Seafood in Temple, TX isn’t just about filling a basket with fried shrimp and calling it a day. The city is quietly brimming with spots that know how to put genuinely flavorful dishes on the table, whether you’re hungry for old-school Gulf Coast fare, bold spices, or even a plate that wears its global influence on its sleeve. It’s the kind of place where you might find yourself sipping iced tea in a cozy family-run eatery one night and dipping into refined flavors the next, never bored and rarely disappointed.
From years of tastings and local chats, I’ve come to know the hidden gems and the reliable classics. If you’re curious what spot deserves your craving, this guide brings together the best seafood experiences Temple has to offer. Each place here has something worth seeking out, and you don’t have to wade through lukewarm reviews or settle for flavorless fish to find the right plate. Craving fresh catfish? After the perfect po’ boy? Or maybe you’re in the mood for a more upscale seafood night? Keep reading—Temple’s best catches await.
1. The Catch
The Catch has an easygoing vibe but takes its seafood seriously. Fresh catfish and plump shrimp get the spotlight here, battered and fried just right—never greasy, always crisp. I remember my first visit: sitting down with a basket of catfish and hush puppies, I realized instantly why locals keep coming back.
You’ll spot families and solo diners alike, everyone tucking into generous platters. The crawfish étouffée is a favorite for anyone who enjoys a touch of Cajun flavor, while the grilled fish plates show off the kitchen’s lighter side. Their po’ boys, stacked with tender seafood, make lunch anything but boring.
For classic comfort with a Gulf Coast kick, this spot rarely misses. The value and quality here aren’t easy to top in Temple.
2. The Po-Boy Shoppe
The Po-Boy Shoppe feels like a bite of New Orleans right in Temple. Bread is king here—soft on the inside, with just enough crunch, shipped straight from Gambino’s. The first time I tried their shrimp po’ boy, the blend of Cajun spice and freshness made me want to order another round, just because I could.
This place isn’t shy with flavor. The seafood baskets, packed with golden shrimp and flaky fish, are a local hit. Their gumbo and jambalaya also have loyal fans, each spoonful carrying a bit of NOLA warmth.
If you want a classic Temple seafood experience, order the catfish po’ boy or a basket of fried shrimp. You get the right mix of crunch and tender seafood every time. The friendly staff and laid-back atmosphere round out an experience that’s both authentic and satisfying.
3. Thai Cafe
Thai Cafe brings a subtle twist to Temple’s seafood scene. The Tom Yum soup, brimming with shrimp and zesty broth, is a bowl that lingers in memory long after your meal ends. The atmosphere is calm but never stuffy, making it easy to settle in and savor every bite.
One visit left me hooked on their seafood pad thai. Each bite offered just the right mix of tender noodles, fresh vegetables, and lightly cooked seafood. Their menu caters equally well to those seeking bold heat or a milder, aromatic dish.
Seafood lovers can’t go wrong with the basil scallop stir-fry or spicy garlic shrimp. The flavors here are bright, balanced, and always feel crafted with care. Thai Cafe is where you go when you want a change from classic fried fish but still crave seafood that stands out.
4. Mario’s Seafood
Mario’s Seafood combines a laid-back sports bar setting with unexpectedly polished seafood platters. The atmosphere is lively, perfect for groups or a casual dinner with friends. On my last visit, the roar of a game mixed with the clatter of sizzling platters felt unmistakably local.
Mario’s grilled fish tacos are a personal favorite—fresh, light, and never overdone. Their platters often feature catfish, shrimp, or tilapia, each cooked to a golden finish and paired with crisp sides.
For something different, try their garlic butter shrimp or seafood fried rice. Every dish reflects a balance of generous portions and clarity of flavor. If you want familiar comfort food with just a hint of extra flair, Mario’s is an easy pick among Temple’s seafood offerings.
5. Cheeves Bros Steak House
Cheeves Bros Steak House feels polished but never uptight. It’s where you can swap the usual fried fare for something a bit more refined without losing flavor. I once started a meal with their lump crab cake and found it packed with more seafood than filler, which set the tone for the evening.
Their sesame-seared tuna and Gulf red snapper are both highlights—fresh, handled with care, and plated beautifully. Even amid the steakhouse vibe, seafood gets its due.
