The Absolute Best Seafood Restaurants in Cambridge [Updated 2024]

Having personally reviewed a staggering 15 seafood restaurants in this vibrant city, I am confident in my ability to steer you towards culinary excellence. Cambridge, with its close proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, boasts a plethora of dining options that showcase the freshest catches and indulge your taste buds like no other.

Whether you are a seafood connoisseur or simply seeking a delightful seafood feast, this comprehensive guide will provide you with the cream of the crop. From delectable lobster bisques to mouthwatering scallop ceviche, prepare to embark on a culinary adventure like no other as I unveil the top seafood hotspots in Cambridge, MA.

The Hourly Oyster House

Highlights
Excellent service
Fabulous food
Attentive servers
True taste of Boston seafood
Comfortable ambiance

From the moment I stepped foot into The Hourly Oyster House, I was greeted with excellent service and a warm, inviting atmosphere. The staff was attentive and knowledgeable, ensuring that every moment of my dining experience was nothing short of fabulous.

Let's talk about the food! Oh my, the food at The Hourly Oyster House was simply divine. From the first bite of freshly shucked oysters to the last morsel of perfectly grilled seafood, every dish was a masterpiece. The flavors were vibrant, and each ingredient was carefully selected, ensuring a true taste of Boston seafood.

The servers at The Hourly Oyster House were not only attentive but also genuinely passionate about the food they were serving. They expertly guided me through the menu, suggesting the best options and providing insightful descriptions of each dish. Their enthusiasm was contagious, making my dining experience all the more enjoyable.

The ambiance at The Hourly Oyster House was comfortable and relaxed, with a touch of sophistication. The cozy seating and dim lighting created an intimate setting, perfect for a romantic date night or a gathering with friends. The subtle nautical decor added a charming touch, further enhancing the overall experience.

In conclusion, The Hourly Oyster House truly deserves its place among the best seafood restaurants in Cambridge. With its excellent service, fabulous food, attentive servers, true taste of Boston seafood, and comfortable ambiance, it is an absolute gem. Don't miss out on the opportunity to indulge in this seafood haven.

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The Boiling Crab

Highlights
Fresh and juicy fish
Delicious food and sizable portions
Friendly and welcoming staff
Convenient location near Harvard square
Moderate and affordable prices

The moment I stepped into The Boiling Crab, I was greeted by the friendly and welcoming staff. The restaurant has a convenient location near Harvard Square, making it easily accessible for locals and tourists alike.

The highlight of my visit was definitely the seafood. The fish at The Boiling Crab was incredibly fresh and juicy, bursting with flavor in every bite. The menu offers a variety of options, from classic favorites like crab and shrimp to unique catches of the day. The portions were sizable, ensuring that I left feeling satisfied and content.

Not only was the taste of the food outstanding, but the presentation was also top-notch. Each dish was served with attention to detail, making it a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

What impressed me the most, however, was the balance between quality and affordability at The Boiling Crab. Despite its prime location and high standards, the restaurant offers moderate and affordable prices. This makes it a great option for those seeking a delicious seafood meal without breaking the bank.

Overall, my experience at The Boiling Crab was exceptional. The combination of delicious food, friendly staff, and reasonable prices make it a must-visit for seafood lovers in Cambridge. Treat yourself to a delightful seafood adventure at The Boiling Crab and indulge in their fresh and flavorful offerings.

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Waypoint

Highlights
Great food selection
Exceptional service
Delicious pizzas
Fresh and fast food
Warm and accommodating

In terms of food selection, Waypoint truly stands out with their great variety of seafood dishes that cater to all taste preferences. From classics like clam chowder to creative and unique creations, their menu has it all.

But what really blew me away at Waypoint was their exceptional service. The staff is knowledgeable, friendly, and genuinely passionate about the food they serve. They were more than happy to answer all my questions and make recommendations based on my preferences.

Now, you might be thinking, "Wait, did they just mention pizzas in a seafood restaurant review?" Yes, that's right! Waypoint surprised me with their delicious pizzas that were the perfect complement to their seafood dishes. The combination of fresh seafood toppings with their flavorful crust was an unexpected and delightful addition to the menu.

I was also impressed by the speed at which my food arrived. Despite their busy atmosphere, the dishes were always delivered fresh and fast. It's evident that the kitchen staff takes pride in their ability to provide quick service without compromising on quality.

