Finding top-notch seafood in Utica, NY, isn’t as difficult as you might expect—not if you know where to look. The city’s culinary scene hides a few unexpected gems, from cozy family-run spots to sophisticated downtown venues. Over the years, I’ve worked my way through the city’s plates: crisp fish fries, mountain-high shrimp platters, and that first briny slurp from a fresh oyster. There’s a special satisfaction in chasing down the perfect crab cake or sampling chowder so smooth it could win over any skeptic.
If you’re after the freshest catch or hoping for a new weekday tradition, you’re in the right place. This guide isn’t just a list; it’s a local’s treasure map to signature dishes, warm service, and seaside flavors—even miles from the shore. With each bite, you’ll see why eating seafood in Utica is something to linger over. Ready to find your new favorite spot? Let’s dive in.
Where to find the best seafood in Utica, NY
Here are some of the top spots to find the best seafood in Utica, NY:
- Ocean Blue Restaurant and Oyster Bar
- Ocean Blue Restaurant & Oyster Bar
- Premier Steak & Seafood
- Beijing House
- Red Lobster
- Brass Tack Restaurant
- Stan’s Sea Food Inc
- Fat Cats Herkimer
- Fat Cat’s Fish Fry
- Chowder House
1. Ocean Blue Restaurant and Oyster Bar
Ocean Blue Restaurant and Oyster Bar delivers a fresh take on dining in Utica. When you step in, the sweeping city views and buzzing open kitchen set the mood for something memorable. The sleek black-and-white décor hints at style, but the real draw is the energy from the chefs and servers who seem to thrive on hospitality.
The menu feels ocean-inspired without being fussy. Their oysters—delivered chilled and shimmering—are a must for anyone craving the taste of the sea. If you prefer something heartier, the pan-seared scallops land perfectly every time, tender and rich.
What sets Ocean Blue apart is its commitment to both flavor and experience. Every plate reflects thoughtful sourcing and just a touch of playful creativity. It’s where you linger a little longer over every bite.
2. Ocean Blue Restaurant & Oyster Bar
Ocean Blue Restaurant & Oyster Bar brings a vibrant twist to Utica’s seafood scene. The panoramic city views and lively ambiance make every visit feel like a special occasion without the stuffiness. The copper bar and open kitchen draw you in, and the staff carries the same welcoming spirit from lunch to late-night bites.
From my own evenings here, I’ve noticed the kitchen’s knack for balancing classic seafood favorites with modern flair. The lobster roll is what I keep coming back for—lightly dressed and brimming with sweet, fresh lobster. The grilled shrimp skewers shine too, perfectly seasoned and elegantly plated.
At Ocean Blue, seafood is more than a dish; it’s an experience, shaped by high standards and a touch of fun. Every meal captures what dining in Utica should feel like.
3. Premier Steak & Seafood
Premier Steak & Seafood knows how to impress with both surf and turf. The setting is low-key but welcoming, always filled with the hum of regulars and newcomers enjoying their meals. Service here is attentive and pace is unhurried, making every visit feel relaxed.
Seafood lovers will find plenty to savor. The broiled haddock arrives flaky and fresh—perfect with a squeeze of lemon. Another standout is the shrimp scampi: garlicky, buttery, and not shy with flavor.
If you enjoy variety, try their catch-of-the-day specials, which showcase the kitchen’s flexibility and commitment to quality. Premier makes seafood simple, satisfying, and memorable in Utica.
4. Beijing House
Beijing House adds a flavorful twist to Utica’s seafood options with its Chinese-inspired menu. The atmosphere is welcoming, and the staff always remembers a familiar face. Portions here lean generous, so expect to leave full and happy.
The salt and pepper shrimp stand out—lightly battered, perfectly crisp, and bursting with bold flavors. I’ve also become a fan of their steamed fish, always tender and subtly seasoned.
If you’re craving seafood with a side of spice, try their Szechuan-style fish dishes. Each dish highlights Beijing House’s ability to blend freshness with just the right touch of heat and seasoning. For something comforting and quick, their seafood noodle soup is a go-to option for chilly Utica days.
5. Red Lobster
Red Lobster in New Hartford delivers all the classic seafood comforts you’d expect. It’s a go-to spot for both families and anyone chasing a little nostalgia with their meal. The dining room always has a steady buzz, and the servers keep things moving with friendly efficiency.
Their shrimp dishes are a reliable favorite—garlic shrimp scampi and Walt’s Favorite Shrimp each hit a satisfying balance of flavor and texture. The wood-grilled salmon is another solid choice, served moist and full of smoky flavor.
