The 10 Best Seafood Restaurants in Gainesville, FL
Florida is fast establishing a reputation for its excellent culinary scene. This state is home to many outstanding restaurants, many of which focus on using locally sourced ingredients to celebrate the produce of Florida. This includes seafood, so there are some amazing seafood restaurants in the towns and cities across the state. If you are a fan of seafood, a great place to eat out is Gainesville, which has some of the top seafood restaurants in the area. Here are the 10 best seafood restaurants in Gainesville.
10. Bahama Breeze
Something a little different from the other seafood restaurants in Gainesville is Bahama Breeze. This reasonably priced and laid-back eatery specializes in Caribbean food, with most dishes featuring fish and seafood. It is a fun place to eat due to the beach-themed tropical décor and the cocktail selection. In addition to the main menu, there are also regular specials to try. Customers have praised the friendly service and the fact that they were seated and served quickly. You will find this restaurant on Plaza Boulevard and it is open for lunch and dinner service seven days a week.
9. Ballyho Grill
The quirky island-style décor in this restaurant combined with the lively vibe makes it a fun place to eat. Located on West University Avenue, Ballyho Grill has been open since 1998 and is popular among the locals. Sushi is one of the most popular dishes on the menu, and diners also enjoy the surf ‘n’ turf options. Another great choice from the menu is the shrimp or fish tacos. There is both indoor and outdoor seating, so you can choose where you want to dine according to the weather.
8. Ichiban Sushi
The Culture Trip lists Ichiban Sushi as one of the top restaurants in Gainesville. Opened since 1998, this is a restaurant that specializes in serving raw fish. Alongside the Japanese favorites, there are some sushi dishes that focus on the best produce of Florida. However, they also serve a selection of food that they describe as Asian fusion dishes. This caters to the multicultural community of Gainesville. All the dishes are used creating fresh fish and seafood. The inside has a relaxing vibe, with warm wood décor.
7. Dragonfly Modern Izakaya & Sushi
If you love both seafood and Japanese cuisine, then Dragonfly Modern Izakaya & Sushi is a good option for you. It is a hip venue that has a New York industrial loft-style. The sushi is the highlight of the menu, although there are plenty of other Japanese inspired fish and seafood dishes on the menu. You can wash this down with a glass of traditional Japanese sake. The food is served tapas-style, so it is an excellent place to sample different combinations of flavors in one sitting. All the food is presented in an eye-catching manner, and the specialty dish of this restaurant is the soft shell crab spider roll.
6. Cedar River Seafood
Cedar River Seafood is one of the best seafood restaurants in Gainesville, according to Sweet Water Inn. Most of the menu consists of southern dishes, although that is not the only option available on the menu. Depending on what you order, the fish and seafood are either broiled, baked, grilled, blackened or fried. One of the best options on the menu is the lobster soaked in butter. There are also meat dishes on the menu, such as the prime rib. So, there is something for everyone on the menu.
5. Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille
Southern, Cajun and Creole food is the highlight of the menu at Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille on Southeast 1st Street. It is a family-friendly chain restaurant that is reasonably priced and offers a good selection of dishes. The service is quick, and the staff is friendly. It is a casual place to eat with family or friends.
4. Northwest Grille
This restaurant has earned a reputation for is fresh, quality seafood. It is a family-owned establishment that has been open for more than 20 years. Not only are the dishes outstanding, but the portions are generous, and the service is outstanding. It is well-loved by the locals as there is something for everyone on the menu, including meat and vegetarian dishes. This family-run restaurant is also known for its craft beers and diverse wine list, along with its tasty selection of desserts.
3. Bonefish Grill
Three Best Rated lists Bonefish Grill as one of the top three seafood restaurants in Gainesville. You can eat three-course set menus on some days, visit during happy hours to save money on select food and drink, or simply order from the extensive menu. The affordable but delicious dishes take inspiration from around the world, with some examples including Thai coconut shrimp, fish tacos, Thermidor gnocchi, and ahi tuna sashimi. This restaurant specializes in serving market-fresh seafood that is cooked in a wood-burning grill.
2. Wahoo Seafood Grill
Located on Northwest 97th Boulevard, Wahoo Seafood Grill is a cozy seafood spot that offers Creole and Cajun dishes. It is a fun place to eat that often plays live music. This is a fantastic place to eat out as a family as there is a creative children’s menu. Along with the food, this restaurant is known for its cocktails, and there are offers on the drinks on set days. Furthermore, former guests say that the service is always friendly at this restaurant.
1. Amelia’s Restaurant
According to customer reviews, Amelia’s Restaurant. This is a casual Italian bistro that exudes old-world flair. Seafood is the highlight of the menu, which includes pasta and dishes cooked using Mediterranean flavors and ingredients. Everything is homemade, including the pasta and the artisanal bread, which is served warm with every dish. The portions are perfect, the customer service is excellent, and the prices are reasonable.