Austin, TX

Best Seafood in Austin – 15 Must-Visit Restaurants & Dishes!

Published

1 year ago

August 3, 2024

Press Room

Best Seafood in Austin – 15 Must-Visit Restaurants & Dishes!

Best Seafood in Austin Texas

Austin, a city renowned for its vibrant music scene and eclectic culture, boasts a thriving seafood scene that rivals coastal destinations. From the classic charm of Perla’s, celebrated for its fresh oysters, to the modern sophistication of Mongers, known for its sustainable seafood, the city offers a diverse range of culinary experiences. For those craving a taste of the coast, Salt Traders Coastal Cooking delivers authentic flavors, while seafood enthusiasts seeking a touch of luxury will find their haven at Eddie V’s, where impeccable service and exquisite dishes await.

Check out our comprehensive guide to the best seafood restaurants in Austin for your next seafood cravings!

Best Seafood Restaurants in Austin Texas – Categorized by Atmosphere

Lively and Casual Seafood Restaurants

Upscale and Elegant Austin Restaurants

Intimate and Cozy Seafood Restaurants in Austin

Family-Friendly Austin Seafood Restaurants

Quick Hit Summary of the Top Seafood Restaurants in Austin

Austin’s seafood scene offers something for every palate. For a taste of coastal New Orleans, Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen is a must-visit, with its classic Cajun dishes like shrimp etouffee and crawfish boil. If you’re seeking a more upscale experience, Freda’s Seafood Grille offers an elegant ambiance and a menu featuring fresh seafood prepared to perfection.

For those who prefer a casual yet satisfying meal, The Boat is a great option. This laid-back spot serves up delicious tacos, po’boys, and other seafood favorites in a relaxed atmosphere. If you’re craving a truly unique dining experience, Canje offers a vibrant Caribbean twist on seafood cuisine, with bold flavors and fresh ingredients.

These restaurants are just a few examples of the diverse seafood options Austin has to offer. Check out below for more ideas on where to go for the best seafood in Austin TX!

Editor’s Note: Our staff works hard to bring you the latest information. However, all information mentioned in this article is subject to change. As always, please confirm before heading out.

Lively and Casual Seafood Restaurants

Clark’s Oyster Bar

Clark’s Oyster Bar is a classic Austin seafood institution, known for its fresh oysters and lively atmosphere. This bustling spot offers a raw bar, a full menu of seafood dishes, and a wide selection of craft beers.

Must-try dishes: Oak grilled Spanish octopus, wood-grilled shrimp toast, Clark’s Cioppino
Atmosphere: Lively, casual, bustling
Dietary restrictions: Offers gluten-free options
Insider tips: Arrive early for a spot at the bar
Location: 1200 W 6th St, Austin, TX 78703
Hours: Sunday – Thursday: 11 am – 10 pm | Friday – Saturday: 11 am – 11 pm

Perla’s

Best Seafood in Austin | Image credit: Perla’s

Perla’s offers a vibrant and lively atmosphere with a focus on fresh seafood. Their menu features a variety of ceviche, crudo, and grilled seafood dishes.

Must-try dishes: Crispy Skin Gulf Branzino a la Plancha, Nova Scotia Lobster Bucatini, Butter Poached Nova Scotia Halibut
Atmosphere: Casual, lively, open-air seating
Dietary restrictions: Offers gluten-free and vegetarian options
Insider tips: Happy hour features discounted oysters, reservations recommended on weekends, ample street parking available
Location: 1400 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704
Hours: Monday – Thursday: 11:30 am – 10 pm | Friday: 11:30 am – 11 pm | Saturday: 10:30 am – 11 pm | Sunday: 10:30 am – 10 pm

The Boat

The Boat offers a casual, laid-back atmosphere with a focus on fresh seafood. The menu features a variety of tacos, po’boys, and salads, as well as a selection of fresh oysters and shrimp. The outdoor patio is a popular spot to enjoy the Austin weather.

Must-try dishes: Crawfish celebration platter, Buffalo Oyster Po Boy, Cajun plate
Atmosphere: Casual, laid-back, outdoor seating
Dietary restrictions: Limited options
Location: 10931 Stonelake Blvd, Austin, TX 78759
Hours: Sunday – Monday and Wednesday – Thursday: 11 am – 10 pm | Saturday, Tuesday, Friday: 11 am – 12 am

Canje

Canje is one of the best seafood restaurants in Austin TX that offers a unique Caribbean-inspired menu with a focus on fresh seafood. Their dishes feature bold flavors and fresh ingredients, creating a truly unforgettable dining experience. The vibrant atmosphere and friendly service make it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.

