river and keeps things refreshingly direct: great fish, no fuss. I stopped in after a stroll downtown and was instantly impressed by the friendly, unpretentious vibe. Owner Jon Smee’s passion for Alaskan seafood shows up in every crispy, golden bite.
The highlight here is the wild Alaskan cod, caught on Smee’s own boats and delivered fresh to Reno. The batter is light and lets the flavor of the fish do all the talking—no masking, just clean, natural taste.
Order the classic fish and chips for a taste of Smee’s signature style. The house-made tartar sauce is tangy and pairs perfectly, rounding out a meal that never disappoints.
7. Red Lobster
Sometimes you want the comfort of a familiar name, and Red Lobster doesn’t disappoint. My last visit brought the classic, welcoming bustle and the promise of reliable seafood favorites—all with the same warmth you expect.
What keeps people coming back? It’s the consistency and crowd-pleasers like their famous cheddar biscuits alongside tried-and-true seafood dishes. The casual setting and prompt service make it easy to relax and dig in.
Order the grilled salmon or the seaside shrimp trio for generous, flavorful plates that show off Red Lobster’s broad appeal. Pair your meal with fresh steamed vegetables or a light salad for a well-rounded experience that’s both hearty and satisfying.
8. Sushi Pier
Sushi Pier is an easy pick for anyone who loves sushi without the fuss. My most recent lunch there was relaxed, with friendly chefs and a stream of fresh plates arriving at the counter in quick succession.
The strength of Sushi Pier is its all-you-can-eat sushi done with care and speed. No soggy rice or tired fish here—every roll and nigiri piece tastes crisp, cool, and made to order. The atmosphere is fun but unfussy, ideal for lingering over rounds of your favorites.
Order the spicy tuna roll and the chef’s assorted nigiri for a true sampling of what they do best. Great value meets great taste, every time.
9. Atlantis Steakhouse
Atlantis Steakhouse may be known for its steaks, but seafood fans will find plenty to celebrate here. My last dinner felt every bit as special as a visit to a fine dining spot on the coast, with polished service and a setting that’s both glamorous and comfortable.
This steakhouse treats seafood with the same respect as beef. Fresh salmon, plump scallops, and expertly prepared shrimp are given center stage, each dish plated with precision and served piping hot. It’s a reflection of the kitchen’s disciplined skill and unwavering quality.
Order the seared scallops or the grilled salmon. Both dishes showcase Atlantis Steakhouse’s elevated touch and knack for coaxing out deep, pure flavors—proof you don’t have to choose between land or sea.
10. EL PESCADOR
Walking into EL PESCADOR, the energy hits you right away—bright plates, lively music, and tables full of fresh seafood with a Mexican twist. My first meal here introduced me to flavors I’d never tasted before in Reno, each dish layered with traditional spices and citrusy kick.
The specialty at EL PESCADOR is their Nayarit-style seafood. It’s the kind of place where ceviche isn’t just an appetizer, and the kitchen pays real attention to every bite. The menu brims with seafood classics done the bold, coastal Mexican way.
Order the shrimp ceviche or camarones a la diabla for a full-on flavor experience. Their vibrant sauces and careful cooking bring a unique, regional character that truly sets EL PESCADOR apart.
More Things to Try in Reno, NV
Frequently Asked Questions
What seafood is Reno known for?
While Reno isn’t coastal, the city’s top spots offer everything from fresh salmon and shrimp to creative sushi rolls and crawfish. Many restaurants import high-quality seafood daily for true freshness.
Are there all-you-can-eat seafood options in Reno?
Yes, several places—like Sushi Pier and Oyster & Sushi Bar on the Sky Terrace—offer popular all-you-can-eat sushi and seafood menus, making it easy to sample lots of dishes without breaking the bank.
Is there halal or vegetarian seafood available in Reno?
You’ll find vegetarian sushi options and plenty of places offering plant-based alternatives. For halal needs, it’s best to call ahead and ask about current offerings.
Which Reno restaurants serve local or sustainable seafood?
Restaurants such as Oceano focus on sourcing sustainable ingredients. Ask your server for details on the day’s sustainable catches or chef specials.
What’s the best seafood dish to try if I’m new to Reno?
Start with the house specials: seared salmon at Atlantis Steakhouse, garlic butter crawfish at Crawfish Asian Cuisine, or shrimp ceviche at EL PESCADOR. Each dish highlights the restaurant’s unique style.