Salem's Best Seafood [Updated 2024]

I have personally reviewed 15 seafood establishments in this coastal city, known for its delectable ocean offerings. From charming seaside restaurants to bustling fish markets, Salem has something for every seafood lover.

In this article, I will share my top picks based on the quality and freshness of the seafood, the skill of the chefs, and the overall dining experience. Whether you're craving succulent lobster, tender crab cakes, or a classic fish and chips, Salem's vibrant seafood scene has got you covered. So sit back, relax, and let me take you on a delicious culinary journey through the best seafood that Salem has to offer.

Sea Level Oyster Bar

Highlights
Excellent service
Delicious lobster roll
Amazing drinks
Fresh and tasty oysters
Out of this world clam chowder

Sea Level Oyster Bar in Salem is a true gem when it comes to seafood. From the moment I stepped in, I was met with excellent service that made me feel welcome and well taken care of.

Now, let's talk about the food. One of the highlights of my visit was the lobster roll. It was simply delicious. The chunks of tender and flavorful lobster meat were generously piled into a perfectly toasted bun, creating a dish that was both indulgent and satisfying.

The drink selection at Sea Level Oyster Bar is also worth mentioning. They have an array of amazing drinks, from craft cocktails to a well-curated wine list. The perfect accompaniment to the delicious seafood.

Speaking of seafood, the oysters at Sea Level Oyster Bar were a standout. They were fresh and tasty, with just the right balance of brininess and sweetness. Each bite was a burst of flavor that reminded me of being by the ocean.

And let's not forget about the clam chowder. Trust me when I say, it's out of this world. The velvety smooth texture combined with the rich and creamy flavor made it an absolute delight to have.

Sea Level Oyster Bar truly deserves its spot on the list of the best seafood in Salem. With its excellent service, delicious lobster roll, amazing drinks, fresh oysters, and out of this world clam chowder, it's a must-visit for any seafood lover.

You might also want to check out the best seafood restaurants in Plymouth.

Rockafellas Restaurant

Highlights
Oozing with hospitality
Best crab cakes ever
Sweet and salty fig flatbread
Lovely server and booth table
Fantastic meal and fun tee shirt

Rockafellas Restaurant in Salem is oozing with hospitality from the moment you step through its doors. The friendly staff and cozy atmosphere immediately put you at ease, making you feel right at home.

Now, let's talk about the food. The crab cakes at Rockafellas are a game-changer. Served with a tangy remoulade sauce, these crab cakes are the best I've ever had in Salem. The tender crab meat melts in your mouth, and the crispy exterior adds a delightful texture. Trust me, you'll find yourself savoring every single bite.

But the deliciousness doesn't stop there. The sweet and salty fig flatbread is a must-try appetizer. The combination of gooey melted cheese, sweet fig preserves, and hints of prosciutto creates a flavor explosion that will keep you coming back for more.

During my visit, I was fortunate enough to be seated at a lovely booth table with a fantastic server who was knowledgeable and attentive. The service at Rockafellas truly enhances the dining experience.

As I relished my meal, I couldn't help but notice the fun tee shirt on the wall that read, "Seafood is my destiny." And with every bite I took, I couldn't have agreed more. Rockafellas Restaurant in Salem offers a fantastic seafood experience that deserves recognition among the best in the area. Don't miss the chance to dine at this gem!

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Ledger Restaurant

Highlights
Great location
Excellent service
Amazing culinary experience
Tasty and fresh seafood
Unforgettable desserts

Nestled in a great location in Salem, Ledger Restaurant is a hidden gem that seafood lovers simply cannot afford to miss. From the moment I walked through the doors, I was greeted by friendly staff who provided an excellent service throughout my dining experience.

Ledger Restaurant offers an amazing culinary experience that left my taste buds dancing with joy. The menu is a testament to their dedication to seafood, featuring a wide array of dishes that showcase the flavors of the ocean. Each bite was a delightful surprise, as the chefs masterfully combined flavors and textures to create dishes that were both innovative and satisfying.

What truly set Ledger Restaurant apart was the tasty and fresh seafood they served. From succulent lobster tails to perfectly seared scallops, every dish was a homage to the sea. The quality of the ingredients was evident, as the seafood was cooked to perfection, tender and bursting with flavor.