Lastly, the ambience at Waypoint is warm and accommodating. The cozy interior and attentive staff create a welcoming environment that makes you feel right at home. Whether you're enjoying a meal with friends or treating yourself to a solo dining experience, Waypoint ensures you have a memorable experience.

In conclusion, Waypoint is a fantastic addition to the vibrant seafood scene in Cambridge. With their great food selection, exceptional service, delicious pizzas, fresh and fast food, and warm and accommodating atmosphere, this restaurant easily secures a place among the best seafood restaurants in Cambridge.

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Summer Shack

Highlights
Fresh seafood
Large rotating menu
Grilled cornbread with molasses butter
Fish tacos
Raw oysters

Summer Shack in Cambridge is a seafood lover's dream come true. From the moment you step through the door, you're greeted with the tantalizing aroma of fresh seafood wafting through the air.

What sets Summer Shack apart from other seafood restaurants in the area is their large rotating menu. They offer a wide variety of dishes that cater to all seafood enthusiasts, ensuring there's something for everyone. Whether you're in the mood for a classic New England lobster roll or a plate of succulent oysters, Summer Shack has got you covered.

One standout dish that I simply couldn't get enough of was the grilled cornbread with molasses butter. The combination of the sweet cornbread and the rich, velvety molasses butter was a match made in culinary heaven. Each bite was a delightful explosion of flavors that left me craving for more.

Another highlight of Summer Shack is their exquisite fish tacos. The perfectly seasoned and grilled fish, coupled with a medley of fresh toppings and a generous squeeze of lime, created a symphony of flavors that danced on my palate with every bite.

Of course, no seafood experience would be complete without indulging in a plate of raw oysters. Summer Shack showcases the freshest selection of oysters, expertly shucked and served with all the classic accompaniments. Each oyster was briny, plump, and simply delicious.

Overall, Summer Shack exceeded all my expectations and solidified its place as one of the top seafood restaurants in Cambridge. With their dedication to fresh seafood, an extensive menu, and unique dishes like grilled cornbread with molasses butter, it's no wonder that locals and tourists alike flock to this gem. So, if you're a seafood aficionado looking for an unforgettable culinary experience, be sure to pay a visit to Summer Shack.

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Moëca

Highlights
Flavorful food
Impeccable service
Inviting ambiance
Unique flavor profiles
Outstanding quality

Moëca in Cambridge is a seafood lover's paradise. From the moment you step in, the aroma of fresh seafood entices your senses and whisks you away on a culinary adventure.

The first thing that stood out to me during my visit was the flavorful food. Each dish at Moëca is thoughtfully prepared, showcasing the natural flavors of the seafood. From the perfectly cooked scallops to the tender lobster, every bite was a delightful explosion of taste.

What truly sets Moëca apart is the impeccable service. The staff is knowledgeable, attentive, and passionate about ensuring a memorable dining experience. They go above and beyond to cater to your needs and make you feel welcomed throughout your visit.

The inviting ambiance of Moëca adds an extra touch of elegance to the dining experience. With dimmed lighting, comfortable seating, and soothing background music, it creates a cozy atmosphere perfect for a romantic dinner or a gathering with friends.

What impressed me the most about Moëca were the unique flavor profiles they offer. The chefs cleverly infuse ingredients from different cuisines, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that elevates the seafood dishes to a whole new level.

Lastly, the outstanding quality of the ingredients used at Moëca cannot be overlooked. Every piece of seafood is exceptionally fresh and sourced with utmost care.

In conclusion, if you're in Cambridge and craving seafood, Moëca is a must-visit. With its flavorful food, impeccable service, inviting ambiance, unique flavor profiles, and outstanding quality, it will surely leave you wanting more.

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Harvest

Highlights
Delicious food
Nice ambience
Remarkably delicious
Cozy atmosphere

As soon as I walked into Harvest, the cozy atmosphere immediately put me at ease. The restaurant was dimly lit, creating a warm and intimate ambiance that was perfect for a seafood dining experience. The staff was welcoming and attentive, which only added to the pleasant atmosphere.

The menu at Harvest boasted a variety of delectable seafood dishes, each more enticing than the last. I decided to start with the remarkably delicious seafood chowder. The rich and creamy broth was packed with chunks of fresh seafood, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that left me craving for more.