If you’re up for a splurge, try the Chilean sea bass. It’s buttery and pristine, worth a slow savor. Cheeves Bros stands out for those looking to make a regular night feel like an occasion, while still keeping the focus on quality seafood.
6. Long John Silver’s
Long John Silver’s offers a fast and familiar option when you’re craving seafood without any fuss. The menu focuses on wild-caught options like Alaska pollock and North Pacific cod, keeping it classic and reliable. On days when a laid-back seafood lunch hits the spot, I find myself reaching for their value combos.
The battered fish and crispy fries are the main draw, with a golden crunch that’s consistently satisfying. Hush puppies on the side add a dash of nostalgia to every order.
If you’re in Temple and want quick seafood that never tries too hard, Long John Silver’s is a solid pick. The three-piece fish meal and the grilled Alaska salmon are good places to start, blending speed with simple, steady flavor.
7. La Riv Italian Kitchen & Bar
La Riv Italian Kitchen & Bar brings coastal Italian flair to Temple, pairing house-made pastas with fresh seafood. The open, wood-fired kitchen feels inviting and a little special. One meal here introduced me to their shrimp linguine, where each bite was brightened by lemon and perfect al dente noodles.
The calamari here is crisp and delicate, truly a cut above most local spots. For something comforting, their seafood risotto is rich without being heavy, showcasing both skill and fresh ingredients.
Whether you’re stopping in for a casual dinner or a weekend get-together, La Riv’s seafood pasta dishes stand out for their balance of classic technique and bold flavor. The vibe is never rushed, so every meal feels like an unrushed treat.
8. Cajun Invasion
(254) 239-5005Call
Cajun Invasion offers a blend of Southern spice and Vietnamese comfort in a casual, friendly space. The menu pivots between fiery Cajun seafood boils and steaming bowls of pho, which is both surprising and deeply satisfying. My first visit paired crab legs with a bowl of seafood pho, a combination that quickly won me over.
The garlic butter shrimp and spicy crawfish boils are standouts here. Both dishes come packed with flavor and just the right heat, tossed in sauces that beg to be sopped up with rice or bread.
If you’re torn between Southeast Asian and Southern cravings, Cajun Invasion makes choosing easy—just order both. It’s an experience that’s bold, fun, and totally unique in Temple.
9. The Grand Reserve Seniors Temple Community
(254) 771-2880Call
The Grand Reserve Seniors Temple Community is much more than a residential spot—it’s also quietly known for its well-crafted dining, especially when it comes to seafood. The atmosphere feels relaxed and neighborly, which always makes for an enjoyable meal. I once joined a friend for lunch and found the seafood surprisingly good, with clear attention to freshness and classic flavor.
Look for their grilled fish options or shrimp salads. Both show a touch of home-style comfort while still feeling fresh and light. Here, dishes are made with care and aimed at pleasing a wide range of palates.
If you want a taste of classic, not-too-fancy seafood in a welcoming spot, this community kitchen delivers. It’s an unexpected find outside the usual restaurant circuit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best seafood restaurants in Temple, TX?
Some local favorites include The Catch, The Po-Boy Shoppe, and Mario’s Seafood. Each offers a unique approach, from crispy catfish and po’ boys to casual Cajun classics.
Are there any places to get fresh, grilled seafood in Temple?
Yes, Cheeves Bros Steak House and La Riv Italian Kitchen & Bar both prepare grilled fish and refined seafood dishes for those looking beyond fried options. You’ll also find lighter grilled plates at The Catch and The Grand Reserve Seniors Community.
Can I find seafood with Cajun or Asian flavors in Temple?
Definitely. The Po-Boy Shoppe delivers authentic Cajun flair, while Cajun Invasion blends Southern spice with Vietnamese noodle bowls like seafood pho.
Which seafood spots offer takeout or delivery?
Most seafood restaurants in Temple, including Mario’s Seafood, The Catch, Long John Silver’s, and Thai Cafe, have takeout, and several offer delivery through local platforms.
Are there vegetarian-friendly options at seafood restaurants?
Many seafood spots such as Thai Cafe and La Riv Italian Kitchen & Bar offer vegetarian and even vegan menu items, so there’s something for everyone.