Los Angeles, a city sprawling between mountains and the Pacific Ocean, boasts a vibrant seafood scene. From upscale dining experiences to casual beachfront eateries, the city offers a diverse range of restaurants showcasing the freshest catches. This guide highlights 17 of the top seafood restaurants in Los Angeles, catering to various tastes and budgets. Whether you crave a luxurious lobster dinner or a simple fish taco, this list has something for everyone.
The Best Seafood Restaurants: A Diverse Catch
This selection covers a spectrum of culinary styles and price points, ensuring there's a perfect seafood haven for every Los Angeles foodie. We've considered factors like freshness of ingredients, ambiance, service, and overall dining experience in compiling this list.
Upscale Elegance: Indulge in Luxury
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Nobu Malibu: This iconic restaurant needs no introduction. Known for its innovative Japanese-Peruvian fusion cuisine, Nobu Malibu offers stunning ocean views and an unparalleled dining experience. Expect to pay a premium for the exquisite seafood dishes and impeccable service. Their signature yellowtail jalapeño sashimi is a must-try.
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Geoffrey's Malibu: Perched on the cliffs overlooking the Pacific, Geoffrey's Malibu provides breathtaking sunset views along with its refined California cuisine. The seafood here is impeccably sourced, and the menu changes seasonally to reflect the best of the ocean's bounty. Their grilled seafood dishes are particularly noteworthy.
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The Lobster: Located in the heart of Beverly Hills, The Lobster offers a classic New England seafood experience with a touch of Hollywood glamour. Expect succulent lobster, crab, and other premium seafood prepared with traditional techniques and presented with elegance.
Casual Coastal Charm: Relaxed Seafood Dining
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Neptune's Net: A legendary roadside seafood shack in Malibu, Neptune's Net is a quintessential California experience. This casual spot offers fresh, simply prepared seafood at incredibly affordable prices. The atmosphere is lively and bustling, and the views are unbeatable.
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The Fishing Pier: Situated directly on the Santa Monica Pier, The Fishing Pier offers panoramic ocean views and casual seafood dining. Their fish and chips are a local favorite, and you can even watch the fishermen bringing in their daily catch.
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Red O: This lively restaurant located in Santa Monica offers a unique blend of Mexican and Californian flavors, highlighted by their fantastic fresh seafood dishes. Their ceviche and tacos are particularly noteworthy.
Hidden Gems: Discovering LA's Seafood Secrets
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Mariscos Jalisco: This unassuming taco stand in the heart of Boyle Heights is a beloved local favorite. Their innovative seafood tacos are a culinary revelation – fresh, flavorful, and incredibly affordable. Don't let the casual setting fool you; this is a true hidden gem.
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The Lobster: While we mentioned The Lobster in Beverly Hills, it's worth noting that they also have a location in Santa Monica, offering a similar upscale experience with a slightly more relaxed ambiance.
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Sushi Gen: For a true sushi experience, Sushi Gen in Little Tokyo is a must-visit. They specialize in traditional Edomae-style sushi, using only the freshest and highest-quality ingredients.
Diverse Flavors: Exploring Global Seafood Cuisine
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Providence: This Michelin-starred restaurant is known for its exquisite seafood tasting menus, showcasing the chef's innovative approach to preparing sustainable seafood. This is a truly special occasion dining experience.
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Water Grill: Located in Downtown LA, Water Grill offers an extensive seafood menu featuring dishes from around the world. Their oyster bar is particularly impressive, featuring a wide selection of fresh oysters from various regions.
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Boa Steakhouse: While primarily known for its steak, Boa Steakhouse also offers an impressive selection of seafood, including some of the most luxurious options in the city. Their seafood tower is a popular choice for sharing.
Fresh and Sustainable Choices: Seafood with a Conscience
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Fritto Misto: This charming Italian restaurant in Studio City features a menu highlighting sustainable seafood options, showcasing the freshest catches prepared with classic Italian techniques.
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Sushi Roku: This chic restaurant offers a stylish atmosphere and a creative sushi menu that incorporates seasonal ingredients. They prioritize sustainability and work with local fishermen.
Budget-Friendly Bites: Delicious Seafood Without Breaking the Bank
- Brodard Chateau: While not solely a seafood restaurant, Brodard Chateau offers some of the most delicious and affordable Vietnamese seafood dishes in the city. Their seafood spring rolls and vermicelli bowls are highly recommended.
Unique Experiences: Seafood with a Twist
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The Albright: Known for its stunning rooftop views and vibrant atmosphere, The Albright also boasts a menu featuring creative seafood dishes with a modern twist.
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Connie's Ric Rac: This casual spot in Los Feliz serves up delicious seafood dishes with a California-Mediterranean flair. Their fresh pasta dishes featuring seafood are particularly noteworthy.
Finding Your Perfect Seafood Spot in LA
This list provides a starting point for your seafood adventure in Los Angeles. Remember to check menus and make reservations, especially for the more popular and upscale establishments. Enjoy exploring the diverse and delicious world of seafood dining in the City of Angels!
