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Where to Get the Freshest Seafood in Nashville

Nashville, Tennessee, home of country music, is a great destination for some of the world’s most famous attractions. You can’t take a trip to the capital city without taking in the beautiful parks, outdoor activities, museums, music culture, and excellent restaurants. 

Freshest Seafood in Nashville

In addition to the music, Nashville has a delightful array of restaurants that serve mouthwatering seafood. When I look for a good seafood spot, I want fresh crab, lobster, and shrimp, and season catches. A raw bar is always a nice touch as well!Having had the pleasure of visiting Nashville when I took a trip to Vanderbilt University, I discovered the best seafood that the city has to offer. Check out our list of the best seafood in Nashville!


Henrietta Red

1200 4th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37208
Phone: 615-490-8042
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Henrietta Red is in downtown Nashville, near TSU and the Cumberland River. It’s a chic, airy establishment known for its oysters and upscale seafood small plates. They also have a separate lounge and bar area for specialty cocktails. The modern setting in a laid-back atmosphere makes for an excellent dining experience. Additionally, Henrietta’s has a raw bar and they serve a delicious brunch. You can tell from the freshness of all the menu items that they only use the highest quality ingredients. The fish is firm and not mushy, the crab and lobster are succulent and well-seasoned, and you can’t go wrong with whatever you choose to sample. The servers are courteous and they’re willing to make recommendations, such as ordering the small plates that are ideal for sharing. It allows you to sample a little of everything. The multi-layered and complex flavor profiles will keep you coming back for more. Locals recommend the Red Snapper Crudo, the Crab Dip, the Ceviche, the Caviar, and the Octopus Salads


Blue Moon Waterfront Grille

525 Basswood Dr, Nashville, TN 37209
Phone: 615-356-6666
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Visit the Blue Moon Waterfront Grille on the Cumberland River, right by the Rock Harbor Marina. Guests are welcome to eat indoors or on the covered patio so they can enjoy the view. This eatery has an inviting ambiance and trendy decor. They serve American food as well as brunch on Sundays. Once you climb into the floating barge and enter the Blue Moon by flowing the dock, til get transported into a seafood lover’s haven. The island-esque vibes are second to none. Blue Moon tries to source all of its ingredients locally as often as possible. The roll-up doors that let the river breezes come through are the perfect touch. The full-service bar and happy hour go well with the boatload of seafood that you can try at affordable prices. They also have live music playing during the week. My favorite menu items were the Fried Calamari, Grilled Shrimp, Fried Catfish, Seafood Quiche (insanely delicious), and the Fish Tacos.


Marsh House

401 11th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203
Phone: 615-262-6001
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I took a trip to the Marsh House, right in the Gulch area between 11th Ave South and 12th Ave South for a friend’s dinner party. I was immediately impressed by the seasonal craft cocktails they offered with the sophisticated southern seafood-inspired menu. It’s situated in the Thompson Nashville Hotel if you think you’ve missed it while driving by. The contemporary decor features a lot of natural lighting in a casual environment. Get an authentic taste of the south with the creative dishes that showcase top tier seafood. I shared the “I’m on a Boat!’ Seafood Tower with someone, and it was incredible. There were 24 oysters, crab ravigote, 18 mussels, shrimp remoulade, smoked fish dip, and royal red ceviche, smoked fish dip. I’ve heard great things about the Shrimp Fried Rice also! Don’t hesitate to stop by the Marsh House if you’re in the area. 

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Bonefish Grill

3010 A Mallory Ln, Franklin, TN 37067
Phone: 615-771-1025
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Bonefish Grill is on Cool Springs, right on the corner of Mallory Lane and Springs Blvd. It’s a modern grill chain that focuses on yummy seafood dishes as well as perfectly cooked steaks and signature cocktails. Easy-going vibes and a casual atmosphere coupled with phenomenal service will do the trick. They also serve specials each season that are caught by the local fisherman. The decor is modest, but that isn’t what captivates your taste buds anyway! You go to Bonefish Grill because you heard they were one of the best Nashville seafood restaurants around. They specialize in obtaining and expertly preparing fresh fish from around the globe. The most popular dishes are the Lobster Stuffed Shrimp, the Maryland-style Crab Cakes, the Chilean Sea Bass, the Cedar Plank Salmon, or my personal favorite, the Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos. You can always go the classic route with the crispy and perfectly fried Fish and Chips as well!


