49 Best Seafood Restaurants in Philadelphia

“The Food was Fresh ad Incredible“

“Our first experience at a James Beard award winning restaurant (2017) and chef was incredible at Vernick Fish in Philadelphia to celebrate Trent’s graduation! I know now what this caliber of food and service means and all other restaurants pale in comparison to Vernick Fish and Greg Vernick(semi-finalist chef 2025). From the appetizers (dozen oysters from RI, MA, ME, PEI) to the drinks and main course were all uniquely exquisite and cannot be replicated anywhere else. The constant doting with new silverware at each course and cleaning of the table was undeniably royalty treatment. Even the bathroom was an experience-I need the hand lotion in my life (instantly made my hands look 30 years younger). The portions, ambiance and service were all equally perfect! I highly recommend you check out Vernick Fish. We will definitely return!“

“Waitress was very knowledgeable about the cuisine. Other staff were friendly and courteous. Food was excellent, tastes wonderful and plated beautifully. The interior might remind you of an old time elegant railroad car with curved ceiling, crystal chandeliers, etc. great place for special occasions.“

“Had a great time here! Unfortunately I did have to wait for the rest of the people booked for my same time slot to show up... So I waited like 25+ mins. I get it because it makes sense for the dishes to be served in sequence rather than skipping around but at that point I wish they would've just moved their time if it was possible to the next slot 😅 at least chef started prepping fish while we waited but it was agonizing to watch while I was hungry. Overall the service was very polite and they were quick to clear away plates and between courses and refill my water.

Chef Eric was great and made sure we knew what each piece was (altho I agree with others that with the music that wasnt tooooo loud it was still a little hard for me to hear him sometimes). I think they might overdo some of the showy additions and flavors when the fish quality should show for itself, but maybe it's just geared that way so people feel like they got their money's worth. Foie gras on like two of the pieces just felt like an odd add on, I liked it but I don't think it goes together with eel that well personally and I can't remember the other piece that had it. The gold dust on one of the pieces was a little silly since it doesn't have any flavor, but it does make for a neat video. The bar lighting is def set up for photos. They torch a decent amount of the fish and sauce it. I do think this is still a good omakase deal and was appropriately balanced between an intimate experience and entertaining. I imagine if the bar was full of people though that it might feel too crowded, it was only four of us total for the time slot I was in and I had come alone.

They do some fun stuff for people's birthdays, the guys next to me got a special second hand roll from our chef and singing and they even set off a little popper. I thought the pacing was good once we got started and it went by pretty quickly, I think the experience ended up being about an hour in the end but we were a small ish group for the timeslot. It seems like they do two chefs per bar with staggered seatings? And there's the upstairs in addition to the downstairs.

I'd probably come again, as a treat. Ive only been to one other sushi omakase in the city (it was cheaper and I ended up leaving hungry, it has since shut down), otherwise my other experience was in Japan proper. I was comfortably full at the end of this but I am a fairly small woman with not a hugeee appetite so keep that in mind. They don't do any upsell at the end of the meal if you want more pieces, but they do say you can chill out and finish your BYOB drinks it seems. If I was hungry afterwards I'd get ice cream down the street after or something haha.“

“Customer service was exceptional. Seating area was a bit small but everyone was so friendly and worked as a team. Honestly the best service I ever had. I went for restaurant week and ordered the shrimp creole. Omg I cleaned my plate and was still salivating over the idea of more when I got home. My partner ordered the crab soup and the salmon. Eyes rolled in the back of his head y’all. Everything was so well and for my first time they left a lasting impression. Would definitely dine here again. I’m just disappointed the shrimp creole isn’t on the regular menu.“

“I had snapper soup there. It was an 11 out of a possible 10. My wife had New England clam chowder it is (her score system) a 10 out of 10. Best ever. Unfortunately, they do not currently have snapper soup. Missing the old Bookbinder too. Signed, Old Philadelphia natives.“