Must-try dishes: Cury wagyu beef, Accra de Morue, Tilefish
Atmosphere: Vibrant, lively, casual
Dietary restrictions: Offers vegetarian options
Location: 1914 E 6th St ste c, Austin, TX 78702
Hours: Sunday – Thursday: 5 pm – 10 pm | Friday – Saturday: 5 pm – 11 pm

Deckhand Oyster Bar

Deckhand Oyster Bar is a lively spot known for its fresh oysters and extensive raw bar. The casual atmosphere and friendly service make it a great place to enjoy a relaxed meal with friends. The menu also features a variety of cooked seafood dishes, as well as a selection of craft beers and cocktails.

Must-try dishes: Drunken sailor, swamp curry, spicy stir-fry and basil
Atmosphere: Casual, lively, bustling
Dietary restrictions: Offers gluten-free options
Location: Multiple locations in Austin
Hours: Varies by location

Este

Best Seafood in Austin | Image credit: Esteatx

Este offers a modern and innovative approach to seafood cuisine. The menu features a seasonal selection of dishes highlighting fresh, local ingredients. The stylish atmosphere and attentive service create a memorable dining experience.

Must-try dishes: Torta de pescado, Este ceviche, Tuna tiradito
Atmosphere: Modern, stylish, upscale casual
Dietary restrictions: Offers gluten-free options
Insider tips: Reservations recommended
Location: 2113 Manor Rd, Austin, TX 78722
Hours: Monday- Thursday: 5 pm – 10 pm | Friday – Sunday: 12 pm – 10 pm

Best Seafood Restaurant in Austin Texas – Upscale and Elegant

Freda’s Seafood Grille

Freda’s Seafood Grille offers a sophisticated dining experience with a focus on fresh, high-quality seafood. The upscale-casual atmosphere and attentive service make it a perfect spot for special occasions. The menu features a variety of grilled fish, shellfish, and seafood pasta dishes.

Must-try dishes: Coast paella, Crab stuffed salmon, Pecan crusted tilapia, Mango tilapia and shrimp
Atmosphere: Upscale-casual, elegant, romantic
Dietary restrictions: Offers gluten-free options
Insider tips: Their happy hour features discounted drinks and appetizers
Location: 10903 Pecan Park Blvd, Austin, TX 78750
Hours: Sunday – Thursday: 11 am – 9 pm | Friday – Saturday: 11 am – 10 pm

Mongers

Mongers offers a modern take on seafood with a focus on fresh, sustainable ingredients. The menu features a rotating selection of raw bar items, small plates, and larger entrees.

Must-try dishes: Akaushi burger, Swordfish, East Coast Tuna, Fish tacos
Atmosphere: Modern, stylish, upscale casual
Dietary restrictions: Offers gluten-free options
Insider tips: Happy hour features discounted oysters and small plates
Location: 4119 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX 78751
Hours: Tuesday – Thursday: 11:30 am – 9:30 pm | Friday – Saturday: 11:30 am – 10 pm

Eddie V’s

Eddie V’s offers an upscale dining experience with a focus on fresh seafood and impeccable service. The menu features a wide variety of seafood dishes, from classic favorites to innovative creations.

Must-try dishes: Steak medallions, yellow-tail sashimi, halibut
Atmosphere: Upscale, elegant, romantic
Dietary restrictions: Offers gluten-free options
Insider tips: Make reservations and dress code enforced
Location: Multiple locations in Austin
Hours: Varies by location

Simar Seafood and Steak

Simar Seafood & Steak offers a sophisticated dining experience with a focus on fresh seafood and prime cuts of steak. Their menu features a wide variety of seafood options, from classic grilled fish to decadent lobster dishes.

Must-try dishes: Nacho de Atun, Aguachiles ATX Verde, Combinado Del Golf, Filete Al Tajin
Atmosphere: Upscale, elegant, romantic
Dietary restrictions: Offers gluten-free options
Insider tips: Make reservations and dress code enforced
Location: 9503 Research Blvd Unit 400, Austin, TX 78759
Hours: Monday – Sunday: 11 am – 9 pm

Truluck’s Ocean’s Finest Seafood and Crab

Truluck’s is a renowned seafood restaurant offering a luxurious dining experience. Known for its exceptional service and commitment to quality, Truluck’s boasts an extensive menu featuring fresh seafood from around the world.

