10 Best Austin Seafood Restaurants: Top Places To Eat Now

Jump To: Affordable | Lively & Casual | Upscale & Date-Night

Think Austin is only about tacos and BBQ? Think again. While the city may be miles from the nearest ocean, the seafood scene here is vibrant, diverse, and surprisingly fresh, bringing the Gulf Coast and beyond right to Central Texas. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion with an elegant whole roasted fish or looking for the best Austin seafood restaurants that deliver on flavor, we’ve navigated the menus and oyster shells to find the absolute best.

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Also check out these articles – Late Night Food Austin, Best Vietnamese Food in Austin, Best Austin Rooftop Bars, and Best Sushi Restaurants Austin!

Affordable Seafood Austin Restaurants

Crab & Crawl Seafood

Crab & Crawl Seafood is a go-to for classic Louisiana-style seafood boils and perfectly fried Gulf Coast baskets. It’s a favorite for those seeking bold Cajun flavors in a no-frills setting. Be sure to try the highly rated Catfish & Shrimp Basket, which offers a crispy combination of fish and golden shrimp.

Where: 510 E Anderson Ln, Austin, TX 78752
Operating Hours: Tuesday – Wednesday 11:00 am – 9:00 pm | Thursday – Saturday 11:00 am – 11:30 pm | Sunday 11:00 am – 9:00 pm | Monday CLOSED

Ensenada ATX

Image Credit: @ensenadatx IG Page

Ensenada ATX is a popular East Austin food truck specializing in authentic Baja-style Mexican seafood. Try their signature crispy Fish Tacos, featuring lightly battered wild Atlantic cod served with fresh cabbage, crema, and a delicious chile de árbol salsa.

Where: 1108 E 12th St, Austin, TX 78702
Operating Hours: Tuesday – Saturday 11:00 am – 8:00 pm | Sunday – Monday CLOSED

El Marisquero Seafood

Known for fresh, marinated raw seafood, El Marisquero is a casual food truck that serves up vibrant Mexican mariscos. The menu centers on ceviches and aguachiles, but don’t miss the Baja Tacos featuring battered fish and shrimp.

Where: 2056 W Stassney Ln, Austin, TX 78745
Operating Hours: Daily 12:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Terry’s Seafood and Chicken

Terry’s is an Austin staple for classic Southern comfort food, specializing in fried seafood and chicken dinners. A must-try item is the Gizzards, one of the most-liked items on the menu, paired with a full fish dinner.

Where: 1805 Airport Blvd, Austin, TX 78702
Operating Hours: Sunday – Thursday 10:30 am – 10:00 pm | Friday – Saturday 10:30 am – 11:00 pm

Lively & Casual Seafood in Austin

Garbo’s

Image Credit: Garbo’s Restaurant FB Page

Garbo’s brings authentic New England seafood to Texas, specializing in fresh Maine lobster. The most recommended item is the Connecticut Roll, featuring butter-poached Maine lobster that perfectly showcases their commitment to quality.

Where: 626 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78703
Operating Hours: Daily 11:00 am – 8:00 pm

Salt Traders Coastal Cooking

Inspired by flavors from the Gulf Coast to New England, Salt Traders offers a high-quality, seafood-centric dining experience. Try the popular Shrimp and Lobster Roll, which stands out alongside their fresh oyster selection.

Where: 1101 S MoPac Expy, Austin, TX 78746
Operating Hours: Sunday – Thursday 11:00 am – 9:00 pm | Friday – Saturday 11:00 am – 10:00 pm

Quality Seafood Market

Image Credit: Quality Seafood Market FB Page

Operating since 1938, this Austin landmark is both a fresh fish market and a casual restaurant specializing in Gulf Coast seafood. They offer a huge menu of po-boys, but the rich and hearty Seafood Gumbo is an absolute must.

Where: 5621 Airport Blvd, Austin, TX 78751
Operating Hours: Wednesday – Saturday 11:00 am – 8:00 pm | Sunday – Tuesday CLOSED

Upscale & Date-Night Seafood

Perla’s

Image Credit: @perlassouthcongress IG Page

Perla’s is an upscale oyster bar on South Congress that recreates a chic seaside cafe experience. The oak-shaded patio is perfect for people-watching while enjoying their acclaimed lobster roll.

Where: 1400 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday 11:30 am – 10:00 pm | Saturday – Sunday 10:30 am – 10:00 pm

Clark’s Oyster Bar

This chic, intimate West Austin neighborhood spot is known for its superior raw bar and nautical-inspired ambiance. While the oysters are the star, the signature Pan Roasted Black Angus Hamburger is highly recommended.

Where: 1200 W 6th St, Austin, TX 78703
Operating Hours: Sunday – Thursday 11:00 am – 10:00 pm | Friday – Saturday 11:00 am – 11:00 pm

Eddie V’s Prime Seafood

Eddie V’s delivers a luxurious dining experience centered on impeccably fresh seafood and prime steaks, accompanied by live jazz. Don’t skip the famous Crab Fried Rice, which comes topped high with jumbo lump crab meat.

Where: 301 E 5th St., Austin, TX 78701
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday 4:00 pm – 10:00 pm | Sunday 4:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Know Before You Go

While many of these seafood spots are located in the Austin inner loop and downtown, they are easily accessible for residents in Round Rock, Pflugerville, and Cedar Park, typically within a 20-30 minute drive. Most locations offer nearby street parking or dedicated lots, though downtown spots like Eddie V’s may require valet or garage parking.

Common Questions about Seafood Austin

Are these spots kid-friendly?

Many of the casual spots like Quality Seafood Market and the food trucks (Ensenada ATX, El Marisquero) are very kid-friendly with relaxed outdoor seating. Upscale spots like Perla’s are better suited for special family occasions.

What is the best time to visit for fresh oysters?

Oyster bars like Clark’s and Perla’s receive fresh shipments daily. To beat the crowds and enjoy the best selection, aim for a mid-afternoon “Happy Hour” visit during the week.

Looking for more fun in the city? See the upcoming Weekend Events in Austin.