And let's not forget about their unforgettable desserts! Ledger Restaurant takes pride in their sweet creations, and it shows. The desserts were the perfect ending to an already exceptional meal, with each bite leaving me craving for more.

Overall, my visit to Ledger Restaurant was a seafood lover's dream come true. The combination of great location, excellent service, amazing culinary experience, and the tantalizingly fresh and tasty seafood made it an experience to remember. I highly recommend adding Ledger Restaurant to your list of must-visit seafood spots in Salem.

You might also want to check out the best seafood restaurants in Worcester.

Dire Wolf Tavern

Highlights
Short wait time
Delicious truffle fries
BOGO sushi deal
Tasty cider
Awesome BLT

First off, the wait time at Dire Wolf Tavern was impressively short. It's always a relief when you're eager to sink your teeth into some delectable seafood and you don't have to wait forever.

Now, let's talk about the food. The truffle fries were a revelation. Crispy, golden, and generously seasoned with truffle oil, they were the perfect accompaniment to the main event – the seafood. Not to mention, they were so addictive I couldn't help but sneak a few extra bites between bites of my seafood.

Speaking of seafood, the BOGO sushi deal at Dire Wolf Tavern was a dream come true for sushi enthusiasts like myself. The rolls were prepared with precision and care, showcasing the freshness and quality of the ingredients. Each bite was a burst of flavor, and the offer made it even more satisfying.

To complement my seafood feast, I opted for a refreshing and tasty cider. It was the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, elevating the dining experience to a new level.

Lastly, let's not forget the sensational BLT. Though not strictly seafood, it deserves a mention because it was simply awesome. The crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomatoes, all layered between perfectly toasted bread, created a symphony of flavors that left me craving for more.

In conclusion, Dire Wolf Tavern in Salem exceeded my expectations in terms of delicious seafood options. From the short wait time to the satisfying BOGO sushi deal, and the standout truffle fries to the refreshing cider, this place is a seafood lover's paradise. Plus, they even nail the classics like the remarkable BLT. So if you find yourself in Salem and in need of a seafood fix, make sure to head over to Dire Wolf Tavern.

You might also want to check out the best seafood restaurants in Cambridge.

Settler

Highlights
Incredible visit
Delicious cocktails
Exceptional food
Friendly service
New favorite restaurant

Let me start by saying, wow! My visit to Settler was nothing short of incredible. From the moment I walked through the door, I knew I was in for a delightful seafood experience.

First, let's talk about the cocktails. Settler truly knows how to mix up a drink. The delicious cocktails they offer perfectly complemented the seafood dishes I had. Each sip was a burst of flavors that enhanced my dining experience.

Now, let's get to the star of the show: the seafood. Settler absolutely nailed it. The food was exceptional in every way. The freshness of the seafood was evident in every bite, and the dishes were expertly prepared with a touch of creativity. Whether you're a fan of classics like lobster and crab or looking to try something new like their innovative fish tacos, Settler has you covered. Trust me, you won't be disappointed.

Aside from the incredible food and drinks, the service was also worth mentioning. The staff at Settler were not only knowledgeable about the menu but also warm and friendly. They went above and beyond to make sure every aspect of my dining experience was exceptional.

Considering all these factors, Settler has easily become my new favorite seafood restaurant in Salem. So, if you're looking for a place to indulge in some top-notch seafood with an inviting atmosphere, make sure to pay a visit to Settler. You won't regret it.

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Finz Salem

Highlights
Clam chowder
Loaded lobster roll
Great service
Fish tacos
Picturesque view of the coastline

From the moment I stepped into Finz Salem, I knew I was in for a treat. Let me start by raving about their clam chowder - a bowl of creamy goodness that will make your taste buds do a happy dance. Each spoonful was packed with flavorful clams and perfectly cooked potatoes, making it an absolute delight.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show - the loaded lobster roll. Brace yourself for a culinary masterpiece! The roll was filled to the brim with succulent lobster meat, tossed in just the right amount of mayo and seasoning. The combination of flavors was pure magic, leaving me longing for more.

What truly elevated my dining experience at Finz Salem was the impeccable service. The staff went above and beyond to make sure that every aspect of my visit was delightful. They were knowledgeable about the menu, attentive to my needs, and provided excellent recommendations.

