The Absolute Best Seafood in Ballard [Updated 2025]

Having reviewed a total of 12 seafood establishments in Ballard, I have curated a list of the absolute best dining options for seafood enthusiasts. From the freshest catches to the most mouthwatering flavors, this guide is your go-to resource for navigating the culinary wonders of Ballard's seafood scene.

Whether you are a local looking to explore new dining spots or a visitor seeking a truly memorable seafood experience, I assure you that this article will equip you with all the necessary information. Get ready to embark on a gastronomic journey like no other, indulging in only the finest seafood offerings that Ballard has to offer.

Lockspot Cafe

Highlights
Best Alfredo
Friendly staff
Cool neighborhood vibe
Tables with blankets
Looks and smells good

Walking into Lockspot Cafe, I immediately noticed the enticing aroma of fresh seafood. The atmosphere was buzzing with the chatter of happy diners, creating a cool neighborhood vibe that made me feel right at home.

The highlight of my visit was the Best Alfredo I have ever tasted. The rich and creamy sauce coated the plump shrimp and tender scallops perfectly, creating a harmonious balance of flavors that left me craving more. The seafood was impeccably cooked, showcasing Lockspot Cafe's commitment to quality.

Not only was the food exceptional, but the staff was also friendly and attentive. They were more than happy to answer my questions and provide recommendations, making me feel like a valued customer.

One unique aspect of Lockspot Cafe is their tables with blankets. Yes, you read that right! It's an innovative way to keep their patrons warm and cozy during the chilly Seattle evenings. It added an extra layer of comfort to an already delightful dining experience.

Lockspot Cafe truly captures the essence of Ballard and its seafood scene. With its warm and inviting ambiance, mouthwatering dishes, and top-notch service, it's no wonder that this place stands out among the seafood hotspots in Ballard.

In conclusion, if you're in the mood for scrumptious seafood and a memorable dining experience, make sure to visit Lockspot Cafe. Trust me, you won't be disappointed.

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The Walrus and the Carpenter

Highlights
Yummy, fresh oysters
Amazing sardines
Delicious oysters
Flavorful scallop
Yum champagne sauce
Gooood halibut collar

Let me start by saying, wow! The seafood at The Walrus and the Carpenter is nothing short of extraordinary.

First, let's talk about the oysters. Yummy doesn't even begin to describe them. These fresh delicacies are served on a bed of ice, beautifully presented and absolutely delicious. Each bite is a burst of briny flavors, leaving a smile on my face.

But the surprises didn't stop there. The sardines were absolutely amazing. I never thought I would be raving about sardines, but these ones were something else. Grilled to perfection and served with a tangy sauce, they were an explosion of flavors in my mouth.

Of course, the oysters themselves were worth mentioning again. I couldn't resist ordering a second round because they were just that good. The variety of flavors and textures in each shell was a delight to experience.

Moving on to larger dishes, the scallop stole the show. Served with a champagne sauce, it was succulent, tender, and bursting with flavor. The marriage of the delicate scallop and the rich sauce was a match made in seafood heaven.

As I was nearing the end of my meal, I decided to try something a little different and opted for the halibut collar. Oh my, that was a good decision! The meat was so tender and flavorful, it practically melted in my mouth.

Overall, The Walrus and the Carpenter is a seafood lover's paradise. The service was attentive and knowledgeable, and the selection of dishes was top-notch. I highly recommend indulging in their sensational seafood offerings. Trust me, you won't regret it!

You might also want to check out the best seafood in Tallahassee.

Fish Ladder Lounge

Highlights
Delicious plant-based options
Friendly service
Creative jalapeño poppers
Fantastic atmosphere
Great customer service

From the moment I stepped into Fish Ladder Lounge, I knew I was in for a treat. The atmosphere was incredible, with a cozy yet vibrant ambiance that immediately made me feel at home. The friendly staff greeted me with warm smiles and made sure I was comfortable throughout my visit.

