Houston, Texas, is a culinary melting pot, known for its diverse food scene that includes some of the best seafood restaurants in the country. Whether you are a local or a visitor, exploring the top seafood spots in this vibrant city is a must. In this article, we dive into the 10 best seafood restaurants in Houston, providing an overview of their specialties, atmosphere, and unique features. Each entry includes specific dishes or menu items that the restaurant is famous for, ensuring an informative and engaging read. Let’s embark on this seafood journey!
1. Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen
Address: 2410 Richmond Ave, Houston, TX 77098
Website: Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen
Overview
Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen is a renowned chain known for its lively atmosphere and robust menu. The Houston location on Richmond Avenue stands out for its exceptional service and vibrant ambiance, perfect for family gatherings and celebrations.
Specialties
- Shrimp and Crawfish Fondeaux: A creamy, flavorful starter that combines shrimp, crawfish, and mushrooms, topped with Monterey Jack cheese.
- Grilled Caribbean Lobster Tail: Served with fresh vegetables and a light lemon-garlic butter sauce.
Atmosphere and Unique Features
The restaurant boasts a lively, festive atmosphere with a spacious dining area and a welcoming bar. The decor features nautical themes and vibrant colors, enhancing the overall dining experience.
You may be interested in:
- The 15 Best Fried Chicken Spots in Houston
- Reviews of the 11 Best Steakhouses in Houston, TX
- Reviews of the 10 Best Seafood Boil in Houston
- Reviews The 12 best restaurants in Houston, Texas
2. Hugo’s
Address: 1600 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77006
Website: Hugo’s
Overview
Hugo’s offers an authentic Mexican dining experience with a focus on coastal seafood dishes. Located in the heart of Montrose, this restaurant is celebrated for its innovative cuisine and exceptional service.
Specialties
- Camarones al Mojo de Ajo: Gulf shrimp sautéed in garlic, lemon, and butter, served with rice and vegetables.
- Pulpo a la Parrilla: Grilled octopus with a smoky flavor, served with black bean purée and plantains.
Atmosphere and Unique Features
Hugo’s exudes an upscale yet cozy ambiance with rustic decor, featuring exposed brick walls and elegant wooden furniture. The outdoor patio is perfect for al fresco dining, adding to the restaurant’s charm.
3. Truluck’s Ocean’s Finest Seafood and Crab
Address: 5350 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77056
Website: Truluck’s
Overview
Truluck’s is synonymous with luxury and fine dining, offering a sophisticated seafood experience. Located in the Galleria area, it is a favorite among seafood aficionados and those looking to celebrate special occasions.
Specialties
- Stone Crab Claws: Fresh, succulent claws served chilled with a tangy mustard sauce.
- Miso-Glazed Sea Bass: A perfectly cooked sea bass with a rich miso glaze, accompanied by crab fried rice and chilled cucumber slaw.
Atmosphere and Unique Features
The restaurant features an elegant and modern decor, with dim lighting and plush seating creating an intimate dining atmosphere. Live music often enhances the dining experience, making it a memorable evening out.
4. Reef
Address: 2600 Travis St, Houston, TX 77006
Website: Reef
Overview
Reef is a contemporary seafood restaurant located in Midtown Houston, known for its creative and sustainable seafood dishes. The restaurant is helmed by acclaimed chef Bryan Caswell, who brings his culinary expertise to every plate.
Specialties
- Red Snapper on the Half Shell: A signature dish featuring a whole snapper grilled to perfection, served with a side of dirty rice.
- Crab Carbonara: A luxurious pasta dish with lump crab meat, bacon, and a rich, creamy sauce.
Atmosphere and Unique Features
Reef offers a modern and chic dining space with an open kitchen concept, allowing diners to watch the chefs in action. The minimalist decor with earthy tones provides a relaxed yet upscale ambiance.
5. Eddie V’s Prime Seafood
Address: 2800 Kirby Dr, Houston, TX 77098
Website: Eddie V’s
Overview
Eddie V’s Prime Seafood is a high-end seafood and steak restaurant located in River Oaks. Known for its elegant atmosphere and exceptional service, it is a top choice for fine dining in Houston.
Specialties
- Chilean Sea Bass: A delicate and flavorful fish, served with sautéed spinach and a light sherry soy broth.
