Where to Find the Best Seafood in Cleveland: A Local’s Guide to Fresh Catches
Cleveland’s position on the shores of Lake Erie means the city enjoys a rich variety of fresh seafood, from local catches to international delicacies. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual seafood boil or an upscale dining experience, Cleveland has a spot that will satisfy your cravings. Here’s where locals go when they’re looking for the best seafood in town.
1. Don’s Lighthouse Grille
Address: 8905 Lake Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44102
Nestled along Cleveland’s picturesque lakefront, Don’s Lighthouse Grille is a historic venue that has been serving the finest seafood and steaks since 1972. The ambiance, rich with mahogany and copper, complements the exquisite menu that features everything from calamari to Faroe Island salmon (ThreeBestRated).
2. Omar’s Seafood & Grill
Address: 12520 Saint Clair Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44108
Omar’s Seafood & Grill is celebrated for its down-home seafood dinners and sandwiches, available for dine-in or takeout. This seafood haven prioritizes quality, sourcing the finest catches from sustainable fisheries to ensure every dish from the kitchen maintains integrity and flavor (ThreeBestRated).
3. Lobster Pot
Address: 2749 SOM Center Rd., Willoughby Hills
For those willing to venture a bit out of the city, the Lobster Pot offers an exquisite seafood experience, especially for lobster enthusiasts. This spot simplifies the luxury of enjoying fresh lobster, allowing diners to indulge without the hassle of preparation and cleanup (Cleveland Scene).
4. The Sauce Boiling Seafood Express
Address: Multiple Locations
A favorite among locals, The Sauce Boiling Seafood Express specializes in seafood boils in a bag. It’s a fun and casual way to enjoy seafood, with the experience of getting your hands dirty being totally worth it for the deliciousness inside (Cleveland Scene).
5. Dante
Address: 2247 Professor Ave., Cleveland
At Dante, diners can enjoy a contemporary bistro vibe that borrows from Italian, American, and Asian cuisines. The seafood options are particularly noteworthy, with the restaurant earning praise for dishes that perfectly capture the flavors of the ocean (Cleveland Scene).
6. Mizu Japanese Sushi Restaurant
Address: 10219 Brookpark Rd., Parma
For sushi and sashimi lovers, Mizu in Parma is a go-to. Known for its delicious chirashi bowl among other dishes, Mizu offers a sampling of the best sashimi in town, ensuring a delightful experience for sushi aficionados (Cleveland Scene).
7. Batuqui
Address: 12706 Larchmere Blvd., Cleveland; 17 East Orange St., Chagrin Falls
Batuqui stands out for its unique Brazilian take on seafood. Set in a historic Victorian house, the restaurant offers an intimate dining experience with dishes like the mariscada, a stew of calamari, mussels, fish, crabmeat, shrimp, and sweet plantains cooked in coconut milk (Cleveland Scene).
8. Blue Point Grille
Address: 700 W St Clair Ave, Cleveland, OH 44113
Celebrated for its ambiance and exceptional seafood offerings, Blue Point Grille sets the standard for seafood dining in Cleveland with its array of fresh fish and shellfish dishes, all served in a sophisticated setting (Tripadvisor).
9. Pier W
Address: 12700 Lake Avenue, Lakewood, OH 44107
Pier W, a landmark restaurant perched over Lake Erie, offers spectacular views alongside its critically acclaimed seafood cuisine. The restaurant is known for its brunch and its comprehensive menu that includes everything from fresh oysters to perfectly cooked salmon (Tripadvisor).
10. Alley Cat Oyster Bar
Address: 1056 Old River Road, Cleveland, OH 44113
Located in the Flats East Bank, Alley Cat Oyster Bar boasts a waterfront dining experience with a wide selection of seafood dishes, from oysters to whole grilled fish, in a casual yet chic atmosphere (Tripadvisor).
These spots not only highlight the best of Cleveland’s seafood but also showcase the diversity of options available, from traditional American to exotic international flavors. Whether you’re local or just visiting, be sure to check out these top seafood destinations for a taste of Cleveland’s finest aquatic fare.
