Tennessee may be far from the coast, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find seriously good seafood here. Over the last few years, seafood restaurants across the state have stepped up their game with fresh Gulf oysters, Cajun-style boils, buttery lobster tails, and Southern-style catfish that locals genuinely rave about. If you are planning a food trip through Tennessee or simply searching for your next unforgettable dinner, these seafood spots deserve a place on your list. I looked at local reviews, traveler feedback, restaurant reputation, menu quality, atmosphere, and consistency before putting this guide together.
Located in downtown Nashville, Eddie V’s is where people go when they want a seafood dinner that actually feels special. The restaurant has an upscale atmosphere, live jazz on certain nights, and one of the strongest seafood menus in the city.
The Chilean sea bass is easily one of the most talked-about dishes here, and the oysters are consistently fresh. If you enjoy steak as well, this place does both seafood and premium cuts extremely well.
One thing that stands out is the service. Many visitors mention how polished and attentive the staff are, which makes the experience feel worth the higher price tag.
- Chilean Sea Bass
- Lobster Tacos
- Oysters Rockefeller
- Crab Fried Rice
2. Chesapeake's Seafood Restaurant — Best Seafood in East Tennessee
If you are visiting Knoxville or heading toward the Smoky Mountains, Chesapeake’s is one of the safest seafood recommendations you can make. Locals love it because the restaurant flies in fresh seafood regularly and keeps the menu consistent year-round.
The restaurant is especially known for oysters, crab cakes, shrimp and grits, and fresh fish specials. The atmosphere feels polished without being overly formal, making it great for both families and date nights.
Food writers and regional travel sites regularly mention Chesapeake’s as one of the strongest seafood restaurants in Tennessee.
- Maryland-Style Crab Cakes
- Fresh Oysters
- Cedar Plank Salmon
- Seafood Gumbo
3. Krustaceans Seafood — Best Cajun Seafood Boil in Nashville
Krustaceans has become a favorite for people who love messy seafood boils packed with flavor. The restaurant serves crab legs, shrimp, crawfish, lobster, sausage, corn, and potatoes covered in rich Cajun butter sauce.
This place feels more casual and energetic compared to fine-dining seafood restaurants, which is exactly why many people love it. Portions are generous, and the seasoning levels can be customized depending on how spicy you want your meal.
Several food blogs and local guides continue to rank it among Nashville’s top seafood spots.
- King Crab Legs
- Cajun Shrimp Boil
- Garlic Butter Lobster Tail
- Fried Catfish Basket
4. Moby Dickys — Best Lakeside Seafood Restaurant
Moby Dickys in Hendersonville offers something many Tennessee seafood restaurants cannot: waterfront dining with sunset views over Old Hickory Lake.
The restaurant has been around for years and built a loyal local following thanks to its laid-back atmosphere and reliable seafood platters. It’s especially popular during warmer months when people want outdoor seating by the water.
Unlike trendy seafood places that constantly change menus, Moby Dickys keeps things simple and consistent. That’s part of its charm.
- Fried Shrimp Platter
- Blackened Grouper
- Fish Tacos
- Crab Cakes
5. Storming Crab | Seafood Restaurant • Knoxville — Best Casual Seafood Feast
Storming Crab is one of the busiest seafood restaurants in Knoxville for a reason. The restaurant focuses on large seafood boils served in bags packed with seasoning and butter sauce.
If you enjoy interactive dining where everyone shares crab legs, shrimp, mussels, and crawfish around the table, this place delivers a fun experience.
The portions are huge, making it a good option for groups and families. It’s also more budget-friendly than upscale seafood restaurants while still offering plenty of flavor.
- Snow Crab Legs
- Shrimp Combo Boil
- Fried Oyster Basket
- Lobster Bisque
6. The Crab Shack — Best Hidden Seafood Spot in Nashville
Located in East Nashville, The Crab Shack has built a strong reputation among locals who want flavorful seafood without the upscale price tag. The restaurant keeps things simple: fresh seafood, bold Cajun seasoning, generous portions, and a laid-back atmosphere.
Unlike many trendy Nashville restaurants that focus heavily on presentation, The Crab Shack focuses on flavor first. The seafood boils are the biggest attraction here, especially for groups sharing crab legs, shrimp, sausage, potatoes, and corn covered in garlic butter sauce.
Many repeat customers mention that the restaurant feels authentic and consistent, which is why it stays busy throughout the week.