While the clam chowder and loaded lobster roll stole the show, I would be remiss not to mention their delicious fish tacos. The fish was perfectly cooked, flaky on the inside and crispy on the outside. Each bite was bursting with freshness and flavor.

As if the incredible food and service weren't enough, the picturesque view of the coastline added an extra touch of magic to the dining experience. Whether you choose to sit indoors or out on the patio, you're treated to a stunning vista that complements the excellence of the seafood.

In conclusion, Finz Salem is a seafood lover's paradise. From the creamy clam chowder to the loaded lobster roll, the quality and taste of their dishes are unparalleled. The exceptional service and breathtaking view of the coastline make it a must-visit destination for seafood enthusiasts in Salem. So, grab your appetite and dive into the deliciousness that awaits you at Finz Salem!

You might also want to check out the best lobster roll in Boston.

Turner's Seafood at Lyceum Hall -Salem

Highlights
No wait
Excellent waiter
Great birthday dinner
Pricey but worth it
Wonderful experience

Walking into Turner's Seafood at Lyceum Hall -Salem, I was pleasantly surprised to find no wait. As someone who enjoys seafood, this was an excellent start to my experience. From the moment I sat down, I could tell that the staff were passionate about their craft.

Our waiter was nothing short of excellent. He was knowledgeable, attentive, and went the extra mile to make sure our dining experience was top-notch. He recommended some of their signature dishes, and let me tell you, they did not disappoint.

Given that it was a special occasion, we decided to splurge a bit and have a birthday dinner at Turner's Seafood. The seafood options were plentiful and we were spoiled for choice. From the freshest oysters to succulent lobster, every bite was a delight.

Now, I should note that Turner's Seafood is on the pricier side, but trust me, it is worth every penny. The quality and freshness of the seafood, coupled with the exceptional service, creates a wonderful experience that is truly worth the splurge.

In conclusion, Turner's Seafood at Lyceum Hall -Salem exceeded my expectations in every way. From the lack of wait time to the fabulous service, and of course, the delicious seafood, my visit was a highlight of my seafood journey in Salem. I highly recommend giving Turner's Seafood a try for an unforgettable dining experience.

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Dube's Seafood

Highlights
Friendly and helpful waitstaff
Delicious shrimp and lobster casserole
Off the beaten tourist track
Reasonable prices
Plenty of food for leftovers

First and foremost, I was impressed by the friendly and helpful waitstaff at Dube's Seafood. They made me feel welcome from the moment I walked in the door, and their knowledge of the menu truly added to the overall dining experience.

Now, let's talk about the food at Dube's. The shrimp and lobster casserole I ordered was nothing short of sensational. The flavors were perfectly balanced, and the seafood was cooked to perfection - moist and tender, just the way it should be. Each bite was a delightful explosion of flavors that left me wanting more.

One of the things that stood out about Dube's Seafood is its off the beaten tourist track location. Away from the crowded tourist areas, this hidden gem offers a more authentic and relaxed dining experience. It's a place where locals come to enjoy a great meal without the fuss.

And speaking of fuss, Dube's Seafood also impressed me with its reasonable prices. You can savor the mouthwatering seafood without breaking the bank. Plus, the portion sizes were generous, ensuring there was enough for leftovers to enjoy later.

In conclusion, my visit to Dube's Seafood was a delightful experience that truly showcased the best seafood in Salem. The combination of friendly service, delicious food, and reasonable prices makes Dube's a standout choice for seafood lovers. So, the next time you are craving some seafood in Salem, make sure to pay a visit to Dube's Seafood. You won't be disappointed!

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Brodie's Seaport

Highlights
Amazing service
Flavorful dishes
Excellent server
Scrumptious onion rings

Located in the heart of Salem, Brodie's Seaport is a delightful seafood restaurant that truly stands out from the rest. From the moment I walked in, the amazing service was evident. The staff was friendly, attentive, and made me feel right at home.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show: the food. Brodie's Seaport offers a wide variety of seafood dishes that are guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds. Each dish bursts with flavor, showcasing the freshness of the seafood. Whether you're craving a succulent lobster or a perfectly grilled fish, Brodie's Seaport has got you covered.

What truly impressed me was our server. Not only was he knowledgeable about the menu, but he also offered excellent recommendations based on our preferences. He made sure that every detail was taken care of, ensuring that our dining experience was exceptional.