Joe’s Crab Shack

123 2nd Ave S, Nashville, TN 37201
Phone: 615-242-2722
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Joe’s Crab Shack is a well-known chain that has locations over the country. In Nashville, you’ll find the shack near the Walk of Fame Park and the riverbank. They’re open each day for lunch and dinner, and they have a happy hour for discounted drinks also. Despite being famous for their crab, they have an extensive menu of seafood delicacies. You can easily find something for the whole family. Joe’s brings together flavors from seashores all over the world. Reviews often mention the fun bibs you get to out on as you’re diving into their signature steam pots or huge fish platters. A few best-sellers are the Crab Daddy feast bucket, the Crab Nachos, and the Coconut Shrimp.


Cascades American Cafe

2800 Opryland Dr, Nashville, TN 37214
Phone: 615-458-6848

Find the Cascades American Cafe in the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center. The atmosphere is out of this world because you feel like you’re eating in a botanic garden. The guests of the resort get to come and dine inside the cafe to enjoy regional American foods while viewing waterfalls and lush greenery. This place is a perfect stay for the whole family, as it’s very spacious, and it’s hard to get mesmerized with the extraordinary plant life all around you. For excellent and fresh seafood that tastes delightful, try the Crab Bisque, Pan-Seared Salmon, or the Albacore Tuna Salad Sandwich.

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The Optimist

1400 Adams St, Nashville, TN 37208
Phone: 615-709-3156
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The Optimist is in the Griff apartment complex, right by the Cumberland River. The eatery combines tasteful accommodations with hospitality and charm. The dining rooms are spacious and there’s a refined bar upstairs as well as a nice patio to enjoy the breeze. Experience the best delicacies that the sea offers. The wine list is robust and the cocktails are memorable thanks to the creativity. The most notable dishes are the deeply flavorful Shrimp and Oyster Gumbo or the Twin Lobster Rolls. Other more unique plates to try are the Swordfish, Spanish Octopus, and the Broiled Oysters. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by the depth and complexity of the flavors that meld well with the traditional sides like baked potato or seasonal veggies. 


Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse

300 4th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37219
Phone: 615-434-4300
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Make a trip to Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse located in Downtown Nashville near the Cumberland River and the Nissan Stadium. As you make your way in, allow the elegant decor to wash over as you observe the walls that are adorned with apt artwork. What’s more, there’s even a wine wall that adds significant character to this space. Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse features a horseshoe bar, piano bar, a speakeasy room, an antique shoeshine stand as well as a lounge area. This restaurant serves acclaimed U.S.D.A. Prime Steaks and fresh seafood and amazing sushi with live night entertainment to boot. Here are some dishes you have to dig in too: The Lobster Mac and Cheese, salmon sushi roll, and the delectable tiger shrimp cocktail!


Eddie V’s Prime Seafood

590 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203
Phone: 615-238-2359
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If a craving for fresh seafood is what you have then Eddie V’s Prime Seafood may be the destination for you. This place is conveniently located at 5th and Broadway right across the street from the Bridgestone Arena near the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum and the National Museum of African American Music. Stop by and enjoy great drinks and food as you are serenaded with live music from local artists in the V lounge! When it comes to the cuisine you have to try the Shellfish Tower with Maine Lobster, Oysters, Shrimp, and Jumbo Lump Crab, or the Misoyaki Halibut. All of these dishes are certified and sure to make you happy.


