11 Best Seafood Restaurants in Vancouver in 2024
There’s no shortage of incredible seafood restaurants in Vancouver. So how do you narrow down the best one for your next amazing meal? Luckily, there are options that fit every seafood lover’s preference, from upscale eateries to counter spots that locals love. Check out these 11 popular seafood restaurants that Vancouver foodies are flocking to.
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Find the Best Seafood in Vancouver
Vancouver is a lively and vibrant seaport town full of culture and excitement. The culinary scene is awesome here, and food tours in Vancouver are a great way to explore local flavours with the help of an expert guide. From famous best seafood restaurants to hidden gems perfect for a date idea in Vancouver, a food tour is the perfect complement to a day in this bustling city.
11 Best Seafood Restaurants in Vancouver
Check out these stellar seafood restaurants in Vancouver for your next dining-out adventure. Each has its own unique vibe and selection of must-order dishes.
1. Blue Water Café
Blue Water Café is nestled in the Yaletown historic district, making it one of the most popular seafood restaurants in Downtown Vancouver. It’s a welcoming spot that focuses on sustainable seafood and high-quality ingredients. You can spot the team hard at work in the open concept kitchen as you dine.
The Vibe
This is one of the top seafood restaurants in Vancouver to celebrate a special occasion. The vibe here is intimate, cozy and sophisticated. Details like blooming bouquets and impressive food presentations add to the opulent feel.
What to Order
With their seafood delivered daily, you can’t go wrong when ordering here. The seafood tower is a delight to share with the whole table. You can also enjoy the eatery’s selection of flavourful caviar or the fresh scallops served with colourful veggies.
Blue Water Café | 1095 Hamilton St., Vancouver, BC, Canada | $$$
2. The Fish Counter
The Fish Counter is an awesome seafood restaurant for Vancouver takeout or those looking for a quick bite. It has a delicious menu of from-the-sea favourites to enjoy. You can also pick up fresh fish and a selection of ingredients to prepare a meal at home.
The Vibe
This adorable eatery is clean and welcoming, and serves some of the best seafood that Vancouver quick service spots offer. The crisp subway tiles, shiplap walls and chalkboard art add a sleek yet rustic feel. And the open concept allows customers to interact with friendly employees.
What to Order
The fish and chips here are some of the best in the city. Choose from halibut, cod or salmon for your meal. This dish can even be made gluten-free for those with dietary restrictions. Add a Caesar salad or a side of mushy peas for a satisfying meal.
The Fish Counter | 3825 Main St., Vancouver, BC, Canada | $
3. The Flying Pig
If you’re looking for quality ingredients and outstanding service, head to The Flying Pig. This is an awesome seafood restaurant that Vancouver foodies love for its chef-driven cuisine. Here, hospitality and freshness take the forefront to the delight of diners.
The Vibe
The décor at The Flying Pig’s two locations is simple and classic. Exposed brick walls give off a cozy vibe while beamed ceilings create a polished look. The dining rooms are designed to be welcoming gathering spots that feel like eating around a family table.
What to Order
The selection of fish here is served with seasonal veggies and fluffy rice pilaf. A buttery chive beurre blanc sauce is the perfect topping for any of their seafood meals. Enjoy fresh ahi tuna from the South Pacific or savor the high-quality coho salmon caught right in British Columbia. For happy hour, the salmon cakes make the perfect after-work snack.
The Flying Pig | Multiple Locations | $$
4. Fanny Bay Oyster Bar and Shellfish Market
Fanny Bay is a business that was started by three local shellfish farmers four decades ago. Today, the company operates a seafood shop as well as an oyster bar and shellfish market. This makes Fanny Bay Oyster Bar and Shellfish Market one of the top seafood restaurants for Vancouver oyster lovers.
The Vibe
The dining space here is bright and modern. Snag a table for a fun dinner out or sidle right up to the raw bar and take in the action. Here, friendly employees can guide you in ordering and enjoying fresh seafood like an expert.
What to Order
Of course, the star of the menu here is the assortment of fresh oysters, each with its own unique flavour profile. Try a few with the eatery’s signature cocktail, The Fanny Bay Caesar, featuring Stealth vodka and a fresh oyster. If you aren’t a fan of raw oysters, check out the grilled option served with spicy creole butter and herby gremolata.
Fanny Bay Oyster Bar and Shellfish Market | 762 Cambie St., Vancouver, BC, Canada | $$
5. The Lobster Man
The Lobster Man is one of the most popular vendors in the Granville Island Public Market. As one of the original tenants, they’ve been selling some of the freshest seafood here for years, and their incredible lobster rolls are some of the best in the city.
The Vibe
This convenient spot is an awesome seafood restaurant for Vancouver meals on the go. The friendly staff is ready to help you select fresh ocean catches and order your tasty lobster roll. With a bright blue exterior and vivid indoor décor, it has a cheery feel. On warm days, diners can be found devouring their mouthwatering meals on the small patio.
What to Order
The signature lobster roll is a must-try here, sprinkled with fresh dill and drizzled with creamy miso mayo. The Connecticut option is flavourful with melty warm butter and tangy lemon juice. Add a serving of the soup of the day for a satisfying soup and sandwich combination.
The Lobster Man | 1807 Mast Tower Rd., Vancouver, BC, Canada | $$
6. Joe Fortes Seafood and Chop House
No matter what type of dining experience you’re looking for, you can find it at Joe Fortes Seafood and Chop House. Here, the staff is committed to fresh food and top-notch service. This makes it the go-to seafood restaurant in Downtown Vancouver for everything from dates to business dinners. This local favourite is a great place to try some of the area’s best seafood fare.