“Literally one of my favorites in Philly, Bistro Southeast never disappoints! I have eaten here too many times to not have written a review yet. The food is always flavorful, fresh, and hot. What I like most is that it is always consistent and the portions are sizable. The crab fried rice is my favorite item on their menu but everything I’ve tried has been amazing. The wings are crispy and well seasoned, the salads are refreshing and feeling, the mango sticky rice is the perfect balance of sweet and savory…I’ve tried other dishes as well, just too many to list haha! In addition to the food, the service is great. The staff is always so friendly, they play apart in how frequently I eat there as well. I don’t have any pictures of my food because when I remember to take them my food is already half gone.“

“We found Pearl and Mary quite by accident while looking for out door seating so as to enjoy a beautiful Philadelphia evening. And we were not disappointed. Location; perfect, food; perfect, service; exemplary...doesn't get any better👍🏻“

“The food is amazing and not the typical Vietnamese offering. The restaurant switches up the menu quite frequently, so you almost never know what is going to be available when you go there. It is definitely a great date place and it is located in a very fun neighborhood.“

“As a travel agent, food is important to me. I not only book for my clients, but I also make restaurant recommendations and WOW!!!!!! This place is it 😍😍😍 I took many photos last night of the food, the atmosphere felt as though I was not in Philadelphia, but far away on a perfect vacation dining at an amazing restaurant. I'm going to post my photos on my business page, people, if you want Greek food, THIS IS YOUR PLACE ☺️ Thank you for a wonderful hospitality and an amazing time my fiance and I will never forget.“

“Nam Phuong is definitely a go too for traditional Vietnamese comfort food and many choices to pick from with their extensive menu. We opted for the family dinner of 4. This is the best options that includes appetizers, various options of fish, beef, soup and dessert. The clay pot fish and lotus salad is so good. Service is quick and friendly. They have so many waiters ready to refill your water and take away empty plate. They keep an eye on your rice too in case you need more. Only complaint is the restroom. It needs to be clean daily and ensure no foul smell. Warning, you will lose your appetite if you use the restroom then return to the tables. Overall good dining options around Washington Ave. Food is ok and nothing fancy. Price is fair.“

“IT WAS DELICIOUS! Definitely worth the trip and price! I will be back!“

“Unique food, cozy, candlelit atmosphere. Our group enjoyed it tremendously. Highly recommend.“

“Great menu, nice bar scene!“

“Capped off the end of our vacation with wonderful dinner here. Raluca the hostess and Cosmin our server were so accommodating and friendly. Our food and wine were beyond excellent and showed the true skill of the chef. Thanks to all for the best way to end our vacation!“

“I moved to the neighborhood from Brooklyn recently. One day while walking around, I passed this unassuming place. The only indication that it was open was a chair outside with a bouquet of flowers to pin down a paper menu to the chair. The menu looked divine.

A few days later I walked past, showing my partner that the place almost seemed closed from the outside but was very cute inside. Someone who worked there came out as we were looking and was very kind, asking us if we had reservations yet. We said no but booked immediately.

The first time I visited, I had the sourdough, Marinated Mussels (hakurei turnips, miso, chili oil), Carrot (crab, brown butter), Shrimp (peaches, coppa, toasted marcona almonds), and Gnudi (corn& basil). It was an entirely no-skips meal. The mussels came cold, out of their shell, and the sauce was incredible. The “carrot” was more like a crab cake with coconut, brown butter, and an unidentifiable but delightful citrus. A perfect balance of rich & light. The gnudi seemed simple, but the lightly spicy sauce really pulled all the ingredients together. Finally, the shrimp with peaches really knocked my socks off. Lots of places will make “seasonal” menus but not put the effort into making sure that produce is top notch. The peaches would’ve been delicious on their own, but with the rest of the dish, they really shined.

The second time I went (just a few weeks later) I got the Chicory Salad (anchovy, buttermilk, comte), the Steelhead Trout (sungold tomato, perilla), and a tuna crudo special. I also re-ordered the bread, the carrot with crab, and the gnudi. Everything was just as good as last time, and the new additions were truly worth trying. Something as simple as a chicory salad can be so hit or miss - but WOW!

