Top Seafood Restaurants in Raleigh NC - June 2026

USA / North Carolina / Raleigh
Discover the finest seafood dining experiences in Raleigh, NC. From fresh oyster bars to upscale coastal cuisine, explore our curated list of the city's top-rated seafood restaurants.
1

42nd St. Oyster Bar

United States, Raleigh
4.9

Raleigh's iconic destination for fresh oysters and seafood.

Details

  • Year Founded: 1987
  • Employees: 50-100
  • Price Range: $$$
  • Phone: +1-919-831-2811
  • Email: info@42ndstoysterbar.com

About the Company

A legendary Raleigh institution. They serve incredibly fresh oysters and classic Southern seafood dishes in a vibrant, historic atmosphere. It is the go-to spot for locals seeking an authentic coastal dining experience in the heart of the city.

Pros

  • Fresh oyster selection
  • Historic atmosphere

Cons

  • Often very crowded
  • Limited parking
2

St. Roch Fine Oysters + Bar

United States, Raleigh
4.8

Modern New Orleans-inspired seafood cuisine.

Details

  • Year Founded: 2017
  • Employees: 20-50
  • Price Range: $$$
  • Phone: +1-919-322-0359
  • Email: hello@strochraleigh.com

About the Company

Bringing the spirit of NOLA to Raleigh, this spot excels at creative seafood preparations. From wood-fired oysters to seasonal fish, the menu is innovative and the bar program is expertly curated for a perfect pairing.

Pros

  • Creative menu
  • Excellent bar program

Cons

  • Small dining space
  • No reservations for bar seating
3

Cape Fear Seafood Company

United States, Raleigh
4.7

Fresh, high-quality seafood with a regional focus.

Details

  • Year Founded: 2008
  • Employees: 100-200
  • Price Range: $$
  • Phone: +1-919-557-0227
  • Email: contact@capefearseafoodcompany.com

About the Company

Cape Fear Seafood Company is a favorite for those craving fresh catch and regional flavors. With a relaxed vibe and consistent quality, their menu highlights traditional coastal favorites prepared with a modern touch.

Pros

  • Family-friendly
  • Consistent quality

Cons

  • Casual service pace
  • Busy on weekends
4

Lobster Dogs

United States, Raleigh
4.6

Specializing in Maine lobster rolls and unique street food.

Details

  • Year Founded: 2019
  • Employees: 10-30
  • Price Range: $$
  • Phone: +1-919-555-0199
  • Email: info@lobsterdogs.net

About the Company

If you love Maine lobster, this is your sanctuary. They serve incredibly tender, buttery lobster rolls in a casual setting. It is the perfect spot for a quick, high-quality lunch or a casual dinner with friends.

Pros

  • Premium lobster quality
  • Quick service

Cons

  • Limited seating
  • Focused menu
5

Seaboard Cafe

United States, Raleigh
4.5

Casual cafe known for fresh sandwiches and seafood salads.

Details

  • Year Founded: 1995
  • Employees: 10-20
  • Price Range: $
  • Phone: +1-919-821-0313
  • Email: orders@seaboardcafe.com

About the Company

A hidden gem in the Seaboard Station area. They offer delightful seafood salads and fresh daily catches that are perfect for a light lunch. The ambiance is laid-back, making it a neighborhood staple for locals.

Pros

  • Great location
  • Fresh daily specials

Cons

  • Lunch focus
  • Minimal decor
6

Margaux's Restaurant

United States, Raleigh
4.9

Upscale dining featuring eclectic, globally-inspired seafood.

Details

  • Year Founded: 1992
  • Employees: 50-100
  • Price Range: $$$$
  • Phone: +1-919-846-7746
  • Email: dining@margauxsrestaurant.com

About the Company

Margaux's offers an elevated dining experience with a menu that changes daily. Their seafood dishes are sophisticated and globally inspired, making it an excellent choice for a refined night out in Raleigh.

Pros

  • Fine dining experience
  • Changing menu

Cons

  • Pricey
  • Requires reservations
7

Shuckin Shack Oyster Bar

United States, Raleigh
4.6

Fun, high-energy oyster bar with coastal vibes.

Details

  • Year Founded: 2007
  • Employees: 30-60
  • Price Range: $$
  • Phone: +1-919-555-0820
  • Email: support@theshuckinshack.com

About the Company

A lively venue that captures the spirit of the beach. Known for their oysters, low-country boils, and friendly staff, it is an ideal place to unwind with a cold beer and some peel-and-eat shrimp.

Pros

  • High energy
  • Great for groups

Cons

  • Can be noisy
  • Casual seating
8

Finch's Restaurant

United States, Raleigh
4.5

Traditional comfort food with great seafood options.

Details

  • Year Founded: 1945
  • Employees: 10-25
  • Price Range: $
  • Phone: +1-919-821-1906
  • Email: info@finchsrestaurant.com

About the Company

A classic diner-style institution in Raleigh. While famous for comfort foods, their seafood baskets and fish plates offer simple, honest, and delicious coastal flavors that satisfy every craving.

