Washington DC may not have an oceanfront, but its seafood scene is anything but landlocked. From upscale establishments boasting pristine crudo to casual joints slinging messy lobster rolls, the city caters to every pescatarian palate. So, whether you’re an oyster aficionado or simply crave a taste of the sea, prepare to set sail on a culinary adventure with our guide to the best seafood restaurants in DC.
Key Takeaways
- Top Picks: Joe’s Seafood is a must-try for a classic steakhouse experience with a twist. BlackSalt, on the other hand, takes you on a culinary adventure with its ever-changing menu based on the day’s freshest catch.
- Hidden Gems: Don’t miss out on Crisfield, a local favorite known for Chesapeake Bay delights, or Ivy City Smokehouse, where smoky flavors dance with the sea’s bounty.
- Oyster Obsession: DC is an oyster haven, with Rappahannock Oyster Bar and The Municipal Fish Market offering the perfect bivalve bliss.
Also Read Best Seafood Restaurants in New Orleans (Must Visit in 2024)
Best seafood restaurants in DC
These are just a few of the many great seafood restaurants in Washington DC. With so many options to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect spot to enjoy a delicious and fresh seafood meal. Here are the details about the seafood restaurants in Washington DC that you mentioned:
- Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab
- Established: 1938
- Locations: Georgetown, Tysons Corner
- Noteworthy: Historic “fish wall” in Georgetown, serving prime steaks and stone crabs in season
- Blacksalt Fish Market & Restaurant
- Location: Navy Yard
- Specialties: Sustainable seafood, creative dishes, seasonal menu, raw bar
- Pearl Dive Oyster Bar
- Locations: Shaw, Dupont Circle
- Atmosphere: Fun and festive
- Menu Highlights: Oysters, raw seafood, fish and chips, lobster rolls, crab cakes
- Crisfield
- Location: Georgetown
- Known For: Steamed crabs, crab cakes, messy and delicious seafood meals
- Horace and Dickies
- Location: Dupont Circle
- Signature Dish: Crab cakes, steamed crabs, fish and chips
- Chef Skip 202
- Location: Old Town Alexandria
- Cuisine: Fine-dining seafood, innovative dishes, perfect for special occasions
- Ivy City Smokehouse
- Location: Ivy City
- Must-Try: Smoked salmon BLT, lobster mac and cheese
- Hank’s Oyster Bar
- Locations: Dupont Circle, Capitol Hill
- Highlights: Oysters from around the country, raw seafood dishes, casual and quick dining
- Fiola Mare
- Location: Georgetown
- Fine-Dining Experience: Italian seafood, seasonal menu changes, ideal for special occasions
- The Salt Line
- Locations: Navy Yard, Crystal City
- Scenic Views: Waterfront setting, raw seafood dishes, cocktails
- Mariscos 1133
- Location: Columbia Heights
- Specialty: Casual Mexican seafood, fish tacos, ceviche, margaritas
- Estuary
- Location: Georgetown
- Distinctive Features: Fine dining, sustainable seafood, creative dishes
- Hank’s Oyster Bar
- Cuisine: New England-style seafood
- Rating: 4.3 stars on Google Maps
- Opening Hours Today: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Details: Known for clams, lobster rolls, raw bar, and happy hour
- Fiola Mare
- Cuisine: Sophisticated Italian seafood
- Rating: 4.5 stars on Google Maps
- Opening Hours Today: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Details: Offers an upscale experience with river views, featuring a variety of wines and cocktails
- Mariscos 1133
- Cuisine: Mexican seafood
- Rating: 4.4 stars on Google Maps
- Opening Hours Today: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Details: Casual spot known for fish tacos, ceviche, and margaritas
- Rappahannock Oyster Bar
- Cuisine: Oysters, raw shellfish, burgers, craft beers, cocktails
- Rating: 4.2 stars on Google Maps
- Opening Hours Today: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM
- Details: Enjoy a laid-back atmosphere with glass-enclosed surroundings
- The Municipal Fish Market at The Wharf
- Rating: 4.5 stars on Google Maps
- Opening Hours Today: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Details: A market-style setting offering a variety of fresh seafood
- The Point D.C.
- Cuisine: American & fusion seafood
- Rating: 4.2 stars on Google Maps
- Opening Hours Today: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM
- Details: Polished destination with a riverfront terrace for a delightful seafood fusion experience
Conclusion
So, ditch the landlubber life and set your course for the vibrant seafood scene of Washington DC. With its abundance of delectable options, you’re sure to find the perfect catch to satisfy your cravings. Bon appétit!
Additional Tips:
- Consider your budget and desired ambiance when choosing a restaurant.
- Be sure to check menus and make reservations in advance, especially for popular spots.
- Don’t be afraid to explore beyond the familiar – you might discover a new favorite dish!