For dessert we had the cherry brown butter tart with crème fraiche. No complaints at all here.

Now I’ve rambled on plenty about the delicious food, which I will be back for very soon, but I truly haven’t ever been to a place with better service. The workers are extremely attentive and kind. I felt like I’ve known everyone there for a long time.

Thank you, Illata, for being such a wonderful neighborhood spot.“

“We visited Pera and it is great to know that the restaurant met expectations and was consistent with the excellent review in the PHiladelphia Inquirer.“

“The shrimp smd the crab devil eggs was delicious 😋“

“Never disappointed after years of going there. Had 2 orders of shrimp and chips and large order of crinkle cut fries to share with my son. The food was hot and the order was ready quickly. From ordering to receiving orders was not even 7 Mins. I don't have any pics , devoured it hot in the car, before even leaving the parking spot.

Wheelchair accessibility: It's an outside order window. That they can roll up too“

“Finally went and boy it was worth it!!! Came from Zerlin (Berlin NJ) and got the chicken hoagie with fries. I have no idea how they keep that roll so flavorful and juicy! The chicken was to die for and perfectly seasoned! I hope you are in Zamden again Friday even though it’s going to be a rain soaker.“

“I really wish I could give a stellar review because the food is absolutely fabulous here. Not to mention, they will modify anything on the menu to food specifications, for instance for me who can't have gluten, eats only seafood and no cheese. Yes, they work with this with ease and everything is delicious.

The reason I can't give an amazing review is because having gone twice now, the first time our service was excellent and the second time more recently the service was very poor. Our food came out at different times to the table and as a group of four it was very disruptive. Also, many tables were turned over before we even got half way through our meal. I'm not sure what happened to be honest. I will say this was not our experience the first time we went and given how amazing the food is we will try it again.

The response from the owner that he would reach out was completely false. It is over 2 weeks now and I have heard nothing. For me, the irony was I was actually planning to come back out. But now…. ?‍♀️.

Dietary restrictions: They will modify any item on the menu to meet your needs. They are very good with handling gluten concerns particularly.“

“The staff was absolutely lovely from the hostess to the server. The atmosphere was intimate, the decor throughout was very cool. The menu is very fairly priced and the food was incredible. I brought a friend here last night that was visiting from out of town, she can be a hard critic but she left happy. Thank you for such a wonderful experience! I will be back!“

“Pleasantly suprised by this place! I was able to call and get a dozen crabs cooked in 15 minutes. They texted when it was ready and it was an easy pickup! It’s winter so the crabs weren’t heavy but they were VERY FRESH and seasoned well. I will definitely go back“

“Drinks are great! I stopped in with my son,they are doing a special (kids eat free) don’t know how long it last. The staff is friendly and helped me with getting my stroller out. I had the pastrami egg roll along with a salad( can’t remember what’s it called)but it was yummy.“

“All around my favorite place to go when I am in or even passing by Philadelphia. The food is fresh and authentic. My favorite thing to get is the dim sum and salt and pepper squid/shrimp. The staff and attentive, friendly and and fast. This a great place for a date, solo eating, birthday party for any age. The provide live music some nights.“

“Me & my girlfriends came here 4 a few drinks, We did order some food, All there food R very good, I had a Fish Whitting Platter wth String Beans, & Mac & Cheese, it was so delicious. My girlfriend had there Chicken with French Fries she said it was very good, It a nice chill spot, it dnt get crowded @ all.....I will definitely be back to buy there food here, They sell SeaFood here to.“

“Cool vibes, family style small plates. Rotisserie chicken and grilled oysters were phenomenal. Other highlights: chicory salad, fries, and cauliflower croquettes. We tried a few cocktails and they were creative and pretty good. Wine list is extensive.“

