Seattle, with its proximity to the Pacific Ocean and Puget Sound, is a seafood lover’s paradise. The city’s culinary scene is rich with the flavors of the sea, from fresh oysters and salmon to Dungeness crab and more. On my recent visit to this vibrant city, I embarked on a journey to discover the best spots to indulge in the local bounty. Here’s a guide to some of the most memorable seafood experiences in Seattle, where I found myself not just eating but truly savoring the essence of the Pacific Northwest.
1. Pike Place Market: The Heart of Seattle’s Seafood Scene
No visit to Seattle would be complete without a trip to Pike Place Market. This historic market, which has been a cornerstone of the city since 1907, is not only a bustling hub of activity but also the epicenter of Seattle’s seafood scene. As I wandered through the market, I was immediately drawn to the vibrant displays of fresh seafood—glimmering salmon, rows of oysters, and, of course, the iconic flying fish at Pike Place Fish Market.
The first stop on my culinary adventure was at Pike Place Fish Market. This world-famous stall is known for its fishmongers who toss fish through the air, entertaining crowds while offering some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever taste. I couldn’t resist picking up a piece of wild-caught Alaskan king salmon to take back to my hotel. The fishmongers, with their infectious enthusiasm, packed it up perfectly for me to enjoy later.
After securing my salmon, I explored more of the market, stopping by Jack’s Fish Spot for a quick bite. Jack’s is a no-frills seafood counter where the emphasis is on freshness. I ordered a cup of their clam chowder, which was rich, creamy, and loaded with tender clams. Paired with a piece of sourdough bread, it was the perfect way to warm up on a typical Seattle day.
But Pike Place Market is more than just a place to buy seafood; it’s a place to immerse yourself in the local food culture. I also visited The Crumpet Shop nearby, where I paired a savory smoked salmon crumpet with a cup of tea. The combination of the delicate crumpet with the rich, smoky salmon was a delightful discovery.
2. Elliott’s Oyster House: A Waterfront Dining Experience
For a more refined dining experience, I made my way to Elliott’s Oyster House. Located on the waterfront with stunning views of Elliott Bay, this restaurant is renowned for its extensive selection of oysters. As soon as I walked in, I was struck by the elegant yet welcoming atmosphere. The interior is warm, with wood accents and large windows that offer panoramic views of the water—a perfect setting for a seafood feast.
I started my meal with a dozen oysters on the half shell, choosing a mix from different Pacific Northwest locations. Each oyster had its own distinct flavor profile, from briny and crisp to sweet and creamy. My server was incredibly knowledgeable, guiding me through the selection process and recommending the perfect wine pairing—a crisp Sauvignon Blanc that complemented the oysters beautifully.
For the main course, I opted for the grilled king salmon, a dish that exemplifies the best of Pacific Northwest cuisine. The salmon was cooked to perfection, with a crispy skin and tender, flaky flesh. It was served with a side of seasonal vegetables and a light, citrusy sauce that enhanced the natural flavor of the fish without overpowering it.
As I enjoyed my meal, I couldn’t help but appreciate the care and attention that Elliott’s Oyster House puts into sourcing their seafood. Everything on the menu is sustainably sourced, reflecting Seattle’s commitment to preserving its natural resources. Dining at Elliott’s felt like a celebration of the region’s culinary heritage, where the flavors of the sea are showcased in all their glory.
3. The Walrus and the Carpenter: A Hidden Gem in Ballard
My next stop took me to the Ballard neighborhood, where I discovered The Walrus and the Carpenter. This cozy oyster bar, tucked away in a quiet alley, is a favorite among locals and food critics alike. The restaurant has a rustic, nautical vibe, with whitewashed walls, wooden beams, and an open kitchen that adds to the intimate atmosphere.
I arrived early to avoid the evening rush, as the restaurant doesn’t take reservations and is known for its long wait times. The anticipation only heightened my excitement, and I was not disappointed. I started with a plate of oysters, of course, each one shucked to order and served with a simple mignonette sauce that allowed the oysters’ natural flavors to shine.
But the menu at The Walrus and the Carpenter offers much more than just oysters. I also ordered the smoked trout, which was served with a tangy horseradish cream and pickled shallots. The combination of smoky, rich trout with the sharpness of the horseradish was a revelation—an example of how the simplest ingredients can create the most memorable dishes.
The highlight of my meal, however, was the Dungeness crab, which was served simply with drawn butter and lemon. There’s something incredibly satisfying about cracking open a crab shell and savoring the sweet, succulent meat inside. Paired with a glass of local Chardonnay, it was a meal that I’ll remember for a long time.