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Old-school charm

Cons

  • Basic atmosphere
  • Limited hours
9

Salt & Lime Cabo Grill

United States, Raleigh
4.7

Baja-style Mexican restaurant with amazing seafood tacos.

Details

  • Year Founded: 2015
  • Employees: 30-50
  • Price Range: $$
  • Phone: +1-919-872-2230
  • Email: info@saltandlimecabo.com

About the Company

Focusing on fresh Baja-style coastal cuisine, this restaurant serves incredible fish tacos and ceviche. The atmosphere is bright and colorful, offering a refreshing take on traditional seafood dining.

Pros

  • Excellent tacos
  • Fresh ingredients

Cons

  • Busy at lunch
  • Limited non-Mexican options
10

The Cortez Seafood + Cocktail

United States, Raleigh
4.8

Chic, modern spot for high-end cocktails and fresh seafood.

Details

  • Year Founded: 2018
  • Employees: 20-40
  • Price Range: $$$
  • Phone: +1-919-322-0720
  • Email: info@cortezraleigh.com

About the Company

Cortez offers a sophisticated experience combining coastal inspiration with a modern Raleigh aesthetic. The raw bar is exceptional, and their cocktail menu is perfectly designed to accompany their fresh catches.

Pros

  • Sophisticated drinks
  • Fresh raw bar

Cons

  • Portion sizes
  • Price point
11

Ocean Prime

United States, Raleigh
4.9

High-end seafood and steakhouse with impeccable service.

Details

  • Year Founded: 2008
  • Employees: 100-500
  • Price Range: $$$$
  • Phone: +1-919-981-6784
  • Email: info@ocean-prime.com

About the Company

A premium destination for a luxurious dining experience. Ocean Prime delivers high-quality seafood and prime steaks in an elegant setting. The service is top-tier, making it a premier spot for special celebrations.

Pros

  • Impeccable service
  • Elegant ambiance

Cons

  • Very expensive
  • Formal dress code
12

Carolina Fish Fry

United States, Raleigh
4.5

Quick, delicious, and traditional Southern fried seafood.

Details

  • Year Founded: 1999
  • Employees: 50-100
  • Price Range: $
  • Phone: +1-919-872-3474
  • Email: info@carolinafishfry.com

About the Company

When you want classic Southern fried fish, this is the place. It is a no-frills, fast-casual establishment that excels at providing hot, crispy seafood baskets to the local community in a quick and friendly manner.

Pros

  • Fast service
  • Traditional taste

Cons

  • Casual/Fast food style
  • Heavy frying
13

Kanki Japanese House of Steaks & Sushi

United States, Raleigh
4.6

Teppanyaki and sushi destination with extensive seafood options.

Details

  • Year Founded: 1972
  • Employees: 50-150
  • Price Range: $$$
  • Phone: +1-919-876-4198
  • Email: info@kanki.com

About the Company

Kanki provides a high-energy dining experience featuring teppanyaki-grilled seafood and high-quality sushi. It's a fun environment for group events, offering fresh ingredients prepared right in front of the guests.

Pros

  • Interactive dining
  • Wide menu variety

Cons

  • Wait times
  • Noisy environment
14

Irregardless Cafe

United States, Raleigh
4.7

Farm-to-table focus with fresh, sustainably sourced seafood.

Details

  • Year Founded: 1975
  • Employees: 20-50
  • Price Range: $$$
  • Phone: +1-919-833-8898
  • Email: info@irregardless.com

About the Company

Known for their commitment to locally sourced ingredients, this cafe offers fresh, sustainable seafood dishes. The live music and community-focused atmosphere make it a standout location for a relaxing, thoughtful meal.

Pros

  • Sustainable sourcing
  • Live music

Cons

  • Menu changes often
  • Limited seafood focus
15

Fish Market Bar & Grill

United States, Raleigh
4.5

Fresh market-style seafood plates in a casual setting.

Details

  • Year Founded: 2012
  • Employees: 10-30
  • Price Range: $$
  • Phone: +1-919-322-0359
  • Email: contact@fishmarketraleigh.com

About the Company

A straightforward approach to great seafood. They offer a market-style menu where freshness is the priority. Perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or lunch where the focus is strictly on quality and simplicity.

Pros

  • Freshness first
  • Simple menu

Cons

  • Modest decor
  • Casual service

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Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

  • Which are the best seafood spots in Raleigh for 2026? Raleigh offers a variety of top-tier seafood restaurants ranging from casual fish markets to fine dining establishments.
  • Do these Raleigh seafood restaurants offer outdoor seating? Many of our top-listed venues in 2026 provide pleasant outdoor patio experiences.
  • Are reservations recommended for these restaurants? Yes, especially on weekends, we highly suggest booking in advance for the best seafood spots in Raleigh.
  • Can I find fresh oysters in Raleigh? Absolutely, several of the restaurants featured here specialize in daily-sourced, fresh oysters.
  • Are these restaurants family-friendly? Most seafood venues in Raleigh are welcoming to families and offer diverse menus for all ages.
  • What is the average price range for seafood in Raleigh? Depending on the establishment, you can find options ranging from affordable casual eats to premium fine dining in 2026.