Best Seafood in Houston (2025)

Aaron Bludorn’s seafood temple channels Gulf bounty through refined New American cooking—think branzino, swordfish au poivre, and caviar service. Regularly praised by Eater and the Houston Chronicle, it’s a polished Rice Village essential with serious neighborhood soul.

James Beard winner Hugo Ortega celebrates coastal Mexico with wood‑roasted Gulf oysters, ceviches, and whole‑fish zarandeado. Frequently praised by Houston Chronicle critics and Eater, Caracol captures Houston’s Mexican coastal heartbeat in the Galleria area.

Chef Manabu “Hori” Horiuchi’s benchmark for pristine fish and creative sashimi remains a top pick citywide. Featured among the Houston Chronicle’s best sushi and regularly noted by local editors, it’s a can’t‑miss for seafood purists and omakase fans.

Chris Kinjo’s serene Museum District counter showcases knife work and top‑tier product in a focused omakase and à la carte format. Lauded by the Houston Chronicle, it’s a masterclass in texture, temperature, and balance.

An intimate, reservations‑only counter where chefs guide you through premium seafood with playful technique. Recommended by the MICHELIN Guide, it’s a coveted seat for showstopping modern sushi in the Galleria area.

A locals’ favorite for classic Gulf dishes—stuffed redfish, shrimp en brochette, and a serious gumbo—served with a vintage oyster bar vibe. Frequently recommended by Eater and consistently active with daily service and happy hour.

Since 1967, this Texas‑Creole institution has defined special‑occasion seafood: turtle soup, Gulf fish Pontchartrain, and tableside flair. Celebrated by the Houston Chronicle and Condé Nast Traveler, it remains a living piece of Houston dining history.

Trong Nguyen’s Viet‑Cajun pioneer popularized buttery, chile‑garlic crawfish and salt‑and‑pepper crab. A James Beard‑recognized name, regularly cited by Eater and Condé Nast Traveler, it’s a rite of passage during season—and fun year‑round.

Asiatown’s live‑tank specialist serves whole flounder, lobster, geoduck, and seasonal crab with Chinese‑Vietnamese flair. Featured on Eater’s seafood maps, it’s a lively, family‑style feast spot and a BYOB favorite.

Greg Gatlin’s Independence Heights spot blends Gulf seafood and Southern roots: chargrilled oysters, everything gumbo, and exceptional fried catfish. Reviewed by the Houston Chronicle and spotlighted by Texas Highways, it’s neighborhood Houston through and through.

Tokyo‑trained chef Yoshi Katsuyama delivers artful omakase and pristine nigiri with one of the city’s notable sake lists. Recognized by the Houston Chronicle and Eater, it’s a refined seafood experience just southwest of the Loop.

A Midtown standout for Gulf oysters—both farmed and wild—alongside smoked redfish dip, hush puppies, and snapper collars. Frequently highlighted by the Houston Chronicle, it’s a relaxed, oyster‑forward hangout with serious frying chops.