Must-try dishes: Miso-glazed seabass, Sesame seared tuna, Redfish Pontchartrain
Atmosphere: Upscale, elegant, sophisticated
Dietary restrictions: Offers gluten-free options
Insider tips: Dress code enforced
Location: Various locations in Austin
Hours: Varies by location

Swift’s Attic

Swift’s Attic offers a sophisticated rooftop dining experience with stunning city views. Their seafood-centric menu features innovative dishes crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The ambiance is perfect for a special occasion or a night out with friends.

Must-try dishes: Teres Major, Gulf Boys and Country Gals, Old Dirty Galbi
Atmosphere: Upscale, stylish, rooftop views
Dietary restrictions: Offers gluten-free options
Insider tips: Reservations are highly recommended
Location: 315 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701
Hours: Monday – Friday: 4 pm – 10 pm | Saturday – Sunday: 5 pm – 10 pm

Launderette

Launderette offers a unique blend of casual and upscale dining with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Their seafood dishes are creatively prepared and beautifully presented. The restaurant’s charming atmosphere and attentive service make it a popular choice for special occasions.

Must-try dishes: Pei mussels, Orrechiette, Charred octopus
Atmosphere: Upscale casual, stylish, inviting
Dietary restrictions: Offers gluten-free and vegetarian options
Location: 2115 Holly St, Austin, TX 78702
Hours: Monday – Sunday: 11 am – 2:15 pm and 5 pm – 10 pm

Intimate and Cozy Seafood Restaurants in Austin, TX

Garbo’s Lobster Austin

Best Seafood in Austin | Image credit: Garbo’s Restaurant

Garbo’s Fresh Maine Lobster brings the taste of the East Coast to Austin with its focus on fresh Maine lobster. The menu features a variety of lobster dishes, including lobster rolls, lobster bisque, and lobster mac and cheese.

Must-try dishes: Lobster roll, Garbo’s signature caviar and chips, Whole live Maine lobster
Atmosphere: Casual, friendly, family-friendly
Dietary restrictions: Limited options
Insider tips: Call ahead to check lobster availability
Location: 12709 N Mopac Expy, Austin, TX 78727
Hours: Sunday and Tuesday – Thursday: 11 am – 9 pm | Friday – Saturday: 11 am – 10 pm

Family-Friendly Austin Seafood Restaurants

Salt Traders Coastal Cooking

Salt Traders Coastal Cooking brings a taste of the coast to Austin with its fresh seafood and laid-back atmosphere. This popular spot offers a diverse menu featuring everything from classic fish and chips to more adventurous options like lobster rolls and crab cakes. The lively bar scene and outdoor patio make it a perfect place to enjoy good food and drinks with friends.

Must try dishes: Wood-grilled catch, Tuna poke bowl, Lobster and shrimp pappardelle
Atmosphere: Casual, lively, family-friendly
Dietary restrictions: Offers gluten-free options
Insider tips: Watch out for happy hour deals on drinks and appetizers
Location: 1101 S MoPac Expy, Austin, TX 78746
Hours: Sunday – Thursday: 11 am – 9 pm | Friday – Saturday: 11 am – 10 pm

Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen

Best Seafood in Austin | Image credit: Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen

Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen brings a taste of New Orleans to Austin with its Cajun-inspired menu. Known for its extensive seafood offerings, Pappadeaux boasts a lively atmosphere and generous portions. From classic favorites like shrimp etouffee to fresh oysters on the half shell, there’s something for every seafood lover.

Must try dishes: Texas redfish Ponchartrain, Wild-caught American red snapper and jumbo crab, Mississippi catfish Opelousas, Atlantic Salmon Alexander
Atmosphere: Lively, bustling, family-friendly
Dietary restrictions: Offers gluten-free options
Insider tips: Join the Pappadeaux rewards program for discounts
Location: Multiple locations in Austin
Hours: Sunday – Thursday: 11 am – 9 pm | Friday – Saturday: 11 am – 10 pm

Cherry Creek Catfish

Cherry Creek Catfish offers a taste of Southern comfort food with its focus on catfish and other Southern-style seafood dishes. The menu features fried catfish, catfish po’boys, shrimp and grits, and other classic Southern favorites. The casual atmosphere and friendly service make it a great place to enjoy a hearty meal.

Must try dishes: South of the border catfish, fish tacos, shrimp tacos, seafood feast
Atmosphere: Casual, family-friendly, no-frills
Dietary restrictions: Limited options
Insider tips: Large portions, cash only, limited seating
Location: 5712 Menchaca Rd, Austin, TX 78745
Hours: Sunday – Thursday: 11 am – 9 pm | Friday – Saturday: 11 am – 10 pm

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Austin, TX

Texas A&M Corps of Cadets carrying the Lone Star Showdown game ball to Austin

Published

16 hours ago

November 28, 2025

Press Room

Texas A&M Corps of Cadets carrying the Lone Star Showdown game ball to Austin

COLLEGE STATION, Texas (KBTX) – Football is a big tradition on Thanksgiving Day, and while the Aggies didn’t play, the Texas A&M Corps of Cadets were helping the team get ready by going on a journey to Austin.

