Top 12 Seafood Restaurants In Boston, Massachusetts

seafood restaurants in boston
Julian
Julian 
Updated
| 3 min read

Boston might be well known for its world-renowned academic institutions and sports teams, but the food scene has been gradually gaining steam since the 1980s. With a large emphasis on seafood and dairy products, Boston has been shedding its old traditions and embracing new food trends to put itself on the US culinary map. The influence of celebrated chefs, such as Julia Child, Ming Tsai, and Barbara Lynch, have played a huge role in inspiring a rising generation of young and modern award-winning chefs. A thriving tourist destination for foodies, Boston offers a broad range of stays. From famous hotels that have graced the magazine pages to affordable vacation rentals, you’ll be spoiled for choice. During your trip to this city, you should definitely make it worth your while to taste some of its finest seafood. Check out this list of the top seafood restaurants in Boston, Massachusetts.

1. Select Oyster Bar

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

When dining at Select Oyster Bar in Boston, be sure to indulge in their delectable seafood offerings that showcase the freshest catch from New England waters. Start your culinary journey with their signature raw oysters, served on a bed of ice, allowing you to savor the ocean’s briny essence.

For a delightful appetizer, the blue prawns and Spanish octopus are a must-try. Moving on to the mains, the lobster salad is a true highlight, featuring succulent lobster meat nestled in Napa cabbage and Thai-style dressing. Complement your meal with a crisp white wine or a refreshing craft cocktail for a truly delightful experience.

Select Oyster Bar

Address: 50 Gloucester St, Boston, MA 02115, United States

Website: Select Oyster Bar

Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 11:30am - 9:30pm; Fri - Sat: 11:30am - 10:30pm

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2. Ostra

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

At Ostra, prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that celebrates the finest Mediterranean flavors. Offering delectable seafood in Downtown Boston, the restaurant showcases a menu with a tantalizing selection of seafood, sourced from pristine waters and prepared with artistic finesse.

Begin your meal with their array of raw oysters, impeccably presented on ice. For an appetizer, the lobster bisque is a velvety delight, infused with aromatic herbs and rich with the essence of the sea. Moving on to the mains, the Mediterranean sea bass, expertly grilled and adorned with citrus-infused olive oil, offers a symphony of delicate flavors. Alternatively, the pan-seared scallops served with saffron-infused risotto will leave a lasting impression.

The menu is thoughtfully complemented by an extensive wine list, featuring both local and international vintages. To conclude your dining experience, the dessert menu boasts divine options such as the chocolate hazelnut mousse cake or the refreshing lemon tart.

Ostra

Address: 1 Charles St S, Boston, MA 02116, United States

Website: Ostra

Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 5:30pm - 9pm; Fri - Sat: 5:30pm - 10pm; Sun: 5:30pm - 8:30pm

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3. The Daily Catch


This small diner has only 20 seats, so come early or be prepared to wait for a table patiently. There are many things to choose from their menu, but do consider the squid ink linguine and black pasta oglio olio if you can’t make up your mind. The best part? You get to eat your pasta straight from the cooking pan. Don’t leave any scrubs behind!

The Daily Catch

Address: 323 Hanover Street, Boston, MA 02113

Website: The Daily Catch

Opening hours: 11.00 am - 10.00 pm

Average price for two people: 11 - 30 USD

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4. Summer Shack


You’re missing out if you don’t pay a visit to the famous Summer Shack, a haven for Boston Red Sox fans and Boston Symphony patrons. The menu features traditional and modern versions of various fish and shellfish dishes. Jasper’s famous pan roasted lobster is a definite must try. They also have a good selection of white wines to go with your meal.

