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The best seafood in NYC... for when you can't get into Cervo's, Dame or Crevette.

Written by Amy Rosner | Jul 9, 2025 7:24:02 PM

Seafood is having a serious moment right now, so obviously, we had to talk about it.

And yes, the second someone says “seafood,” your brain probably short-circuits to the spicy mussels at Cervo’s, the tuna tartare toast from Dame and that mouthwatering Sicilian sashimi at Crevette.

They’re the crème-de-la-crusteacans — no argument there — but let’s be real: getting into any of them is basically a competitive sport. 

If you’re not in the mood to risk your entire month (or mental health) chasing a res, don’t worry — we got you. 

Keep scrolling for the best seafood in NYC that hits just as hard as the crown jewels... no waitlist trauma required.

Penny

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Fluent Favorite: Confit Oysters 

Marea

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Fluent Favorite: Braised octopus and bone marrow fusilli  

Quique Crudo

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Fluent Favorite: Mar y Tierra (seared scallops with chorizo) 

Red Hook Lobster Pound

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Fluent Favorite: Connecticut Lobster Roll 

ARIARI

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Fluent Favorite: Scallop DIY Gimbap 

Swoony’s 

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Fluent Favorite: PEI Mussels   

Smithereens

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Fluent Favorite: Buckwheat Pancake with smoked bluefish 

Sistina

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Fluent Favorite: Fettuccine Integrali (black truffles and crab meat)

Rice Thief

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Fluent Favorite: Gunsan Premium Crab

Dr Clark

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Fluent Favorite: Uni Tomato Linguine Pasta 

Randazzo’s Clam Bar 

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Fluent Favorite: Fried Calamari