Around 80 members of the corps gathered at a lot near Kyle Field at 7:30 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day, where they would begin a 100-mile relay-style event. Broken up into teams, they’ll run to the Corps’ march staging area in Austin, escorted by police, with the plan to be there by 11 a.m.

From there, they will march in with the fightin’ Texas Aggie Band to finish the delivery.

“The goal of this is to be able to inspire the next generation of Aggies and to be able to encourage the entire campus. The entire Aggie network is brought together because we, as the Corps, were inspiring and helping our Aggie team, the football team, as they get ready to take on Texas,” said Carson Seiber, a member of the Texas A&M Corps of Cadets and event coordinator.

Seiber said since he was a freshman who learned A&M would be playing Texas in Austin his senior year, it was his dream to bring back the tradition that he said started over two decades ago.

“I had this dream, and I kind of talked to people, and now that it’s my senior year, I really had an idea about why not bring the tradition back, why not kind of leave a mark, leave a legacy on the Corp and Texas A&M that hasn’t really happened in a long time,” Seiber said.

The plan really finalized itself about a week ago, but was pitched two months ago. He said what really separates Texas A&M University from every other school is its core values.

“I think it’s been really cool to see the fact that when the Aggies are successful, we see our Aggies support each other, but also in times when are Aggies have not been good at football or tragedies like bonefire, our Aggies are there in victory or defeat,” Seiber said.

The Aggies will take on the Texas Longhorns tomorrow at 6:30 p.m.

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Austin, TX

Taylor residents sue to halt proposed data center

Published

1 day ago

November 27, 2025

Press Room

Taylor residents sue to halt proposed data center

TAYLOR, Texas — A proposed data center in Central Texas is getting a lot of pushback from residents. Approximately 40 minutes north of Austin, a group of neighbors in the city of Taylor sued the data center. They are pushing back against the data center that could soon be under construction roughly 500 feet from their neighborhood.

“This property is supposed to be deeded for parkland,” said Pamela Griffin, a resident in the neighborhood next to where the data center will be built. “This land was given to this community.”

The 87-acre land near Griffin’s community is embroiled in a legal battle between her and Blueprint Data Centers.

“We do not need a data center,” Griffin said. “I’m not against them, but we don’t need them in our community.”

Despite Griffin’s land deed lawsuit, a Texas judge has ruled in favor of the proposed project.

“When a judge dismisses a lawsuit because the plaintiff or the plaintiffs lack standing, what the judge means is you’re not a person who has the legal authority to bring this lawsuit,” said Mike Golden, a law professor at the University of Texas at Austin.

Griffin and other neighbors argue the data center will take away natural resources like water and what was supposed to be the future site of a park, so her fight is not over.

“We are going to the appellate court now,” Griffin said. “We did file.”

Griffin is passionate about advocating for the community because it’s the neighborhood she was born and raised in. Her grandmother bought property there in the early 1960s, and the community became a safe haven for Black people in Taylor.

“We weren’t allowed to be in the city limits at that time because they would not sell to the Black and brown community, so my grandmother realized they had to buy land outside,” she said.

She worries about the future of her small community now that construction of a 135,000-square-foot data center will begin within the next year.

It’s a project the city says will bring millions in revenue to Taylor.

“What data centers do to a community is it brings an influx of new revenue to all the taxing entities, including the city, the county and especially the school district,” said Ben White, the president and CEO of the Taylor Economic Development Corporation.

He explained how the revenue might benefit the city.

“City council will have the ultimate say on how those revenues are spent, but it could involve new parks for citizens, improve streets for the citizens, improve programs for the citizens,” he said. “There’ll be a lot of variety of different uses of those funds the council could decide to use them on.”

White also addressed the controversy surrounding the deed when asked about it by Spectrum News.

“We feel comfortable that EDC, we did everything correctly on our side,” he said.

Griffin now awaits the Third Court of Appeals to decide on her case.

“I’m asking for the community and the Taylor people to stick together and understand my fight against this data center coming into our community,” Griffin said.

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Austin, TX

How history has treated Texas Longhorns when underdogs against Aggies

Published

2 days ago

November 26, 2025

Press Room

How history has treated Texas Longhorns when underdogs against Aggies

Even before the invention of color television, savvy businesspeople were using the Texas versus Texas A&M football rivalry to bring patrons through the door.