“I just had the seasoned fries and the salmon shrimp cheese steak which was so delicious. It was my first time ordering with the grilled salmon stand. Hats off to the chef ?‍? great job doing big things I love it. Everything was so perfectly cooked and the other important thing was it was hot when I got it. Which I ordered though door dash great job being on time to them. I would definitely order from his place again. Everything was the right amount of food.“

“it was 👌 check it out for yourself 🤷🏽‍♂️“

“They’re offering an all you can eat dim sum special from 11 AM-4 PM for just $16.99 per person, plus $2 for tea. The food is a solid 3.5 out of 5, but the value is unbeatable, five stars for price alone. All you can eat dim sum is a rare find in the city and definitely worth checking out. The taro bun was my favorite.“

“We saw this on Instagram and traveled from Symrna to see what the hype was about. When I tell you it’s was all that more. Everyone was so nice and pleasant. The food was amazing this is a gem❤️“

“Jaffa is redone into a stunning venue for great food and excellent service. 3 of us shared several dishes from the Cold and Hot sections of the menu; each of which was a creative bundle of flavors that looked beautiful and tasted great. Our server, Jose, provided excellent service, knew the menu and the wine list well, and guided us to make very good choices based on our interests and preferences. It was a great experience.“

“The food and drinks are good“

“The bartender, Colin Krouse, was AWESOME!!“

“BEST seafood market in town! They have an incredible selection of the freshest fish I’ve ever seen in Philly which makes sense since they’re connected to Samuel’s Seafood which does a ton of wholesale business.

Their manager John (but really the whole staff!) was so warm and helpful in picking out exactly what I wanted. Cant wait to come back for more!“

“Heng Seng serves the best soups for a chilly winter day! The Phnom Penh soup is super flavorful, featuring a variety of proteins like pork and squid. The side of fried dough is fresh and crispy, making for a perfect complement to the soup. Would highly recommend!“

“It's the spot - WOLO Saturday Nights“

“Always a Pleasure to have a Pleasure Platter. The lobster Bisque is my favorite.“

“You probably won't have high expectations when you roll up to this place as it isn't fancy, but don't judge a book by its cover. I made the horrible mistake of eating at Pat's the other day, and the meat tasted like shoe leather. This little joint served up a perfectly seasoned hot cheesesteak and a great milkshake - I'll definitely be back.“

“Good food. Good customer service.“

“Great wonton noodle soup house. Quintessential Chinatown experience. Wonton Soup still pre-Covid priced at $7.50/bowl. Extras inflated the cost but brought me back to lunches and its friends and family. Served with hot tea and appetizer plate of roast pork,duck, and crispy pork belly. Fed four of us at $80 with tip. Come in for a regular meal in Chinatown. No fancy experience but good home cooked meal.“

“Excelente manera de aprender a preparar platos!“

“Had Friday dinner out with friends!
Pricey but overall a good experience!
The restaurant is on the 3rd floor. There is an elevator going straight to the restaurant.
Spacious and family friendly.
Wheelchair accessible.“

“They have absolutely amazing food!!! Excellent service. Unbelievable portions. I will go back again & again!“

“Ordered a few different things from here. Wings were really good! Flavorful and well done! Great! Mom had the Egg Foo Young! She said it tasted really good! Wife had the Shrimp and Broccoli! Also good! Also Shrimp Fried Rice! Good as well! No indoor seating, just takeout. Also, they only accept cash. It’s a takeout place, but the food is really good!“

“You will not be disappointed, from the ambiance, the friendly, professional service and the delicious food!“

“Fresh and delicious boil seafood . Love Ruby house blend sauce !“

“Took my mom there for dinner and we both had the chicken parm. Delicious!!!! Melony, our waitress, was the best. Good and service were outstanding. I can’t wait to go back.“

“Celebrated my son’s 21st Birthday here with about 30 of his friends and family. We had a big section of the deck to ourselves. They had plenty of different options to fit our needs. We had a great time, everyone raved how good the food was and our server kept the drinks coming! It was a perfect way to celebrate!“