Red Perch

4101 Charlotte Ave G120, Nashville, TN 37209
Phone: 615-964-7104
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Red Perch is just the seafood restaurant qualified to satisfy the particular hankering that you’ve been having for some divine seafood. You can find this casual establishment near Metro Parks Nashville, by the ramen restaurant. Red Perch sports a modern chic decor with bountiful space for eager guests ready to enjoy a fine dining experience.Although there’s not much of a variety when it comes to seafood items, what they do prepare they do so amazingly. For example, the Fish and Chips are not greasy in the least but rather light, crispy, and flavorful. Be sure to try these delicious dishes which are sure to be served by attentive and speedy servers: Ahi Poke, Shrimp Banh Mi, Grilled Fish, and their Signature Cod and Chips.

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Boston Commons New England Seafood Pub

1008 Woodland St, Nashville, TN 37206
Phone: 615-226-9283
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Sometimes ordinary seafood won’t quite do it and you happen to be the person who is looking for something of a unique experience, then Boston Commons New England Seafood Pub may be the place that you fancy. Located in East Nashville between S. 10th Street and #929 Alley, it’s hard to beat the fresh seafood being served up by Boston Commons New England Seafood Pub.Stop by and get a load of the generous portions sizes when it comes to seafood items such as shrimp and more! Their famous is a must Signature Fish & Chips and doesn’t deviate from the true New England flavor that they promise. Other food items to try: Fried Oysters, Maine, Lobster Roll, Fried Shrimp Po’Boy, and their signature Shrimp n Grits!


Ed’s Fish & Pizza House

1801 Dr. DB Todd Jr Blvd, Nashville, TN 37208
Phone: 615-255-4362
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If you’re looking for a down-to-earth seafood establishment, you’d be utterly remiss if you were to pass up on Ed’s Fish & Pizza House. This restaurant has a simple and rustic vibe about it simply permits you to let your hair down and have a good time with good eats. The food is always impeccably delivered fresh and promptly. Ed’s Fish & Pizza House is nestled in the North Nashville neighborhood, near the corner of Buchanan and Dr. DB Todd Jr Blvd, so it shouldn’t be hard to find. Let’s get to the food…this place serves some of the best catfish and whiting fish in Nashville with tasty sides such as spaghetti, coleslaw, and crispy fries. Be aware that they only take cash.


Juicy Seafood Nolensville Pike

3949 Nolensville Pike, Nashville, TN 37211
Phone: 615-891-7675
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Juicy Seafood Nolensville Pike, is as advertised—juicy! This eatery has a Cajun-style flare to the way that they prepare their seafood. You can fan this place near the Nashville Zoo, close to the Herbert Heights neighborhood. This place is not only highly regarded for its delicious food but its exceptional service as well. Getting back to the food, Juicy Seafood serves up some mouthwatering dishes which come with a variety of sauces such as Garlic Butter, Lemon Pepper, Cajun, and the Juicy Special. No matter your heat tolerance there’s a Cajun spice that you can choose that’s suitable to your palate. Here are some signature dishes that are a must: Dungeness crab, shrimp, snow crab, mussels, and lobster.


Crab Fever Nashville

1907 West End Ave, Nashville, TN 37203
Phone: 615-891-2293
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Louisiana-style seafood is what Crab Fever Nashville specializes in, and you can find it conveniently located in Downtown Nashville near Tennessee State University. Get freshly shucked oysters along with the quaint maritime decor, which helps to create the overall vibe of the restaurant. This place offers a litany of seafood combos. The most delectable is the ultimate combo which includes: Mussels, Corn on the Cob, Sausages, Potatoes, Dungeness Crab Legs, Shrimp, Snow Crab Legs, Clams, Crawfish, Mussels, Corn on the Cob, Potatoes all mixed with a sauce of your preference. This establishment surely will not disappoint. Stop in the next time you’re in the area.

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Written by Brian Nagele

Brian attended West Virginia University, then started his career in the IT industry before following his passion for marketing and hospitality. He has over 20 years experience in the restaurant and bar industry.

As a former restaurant owner, he knows about running a food business and loves to eat and enjoy cocktails on a regular basis. He constantly travels to new cities tasting and reviewing the most popular spots.

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