Back in 1940, movie theaters made front-page news by offering Texans an opportunity to relive that year’s Lone Star Showdown.

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“UT To Beat A&M All Over Again,” read a small headline on the Nov. 29 edition of the Austin Statesman. The brief news story called the Longhorns’ victory “better drama than the fictional screen ever unfolded,” and declared that movie-goers would be treated to supplemental scenes from Texas’ 7-0 win over the Aggies on Nov. 28.

Texas Longhorns defensive back Jelani McDonald (4) yells in celebration after making an interception in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-Statesman

The unlikely nature of Texas’ victory helped fuel that over-the-top public response. Scoring the only points of the game on their first drive, the Longhorns snapped a 19-game Texas A&M winning streak, unseated the defending national champions and denied the Aggies a place in the Rose Bowl.

For just the second time since that Thanksgiving day in 1940, Texas A&M is coming to Austin in 2025 with a perfect record. A place in the SEC championship game, which the Aggies have never participated in since joining the conference in 2012, is at stake.

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The Longhorns are underdogs, the bookmakers say. Most popular sportsbooks made Texas A&M a 2.5-point favorite heading into Friday’s clash at Royal-Memorial Stadium. Texas’ players aren’t exactly in a rush to adopt that narrative, though.

NO. 16 TEXAS VS. NO. 3 TEXAS A&M

When/where: 6:30 p.m. Friday at Royal-Memorial Stadium.

TV/radio: ABC; 1300 AM, 1370 AM, 98.1 FM, 105.3 FM (Spanish)

“I think we know what we’re capable of,” Texas defensive end Ethan Burke said. “Who does the sportsbooks? Have they ever played college football? Probably not.”

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Burke won’t be the only Longhorn unaccustomed to viewing the Aggies as the favorites in this longstanding rivalry. Texas holds a 77-37-5 all-time advantage over Texas A&M in the series, which dates all the way back to 1894. Texas has won 10 of the 13 matchups played this century, including last year’s tilt in College Station.

MORE: How Longhorns used Arch Manning differently against Arkansas

But, throughout history, the Longhorns have occasionally shown up to the Lone Star Showdown looking to spoil Texas A&M’s fun, as they did back in 1940.

On 28 occasions, the Aggies have entered rivalry week with at least two more victories on their ledger than Texas. When that is the case, Texas holds a 10-16-2 record. Its most recent victory under those circumstances came in 1998, when Ricky Williams broke the NCAA’s all-time rushing yards record with a 60-yard touchdown in the first quarter.

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Texas Longhorns receiver DeAndre Moore Jr. (0) gets into a verbal argument with Texas A&M defensive back Will Lee III (26) during the Lone Star Showdown at Kyle Field on Saturday, Nov. 30, 2024 in College Station, Texas.

Aaron E. Martinez/American-Statesman

That year, the 7-3 Longhorns built a 23-7 lead over the 10-1 Aggies, but saw A&M break off 17 unanswered points to take a one-point lead with 2:20 remaining. That necessitated some heroics from quarterback Major Applewhite and kicker Kris Stockton, who booted through a 24-yard field goal with five seconds remaining for the win.

In recent history, that’s just about the only upset success the Longhorns have managed over the Aggies. Since 1960, Texas A&M is 11-1 against Texas when entering Thanksgiving week with two or more victories than Texas. Coaches Jackie Sherrill and RC Slocum routinely bested some bad Texas teams. Between 1986 and Mack Brown’s hiring before the 1998 season, the Longhorns lost five or more games nine times.

MORE: Why Longhorns appealed targeting call on Ty’Anthony Smith

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Before 1960, though, Texas often upset A&M teams with records that looked better on paper, holding a 9-5-2 mark against Aggies teams that held at least a two-game advantage in the win column. In 1938, a winless Texas team turned up at Memorial Stadium and beat the middling Aggies 7-6.

“Not a handful of fans, huddled against the autumn chill inside the huge horseshoe where an Aggie team had never won, dreamed it could happen,” the Austin American’s Weldon Hart wrote in the next day’s edition.

This year’s Longhorns don’t face the same odds. Texas, at 8-3, was the preseason’s No. 1-ranked team and has already beaten two top-10 foes on the year.

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Upsetting the unbeaten Aggies won’t require a miracle, but it would certainly make a lasting memory.

“We’ve got to prepare really well so we can play our best football,” Longhorns coach Steve Sarkisian said. “Because our best football will be needed next Friday night.”

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