Last Updated on May 17, 2026 by Brian Kachejian
There is something about seafood that makes it so special. Seafood is a rich source of essential nutrients and a healthy diet. A wide variety of fish is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which play an important role in keeping the cardiovascular system healthy and preventing heart disease, and delicious shrimp, fried rice, or steamed fish can be easily eaten. If you get well-cooked/prepared seafood, there is no reason why you cannot have it every day.
The best part is that if you live in Austin or have just moved there and want to enjoy seafood, there are plenty of options. The city may be famous for its barbecue and Tex-Mex foods, but it is also banking on its fresh catch from the Gulf of Mexico or the Colorado River. Whether you like to eat crabs, shrimp, or oysters, many restaurants serve these goodies in the most mouth-watering way.
Here are our top 10 best seafood restaurants in Austin, Texas:
#10 – Perla’s
Perla’s, established in 2009, is known for its fresh seafood dishes and oysters flown in daily from both coasts, with a focus on sourcing from the Gulf of Mexico. The restaurant also has a fantastic bar, serving up coastal cocktails and a well-curated wine list. In addition to their delicious food and drinks, Perla’s also boasts a beautiful patio and dining room featuring a saltwater fish tank and open kitchen. They offer lunch and dinner daily, brunch on the weekends, and happy hour during the week. The menu changes regularly to showcase the freshest catch, but some notable dishes include the grilled octopus, wood-roasted Gulf shrimp, and, of course, their signature oysters.
Address: 1400 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704
Website: https://perlasaustin.com/
#9- Crawfish Shack & Oyster Bar
Imagine enjoying your long-awaited crawfish boil with all the fixings, washed down with a cold beer on tap – sounds like heaven, right? At Crawfish Shack & Oyster Bar, you can enjoy the perfect atmosphere for just that- a casual, nautical-themed space with TVs for all your sports-watching favorites. But it’s not just crawfish boils we specialize in; their menu offers delicious Cajun-inspired dishes like crab legs, shrimp platters, gumbo, and more to satisfy all your seafood cravings. And don’t forget about their famous Po-Boys and Jambalaya for those looking for a more traditional lunch option. Their over 15 years in the North Austin community are a testament to the quality and deliciousness of their seafood offerings. With daily deliveries, they can provide the freshest seafood from all over the country, including the Gulf, the Eastern Shore, and the West Coast.
Address: 2013 Wells Branch Pkwy #106, Austin, TX 78728
#8- Garbo’s
Garbo’s deserves recognition even though they have been in the Austin seafood scene for only a few years. They have been named one of the best seafood spots in Austin by multiple local bloggers and critics, and they have a loyal following of seafood lovers. Their menu features all the classics like lobster rolls, crab cakes, and oysters on the half shell, but also has some Texas twists like their shrimp and grits and fried catfish sandwich. They also have daily specials and seasonal offerings, so there is always something new to try. Not only is the food spot on, but the atmosphere is cozy and inviting, with beachy decor and a laid-back vibe. This is one of those restaurants, if it maintains this level of deliciousness, will surely be a staple in Austin for years to come.
Address: 12709 N Mopac Expy, Austin, TX 78727
Website: https://www.garboslobsteratx.com/
#7- Deckhand Oyster Bar & Seafood
Deckhand Oyster Bar & Seafood is known for more than just food. It’s a well-designed restaurant that invites you to come sit and enjoy a drink, some oysters on the half shell, or a delicious seafood meal in this warm atmosphere. According to the owners, their passion for fresh seafood is evident in every dish they create. They have a versatile menu with oysters from the Third Coast and seafood options like shrimp and crab legs. They also offer Asian-inspired dishes and Cajun options for those looking for something a little different. It’s a place you can go for a casual dinner or happy hour with friends, but also a spot to celebrate special occasions.
Address: 4211 S Lamar Blvd C-1, Austin, TX 78704
Website: https://www.deckhandoysterbar.com/
#6- Truluck’s Ocean’s Finest Seafood and Crab
Maybe it’s their upscale atmosphere or their half-price happy hour, but there’s no denying that Truluck’s is one of the best seafood restaurants in Austin. They take pride in serving only the freshest seafood, including their famous Florida Stone Crab. Their deep wine list and swanky surroundings make for a truly enjoyable dining experience. Plus, with their convenient downtown location, you can easily make a night out of it by visiting nearby live music venues or the State Capitol Building. According to the local customers, this joint has earned its spot as a seafood lover’s paradise. Introducing the Fresh Florida Stone Crab Claws to the menu is another reason to pay Truluck’s a visit. Don’t miss out on their commitment to serving the ocean’s finest seafood straight from the traps to your table.