For the main course, I opted for the chef's specialty, the seafood platter. It was an absolute delight for any seafood lover. From succulent shrimp to tender scallops, every bite was an explosion of flavors. The seafood was cooked to perfection, perfectly complemented by a zesty lemon butter sauce. Each dish was expertly crafted, highlighting the freshness of the ingredients.

The combination of delectable food and the nice ambience made Harvest an experience to remember. If you are a seafood enthusiast searching for a delightful dining experience in Cambridge, Harvest is a must-visit. Their attention to detail, from the flavors to the presentation, truly showcased their expertise in seafood cuisine.

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Puritan Oyster Bar

Highlights
Fresh ceviche
Accommodating staff
Delicious ocean treats
Amazing oysters
Lobster sandwich with all claws

Let me tell you, this place is a hidden gem when it comes to seafood delights! From the moment I walked in, I was greeted by the friendly and accommodating staff who made me feel right at home.

Now, let's talk about the food. Oh boy, where do I start? The fresh ceviche was an absolute delight - bursting with flavors of the ocean. But what really stole the show were the amazing oysters. They were plump, briny, and oh-so-fresh, a true taste of the sea.

But wait, there's more! Puritan Oyster Bar is not just about oysters. They also offer a variety of delicious ocean treats that will make your taste buds dance with joy. And if you're a lobster lover like me, you can't miss their lobster sandwich. It's piled high with all claws, making every bite a succulent and satisfying experience.

What sets Puritan Oyster Bar apart from other seafood restaurants is the attention to detail and the quality of ingredients they use. Each dish is prepared with care and precision, ensuring that you get the best seafood Cambridge has to offer.

So, if you're in the mood for some top-notch seafood, head on over to Puritan Oyster Bar and prepare to be blown away by their fresh ceviche, amazing oysters, and mouthwatering lobster sandwich. Trust me, it's an experience you won't want to miss!

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Judy's Bay

Highlights
Amazing lobster
Fresh seafood
Great atmosphere
Friendly service
Unique dishes

From the moment I stepped foot into Judy's Bay, I knew I was in for a treat. The atmosphere was inviting, with a charming coastal theme that immediately put me in the mood for some delightful seafood.

The star of the show at Judy's Bay was undoubtedly the amazing lobster. Cooked to perfection and unbelievably succulent, it practically melted in my mouth. I couldn't resist savoring every bite, as its delicate flavors danced on my taste buds.

But Judy's Bay doesn't stop at just lobster. No, they offer a fantastic selection of fresh seafood that will leave any seafood lover smiling from ear to ear. From mouthwatering crab cakes to tender scallops, each dish was expertly prepared and presented with finesse.

What truly sets Judy's Bay apart is their commitment to unique and inventive seafood dishes. I was blown away by their innovative take on classics like shrimp scampi, which was infused with a delightful hint of citrus that added a whole new dimension of flavor. It was refreshing to see a seafood restaurant pushing the boundaries and offering something beyond the ordinary.

Not only was the food exceptional, but the friendly service added an extra touch of warmth to my dining experience. The attentive staff went above and beyond to ensure that I had everything I needed and that my meal was nothing short of perfect.

All in all, my visit to Judy's Bay was a true delight. With its amazing lobster, fresh seafood, great atmosphere, friendly service, and unique dishes, it is undoubtedly one of the best seafood restaurants in Cambridge. So if you're looking for a seafood experience that will leave you wanting more, be sure to pay Judy's Bay a visit. You won't be disappointed!

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Out Of The Blue

Highlights
Large and delicious entrees
Delightful seafood options
Attentive and professional waitstaff
Nice ambiance with music
Must try tiramisu dessert

Out Of The Blue is a stellar addition to the seafood restaurant scene in Cambridge. From the moment I stepped inside, I was greeted by a nice ambiance with soft music playing in the background, creating a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.

The menu at Out Of The Blue is a seafood lover's dream come true. The entrees are not only large, but also incredibly delicious. Each bite was a burst of flavor and left me craving for more. The extensive selection of delightful seafood options truly showcases the freshness and quality of the ingredients used.

The waitstaff at Out Of The Blue was truly exceptional. They were attentive and professional, ensuring that every need was met. They were knowledgeable about the menu and offered helpful suggestions, further enhancing the dining experience.

Before leaving, I highly recommend saving room for dessert. The tiramisu at Out Of The Blue is an absolute must try. The layers of creamy goodness combined with the perfect balance of coffee and cocoa flavors left me in dessert heaven.

