Favorite Seafood Restaurants in Boston

The weather is getting warmer, the New England ocean is suddenly more blue and the views from each mountain is more picturesque. Suddenly friends from all over are visiting their friends in New England. (We never hear from ya’ll the rest of the year, but as soon as the snow and rain and cold temps disappear, our door steps seem quite warm and welcoming, eh?)

Well, I suppose it’s as it should be. And when ya’ll visit, you’re looking for – big surprise! – great seafood restaurants. A dear friend asked for my list of favorite seafood/fish spots and I was only happy to oblige. In turn, I wanted to share the list with you.

Keep in mind, there are about a thousand seafood restaurants in Boston. These are only my favorite spots. If you have a favorite, link to it from the comments. I always love new spots to try!

Catch, Winchester, MA
This is a lovely, small, fine dining restaurant in the ‘burbs of Boston. It’s not casually priced, but it’s definitely worth the splurge. Dress a little nicer, if you’re so inclined. This is the spot I take many seafood fans who don’t mind the higher price tag. I suggest reservations.

Neptune Oyster, North End, Boston, MA
If your friends love oysters, then they’ll love all the options at this spot. I *adore* this place. Alas, it’s always busy, a touch cramped and there can be a long wait. I’d recommend this joint when you don’t mind a leisurely wait and a brasserie style atmosphere.

East Coast Grill, Cambridge, MA
When Don and I lived in Cambridge, we visited this spot for their great Bloody Mary and raw bar. It’s definitely casual, but as the owner/chef has become a bit of a local celebrity, it’s quite a busy place. Totally worth it though!

B&G Oysters, South End, Boston, MA
I can’t rave enough about any Barbara Lynch joint. She always goes the extra mile, taking care of every detail. This South End restaurant is fairly hip and chic, and quite a wait on the weekends. But the staff will gladly call your cell when your table is ready! Try the B-L-T – Bacon, Lobster and Tomato sandwich.

Finz, Salem, MA
This place is pretty good and delivers a fairly reliable seafood experience, as it sits right on Salem Harbor. It’s a bit pricey for the ‘burbs but the prices are expected for New England beach town cuisine. The food is a hundred times better off-season, so definitely try to hit it in the Fall/Winter, if you can.