But let's not forget about the sides! As a seafood lover, I couldn't resist ordering their famous scrumptious onion rings. They were perfectly crispy on the outside, with a heavenly blend of sweetness and savory goodness on the inside. It perfectly complemented the main course and added an extra layer of deliciousness to the overall experience.

In conclusion, if you're looking for the best seafood in Salem, Brodie's Seaport is a must-visit. With its amazing service, flavorful dishes, and excellent servers, it's a seafood lover's paradise. Don't forget to indulge in their scrumptious onion rings for the complete experience. Bon appétit!

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Cappys

Highlights
Best fried clams
Fresh and beautifully prepared seafood
Brilliant cook
Delicious and very good
Fantastic tartar sauce

Let me start by saying that if you're a fan of fried clams, Cappys is the place to be. Their fried clams are incredible. The batter is crispy and golden, perfectly complementing the tender, juicy clams inside. It's truly a taste of seafood heaven.

But Cappys isn't just about fried clams. Their selection of seafood is top-notch, with each dish boasting fresh and beautifully prepared ingredients. From succulent lobster rolls to perfectly grilled fish, the attention to detail in every dish is evident. You can tell that the cook at Cappys is truly a brilliant individual, putting their heart and soul into each plate.

The flavors at Cappys are delicious and very good, and there's something for everyone, whether you prefer light and delicate flavors or something more bold and rich. And let's not forget about their fantastic tartar sauce. It's the perfect accompaniment to any seafood dish, adding a tangy and creamy element that elevates the flavors to new heights.

Overall, my experience at Cappys was a delight. The combination of superbly fried clams, amazingly fresh seafood, and a talented cook made for an unforgettable seafood feast. If you're looking for the best seafood in Salem, make sure to add Cappys to your list.

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Sammy's Roast Beef & Seafood

Highlights
Delicious steak and cheese
Top notch food
Buffalo wings are a must
Excellent roast beef
Flavorful and juicy chicken

Let me begin by saying that Sammy's Roast Beef & Seafood is a true gem in the seafood scene of Salem. From the moment I walked in, I could tell that this place takes their seafood seriously.

One of the highlights of my visit was the delicious steak and cheese that Sammy's offers. The combination of tender beef, gooey cheese, and perfectly toasted bread was a true treat for my taste buds. It's no wonder this dish ranks high on the list of must-try items.

Speaking of must-try items, I cannot emphasize enough how top-notch the food at Sammy's is. Each dish is prepared with care and attention to detail, resulting in an explosion of flavors with every bite. From the flavorful and juicy chicken to the excellent roast beef, everything I sampled was simply outstanding.

One item that truly stood out to me was the buffalo wings. I had heard rave reviews about them, and let me tell you, they did not disappoint. The wings were perfectly crispy on the outside, and the sauce had just the right amount of tanginess and spice. They are an absolute must-try for any wing lover.

In conclusion, if you're in Salem and looking for the best seafood experience, look no further than Sammy's Roast Beef & Seafood. Their dedication to quality and their commitment to making every dish memorable truly set them apart. Don't miss out on this seafood haven!

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Longboards Restaurant & Bar

Highlights
Delicious lobster grill cheese
Great atmosphere with water views
Unique cut of French fries
Attentive and knowledgeable server
Amazing Sausage Ricotta Flatbread

From the moment I entered Longboards, I knew I was in for a treat. The inviting atmosphere, complete with stunning water views, immediately captured my attention. I was eager to delve into their seafood offerings and see if they lived up to their reputation.

After perusing the menu, my eyes landed on a dish that intrigued me: the delicious lobster grill cheese. I couldn't resist the allure of succulent lobster meat sandwiched between layers of melted cheese and perfectly toasted bread. With each bite, I savored the rich flavors and the perfect harmony of textures. It was a culinary masterpiece that left me wanting more.

As I indulged in this delectable dish, I couldn't help but notice the unique cut of French fries that accompanied it. These fries were unlike any I had ever seen before. Crispy on the outside, yet tender on the inside, they added an extra touch of excitement to my meal.

Not only was the food exceptional, but the service was also praiseworthy. Our server was attentive and knowledgeable, offering recommendations and answering any questions with enthusiasm. They made sure our dining experience was memorable and enjoyable.