When it comes to the best seafood restaurants in Cambridge, Out Of The Blue definitely stands out. With their large and delicious entrees, delightful seafood options, attentive and professional waitstaff, nice ambiance with music, and a must try tiramisu dessert, this restaurant is a true gem that seafood lovers cannot afford to miss.

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Russell House Tavern

Highlights
Good food
Sumptuous cocktails
Amazing pizza
Perfect espresso martini
Great prices for quality food

Let me start by saying that Russell House Tavern is a hidden gem among Cambridge's seafood restaurants. From the moment I walked in, I could tell that this place was special. With its cozy and rustic atmosphere, it perfectly combines elegance and comfort.

Now, let's talk about the food. Oh boy, the food! The menu at Russell House Tavern is a seafood lover's dream come true. Every dish I tried left me wanting more. From the delicious and fresh seafood offerings to the amazing wood-fired pizza, this place knows how to please even the most discerning palate.

But it's not just the food that sets Russell House Tavern apart. The cocktail list is a work of art in itself. Their drinks are creative and expertly crafted, and the sumptuous cocktails perfectly complemented the meal. I highly recommend trying their perfect espresso martini – it's worth every sip.

Another thing that impressed me about Russell House Tavern is their commitment to providing quality food at great prices. The combination of a mouthwatering seafood menu and reasonable prices makes this place a winner in my book.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a seafood restaurant in Cambridge that offers good food, amazing cocktails, and great prices, look no further than Russell House Tavern. The experience I had here was extraordinary, and I can confidently say that it deserves a spot on the list of the best seafood restaurants in Cambridge.

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Urban Hearth

Highlights
Farm-to-table cuisine
Exceptional dishes
Intimate dining space
Locally sourced ingredients
Creative and unique menu

Urban Hearth is a hidden gem when it comes to seafood dining in Cambridge. Nestled in an intimate dining space, it offers a truly unique and delightful experience for seafood enthusiasts. As someone who values locally sourced ingredients, I was thrilled to learn that Urban Hearth prides itself on its farm-to-table cuisine.

The menu at Urban Hearth showcases a creative and diverse range of seafood dishes, guaranteed to leave your taste buds dancing with delight. From perfectly seared scallops to succulent lobster rolls, every dish is thoughtfully crafted using the freshest ingredients. The culinary team at Urban Hearth truly knows how to bring out the best flavors of the sea.

What makes Urban Hearth stand out from other seafood restaurants is its commitment to supporting local fishermen and farmers. The team goes above and beyond to source ingredients from nearby waters, resulting in exceptional flavors and a connection to the local community.

During my visit, I had the pleasure of trying their signature dish, the pan-seared halibut. The fish was incredibly tender, perfectly cooked, and beautifully presented. Each bite was a harmonious blend of flavors, leaving me craving for more. The attention to detail and the skill of the chefs at Urban Hearth is evident in every dish they serve.

If you appreciate seafood that is not only delicious but also ethically sourced, then Urban Hearth should definitely be on your list of must-visit seafood restaurants in Cambridge. Prepare your taste buds for a delectable journey as you savor the exceptional dishes that this hidden gem has to offer.

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The Red House Restaurant

Highlights
Delicious food
Great service
Outdoor seating
Convenient location

The Red House Restaurant in Cambridge is an absolute gem when it comes to seafood dining. From the moment I stepped foot into this charming establishment, I knew I was in for a treat.

First and foremost, let's talk about the food. I was blown away by the exceptional quality and flavor of every dish I tried. From the tender grilled octopus to the perfectly seared scallops, every bite was a delightful journey into the depths of seafood bliss. The Red House truly knows how to bring out the best in their ingredients, and the attention to detail in their culinary creations is evident in every dish.

Now, let's talk about the service. The staff at The Red House goes above and beyond to ensure a memorable and satisfying dining experience. From the friendly and knowledgeable servers to the attentive and efficient waitstaff, I felt incredibly well taken care of throughout my visit. They provided insightful recommendations and were always available to address any requests or inquiries.

One of the standout features of The Red House is its outdoor seating. It's the perfect spot to enjoy your meal while soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of Cambridge. Whether you prefer dining indoors or surrounded by the bustling streets, this restaurant has got you covered.