4. RockCreek: A Tribute to Sustainable Seafood
Continuing my seafood journey, I ventured to Fremont, a quirky neighborhood known for its eclectic shops and artistic vibe. Here, I found RockCreek, a restaurant dedicated to sustainable seafood. The interior of RockCreek is modern yet rustic, with reclaimed wood, metal accents, and large windows that create a bright, airy space.
The menu at RockCreek is a seafood lover’s dream, offering a wide range of dishes made with the freshest ingredients. I started with the scallop ceviche, a light and refreshing dish that was bursting with citrus flavors. The scallops were incredibly tender, almost melting in my mouth, and the acidity of the lime juice was balanced by the sweetness of the fresh fruit.
For the main course, I chose the black cod, a dish that has become synonymous with Pacific Northwest cuisine. The cod was marinated in a miso glaze and then broiled to perfection, creating a rich, buttery flavor that was simply irresistible. It was served with a side of sautéed greens and a creamy polenta that added a comforting, hearty element to the meal.
RockCreek’s commitment to sustainability is evident in every aspect of the dining experience. The staff is passionate about educating guests on the importance of responsible seafood sourcing, and the restaurant’s partnership with local fisheries ensures that every dish is both delicious and environmentally conscious. Dining at RockCreek felt like being part of a movement—one that celebrates the bounty of the sea while also working to protect it.
5. Taylor Shellfish Farms: A Taste of the Pacific
My seafood exploration wouldn’t have been complete without a visit to Taylor Shellfish Farms, a family-owned business that has been harvesting shellfish in the Pacific Northwest for over a century. With several locations throughout Seattle, I chose to visit their Melrose Market outpost, a charming spot located in the Capitol Hill neighborhood.
The moment I walked into Taylor Shellfish, I was greeted by the sight of fresh oysters, clams, and mussels displayed on ice. The market has a casual, laid-back vibe, with a small dining area where you can enjoy your seafood right after purchasing it. I decided to sit at the counter and ordered a selection of oysters, along with a bowl of their famous geoduck sashimi.
The oysters were, as expected, incredibly fresh and flavorful. Each one had a unique taste, reflecting the different waters they were harvested from. But it was the geoduck sashimi that stole the show. For those unfamiliar, geoduck is a large, long-necked clam that is a delicacy in the Pacific Northwest. Sliced thin and served raw, the geoduck had a sweet, briny flavor and a slightly crunchy texture that was unlike anything I’d ever tasted.
As I enjoyed my meal, I struck up a conversation with one of the staff members, who shared stories about the history of Taylor Shellfish and their commitment to sustainable farming practices. It was clear that this was more than just a business—it was a labor of love, passed down through generations, with a deep respect for the environment and the community.
6. Westward: Dining with a View
To cap off my seafood adventure, I headed to Westward, a waterfront restaurant located on the northern shore of Lake Union. Westward offers stunning views of the Seattle skyline and the water, creating a picturesque setting that is perfect for a leisurely meal.
The restaurant’s nautical theme is evident in its décor, with maritime accents, a large outdoor patio, and even a dock where guests can arrive by boat. I chose to sit outside, where I could take in the view while enjoying the cool breeze off the lake.
The menu at Westward is heavily seafood-focused, with a mix of Mediterranean and Pacific Northwest influences. I started with the fried smelt, a small fish that was lightly battered and served with a tangy aioli. The smelt were crispy on the outside and tender on the inside—a perfect appetizer to whet my appetite.
For the main course, I couldn’t resist the grilled whole fish, a daily special that featured a local catch. The fish was cooked to perfection, with a crispy skin and moist, flavorful meat. It was served with a side of roasted vegetables and a lemon-herb sauce that added a bright, fresh note to the dish.
As I dined, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of contentment. The combination of delicious food, beautiful scenery, and the relaxed, welcoming atmosphere made Westward the perfect place to end my culinary journey through Seattle.
Seattle’s seafood scene is a true reflection of the city’s connection to the sea. From the bustling Pike Place Market to the refined dining experiences at Elliott’s Oyster House and RockCreek, each of these spots offers something unique, yet all share a commitment to showcasing the best of the Pacific Northwest’s bounty.
As I explored these restaurants and markets, I was struck by the deep sense of pride that Seattleites have in their local seafood. Whether it’s a casual bite at Taylor Shellfish Farms or a gourmet meal at The Walrus and the Carpenter, the emphasis is always on quality, sustainability, and, most importantly, flavor.
So, if you find yourself in Seattle, make sure to dive into its seafood scene. Whether you’re a seasoned seafood lover or just curious to try something new, there’s no better place to indulge in the fresh, vibrant flavors of the Pacific Northwest.