- Seafood Boil Combo
- Garlic Butter Crab Legs
- Fried Shrimp Basket
- Cajun Catfish
7. Harbor Grill Seafood Restaurant — Best Seafood Near Chattanooga
Just outside Chattanooga in Ooltewah, Harbor Grill offers a more refined seafood experience with a quieter atmosphere and high-quality dishes. This is one of the best places in Tennessee for people who enjoy fresh fish prepared with a fine-dining approach rather than heavy fried seafood platters.
The restaurant is known for sourcing quality seafood and combining coastal flavors with Southern hospitality. Visitors often praise the relaxed environment, attentive service, and beautifully plated dishes.
Harbor Grill is especially popular for date nights, anniversaries, and weekend dinners because the experience feels upscale without becoming overly formal.
- Pan-Seared Scallops
- Seared Ahi Tuna
- Grouper Fillet
- Crab-Stuffed Mushrooms
8. Flying Fish — Best Casual Seafood in Memphis
Flying Fish is one of downtown Memphis’s most popular casual seafood spots. Located close to Beale Street, this restaurant attracts both tourists and locals looking for quick, affordable seafood with Southern flavor.
The atmosphere is fun, relaxed, and slightly quirky, with fishing-themed decor covering the walls. Unlike high-end seafood restaurants, Flying Fish focuses on comfort food and fast service, making it perfect for travelers exploring Memphis attractions.
The catfish dishes here are especially famous, and many visitors consider it one of the best places in Memphis for classic Southern seafood.
- Fried Catfish
- Shrimp Po’ Boy
- Crawfish Étouffée
- Fish Tacos
9. Juicy Seafood — Best Budget-Friendly Seafood Boil
Juicy Seafood has become a favorite in Knoxville for people who want large seafood portions at reasonable prices. The restaurant specializes in seafood boils served with customizable sauces and spice levels.
One reason people enjoy Juicy Seafood is the variety. Guests can mix shrimp, crab, lobster tail, mussels, crawfish, and clams into one large combo bag packed with seasoning and butter sauce.
The atmosphere is casual and energetic, making it a popular choice for families, students, and groups of friends. It’s not fancy, but that’s part of the appeal.
- Shrimp & Snow Crab Combo
- Lobster Tail Platter
- Mussels in Garlic Butter
- Fried Tilapia Basket
10. Urban Grub — Best Seafood Brunch in Nashville
Urban Grub is one of Nashville’s most talked-about restaurants for seafood brunch and wood-fired cooking. Located in the trendy 12 South neighborhood, the restaurant combines upscale Southern food with fresh seafood and a lively atmosphere.
The oyster bar is one of the biggest highlights here. Guests can enjoy fresh oysters alongside smoked meats, lobster rolls, and creative brunch dishes. The restaurant also has a stylish interior and outdoor seating that attracts large weekend crowds.
Urban Grub feels modern and energetic while still delivering high-quality seafood dishes that keep locals coming back.
- Wood-Grilled Oysters
- Lobster Roll
- Crab Benedict
- Cedar Plank Salmon
Final Thoughts
Tennessee may not be the first place people think of for seafood, but the state has quietly built an impressive seafood scene. From upscale restaurants in Nashville to casual Cajun seafood boils in Knoxville and Memphis, there’s something here for every type of food lover.
Whether you want fresh oysters, buttery crab legs, Southern-style catfish, or waterfront dining, these seafood spots prove you don’t need to visit the coast for a memorable seafood meal.
If you are planning a Tennessee food trip, adding a few of these restaurants to your itinerary is absolutely worth it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the best seafood restaurant in Tennessee?
- Many travelers consider Eddie V’s in Nashville one of the best overall seafood restaurants because of its premium seafood, service, and atmosphere.
Where can I get a seafood boil in Tennessee?
- Popular seafood boil spots include Krustaceans Seafood, Juicy Seafood, and Storming Crab.
Does Tennessee have fresh seafood?
- Yes. Many Tennessee seafood restaurants receive fresh seafood shipments several times a week from Gulf Coast suppliers.
Which Tennessee city has the best seafood?
- Nashville and Knoxville currently have some of the highest-rated seafood restaurants in the state.
Are seafood restaurants in Tennessee expensive?
- It depends on the restaurant. Casual seafood spots are affordable, while upscale places like Eddie V’s and Urban Grub are more expensive.
What seafood dish is most popular in Tennessee?
- Cajun seafood boils, fried catfish, crab legs, oysters, and shrimp platters are among the most popular choices.
I am Sabiq Hasan Rasel. Coffee with Travel, Recipes & Reviews is a cozy and engaging content space that blends a love of coffee with exciting travel experiences, delicious recipes, and honest reviews. It offers inspiration for coffee lovers who enjoy exploring new places, trying unique flavors, and discovering lifestyle tips along the way.