Last but not least, the convenient location of The Red House makes it a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts. Situated in the heart of Cambridge, it's easily accessible and conveniently located near other attractions.

In conclusion, The Red House Restaurant in Cambridge is a seafood lover's paradise. With its delicious food, great service, outdoor seating, and convenient location, this place is a true standout in the realm of seafood dining. A visit to The Red House is a guaranteed feast for the senses and a memorable experience that will leave you craving for more.

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Legal Sea Foods - Kendall Square

Highlights
Excellent service
Delicious lobster rolls
Tasty oysters
Great clam chowder
Flavorful lobster roll

Let me start by saying that the service at Legal Sea Foods - Kendall Square was truly excellent. From the moment I stepped foot through the door, the staff was attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable about the menu.

Now, let's talk about the food. I must admit, I'm a sucker for a good lobster roll, and boy, did Legal Sea Foods deliver. Their lobster rolls were delicious, with generous portions of perfectly cooked lobster meat tucked into a buttery, toasted bun. Each bite was a burst of flavor that left me wanting more.

But it wasn't just the lobster rolls that impressed me. Legal Sea Foods also served up some seriously tasty oysters. They were fresh, plump, and brimming with that distinct briny flavor that oyster lovers crave.

And let's not forget about their clam chowder. It was creamy, rich, and packed with chunky pieces of tender clams. The flavors melded together harmoniously, creating a bowl of pure seafood bliss.

Overall, my visit to Legal Sea Foods - Kendall Square was a delightful experience. The combination of excellent service, delicious lobster rolls, tasty oysters, and great clam chowder left me thoroughly impressed. If you're looking for a flavorful seafood feast in Cambridge, this is the place to be.

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Row 34

Highlights
Fresh and plump oysters
Big and meaty shrimp
Smoked scallops
Amazing food and good company

Row 34 is a true gem in the realm of seafood dining in Cambridge. From the moment I entered, I was captivated by the restaurant's warm and inviting atmosphere. The service was exceptional, with attentive staff who were more than happy to answer any questions I had about the menu.

Now, let's talk about the stars of the show – the fresh and plump oysters. Each bite was a tantalizing burst of the ocean, perfectly balanced with a delicate brininess. The oysters were wonderfully accompanied by a selection of flavorful and creative sauces that enhanced their natural flavors.

But the seafood delights didn't stop there. The big and meaty shrimp were succulent and juicy, with a delightful snap with every bite. They showcased the restaurant's commitment to serving high-quality seafood.

One dish that absolutely blew me away was the smoked scallops. The smoky aroma hit my senses before I even took my first forkful. The scallops were cooked to perfection, tender and packed with a smoky flavor that lingered on my palate.

To sum it all up, Row 34 not only delivers amazing food but also creates an ambiance that makes every dining experience memorable. It's the kind of place where you can enjoy exquisite seafood with good company, surrounded by a friendly and knowledgeable staff. If you're in Cambridge and searching for the best seafood restaurant, look no further – Row 34 is a must-visit!

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Alive & Kicking Lobsters

Highlights
Real deal lobster
Freshest seafood
Great chowder
Unique lobster sandwich
Cozy heated patio seating

I must say, this place is the real deal when it comes to lobster. The moment I walked in, I could smell the freshest seafood in the air, and my taste buds instantly started to tingle with anticipation.

The star of the show here is, of course, the lobster. They offer a variety of lobster dishes that will leave you drooling. Whether you prefer it boiled, grilled, or in a sumptuous lobster roll, Alive & Kicking Lobsters knows how to showcase this exquisite delicacy.

One standout item on the menu is their unique lobster sandwich - a heavenly combination of succulent lobster meat, crispy lettuce, and a mouthwatering secret sauce that elevates every bite to seafood heaven.

In addition to their amazing lobster offerings, they also serve a great chowder that will warm your soul on a chilly day. Creamy, flavorful, and filled with chunks of seafood, it's like a hug in a bowl.

If you're looking to dine in, Alive & Kicking Lobsters has got you covered with their cozy heated patio seating. Whether you're enjoying a romantic evening or gathering with friends, their warm and inviting atmosphere adds an extra touch of charm to your dining experience.

Overall, my visit to Alive & Kicking Lobsters was a seafood lover's dream. With their dedication to serving the freshest seafood and offering unique and delicious lobster creations, this restaurant truly deserves its spot on the list of the best seafood restaurants in Cambridge.

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