- Cold Water Lobster Tails: Twin lobster tails, perfectly broiled and served with drawn butter and lemon.
Atmosphere and Unique Features
The restaurant features a sophisticated decor with dark wood accents and plush seating. Live jazz music sets the tone for an elegant evening, and the well-stocked wine cellar offers a wide selection to complement any meal.
6. Goode Company Seafood
Address: 2621 Westpark Dr, Houston, TX 77098
Website: Goode Company Seafood
Overview
Goode Company Seafood offers a taste of Gulf Coast cuisine with a Texas twist. This family-owned restaurant has been serving Houstonians for decades, known for its casual atmosphere and hearty dishes.
Specialties
- Mesquite-Grilled Gulf Shrimp: Fresh shrimp grilled over mesquite wood, served with dirty rice and a side of their famous jalapeño cheese bread.
- Crawfish Étouffée: A rich and spicy stew of crawfish tails, served over a bed of white rice.
Atmosphere and Unique Features
The restaurant exudes a laid-back, rustic charm with its wooden interiors and nautical decor. The relaxed ambiance makes it a perfect spot for a casual meal with friends or family.
7. Liberty Kitchen & Oysterette
Address: 4224 San Felipe St, Houston, TX 77027
Website: Liberty Kitchen & Oysterette
Overview
Liberty Kitchen & Oysterette is known for its fresh oysters and creative seafood dishes. Located in the River Oaks district, it offers a trendy and lively dining experience.
Specialties
- Oyster Sampler: A selection of East Coast and Gulf oysters, served with a variety of sauces and garnishes.
- Crab Mac & Cheese: A decadent dish featuring creamy mac and cheese loaded with lump crab meat and topped with breadcrumbs.
Atmosphere and Unique Features
The restaurant features a modern and chic decor with an open dining area and a vibrant bar. The lively atmosphere, combined with the fresh seafood offerings, makes it a popular spot for brunch and dinner.
8. State of Grace
Address: 3258 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77098
Website: State of Grace
Overview
State of Grace offers a refined dining experience with a menu that emphasizes Gulf Coast cuisine. Located in River Oaks, it is a go-to destination for those seeking a sophisticated yet relaxed meal.
Specialties
- Gulf Redfish on the Half Shell: A flavorful dish featuring redfish grilled with a spicy rub, served with charred lemon and seasonal vegetables.
- Blue Crab Bucatini: Pasta with fresh blue crab, garlic, and a touch of chili, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
Atmosphere and Unique Features
The restaurant’s decor combines vintage charm with modern elegance, featuring leather booths and intricate tile work. The warm and inviting ambiance makes it ideal for both casual meals and special occasions.
9. Loch Bar
Address: 4444 Westheimer Rd, Suite G110, Houston, TX 77027
Website: Loch Bar
Overview
Loch Bar is a classic seafood tavern located in the River Oaks District, offering an extensive menu of seafood dishes and a raw bar. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and live music, it is a favorite spot for seafood lovers.
Specialties
- Maryland Crab Cakes: Lump crab cakes served with a tangy remoulade sauce and a side of coleslaw.
- Raw Bar Platter: An impressive selection of oysters, clams, shrimp, and lobster, perfect for sharing.
Atmosphere and Unique Features
The restaurant features a nautical-themed decor with dark wood accents and vintage maritime elements. The lively bar area, coupled with live music, creates a bustling and energetic vibe.
10. Caracol
Address: 2200 Post Oak Blvd, Suite 160, Houston, TX 77056
Website: Caracol
Overview
Caracol offers a unique dining experience with its focus on coastal Mexican cuisine. Located in the Galleria area, it is known for its innovative dishes and vibrant flavors.
Specialties
- Oysters Asadas: Grilled oysters topped with chipotle butter and cotija cheese, served with lime wedges.
- Wood-Grilled Octopus: Tender octopus grilled to perfection, served with a side of black bean purée and pickled onions.
Atmosphere and Unique Features
The restaurant features a contemporary decor with colorful artwork and elegant furnishings. The open kitchen concept adds to the lively ambiance, making it a great spot for a night out.
Conclusion
Houston’s seafood scene is as diverse as its population, offering a wide range of dining experiences from casual to fine dining. Each of these top 10 seafood restaurants brings something unique to the table, whether it’s.