Best Seafood in New Orleans (2025)

Live‑fire cooking, pristine Gulf catch, and a lively raw bar make Pêche a modern classic. James Beard–winning pedigree meets fresh energy from chef Nicole Mills, highlighted by Food & Wine and often praised by Eater New Orleans.

A nightly changing menu and surgical precision with Gulf species keep GW Fins at the top of many editors’ lists. Known for dishes like scalibut and swordfish chop, it’s regularly celebrated by national critics and OpenTable diners.

A Cajun seafood feast told as a story of coastal Louisiana — communal tables, seasonal Gulf catch, and heartfelt cooking. Open Wednesday–Sunday; lauded by Eater editors for soulful, seasonal plates.

In a Riverbend cottage, Frank Brigtsen serves graceful Creole rooted in local seafood — think seafood platters, Gulf fish, and a beloved shrimp‑butternut bisque. Recognized by Bon Appétit and longtime local critics.

A French Quarter stalwart since 1899, serving turtle soup, BBQ shrimp and grits, and local Gulf fish. Open on a limited weekly schedule; noted by OpenTable for sourcing from the owners’ Louisiana seafood docks.

Bywater’s beloved spot for fried seafood platters, broiled crab claws, and soft‑shells in season. Celebrated by The Infatuation for timeless New Orleans plates and generous portions.

Mid‑City’s family‑run boil house where you can watch the crawfish, shrimp, or crabs go into the pots. Named a Jazz Fest seafood vendor and featured by Eater for standout boils and neighborhood energy.

Steps from the Fair Grounds, this lively corner joint is renowned for gumbo and the Worcestershire‑butter BBQ shrimp po‑boy. Frequently recommended by Eater New Orleans and spotlighted by local editors.

Bucktown’s seafood hangout for grilled Gulf fish, soft‑shells, and crab‑heavy plates. Covered by Eater New Orleans and run by local restaurant veterans, it’s a short hop from the city line with lake breezes to boot.

Lakefront views meet chargrilled oysters, stuffed flounder, and seafood platters. Regularly included by Eater in crawfish and family‑friendly lists and noted by local outlets for lively oyster hours.

Part seafood market, part sandwich shop, Zimmer’s serves po‑boys on neighboring Gendusa bread and excellent fried and boiled seafood. Endorsed by The Infatuation and noted by Food Network for classic shrimp po‑boys.