Address: 400 Colorado St, Austin, TX 78701
Website: https://trulucks.com/
#5- Red Lobster
While there are three Red Lobster restaurants in Austin, we chose the Round Rock location for its convenient location just north of Austin and ample parking. This location does not disappoint- with its New England-themed decor, it transports you to the coast while providing a lively atmosphere. But enough about the ambiance; Red Lobster is a well-known American seafood staple, living up to its reputation. The Cheddar Bay Biscuits alone are worth the visit- warm, fluffy, and cheesy, they are hard to resist. As a seafood fan, you can’t go wrong with any dish on the menu- whether it’s a classic like the Lobster Pot Pie or the decadent Lobster-Artichoke-and-Seafood Dip. With a history dating back to 1968, Red Lobster has perfected its seafood game, which shows in every bite.
Address: 2702 A, Parker Dr, Round Rock, TX 78681
Website: https://www.redlobster.com/seafood-restaurants/locations/tx/round-rock/2702-a-parker-road
#4- Freda’s Seafood Grille
Freda’s Seafood Grille is a locally owned and operated restaurant with an upscale-casual dining area, bar, and patio. The menu features Southern-inspired seafood and steak dishes, as well as an exceptional wine selection. Owner Freda has been in the restaurant business for 30 years and is a longtime Austinite, bringing her love for the city and its flavors to Freda’s Seafood Grille. The versatility of the menu, atmosphere, and pricing caters to families and business travelers seeking a relaxing dining experience. They have a reputation that keeps customers coming back for more.
Address: 10903 Pecan Park Blvd, Austin, TX 78750
Website: https://www.fredasaustin.com/
#3- Eddie V’s Prime Seafood 5th St
You might have heard of Eddie V’s, a premier seafood-and-steak chain with locations across the country. You might not know that Austin’s joint serves the freshest seafood, like Alaskan King Crab Legs and Southern Coast Red Snapper, with expert precision. If you’re craving some steak too, Eddie V’s has you covered with options like their Prime Top Sirloin and Bone-In Filet. Keep an eye out for the daily specials, like Lobster and Caviar, for a truly decadent dining experience. And let’s not forget about the cocktail lounge at Eddie V’s Austin. The V Lounge features live jazz every night, making it the perfect spot for a drink before or after your meal.
Address: 301 E 5th St., Austin, TX 78701
Website: https://www.eddiev.com/locations/tx/austin/austin-5th-street/8501
#2- Catfish Parlour South
Having opened its doors in 1973, Catfish Parlour South has been serving Austin delicious Southern-style seafood for over 40 years. As a family-owned restaurant, they take pride in their homemade recipes and use only the freshest ingredients in every dish. Their signature dish is the US farm-raised catfish, fried to crispy perfection using trans-fat-free oil and served with house coleslaw, pinto beans, and hush puppies. But they also offer a variety of seafood options, such as jumbo shrimp, fried oysters, and grilled chicken or catfish. And for those who aren’t in the mood for seafood, there are also salads and chicken-fried steaks on the menu.
Address: 4705 E Ben White Blvd, Austin, TX 78744
Website: https://www.catfishparlour.com/
#1- Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen
Everything about this next Austin Seafood spot screams seafood paradise. From the rich, dark wood interior to the extensive menu packed with Cajun-style seafood dishes, Pappadeaux is a spot not to be missed. And as an added bonus, they also offer comfort fare and pasta for those looking for something different. And with a full bar, you’re sure to have the perfect drink to pair with your meal. But the greatness of Pappadeaux doesn’t stop at its food and atmosphere – it’s also part of one of the largest family-owned and operated restaurant companies in the US. With a focus on quality, innovation, and attention to detail, it’s no surprise that Pappadeaux is a respected leader in the competitive restaurant industry.
Address: 6319 N Interstate Hwy 35, Austin, TX 78752
Website: https://pappadeaux.com/
For more top food choices in Austin, Texas, check out our guides to the Best Tex-Mex in Austin, Texas, Where To Find The Best BBQ Restaurants In Austin, Texas, Where To Find The Best Pizza In Austin, Texas and Where To Find The Best Hot Dogs In Austin, Texas.