Summer Shack

Address: 50 Dalton St, Boston, MA 02115, USA

Website: Summer Shack

Opening hours: Mondays - Thursdays: 11.30 am - 10.00 pm | Fridays: 11.30 am - 11.00 pm | Saturdays: 11.00 am - 11.00 pm | Sundays: 11.00 am - 10.00 pm

Average price for two people: 11 - 30 USD

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Boston Tour Guide

Naim Benmayor

Naim Benmayor

As a Boston tour guide, I have the added experience of being a world traveler. For many years, I frequently visited Europe, Asia, and Latin America on business. During this time, I also organized tours of the USA, Europe and Asia for my business clients. I now bring this passion, excitement and expertise to the Boston area.By exploring the globe, I was exposed to various cultures, and this unique perspective has taught me what appeals to people when visiting a new part of the country or a new part of the world. My fluency in English and Turkish, and my advanced skills in Spanish and intermediate skills in French, also help me to service a wider range of tourists and business people.I moved to Boston, Massachusetts several years ago, and I now reside in Brookline. I have three children, so I develop my tours to accommodate families with kids, couples, and individuals who want to visit and learn about the rich history and culture of Boston. As a parent, I know that Boston is a great place for higher education, and I have knowledge of the colleges and universities in the area.I customize tours to suit the needs and preferences of my customers. Whether you want a walking tour, a riding tour, or a little of both, I can create an itinerary that showcases the best of what Boston has to offer.My one day tours are educational and entertaining, and include the history, culture, personalities, architecture and, even the shopping areas of this renowned city. At the end of the tour you will be happy and satisfied when you realize you've seen so much in just a short time.I am here to share my knowledge of Boston, Cambridge and all of New England with you, and help you to enjoy your visit so you can explore the must-see parts of this great city. I look forward to meeting you and guiding you around the city, so please send me a message if you have any questions.Thank you for reading.

5. Atlantic Fish Co


The price may be a bit on the high side, but you are almost guaranteed quality seafood with excellent customer service. This is a nice quiet and romantic location for date night. Be sure to order the restaurant’s famous clam chowder, lobster ravioli, and shrimp scampi. For dessert, you simply have to try the peppermint ice cream pie to cap off a good night’s meal.

Atlantic Fish Co

Address: 761 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02116

Website: Atlantic Fish Co

Opening hours: Daily: Mondays - Thursdays: 11.30 am - 11.00 pm | Fridays: 11.30 am - 11.30 pm | Saturdays: 11.00 am - 11.30 pm | Sundays: 11.00 am - 11.00 pm

Average price for two people: 31 - 60 USD

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6. Row 34

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account


There is no seafood place in Boston like Row 34. No one goes to this stylish restaurant without ordering their iconic Row 34 oysters! You can also try the Island Creek and Puffer oysters, which are favorites among customers. If we were to order one dish from this restaurant, it would undoubtedly be the lobster roll. Row 34 has also a warm and cozy ambiance, which is the perfect setting for couples or small intimate groups.

Row 34

Address: 383 Congress St Fort Point, MA 02210

Website:Row 34

Opening hours: Daily: Mondays - Thursdays: 11.30 am - 10.00 pm | Fridays - Saturdays: 11.30 am - 11.00 pm | Sundays: 10.30 am - 10.00 pm

Average price for two people: 31 - 60 USD

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7. The Oceanaire Seafood Room

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Now Hiring All Positions! $250 Sign On Bonus, Competitive Pay, Excellent Health Benefits, and Employee Discounts! Apply Now: http://ms.spr.ly/6185VekFx

Posted by The Oceanaire Seafood Room on Monday, April 19, 2021

If you’re thinking of coming here, we recommend dressing in smart casual attire to match the sleek ambiance. Most of the seafood here is freshly prepared and worth the price. Do try the lobster bisque for appetizers and key lime pie for dessert.

The Oceanaire Seafood Room

Address: 40 Court St, Boston, MA 02108

Website: The Oceanaire Seafood Room

Opening hours: Mondays - Thursdays: 11.30 am - 10.00 pm | Fridays: 11.30 am - 11.00 pm | Saturdays: 5.00 pm - 11.00 pm | Sundays: 5.00 pm - 9.00 pm

Average price for two people: 31 - 60 USD

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8. Legal Harborside


If you’re looking for a seafood restaurant that comes with a stunning view, this three-story restaurant located on the Boston Waterfront is perfect for all sort of occasions. Make sure to order the bacon wrapped scallops, fish and chips, and the lobster pizza. Once you’re finished with your meal, head up for drinks at the rooftop bar that overlooks the harbor. We recommend making a reservation to avoid disappointment.

