The 10 Best Seafood Restaurants in Berkeley, CA
There are options for everyone when dining out in Berkeley, CA, regardless of taste, budget, or occasion. Due to this city’s coastal location, seafood restaurants are often a popular choice. Most of the seafood restaurants in this city use fresh, locally sourced ingredients, although the style can vary from traditional Californian to dishes influenced by cuisines from around the globe. There are many excellent seafood restaurants in this area, and each has something different to offer to diners. If you are dining out in this city and fancy eating seafood, here are the 10 best seafood restaurants in Berkeley, CA.
10. Hana Japan Steak & Seafood
An option that offers something for both the seafood fans and the meat lovers in your dining party is Hana Japan Steak & Seafood. This restaurant, which is located on University Avenue in Berkeley, claims to offer diners an interactive dining experience. Therefore, it has something different to offer than its competition. Although the main focus of the menu is Japanese-style seafood, there are also other Japanese dishes on the menu. All the food is made to order by the chefs under the watchful eye of diners. Former guests of this restaurant have praised the service and the overall dining experience.
9. Hog Island Oyster Company
One of the best places to eat oysters in Berkeley is Hog Island Company. Oysters are served in a variety of ways, and there are many other tasty seafood options on the menu. This restaurant is part of a small chain that has several locations across California, and it is a family-run business that involves the family farming the oysters as well as serving them in their restaurants. The restaurant is modern and vibrant, which means it is the ideal setting for having a meal out with friends.
8. alaMar Kitchen
The diverse menu at this restaurant includes a vast array of small plates along with larger entrée options. Traditional Californian fare is served alongside some Cajun-inspired options. It is an affordable option, especially if you visit during the happy hours. The airy restaurant has maritime-themed décor, which creates a nice vibe for diners. It is a good option for eating out as a family as some of the dishes are served family-style and it is a child-friendly venue.
7. Hong Kong East Ocean Seafood Restaurant
Open for lunch and dinner service seven days a week, you will find Hong Kong East Ocean Seafood Restaurant on Powell Street. They serve Chinese seafood specialties and off-the-menu dim sum. This is a spacious restaurant with stunning views across the bay from the large windows, which is an aspect of dining at this restaurant that former diners have praised.
6. Saigon Harbor Restaurant
A great option for those who love both seafood and Asian flavors is the Saigon Harbor restaurant. This is a comfortable restaurant with an aquatic-themed interior design style. The menu consists of Chinese seafood dishes, such as lobster and various dim sum options. Those who have dined in the restaurant say that the prices are fair, especially if you choose the banquet dining option.
5. Scott’s Seafood Grill & Bar
Part of a small chain, Scott’s Seafood Grill & Bar is an upscale option that is perfect for a special occasion. The menu focuses on fish and seafood, although there are some other options for meat-eaters and vegetarians. When the weather is good, most people opt to eat in the outdoor dining area. You will find this restaurant on Jack London Square along Broadway, and it is open for lunch and dinner service daily. This restaurant is also known for its cocktails and its wine list.
4. Angeline’s Louisiana Kitchen
While many of the restaurants in Berkeley stick to the flavors of California, Angeline’s Louisiana Kitchen brings the flavors of New Orleans to the city. Some examples of the dishes available in this restaurant include jambalaya, beignets, and gumbo. You will find this restaurant on Shattuck Avenue and it is open for lunch and dinner service every day except Monday when it is only open for dinner. Former diners have praised the service and the ambiance in this restaurant.
3. 938 Crawfish
Locals who want a casual seafood meal head to 938Crawfish on San Pablo Avenue as it has a fantastic ambiance for hanging out with friends. Some of the favorites from the menu include fresh oysters, Dungeness crab, king crab legs, and shrimp sliders. The dishes vary from traditional American seafood options, including Cajun flavors, to the cuisine of Vietnam. This family-owned restaurant has happy hours on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays, so these are the best times to visit if you have a limited budget.
2. Bag O’ Crab
For those who love crab, eating at Bag O’ Crab is like being in paradise. Crab is the highlight of the menu at this seafood joint, with some examples including king crab legs and soft shell crab served in various ways. However, crab is not the only option for diners as other options include mussels, oysters, calamari, whole grilled fish, shrimp, and chowders. This is an affordable restaurant on Center Street, and you can save even more money by ordering one of the combo deals. This eatery offers a casual dining experience.
1. Skates on the Bay
According to Three Best Rated, one of the best seafood restaurants in Berkeley, CA, is Skates on the Bay. It is suitable for casual dining with friends, eating out with the family, or even a romantic date. Located on Seawall Drive, this restaurant has a diverse menu that has something for everyone. Some of the most popular seafood dishes include lobster bisque, crab sandwich, steamed clams. Clam chowder, BBQ prawns. And oysters on the half shell. There are also some options for meat-eaters and a separate menu for children with some interesting options. In addition to the excellent food, this seafood restaurant is popular because of the friendly atmosphere and great service.