Now, let's talk about the food. As someone who appreciates a good seafood dish, I was pleasantly surprised to find that Fish Ladder Lounge also offered delicious plant-based options. This is perfect for those looking for a seafood restaurant that caters to all dietary preferences.

One standout dish that caught my attention was their creative jalapeño poppers. These were not your average poppers. They were expertly prepared, with a crispy outer coating that gave way to a burst of flavor as soon as I took a bite. The combination of the spice from the jalapeños and the creamy filling was simply divine.

What impressed me the most, however, was the impeccable customer service. The staff went above and beyond to ensure that my dining experience was top-notch. They were attentive, knowledgeable, and made excellent recommendations.

In conclusion, if you're in Ballard and craving some seafood, Fish Ladder Lounge is the place to be. With their delicious plant-based options, friendly service, creative jalapeño poppers, and fantastic atmosphere, this restaurant is a must-visit. Trust me, you won't be disappointed.

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Macleod’s Scottish Pub

After trying their seafood delicacies, I can confidently say that Macleod's Scottish Pub is a hidden gem in Ballard! Bold flavors explode in their dishes, transporting your taste buds straight to the highlands of Scotland. With fresh ingredients and skilled preparation, this place is a treasure for seafood lovers. Don't miss their irresistible fish and chips or their succulent smoked salmon. Macleod's combines tradition and innovation to create a seafood experience that will leave you craving for more.

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Barnacle

Barnacle in Ballard is a hidden gem where seafood lovers can satisfy their cravings. The cozy yet vibrant atmosphere, coupled with their impeccable selection of fresh oysters and delightful small plates, creates a culinary adventure that cannot be missed. So, dive into this seafood haven and indulge in the flavors of the ocean.

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Hattie's Hat Restaurant

Hattie's Hat Restaurant in Ballard left me hooked with their playful yet professional approach to seafood. Their fresh catch of the day was beyond delicious and the cozy ambiance made me feel right at home. It's a hidden gem for seafood lovers.

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Little Chinook’s

Alright, here goes: As a seafood connoisseur, I couldn't resist diving into the wonders of Little Chinook's in Ballard. From the first bite of their fresh, succulent oysters to the melt-in-your-mouth grilled salmon, my taste buds were dancing! The playful yet professional atmosphere only added to the delightful experience. Little Chinook's is a seafood gem in Ballard that simply can't be missed.

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Brimmer & Heeltap

Brimmer & Heeltap, a seafood oasis in Ballard, is a playful yet elegant destination for seafood aficionados. With its tantalizing menu and meticulously sourced ingredients, every dish is a delightful surprise. From the succulent grilled octopus to the heavenly miso glazed black cod, Brimmer & Heeltap is a seafood lover's paradise.

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Sailfish

Sailfish, a true hidden gem in Ballard, offers a seafood experience that will make your taste buds dance with delight. The playful and professional vibe of this place creates the perfect atmosphere to indulge in their mouthwatering seafood delights. Don't miss out on their stellar oyster selection. It's definitely a must-try!

You might also want to check out the best seafood in Fort Lauderdale.

Ray's Boathouse

Ray's Boathouse in Ballard is a seafood lover's paradise. Their menu is brimming with fresh, flavorful catches from the sea. Each bite is like a symphony of flavors dancing on your palate. The elegant yet laid-back ambiance adds to the charm. Don't miss their crab cakes – a true culinary delight!

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The Ballard Cut

The Ballard Cut in Ballard is hands-down one of the best spots for seafood lovers. Their menu is a delightful symphony of fresh catches, and their flavorful creations are like a culinary kiss from the sea. Don't miss their succulent oysters and the heavenly seafood platter. Uni-corn-y goodness!

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Ray's Cafe

Ray's Cafe in Ballard is a seafood haven! From succulent oysters that melt in your mouth to freshly-caught salmon cooked to perfection, this place knows how to satisfy seafood cravings. The view of the sparkling waters adds to the ambiance, making it a go-to spot for a delightful seafood experience.

You might also want to check out the best seafood in Ft Lauderdale.