Seafood Restaurants in Washington

If you’re heading to Washington and craving seafood, you’re in luck. This state lives and breathes the Pacific Northwest’s ocean flavors. Think plump Dungeness crab in Seattle’s Pike Place Market or fresh smoked salmon in little cafés tucked away in Bainbridge Island. And yes, the oysters here are something else , sweet, briny, with that perfect snap. They’re best enjoyed at spots like Elliott’s Oyster House down by the waterfront, especially when the weather’s clear and you can soak up views of the water.

But don’t just stick to the well-known places. Head over to places like Westward on Lake Union if you want your seafood with a side of killer views and a lively vibe. Or try Taylor Shellfish Farms for an unpretentious, straight-from-the-source experience that locals swear by. Also, if you’re visiting in the summer, check out some of the weekend fish markets around Tacoma or Olympia for insanely fresh catches before they hit the restaurants.

Pro tip: Don’t be shy about ordering the lesser-known seafood dishes , things like spot prawns that come around in the spring or geoduck if you’re feeling adventurous. It’s not always on every menu, but when it is, grab it. Washington’s seafood scene isn’t just about eating; it’s about savoring the season and the place.