One reason Red Lobster stands out is the consistency. Whether you want a seafood feast or just crave a bowl of clam chowder, you know exactly what you’ll get every time at this spot.
6. Brass Tack Restaurant
Brass Tack Restaurant exudes hometown warmth from the moment you walk in. This family-owned spot specializes in homemade dishes that reflect both Italian flair and American comfort. The atmosphere is cozy, with diners chatting over hearty meals and the staff treating you like a regular even on your first visit.
Seafood fans should try the baked haddock, known for its flaky texture and savory seasoning. The shrimp alfredo is another highlight, blending creamy sauce with plump, perfectly cooked shrimp.
What makes Brass Tack shine is the balance of friendliness and a menu that tastes homemade. They prove you don’t have to be on the coast to enjoy unfussy, well-prepared seafood.
7. Stan’s Sea Food Inc
Stan’s Sea Food Inc is where fresh meets fast in the Mohawk Valley. This spot offers a straightforward, no-frills atmosphere, letting the seafood speak for itself. It’s the kind of place locals return to again and again, craving consistency and freshness at a fair price.
The fried fish sandwich is legendary—golden, crisp, and piled high on a soft roll. For a lighter option, their broiled fish maintains delicate flavor and tenderness without heavy breading.
Stan’s stands out for its old-school charm and devotion to quality seafood. Whether you want takeout or a quick seat-in meal, it’s a reliable pick for a classic Utica fish fry experience.
8. Fat Cats Herkimer
Fat Cats Herkimer has a reputation for serving up generous portions with good old-fashioned hospitality. This spot combines the feel of a neighborhood hangout with a focus on freshness that’s hard to beat. There’s a relaxed, unfussy vibe that makes it easy to settle in and stay awhile.
Their fried fish platter comes out hot, crisp, and with just the right amount of seasoning. If you’re ordering for a group, the seafood combo platter is a solid bet—nothing fancy, just fresh and perfectly cooked bites.
Fat Cats Herkimer keeps things simple and consistent. It’s the sort of place where you leave with both your appetite and your wallet satisfied, making it a standout for casual seafood in the Utica area.
9. Fat Cat’s Fish Fry
Fat Cat’s Fish Fry is the spot you think of when that craving for classic fried seafood hits. It’s friendly, affordable, and absolutely not shy about portion sizes. The eatery doesn’t fuss with trends—it sticks to what works, serving up tried-and-true dishes that people come back for.
The haddock fish fry is the signature move here: crisp batter, flaky inside, and always freshly cooked to order. Bonus points if you pair it with a side of their golden fries, which never fail to hit the mark.
This place is ideal if you want straightforward seafood that reminds you of family gatherings or summer fairs. Fat Cat’s Fish Fry does exactly what its name promises—no need to overthink it.
10. Chowder House
Chowder House in New York Mills may have a casual setting, but the food is thoughtfully crafted and full of comfort. The space has a welcoming charm—regulars chat with staff and newcomers find it easy to feel right at home.
The standout here is, without doubt, the homemade chowder. Each spoonful is hearty, creamy, and brimming with tender seafood. Their beer-battered fish, flaky and golden, is another menu highlight that regulars swear by.
What keeps me coming back is the attention to detail and the warm atmosphere that makes any meal linger just a bit longer. For a taste of classic seafood, served with a side of local hospitality, Chowder House is a top pick near Utica.
More Things to Try in Utica, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best seafood restaurants in Utica, NY?
Some of Utica’s top picks include Ocean Blue Restaurant & Oyster Bar, Chowder House, Premier Steak & Seafood, and Stan’s Sea Food Inc. Each offers a different atmosphere and signature dishes that highlight their approach to fresh seafood.
Are there any seafood spots with gluten-free or vegetarian options?
Yes, Ocean Blue Restaurant & Oyster Bar is known for being vegetarian friendly, with both gluten-free and vegan options.
What seafood dishes should I try in Utica?
Try locally loved plates like haddock fish fry, clam chowder, shrimp scampi, and fresh oysters. Many places also offer rotating specials based on the catch of the day.
Where can I get a good fish fry in Utica?
Fat Cat’s Fish Fry, Stan’s Sea Food Inc, and Chowder House are reliable choices for a classic and generous fish fry in the Utica area.
Are there family-friendly seafood restaurants in Utica?
Absolutely. Red Lobster, Chowder House, and Fat Cats Herkimer are known for relaxed atmospheres and menus that work for both adults and kids.