The Vibe
Depending on where you dine here, you’ll be treated to diverse and unique vibes. The large open dining room is stately, with soaring ceilings and an impressive oyster bar. Balcony seating provides a more private option while enjoying the sights and sounds below. Or, for a relaxing vibe, kick back in the bistro and bar area or on the foliage-filled patio.
What to Order
The family-style meals are an awesome way to sample and share various dishes, making this a great seafood restaurant for Vancouver group dining. The West Coast Platter features lobster along with prawns, oysters and mussels. Or, you can enjoy the Surf and Turf Platter to enjoy a New York striploin along with your fresh-caught seafood.
Joe Fortes Seafood and Chop House | 777 Thurlow St., Vancouver, BC, Canada | $$$
7. Miku
Miku is a delightful eatery that’s focused on Aduri cuisine, where ingredients are expertly flame-seared. With authentic Asian ingredients and traditional flavours, Miku offers a diverse menu that any foodie would love. The highlight of their offerings is their fresh seafood prepared in a variety of ways.
The Vibe
The décor here is bright, clean and modern. Unique lighting illuminates the open space for an airy vibe. Vivid murals of koi fish adorn the walls to add a splash of appealing colour. The feel here is lively, and the thoughtful food presentations add to the eatery’s style.
What to Order
This is a seafood restaurant that Vancouver sushi-lovers should add to their must-visit lists. Indulge in the Miku Signature Selection to experience an assortment of chef-chosen favourites. The Aburi Oshi sushi choices are lightly flame-seared to enhance their flavours and produce a unique smoky finish.
Miku | 200 Granville St., Suite 70, Vancouver, BC, Canada | $$
8. The Shellfish Shack
Head to The Shellfish Shack for a delightful assortment of ethnic favourites. This is a seafood restaurant for Vancouver foodies that like a variety of flavours. With a unique menu of options, you can create your own custom meal.
The Vibe
This low-key eatery features cute décor and a casual vibe. Wood paneled walls and twinkling string lights create a cozy atmosphere. And the friendly staff is ready to provide impressive service.
What to Order
Here, you’ll find everything from Asian-inspired dishes to creamy soups. However, the selection of tacos is one of the most unique in the city. Enjoy the bluefin tuna taco or one with soft shell crab. You can mix and match shrimp, cod and crawfish tacos and have them topped with creamy avocado.
The Shellfish Shack | 1100-8580 Alexandra Rd., Richmond, BC, Canada | $
9. Cardero’s in Coal Harbour
At Cardero’s, their tide-to-table dishes are created with fresh ingredients and quality seafood. Many of their options are Ocean Wise recommended. This makes Cardero’s one of the top seafood restaurants for Vancouver diners who are concerned about sustainability.
The Vibe
The vibe here is quintessential of a seafood spot, with wooden accents and ship-themed decor. The restaurant is perched on a pier, making it the perfect place to enjoy freshly caught fish. Eating on the covered patio is an amazing experience when the weather allows for al fresco dining.
What to Order
Enjoy the Dockside Platter here as the perfect indulgence for seafood lovers. Diners can share items like refreshing chilled clams and buttery crab claws with an assortment of sauces. Add shareable sides like cast iron mushrooms and Parmesan fries to complete your family-style meal.
Cardero’s in Coal Harbour | 1583 Coal Harbour Quay, Vancouver, BC, Canada | $$
10. Oddfish
With a menu that changes daily, Oddfish is a seafood restaurant that Vancouver residents frequent again and again. Dishes are created based on the freshest seafood and produce available. This allows culinary creativity to shine in innovative dishes with outstanding flavours.
The Vibe
Cushy booths and comfy chairs provide relaxing seating in this cozy space. The fish-themed décor and chic green colour scheme create a stylish look, and the greenery-lined patio is a great spot for outdoor dining.
What to Order
The pasta dishes here are satisfying and delicious, making them some of the best hearty seafood in Vancouver. Often served with ocean fare like clams and topped with flavourful sauces, they make for an incredible entree. Check out the daily fish offerings, prepared in unique ways, for a tasty dish to pair with the restaurant’s curated wines.
Oddfish | 1889 W. First Ave., Vancouver, BC, Canada | $$$
11. Pokey Okey
With an adorable name and an even tastier menu, Pokey Okey is one of the best seafood restaurants in Vancouver for flavourful food. The counter service spot treats diners to delicious seafood with fresh veggies and flavourful sauces. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and super convenient.
The Vibe
This spot is bright and cheery, with bold custom art and a colourful menu. Bar-height stools and tables with chairs offer dine-in seating. Order and watch as your bowl is prepared with fresh and tasty ingredients by the friendly staff.
What to Order
Check out The Green Bowl with tuna, roe and seaweed salad. The Skinny Bowl is a health-conscious option featuring ahi tuna and plenty of veggies. Or, build your own bowl and select from seafood choices like scallop salad, spicy salmon and coconut shrimp.
Pokey Okey | Multiple Locations | $
Join 200,000+ Culinary Enthusiasts
Checking out any of these seafood restaurants in Vancouver will allow you to enjoy the best and freshest catches that the coast has to offer. You’ll experience unique atmospheres and innovative takes on menu items. Expand your seafood-loving palate as you dine your way through this seaside city.
For even more fun ways to explore Vancouver and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
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