Legal Harborside

Address: 270 Northern Ave, Boston, MA 02210, USA

Website: Legal Harborside

Opening hours: 11.00 am - 2.00 am

Average price for two people: 31 - 60 USD

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9. Yankee Lobster

seafood restaurants in boston | yankee lobster
Source: instagram

Aquatic cuisine dining does not have to be all fancy and formal because some of the best seafood restaurants in Boston are unassumingly casual. At the Yankee Lobster Company, you’ll find a casual and welcoming seafood spot in the Seaport area. Don’t be fooled by the long queue; it moves quite fast and you’ll be ready to order within minutes.

If you can’t decide what to order, we recommend ordering the 1.5-pound (0.68-kilogram) Maine lobster that comes with crispy fries and of course, their famed traditional lobster roll.

Yankee Lobster

Address: 300 Northern Avenue, Boston, MA

Website: Yankee Lobster

Opening hours: 11.00 am - 2.00 am

Average price for two people: 31 - 60 USD

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10. Island Creek Oyster Bar


There are many good oyster bars in Boston and we are pretty sure that Island Creek Oyster Bar is probably near the top of the list. The oysters are huge, fresh and delicious - almost as if they were just retrieved from the ocean. Though they are a bit on the pricey side (about 3 USD per oyster), they are worth a try. The lobster roe noodles and the fried oyster sliders are also customer favorites.

Island Creek Oyster Bar

Address: 500 Commonwealth Ave, Boston, MA 02215

Website: Island Creek Oyster Bar

Opening hours: Mondays - Thursdays: 4.00 pm - 11.00 pm | Fridays: 4.00 pm - 11.30 pm | Saturdays: 11.30 am - 11.30 pm | Sundays: 10.30 am - 11.00 pm

Average price for two people: 31 - 60 USD

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11. Neptune Oyster


The queue may be notoriously wrong, but the food is worth the waiting hassle at Neptune Oyster. Other than getting your oyster fix, try the live sea urchin if you’re game enough. Be sure to also order the uni toast, lobster roll, and Neptune johnnycake.

Neptune Oyster

Address: 63 Salem St, Boston, MA 02113

Website: Neptune Oyster

Opening hours: Sundays - Thursdays: 11.30 am - 9.30 pm | Fridays - Saturdays: 11.30 am - 10.30 pm

Average price for two people: 31 - 60 USD

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12. Luke's Lobster Back Bay


Not only does Luke’s Lobster at Back Bay serves some really delectable lobster rolls, they also cook up delicious shrimp and crab rolls too. If in doubt, get a couple of friends and order the trio at just 22.50 USD that comes with a side and drink. Service is efficient and fast, so you won’t have to go hungry for long!

Luke's Lobster Back Bay

Address: 75 Exeter Street, Boston, MA 02116

Website: Luke’s Lobster Back Bay

Opening hours: Sundays to Wednesdays: 11.00 am - 9.00 pm | Thursdays to Saturdays: 11.00 am - 10.00 pm

Average price for two people: 11 - 30 USD

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Fresh seafood aplenty in Boston

seafood appetizer
Source: Pexels

Whether you’re on the hunt for the perfect lobster or oyster, we are sure that you’ll be able to find the perfect seafood dining experience that gives you good memories of Boston. The above-listed joints are where the locals eat seafood in Boston, so be sure to check them out for a more delightful food trip.

Frequently asked questions about the top seafood restaurants in Boston, Massachusetts


  • Which seafood restaurants in Boston have a waterfront location?

    If you’re keen to enjoy the sweeping views of the Boston Waterfront, be sure to dine at Legal Harborside. This flagship property is staged on three floors so you’ll surely find a perfect spot to enjoy not only fresh seafood fare but also panoramic vistas.

  • Which seafood restaurants in Boston are affordable?

    Contrary to the general belief, seafood can also be easy on the pocket. Some of the budget-friendly seafood restaurants that you can visit in Boston are The Daily Catch, Summer Shack, and Luke’s Lobster Back Bay.

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Julian, hailing from Singapore, seizes travel opportunities whenever they arise. He has had the privilege of exploring various countries and immersing himself in their cultures. Japan holds a...Read more

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