Besides seafood, Longboards offers a diverse menu, and one notable standout was their amazing Sausage Ricotta Flatbread. The combination of flavors was remarkable, with the tangy ricotta complementing the savory sausage perfectly.

In conclusion, my visit to Longboards left me impressed and satisfied. Their commitment to excellence, both in their dishes and their service, truly shines through. If you're seeking a place where great seafood meets a great atmosphere, Longboards Restaurant & Bar is a must-visit spot in Salem.

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Ginger Cajun

Highlights
Immaculate service
Grateful Dead cocktail
Cajun fries
Friendly staff
Best quality wings

Upon entering Ginger Cajun, I was immediately impressed by the immaculate service provided by the friendly staff. They were attentive and knowledgeable about the menu, making recommendations based on my preferences.

One highlight of my visit was the Grateful Dead cocktail. This vibrant and refreshing drink was the perfect accompaniment to my seafood feast. Its combination of spirits and fruit juices created a delightful explosion of flavors that danced on my taste buds.

When it came to the food, Ginger Cajun did not disappoint. The Cajun fries were a standout. Crispy on the outside with a perfectly seasoned kick, they were irresistible. I couldn't resist munching on them throughout my meal.

However, the true star of the show at Ginger Cajun was their seafood. The best quality wings were cooked to perfection, with a crispy exterior and succulent meat that fell off the bone. Each wing was generously coated in a flavorful sauce that harmoniously balanced heat and tanginess.

Overall, my experience at Ginger Cajun was a delightful exploration of flavors and textures. The combination of exceptional service, delectable cocktails, and standout dishes like the Cajun fries and quality wings make Ginger Cajun a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts in Salem.

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Dina's Roast Beef & Seafood

Highlights
Tremendous roast beef
Best beef in Salem
Friendly employees
Delicious food

Let me start by saying that Dina's Roast Beef & Seafood is an absolute gem when it comes to finding the best seafood in Salem. While their name may suggest a focus on roast beef, don't be fooled – their seafood offerings are equally impressive.

From the moment I walked in, the friendly employees made me feel right at home. They were eager to assist me with any questions I had and even recommended some of their top dishes. Now, let's talk about the food itself.

The first thing that caught my attention was their tremendous roast beef. Tender, juicy, and packed with flavor, it deserves its reputation as the best beef in Salem. But what about the seafood, you ask? Fear not, because Dina's delivers on that front as well.

Their seafood selection is sublime, with a variety of options that will satisfy any seafood lover's cravings. From perfectly fried haddock to succulent shrimp scampi, each dish is prepared with the utmost care and attention to detail. And let's not forget the side dishes – their fries are golden and crispy, and their coleslaw adds the perfect touch of freshness to the meal.

In conclusion, Dina's Roast Beef & Seafood is a must-visit for any seafood enthusiast in Salem. Whether you're in the mood for their tremendous roast beef or want to indulge in their delicious seafood options, you won't be disappointed. So go ahead, treat yourself to a visit to Dina's – your taste buds will thank you.

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99 Restaurants

Highlights
Big open semi outside space
Hard-working, professional, polite waitresses
Fun cornhole game
Great service

Walking into the 99 Restaurants in Salem, I was immediately struck by the big open semi outside space. It created a lively and welcoming atmosphere that perfectly complemented their seafood offerings.

What sets this place apart is the hard-working, professional, and polite waitresses who were attentive and provided excellent service throughout my visit. They made sure that my experience was nothing short of exceptional.

In addition to the delicious seafood, I was pleasantly surprised by the presence of a fun cornhole game. It added an extra layer of entertainment and made the dining experience even more enjoyable.

Speaking of the food, I can confidently say that the seafood at 99 Restaurants is top-notch. From the fresh flavor of the clam chowder to the perfectly cooked lobster, every bite was a delight. The menu offers a diverse range of options to suit different preferences, ensuring there is something for everyone.

Above all, the service at 99 Restaurants was truly outstanding. The staff went above and beyond to ensure that I had a memorable dining experience. From the moment I walked in to the moment I left, I felt valued and well taken care of.

In conclusion, if you're looking for great service and a delectable seafood experience in Salem, 99 Restaurants is a must-visit. Their big open semi outside space, polite waitresses, and fun cornhole game all add to the overall ambiance, making it an enjoyable destination for seafood lovers. Don't miss out on this culinary gem!

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